Juventus boss Max Allegri congratulates Daniele Orsato and Carlo Ancelotti after Real Madrid vs. Manchester City: ‘Carlo wasn’t seen as a fashionable coach, but trends are transitory and the classic remains.’
During his pre-match press conference ahead of tomorrow’s Serie A clash against Genoa, Allegri was asked his thoughts on the second leg of the Champions League semis between Real Madrid and Manchester City that saw the Merengues win 3-1 to qualify for the Final against Liverpool.
“It was a marvellous game. First of all, I want to compliment Orsato, he handled the game with personality. To me, he is the best referee,” said Allegri.
The Italian had awarded a clear penalty kick to Real Madrid in extra time. Karim Benzema converted it, sending the La Liga giants to the Final.
“Real Madrid proved that games never end. Character and personality make the difference, like technique and physical strength,” Allegri continued.
“Juventus have reached the Final twice in the last 10 years. Of course, we have changed a lot and we can’t always obtain the same results.
“I’ve said it many times. Six teams are much stronger than others: Real Madrid, PSG, Bayern Munich, Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool. We always have the ambition to reach the Final, but the reality is different. If one accepts reality, then it’s easier to do better. It must motivate us to return to specific standards.
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“I compliment Carlo, he has done something extraordinary. He has been criticised despite all the trophies he has won, he wasn’t seen as a fashionable coach, but as I always say, trends are transitory, but the classic remains.
“Like blue or grey suits. Ancelotti is a classic coach and has proved so much in his career. He has won five titles in five different leagues. One can only congratulate him.”
Ancelotti has become the first coach to reach the Champions League Final five times. Allegri has managed two so far, but has lost both against Barcelona (2015) and Real Madrid (2017).
Juventus have already snatched a top-four finish with three games to spare and both the Old Lady and Inter will play their Serie A fixtures tomorrow ahead of next week’s Coppa Italia Final. The Stadio Olimpico clash is Juventus’ last chance to win a trophy this season. The last time they ended a campaign empty-handed was in 2010-11 under Luigi Delneri.