Max Allegri joked about his introduction to Juventus, tactical changes and Real Madrid after their Scudetto triumph.
Today’s 1-0 win away to Sampdoria mathematically sealed the fourth consecutive title, his first after three under Antonio Conte.
“The first days were good. I think I only had five or six players and we lost a friendly 3-2!” Allegri told Sky Sport Italia.
Max Allegri joked about his introduction to Juventus, tactical changes and Real Madrid after their Scudetto triumph.
Today’s 1-0 win away to Sampdoria mathematically sealed the fourth consecutive title, his first after three under Antonio Conte.
“The first days were good. I think I only had five or six players and we lost a friendly 3-2!” Allegri told Sky Sport Italia.
He was greeted by protests from fans, stepping in one day after Conte abruptly resigned when pre-season training had already begun.
“Afterwards the lads were at my disposal and just as I went to Milan, walking in to see a few Scudetto and World Cup winners…
“We slowly built on the extraordinary work done over three years and also tried to change something.
“I heard some say this Juventus could not play with four at the back. I think these are some of the best centre-backs in Italy, if not Europe, while they might even be more attentive with four. It was all rubbish.
“The players have great human qualities as well as technical ones, as to win four consecutive Scudetti is extraordinary. Our season isn’t finished yet, either. I have to thank everyone who helped me in this journey, starting from the club and staff.
“What I liked the most is that we mathematically secured the title with a good performance. I wanted that because this side still needs to improve and it’s a sign going forward.
“We were top of the table from the first day to the last. There can be hiccups along the way, but these are inevitable. A team doesn’t lose its characteristics just because it draws or loses a game.”
Allegri said 1-0 was his favourite result because it meant his team couldn’t get complacent.
“When we played against Empoli and Genoa, we weren’t in great shape, as in January we did some very tough training sessions.
“At times this season we didn’t keep concentration or thought some things were a little too easy and got distracted. This is why every now and then it helps to suffer and defend for a result.
“I think there’s absolutely no shame in defending. A good defensive performance is just as hard as a good attacking one.”
There will be few celebrations, because on Tuesday Juventus play the first leg of the Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid.
“We need this attitude on Tuesday, but also to be much better, as we’ll be facing an extraordinary Real Madrid side.
“The tie will be played over 180 minutes and not just in Turin. This team must be aware that it can reach the Final. It doesn’t matter whether our chances are good or bad, as long as we go out there believing.
“Juventus are in the Champions League semi-final, while Fiorentina and Napoli are in the Europa League semi-finals, so it’s a good sign for Italian football. Of course, you can always learn and adapt methodology we see overseas.”