Sassuolo boss Eusebio Di Francesco insists there is no special relationship with Juventus ahead of Thursday’s Europa League opener against Athletic Bilbao.
Sassuolo have swapped numerous players with Juve since their promotion to Serie A in 2013 but were soundly beaten by the champions over the weekend, yet Di Francesco assured no “brotherhood” existed between the two clubs.
“The most important aspect is to have great enthusiasm, not fear,” the Coach said at a Press conference.
Sassuolo boss Eusebio Di Francesco insists there is no special relationship with Juventus ahead of Thursday’s Europa League opener against Athletic Bilbao.
Sassuolo have swapped numerous players with Juve since their promotion to Serie A in 2013 but were soundly beaten by the champions over the weekend, yet Di Francesco assured no “brotherhood” existed between the two clubs.
“The most important aspect is to have great enthusiasm, not fear,” the Coach said at a Press conference.
“Obviously there needs to be respect, but while pursuing our philosophy of play. Barring the defeat to Juventus, I’ve always liked my team.
“I must say that against Athletic Bilbao, it’ll be difficult to play away from home.
“They give away more when they’re playing away from home, but they still have more experience [than us] in Europe.
“That’s why I speak of great enthusiasm. We need something more, even from the fans.
“I don’t know how our opponents see us, but I’ve looked at them and I must say that they have more qualities than flaws and will play for top spot in the group. Objectively, I don’t know what they think of us.
“They’d have gladly avoided Sassuolo? We’d have gladly avoided Bilbao. That said, I’ll be happy to face them, it’ll be a good challenge.
“Brotherhood with Juve? I choose the prospective players. Juve, Inter or Roma, it doesn’t matter. I only ask for the players, they can grow and help us grow.
“Missiroli, Sensi and Gazzola won’t be available, while the others aren’t in the UEFA list. Pol will certainly play.”