Max Allegri reveals another midfield shake-up amid injuries as Juventus start their Serie A season against Udinese.
It kicks off on Sunday at 17.00 UK time (16.00 GMT), click here for a match preview.
Allegri was first asked about Jose Mourinho’s comments – sniping that the Juve Coach had talked about Oscar and Ramires all summer – but brushed off the question.
“The season starts tomorrow, so it’s better to talk about Serie A.”
Max Allegri reveals another midfield shake-up amid injuries as Juventus start their Serie A season against Udinese.
It kicks off on Sunday at 17.00 UK time (16.00 GMT), click here for a match preview.
Allegri was first asked about Jose Mourinho’s comments – sniping that the Juve Coach had talked about Oscar and Ramires all summer – but brushed off the question.
“The season starts tomorrow, so it’s better to talk about Serie A.”
The Bianconeri are seeking a fifth consecutive Scudetto, but begin against Udinese with injury problems for Alvaro Morata, Mario Mandzukic, Sami Khedira and Claudio Marchisio.
“It’s only normal we are in a period of construction, as many new players arrived and we’re still missing others to complete the squad. The club is working well and we are in total sync.
“It’s a shame about these injuries, especially Khedira as his will be more long-term. Morata will be back with the squad on Tuesday, Chiellini is available and today we have to evaluate Mandzukic after this knock to the thigh that is troubling him.
“I prefer not to risk someone who isn’t in the best shape, especially as with Fernando Llorente, Simone Zaza, Paulo Dybala and Kingsley Coman we are covered.”
Llorente has been heavily linked with a transfer to Spain, Germany or England, but Allegri backed the striker.
“Llorente is an important element and in good shape. We didn’t discuss the market because there was no need. If Mandzukic doesn’t start, then Llorente probably will.
“Alex Sandro trains with us for the first time today and will be on the bench tomorrow. I think Mauricio Isla will stay, as he arrived on good form.”
Paul Pogba was tested in the Andrea Pirlo role and Marchisio is the more natural heir, but Allegri revealed another change of tack.
“Tomorrow Simone Padoin will play in front of the defence. He played there last season and is a versatile figure, so I think having him is an advantage for a Coach.
“Against Udinese we must quickly get a hold of the game, as they are a side who force their opponents to play badly.
“The important thing is to get the first three points of the campaign, aware we’re going into a tough test and have to make the most of our scoring opportunities. We should also try to take advantage of dead ball situations.”