Manuel Locatelli hopes Juventus can be ‘more aggressive in future’ after the defeat to Inter, feeling they defended ‘too deep’ in the first half.
The Bianconeri had the opportunity to take top spot in the Serie A standings, but instead capitulated 1-0 at San Siro to a Federico Gatti own goal.
It means Inter stretch their advantage to four points, despite also having a game in hand to be played against Atalanta on February 28.
“It was a pity to lose this match, but we have to look at continuing the growth process, starting with the next game against Udinese,” Locatelli told DAZN and Sky Sport Italia.
“Clearly, we are disappointed to lose, but I am convinced we can keep improving and must continue like this. I have faith in this team, there is a long way to go this season and we need to carry on our path.”
Although the Gatti own goal was the only difference between the teams, Hakan Calhanoglu also hit the woodwork, while Wojciech Szczesny made two extraordinary saves on Nicolò Barella and Marko Arnautovic.
“Inter moved well in the first half, but we make more of an impact when we are aggressive, as we saw after the break,” added Locatelli.
“I found the first half was more balanced, but we were too deep, whereas when we stepped up the tempo it is true that we left spaces behind us, but you have to take those risks. I think we need to be more aggressive in future.
“We also have to rely on that union and team spirit that allowed us to get this far. It is not over yet, there is a long way to go this season and we must continue to believe.”
The defeat means that Juventus are still in second place, but now only four points clear of Milan in third.
Nonetheless, their Champions League qualification spot would seem to be secure, having a 14-point lead over Atalanta in fourth, even if La Dea have a game in hand.
Locatelli a Dazn: "Deluso per la sconfitta ma dobbiamo proseguire nel nostro percorso di crescita"#InterJuventus https://t.co/881mtKF5Dj
— FcInterNews.it (@FcInterNewsit) February 4, 2024