Sevilla coach José Luis Mendilibar believes Juventus will ‘keep the ball’ while ex-Milan winger Suso predicts the Bianconeri will ‘try to hurt with counter-attacks’ in a Europa League semifinal second leg.
The Bianconeri have travelled to Spain after a 1-1 draw in Turin last week.
“I don’t know how it’s going to turn out, but I don’t think they give us the ball, they want to have it and hurt us with the ball,” Sevilla coach Mendilibar said at a pre-match press conference as quoted by Football Espana and Tuttosport.
“If we’re good, successful when it comes to pressing, defending and making it difficult to get the ball out, we have our chances.”
The Spanish tactician was also asked about the difference between the quarter-final first leg against Manchester United and last week’s game in Turin: “The difference is that we played very well in the first leg against Juventus, while we hadn’t done well at Old Trafford.
“Players have seen that simple things can bring results, it’s been a complicated season for the club. You’ll know the line-up tomorrow, everyone wants to play but I have to make decisions. I still have some doubts.”
Suso is among those as the ex-Milan winger has recently recovered from an injury.
“I am ok, we’ve worked hard over the last few weeks, harder than usual. It’s an important game and it’s so nice to play it after such a tough season,” he said.
“It’s a pity we conceded a goal in the final minute, but tomorrow we start from scratch.
“Juventus have many strong players, they’ve worked with Allegri for many years and they’ll try to hurt us with counter-attacks,” continued the Spaniard.
“Their coach has clear ideas, I’ve played against them many times and one way or another they are always in the game.
“I’ve rushed my return to the pitch, but it’s not the first time. I can’t play for 90 minutes, but I feel well and I can help. We are focused on tomorrow’s game and then we’ll think about the derby.”