Christian Vieri describes in detail Juventus' apparent decline, while asserting the importance of their game against Milan.
The starting striker of two Italy World Cups chimed in with his opinion about the Old Lady, who will be facing the Rossoneri in the big match-up of Week 13.
Christian Vieri describes in detail Juventus' apparent decline, while asserting the importance of their game against Milan.
The starting striker of two Italy World Cups chimed in with his opinion about the Old Lady, who will be facing the Rossoneri in the big match-up of Week 13.
“It won't be definitive of course, but it'll be highly important,” he told La Gazzetta dello Sport of Juventus-Milan. “The other big teams are keeping a really high pace, and losing more grounds would be dangerous for anyone aiming for a Champions League spot.
“Juve's slow start is only partially surprising. After so many trophies and the Champions League final some sense of appeasement is understandable, even if it's just subconscious.
“But the squad is being massively renewed and rejuvenated, which was a wise and timely choice.
“They picked up important young players but also experienced and reliable ones like [Mario] Mandzukic and [Sami] Khedira. There's everything you need to stay at the top, nationally and internationally.
“It just requires patience. The new players must be given the appropriate time, as the impact with such an important environment is never easy.”
The former striker also discussed the Bianconeri's sales of Andrea Pirlo, Arturo Vidal and Carlos Tevez.
“They were three stellar players, fundamental for their technique and their personality.
“I think what had the greatest effect was Pirlo's farewell. He could recycle even the most abject garbage, turning terrible balls into superb passes that made everyone play better.
“In brief, with Andrea the ball went around clean and fast from the moment play began. Now Juventus have a bit more trouble emerging from the back.
“They need to metabolise a new philosophy, but it's a matter of time and soon Juventus will be biting the heels of those currently at the top.”