Rolando Maran assures Cagliari have “recharged our batteries” over Christmas and want to get back on track against a Juventus side not yet meeting their potential.
It kicks off on Monday at 14.00 GMT, click here for a match preview.
“I think the Christmas break came at the right time and it allowed us to recharge our batteries,” said the coach in his press conference.
Rolando Maran assures Cagliari have “recharged our batteries” over Christmas and want to get back on track against a Juventus side not yet meeting their potential.
It kicks off on Monday at 14.00 GMT, click here for a match preview.
“I think the Christmas break came at the right time and it allowed us to recharge our batteries,” said the coach in his press conference.
The Sardinians had been in the top four a month ago, but ended 2019 with back-to-back defeats against Lazio and Udinese.
“We mustn’t make the mistake of losing our tactical identity, because we’ve done well so far by taking our usual attitude. Obviously, we need something extraordinary in this situation and it’s a pleasure to start our Centenary year with such a big fixture.”
Fabio Pisacane is suspended, with Luca Ceppitelli, Leonardo Pavoletti, Daniele Ragatzu and Alessio Cragno injured, while Lucas Castro is probably only fit for the bench.
Maran hinted Sebastian Walukiewicz will be in the starting XI for his Serie A debut, having so far only featured in the Coppa Italia.
“He has to be ready! He waited so long for this moment and I intend to give him a chance, so it’s up to him now to take it. The secret to Cagliari’s success has been the ability to rotate the squad and rely on many different players, always working as a unit.”
On the other hand, Maurizio Sarri has struggled to get the best out of Juventus or imprint his style of football on the squad.
“Aside from their Supercoppa defeat to Lazio, this team has enormous potential. They’ll try to keep the ball more in midfield compared to last season, but we need courage and to believe in our own capabilities.”
Robin Olsen returns in goal after a lengthy ban.