Massimiliano Allegri

[Socrates 8330]

Allegri extends Juventus deal

http://www.football-italia.net/68785/allegri-extends-juventus-deal

Jul 6, 2015

Juventus President Andrea Agnelli confirms that Coach Massimiliano Allegri has extended his contract until 2017.

It was rumoured earlier today that the tactician had agreed terms on a one-year extension to his deal, and the move was confirmed at a Press conference.

“Allegri has renewed for one more year,” the patron told the assembled media.

“This makes us happy and proud. He had a remarkable first season, we’ve already spoken, and he’s determined to do just as well in his next two years with us.”

The Tuscan Coach took over from Antonio Conte last summer, and guided the Turin giants to a domestic double, as well as the Champions League final.

[Socrates 8330]

OFFICIALLY OFFICIAL: Juventus manager Max Allegri
extends contract through 2017

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/7/6/8900647/juventus-massimiliano-allegri-contract-extension-serie-a-2015

Jul 6, 2015

As it turns out, Juventus President Andrea Agnelli wasn't using Monday's press conference to announce just one contract extension. There was plenty more business to take care of.

After praising Andrea Pirlo for the four-year run at the club that has just come to an end, Agnelli announced that Juventus manager Max Allegri has agreed to a one-year contract extension through the 2016-17 season. Allegri had originally signed a three-year deal when he took over for Antonio Conte in mid-July last summer, and now sees an extra year — as well as an expected nice bump up in salary — tacked onto his contract with the four-time Italian champions.

JuventusFC ✔@juventusfcen
Agnelli: "@OfficialAllegri has recently extended his contract by a further year."

It was certainly a first season in Turin that warranted a raise for Allegri, who arrived in Turin amidst plenty of uncertainty that put him under the microscope. The hiring wasn't a glamorous one nor did it instill a ton of confidence considering what had just happened the season before at his former place of employment. However, Allegri quickly showed that his last job was indeed his last job, and his current was a completely different situation.

Allegri not only kept Juventus' run of dominance in Serie A going, but also led the club to its first Champions League final in 12 years as well as its first Coppa Italia title since the 1994-95 season. The domestic double could have been a treble if not for the sheer power of this past season's Barcelona squad, but it's not like Juventus did anything to damage itself on the biggest of European stages.

And a lot of that had to do with the work Allegri did to make Juventus more than just a dominant domestic side. He was able to have Juve go between formations from game-to-game, and sometimes make the shift within the game itself. And the squad, which was laden with leaders and experience, showed tactical flexibility to make such an in-game shift look pretty routine from the first time onward.

Basically, well earned, Mister, and keep up the good work.

[Socrates 8330]

Allegri Excited To Get Started
After Juventus Extension

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/07/allegri-excited-to-get-started-after-juventus-extension/?

Jul 6, 2015

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri has declared his happiness following the extension of his contract with the club.

The 47-year-old joined La Vecchia Signora at the start of the 2014/15 Serie A season following the departure of Antonio Conte, and has had a very successful first season with the club after winning the league title along with reaching the Champions League final.

His contract extension means he is now tied to the Bianconeri until 2017, which Allegri announced he was very happy about.

“One more year together: Thanks Juventus! I can’t wait to get started,” he tweeted.

Massimiliano Allegri ✔@OfficialAllegri
Un anno in più assieme: grazie @juventusfc, non vedo l'ora di ricominciare!

[Socrates 8330]

Allegri: 'Slippery Barca eels'

http://www.football-italia.net/69161/allegri-slippery-barca-eels?

Jul 13, 2015

Juventus boss Max Allegri said Barcelona were “like a slippery eel” in the Champions League Final, but “if we’d believed more…”

The Bianconeri were beaten 3-1 by Luis Enrique’s men, but the second goal came against the run of play and the third with the last kick of the game, so the result did not accurately reflect the match.

“After the equaliser they were stunned and we were constantly getting better. My sensation was that we’d score and win at that point,” Allegri told giornalaccio rosa TV.

“Unfortunately, Barcelona scored, because those three in attack are like a slippery eel. It’s just impossible to get a grip on them.

“This Barcelona doesn’t keep as much possession as the older version, but above all you need to be psychologically prepared. They wear you down and you have to wait, not letting them hit you. We only did that to a degree.

“I think we needed another Final to have the total confidence that we could beat them. We’d won the Scudetto a month earlier and every day we were asked questions about those three strikers. In the end that gets into your head and you convince yourself that they are unstoppable.

“The big regret at the final whistle was above all that we didn’t fully believe in ourselves, because we were facing Barcelona, the strongest side in the world.

“Everyone expected us to lose 3-0, instead like this it was harder to swallow.”

[Socrates 8330]

Allegri Releases His Own Personal App

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/07/juventus-coach-allegri-releases-his-own-personal-app/?

Jul 19, 2015

Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri entered the world of technology by creating his own personal application specifically designed to benefit football coaches across the globe.

The tailor-made app – Mr Allegri Tactics – will be dedicated to the work of the tactician and will help with the planning of training sessions, as well as having the ability to monitor each of their players.

“Football was born as a game of passion, commitment and action,” said the 47-year-old in a video published on Youtube.

“But over the years this has changed and evolved.

“Today we must also consider technology, communication and sharing.”

He continued: “All of these aspects are also applied to the critical role of the coach.”

“The ambition is to make Mr Allegri Tactics a virtual meeting point for all different coaches in every country and of every level.”

[Socrates 8330]

Allegri: ‘Juventus want trequartista’

http://www.football-italia.net/69460/allegri-%E2%80%98juventus-want-trequartista%E2%80%99?

Jul 20, 2015

Juventus Coach Massimiliano Allegri confirms the club are in the market for an attacking midfielder.

The Bianconeri have been heavily linked with the likes of Mario Gotze, Julian Draxler and Oscar, and the tactician confirms they are seeking a player in that role.

“The club is trying to find a player with with attacking quality, who can raise the technical level of this team which already has so many good players,” Allegri explained in a Press conference alongside Giuseppe Marotta.

“In that role you need a very technical player, but at the same time we have to make sure we don’t upset the balance of the team.

“The most important thing is what the market offers, we’re considering what we can get, and especially what we need.

“We have clear ideas at this point. The first step is to get a more offensive player, then we’ll see.”

The former Milan Coach also discussed the departure of some key figures from last season, but believes there are adequate replacements for the likes of Carlos Tevez and Andrea Pirlo.

“Pirlo left as a champion, who did extraordinary things for Juventus, elsewhere in Italy and for the national team, so I think Italian football is losing a player who is unlikely to ever be replaced.

“A player with his qualities is difficult to find, but life goes on. Andrea has made a choice for him, and I think for his future now he’s no longer a young lad.

“I was very pleased to see him this morning and say hello to him before he goes to America for his new adventure.

“In regard to the players we’ve lost, in addition to their technical qualities, it’s normal that we have to discuss their influence in terms of their personality.

“But those who came in… [sami] Khedira played at Real Madrid for five years, [Mario] Mandzukic is a top-level player in Europe, and some young lads have come in who have great qualities.

“Let’s not forget that the captain [Gigi Buffon] has stayed, [Leonardo] Bonucci has stayed, [Giorgio] Chiellini has stayed, [Claudio] Marchisio has stayed, and the same goes for [simone] Padoin.

“They’re all important players in the squad with big personalities. [Patrice] Evra is the same. I’m happy, we have time between now and August 31, and the club has time on the transfer market to refine the team.”

[Socrates 8330]

Allegri Believes Inter And AC Milan
Will Fight For Title

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/07/juventus-coach-believes-inter-and-ac-milan-will-fight-for-title/?

Jul 20, 2015

Massimiliano Allegri believes both Milan cubs will challenge Juventus for the Scudetto in the 2015/16 season.

Inter finished 8th last season while Milan were in 10th both over 30 points behind Serie A winners Juventus but Allegri is adamant Juventus will have a tough task retaining their title.

“The two Milan club will fight for the title.” Allegri said at a press conference

“Rome will be strong and Napoli will be challenging.

“I think we are favourites as we still have a strong team

“One thing is certain, we will not have an easy defence of our title.

“Khedira is in superb condition and he has great enthusiasm for the game.

“He is a fantastic guy who has shown great charisma and professionalism already during his time at the club.

“He wants to win the Champions League again after winning the trophy with Real Madrid.

[Socrates 8330]

Juventus Changes Give Massimiliano
Allegri Chance to Shape Future

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2528329-juventus-changes-give-massimiliano-allegri-chance-to-shape-future?

Jul 22, 2015

Having enjoyed an incredible debut campaign at Juventus, Massimiliano Allegri rightly received much praise for his stewardship of the Bianconeri. A domestic double—only the third in the club’s history—was a remarkable achievement, while guiding the team to their first Champions League final in over a decade ensured the coach was widely lauded.

However, almost every time Allegri was given a compliment, it came with the caveat that he had inherited an incredible squad who were already accustomed to winning. Indeed, the 47-year-old arrived in Turin to take charge of a team that had already won three consecutive Serie A titles under previous boss Antonio Conte.

In taking the club from a seventh-place finish in 2009/10, he inspired them to an undefeated campaign that saw them seal the first Scudetto of the post-Calciopoli era. Conte built the team in his image and was clearly essential to the successes achieved during his tenure, and his exit could have caused major problems.

Yet having been appointed the day after his predecessor walked out on Juventus on the second day of pre-season training, there is little doubt that Allegri entered at an extremely difficult and delicate moment for Italian football’s grand Old Lady.

But the former Milan boss’ calm demeanour and ability to cope with pressure ensured there was no drop-off in performance, and he quickly won over a fanbase that had been hugely sceptical of his appointment. There were no signs of the problems that blighted his time with the Rossoneri however, Allegri smartly continuing with Conte’s 3-5-2 formation and making very few discernible changes to the style of play.

Then, after a poor run of results in late October, he switched the team to a 4-3-1-2 framework that he had taught them before the season began. That saw an immediate improvement, sparking an upturn in fortunes that brought Juventus to the brink of a historic treble, with that tactical shift playing a major role.

Allegri also moved away from the methodical attacking approach preferred by Conte in his final season, at times returning to the pressing that had been a hallmark of Juve in 2010/11. With the likes of Carlos Tevez and Arturo Vidal harassing defenders, the Bianconeri sought to quickly win the ball back and score in transition.

That was perhaps most evident in the Champions League wins over Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid, but Allegri will face an even greater challenge next season. With Tevez and Andrea Pirlo having already moved on, Juventus confirmed that Vidal will also be leaving at a press conference earlier this week.

“Vidal has expressed his desire to embark on a different experience,” the club’s director general Beppe Marotta told reporters (h/t FourFourTwo.com). Sat beside him, Allegri appeared to relish the challenge of what is now a vastly different side, with the club having signed Paulo Dybala, Sami Khedira and Mario Mandzukic.

“The new arrivals possess different characteristics to those who have departed,” the coach noted per the official Juventus website, adding that “it’s my job to enable them to best express themselves on the field of play.”

How he approaches that remains to be seen, with the club also linked with a variety of attacking midfielders, such as Mario Gotze of Bayern Munich and Schalke’s Julian Draxler, per Gianluca Di Marzio (h/t Football Italia), and Allegri discussed that possibility at Monday’s media event:

“Juventus have the opportunity to excel in Italy for the next four to five years and also build on last season’s success in Europe,” Allegri said, per the Juventus website. “As far as further signings are concerned, the club has got its eye out for an attacking midfield player with offensive qualities. We’re assessing our options and requirements.”

Whatever he decides to do, this time it will clearly be “his” Juventus, and any success he achieves will undoubtedly be entirely his, with the team no longer resembling the one in place when he arrived.

[Socrates 8330]

Allegri: 'Juventus seek balance'

http://www.football-italia.net/69711/allegri-juventus-seek-balance?

Jul 25, 2015

Max Allegri saw a pattern after Juventus lost to Borussia Dortmund. “We ended the season conceding on the counter-attack…”

The Bianconeri played their first game of the summer, while it was the seventh for the Germans, and the difference in fitness levels was evident.

Despite several excellent saves from Gigi Buffon and Norberto Neto, Juve were beaten 2-0 in St Gallen.

“We ended the season conceding two goals on the counter-attack and we start the season conceding two goals on the counter-attack,” smiled the Coach on Sky Sport Italia.

Their last game was the 3-1 Champions League Final loss to Barcelona.

“Obviously it is never pleasing to lose, but we knew that we would encounter difficulties this evening, because Borussia Dortmund are much further ahead in terms of pre-season preparation.

“We must find our balance and lost the ball too many times coming out of defence. We must get our heads back in the game and try to be more focused.

“It was a good training session, aside from the result. The important thing is that nobody got hurt as we head towards the game in Shanghai on August 8.”

That appointment is the Italian Super Cup against Lazio.

“We will find our fitness levels with time. We did some good things today and could’ve been better in controlling the ball, but we didn’t have the legs to keep up with Borussia Dortmund.”

Sami Khedira would’ve made his debut as well, but was left out after a muscular problem.

“I didn’t want to risk him, but he’s worked very well in training and will be very important this season.”

There are negotiations for Julian Draxler, while Mario Gotze is an alternative.

“We still need someone who can play between the lines,” confirmed Allegri. “We’re evaluating some options, but there’s time.

“Right now I am working with the squad at my disposal and the club did well on the market. Paulo Dybala has great technique and did good things today, as did Alvaro Morata. Mario Mandzukic didn’t get the right service.

“We want to challenge for every trophy right to the end.

[Socrates 8330]

Allegri drops Draxler to Juventus hint

The Bianconeri boss refused to confirm that the German is set to join
from Schalke but did admit that more players will arrive in Turin before August 31.

http://www.goal.com/en-za/news/4682/transfer-zone/2015/07/25/13888432/-?

Jul 25, 2015

Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri has confirmed that the club are trying to sign the trequartista he so desperately craves.

While Carlos Tevez has departed for Boca Juniors and Arturo Vidal is bound for Bayern Munich, the Bianconeri have strengthened their attack this summer with the additions of Mario Mandzukic, Paulo Dybala and Simone Zaza.

However, Allegri has spoken openly about his desire for a classic No.10 and the Italian champions have agreed personal terms with Schalke starlet Julian Draxler over a move to Turin.

The Bianconeri boss refused to be drawn on the proposed deal for the Germany international but did admit that a playmaker will arrive before the close of the transfer window on August 31.

"We need someone we can play between the lines [of the attack]," Allegri told Sky Sport Italia. "The club are working on this.

"Right now we have to work with the squad that we have available to us.

"The club has worked very well this summer and now we're thinking only about our conditioning.

"But other players will arrive. The market is long."

Allegri was speaking after watching his side suffer a 2-0 defeat in Saturday's friendly clash with Borussia Dortmund.

The former AC Milan coach had no complaints about the result but was keen to point out that BVB are further along in their pre-season preparations given that the Bundesliga gets under way before Serie A.

"We lacked fitness today," Allegri said. "I would say, however, that today was good practice for us irrespective of the result.

"Borussia have different fitness levels to ours and the most important thing is that nobody got injured, particularly as our big goal is to be ready for the Supercoppa Italiana on August 8."

Dybala started for Juve following his summer switch from Palermo and the Argentine attacker impressed sporadically alongside Alvaro Morata and Mandzukic.

"He's a kid who has great quality," Allegri added. "His level dipped the longer the game went on but he did as well as Morata.

"As for Mandzukic, he wasn't served well."

Another recent arrival, Sami Khedira, missed the game through injury but Allegri was quick to play down any fears over the German's fitness.

"He came here with enthusiasm and he's working well but today I didn't want to risk him," he added.

[Socrates 8330]

Allegri: Juventus Need A New Midfielder

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/07/allegri-juventus-need-a-new-midfielder/?

Jul 26, 2015

Following his side’s 2-0 friendly loss against Borussia Dortmund in St Gallen, Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri has admitted his side need to sign a specific kind of midfielder.

The game also saw Juventus try out a new kind of system – employing a 4-3-3 with Alvaro Morata and Paulo Dybala occupying the wider attacking roles.

Speaking about the defeat, he said: “You are never pleased to lose but we knew this game would be difficult having only trained for five days. We must improve certain things but this was a good workout, regardless of the outcome.

“Dybala and Morata certainly did their chances no harm ahead of the Supercoppa. Unfortunately, Mandzukic did not get the service he deserved but that will come. We still need to sign a midfielder who can play between the lines and the club is moving towards achieving this.”

Although he would not discuss specific transfer targets, he hinted at a move for Juan Cuadrado previously, this was quantified by the former AC Milan coach noting the importance of signings who will maintain the club’s balance while confirming Sami Khedira is nearing full fitness after some positive training sessions.

[Socrates 8330]

Allegri: 'Juve need time'

http://www.football-italia.net/70272/allegri-juve-need-time?

Jul 29, 2015

Max Allegri warned new Juventus players “must get to know each other” and gave Sami Khedira’s debut a mixed review.

Khedira came on for the second half in a 2-1 friendly victory over Lechia Gdansk.

“There was progress in physical terms and we had some good movements. Of course there are many new players getting to know each other, so it takes time to improve the passing and movement.

“The Italian Super Cup is imminent, though, so we need to reach it in the best way possible,” the Coach told JTV.

The Bianconeri face Lazio in the Italian Super Cup in Shanghai on August 8.

“Khedira did better in a wider role than a central midfielder. He wasn’t bad in the middle, but he moved better there and it is his habitual role.

“Paulo Dybala has extraordinary quality, but he is only 21, while Simone Zaza and Alvaro Morata are also young lads. It takes time and they will learn the tricks of the trade.”

Morata came on for the second half, but was substituted after 26 minutes and appeared to storm off into the locker room.

There was concern for Giorgio Chiellini, who went off injured in the first half.

“We’ll see, as he felt the muscle harden in his thigh. Unfortunately at this moment we have to speed up the training process to be ready for August 8 in Shanghai and that means taking a few more risks than we usually would.”

It’s a worry, as Andrea Barzagli has already been ruled out for three weeks with a muscular problem.

[Socrates 8330]

Allegri: 'Bad Morata attitude'

http://www.football-italia.net/70275/allegri-bad-morata-attitude?

Jul 29, 2015

Juventus have maybe an Alvaro Morata problem after he was substituted, stormed off and Max Allegri “didn’t like his attitude.”

The Spanish striker came on at half-time in a 2-1 win over Lechia Gdansk, but lasted only 26 minutes before he was hauled back off again.

Morata appeared irritated and stormed off straight down the tunnel to the locker room while the game continued.

“It wasn’t Morata’s day and I didn’t like his attitude,” Coach Allegri told reporters afterwards.

“Regardless of technical errors, what really did not go well today was his attitude. When something didn’t work for him, he just stopped.

“That is why I asked him to get off the pitch. He made me angry on the pitch, but then he was good as he went off to train by himself.

“There’s a bad atmosphere at Juve, as everyone says we are the favourites, but that is not the case. This year will be even more difficult.

“Before this atmosphere contaminates us, we have to stop it right from now.”

[Socrates 8330]

Allegri: Juventus Must Improve Ahead Of Lazio Clash

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/08/allegri-juventus-must-improve-ahead-of-lazio-clash/?

Aug 1, 2015

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri believes his side need to improve in certain areas after yet another pre-season loss.

The Serie A 2014/15 champions looked below par during their 2-0 friendly defeat to French side Marseille and despite defending his team’s performance, Allegri believes more work needs to be done ahead of their Supercoppa Italian clash against Lazio.

“I’m happy with the reaction of the team during the match,” Allegri said after the game.

“We played well in the first 20 minutes and we had a good shape.

“However we suffered on the counter attack, which is how we conceded the two goals.

“We need to improve the conditions and quality of our game. Though I knew this would be a difficult match as Marseille are much further ahead than us in terms of preparation.

“Now we have a whole week in which we need to train, though the workload wont be as heavy as the previous two weeks.”

In addition to the loss, Juventus suffered another blow as marquee singing Sami Khedira picked up an unfortunate injury to his leg during the course of the game.

“I’m sorry for Khedira, he’s just come back after such a long period of inactivity only to suffer this new injury.

“He was doing so well and now we’ve lost an important player for the Supercoppa.”

[Socrates 8330]

Juventus Boss Happy With Squad’s
Fitness Ahead Of Lazio Clash

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/08/juventus-boss-happy-with-squads-fitness-ahead-of-lazio-clash/?

Aug 4, 2015

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri is satisfied with his squad’s fitness levels ahead of the Supercoppa Italiana, but has confirmed that Andrea Barzagli won’t be risked.

The Bianconeri take on Lazio in Shanghai on Saturday, with the squad travelling to China off the back of relatively poor pre-season. So far this summer, the Italian champions have fallen to defeat against Borussia Dortmund and Marseille as well as only securing a narrow win over Lechia Gdansk so far.

“Here in China the climate is a little sultry but we have been training well and I am pleased with the fitness levels,” said Allegri to Juventus.com.

“The match against Marseille was a tough test. I wanted to challenge the players and their response was good.”

The Champions League finalists have been ravaged by injuries ahead of the new season and Allegri has stated that centre-back Barzagli is on the mend from an injury but is still unlikely to feature against Lazio.

“Andrea is recovering and training with the group, but we do not want to take any risks.”

[Socrates 8330]

Allegri: ‘Number 10 not easy’

http://www.football-italia.net/70640/allegri-%E2%80%98number-10-not-easy%E2%80%99?

Aug 6, 2015

Juventus Coach Massimiliano Allegri warns Paul Pogba that wearing the number 10 shirt ‘isn’t easy’ and says he will ‘stay calm’ over the injury crisis.

The Old Lady will be missing Giorgio Chiellini, Sami Khedira and Alvaro Morata for Saturday’s curtain raiser against Lazio in the Supercoppa Italiana.

"We've only been back training for 20 days but I'd say the team's in good physical condition,” he said at today’s pre-match Press conference.

“There was no way we could have returned before 20 July due to the internationals. Players aren't machines.

"It's a pity Chiellini, Khedira and Morata will miss out on the final. We'll stay calm and wait for them to recover.

"Andrea Barzagli is back training with the team and we'll see how he's looking for the match.

"A great deal has been won over the past four years, now we start from scratch.

“A lot of young players have come in, which is a positive for the club. The spine of the side has remained.

"Departures? Players come and go just like Coaches and it was their choice to leave.

"Transfer market? There's no point talking about it at present, we must focus solely on our first target of the term.

“We've got a good group of strikers and regardless of who I go for on Saturday, I'll have decent options on the bench.

"Paul Pogba asked for the number 10 in order to have greater responsibility, because wearing that shirt isn't easy.

“I think Pogba works best as an inside midfielder. Perhaps in a few years he'll operate in front of the defence."

[Socrates 8330]

Allegri: Juventus Won’t Have Easy Ride In Serie A

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/08/allegri-juventus-wont-have-easy-ride-in-serie-a/?

Aug 7, 2015

Juventus coach Massimilliano Allegri has admitted that his side will have a tougher time in Serie A this season and is also expecting a close game against Lazio in Saturday’s Supercoppa Italiana clash.

The Bianconeri are currently in Shanghai preparing for the traditional curtain raiser for the upcoming season and although Allegri is happy with the transfer business that has been undertaken this summer, he feels that it will be a tough year.

“It [serie A] will not be easy because the league will be balanced, we will need patience and to remain calm,” Allegri told reporters at his pre-match press conference in Shanghai.

“It will be a much more difficult year, we will have to deal with both the good and the bad.

“The club have done a good job in bringing in young players. [Paulo] Dybala has excellent qualities as does [simone] Zaza and [Daniele] Rugani.”

Turning his attentions to the upcoming Lazio tie, Allegri feels that the game will be decided by fine margins.

“When you play in a final the margins are always tight, it was finely balanced in Rome for the Coppa Italia final and it will be still be finely balanced on Saturday.

“I feel sorry that [Giorgio] Chiellini, [sami] Khedira and [Alvaro] Morata cannot play in the final, we remain calm [about their injuries] and await their recoveries.

“We are well prepared and hope to achieve our first goal of the season.”

He also discussed the decision to give Paul Pogba the famous number ten shirt.

“Paul asked for the 10 and will have added responsibility because it is not easy to wear that number.

“It is difficult because the greatest Juventus players have worn the 10.”

[Socrates 8330]

Allegri: Juventus still need more quality signings

The Bianconeri boss believes it is essential for the Italian champions
strengthen further if they are to maintain their position at the summit of Serie A.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2892/transfer-zone/2015/08/08/14278092/-?

Aug 8, 2015

Massimiliano Allegri watched summer signings Mario Mandzukic and Paulo Dybala fire Juventus to a 2-0 victory over Lazio in the Supercoppa Italiana on Saturday but then called for more new arrivals before the close of the transfer window.

Mandzukic, who arrived from Atletico Madrid during the off-season, opened the scoring in Shanghai with a close-range header midway through the second half before former Palermo starlet Dybala promptly doubled the Bianconeri's advantage.

Juve saw out the game with the minimum of fuss to underline that they remain the team to beat in Italy but Allegri, who has publicly expressed his desire for a trequartista, still believes the Serie A holders require further reinforcements.

"We have played a great game, despite the poor condition of the pitch," the head coach told Rai Uno.

"It needed a performance of character. We had our chances and we were organised in defence. It was important to start well - we want to achieve great results this year too.

"Mandzukic is a player of a European pedigree. He's a fighter, while Dybala showed the value of boys who are carefree.

"At the same time, they lack a little experience in certain moments of the game but Dybala is a bright boy. He will grow quickly.

"So, some great players have arrived but the market is still open. We will see what happens.

"In order to tackle another big season and build a Juventus that can have a great future, we need the right players; Juventus players."

Juventus are reportly also looking for a new midfielder given Andrea Pirlo and Arturo Vidal have departed for New York City FC and Bayern Munich respectively, while summer signing Sami Khedira has been ruled out for two months through injury.

[Socrates 8330]

Birindelli Praises Bianconeri Boss

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/08/former-juventus-midfielder-praises-bianconeri-boss/?

Aug 19, 2015

Former Juventus midfielder Alessandro Birindelli has heaped praise on Bianconeri coach Massimiliano Allegri.

The ex-Italian international played for the Old Lady between 1998 and 2007, when he then moved on to play for hometown club Pisa for a season before moving on to Valle Giovenco before hanging up his boots in 2010.

Speaking on a Marina di Castagneto talk show, the 40-year-old was quick to declare his admiration for Allegri.

“Allegri did a very good job last season,” Birindelli began.

“Now it is difficult because he must create something completely new,” he added.

Pisa-born Birindelli continued to speak about some of the club’s transfer targets for the summer transfer window, namely Real Madrid’s Isco.

“There are still midfielders with certain characteristics missing,” he said.

“Isco could be the right choice to replace both Tevez and Giovinco.”

[Socrates 8330]

Allegri: 'Welcome Alex Sandro'

http://www.football-italia.net/71281/allegri-welcome-alex-sandro?

Aug 19, 2015

Max Allegri welcomed Alex Sandro to Juventus, discussed Paul Pogba’s role and said there’s “no need to worry” about injuries.

The Coach spoke to Sky Sport Italia after today’s traditional pre-season game between the senior and youth teams, decided 1-0 by a Pogba strike.

“It was in general a good training session looking ahead to Udinese this weekend, which will not be easy. Giorgio Chiellini gave a good response on his comeback and we are ready for this tough season.

“It requires patience and balance, because we are a new team and have to find our rhythm. There is enthusiasm, though.”

Today Pogba played in the Andrea Pirlo style deep-lying playmaker position, but Allegri insisted it was only an experiment.

“Paul was there today, but he’ll be in that role in a few years. There’s plenty of time for that. He can play behind the strikers, but would need to adapt. I think the trequartista is an unusual role, one that breaks up opposition tactics.”

Director Beppe Marotta confirmed Alex Sandro is a “done deal” and the Porto full-back will arrive for his medical tomorrow.

“We know that it takes time to get players worthy of Juventus,” added Allegri.

“Meanwhile we’ve won the Super Cup, Alex Sandro arrives and he has great quality and attacking drive. Kwadwo Asamoah will return soon, the club is working well.

“We might be lacking in experience, but we are growing and there is quality. In order to be consistently in the top eight in Europe you need quality.”

Alvaro Morata and Sami Khedira were joined by Claudio Marchisio on the treatment table, out for three weeks, while Mario Mandzukic limped off today with a knee problem.

“There’s no need to worry. Injuries happen, Morata will be back in training from Tuesday and has the chance to play against Roma in Week 2.

“Mandzukic shouldn’t be anything serious, but we will evaluate it tomorrow. If he can’t make it against Udinese, then someone else will play.”

Allegri was asked about this season and whether Juventus can win a fifth consecutive Scudetto.

“There are many rivals and I think this term it will take fewer points to secure top spot.”

[Socrates 8330]

Title Race Wide Open Claims Juventus Coach

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/08/title-race-wide-open-claims-juventus-coach/?

Aug 19, 2015

Massimiliano Allegri is sure Juventus will not have it all their own way in the upcoming Serie A season.

Juve won the title last season in Allegri’s first year at the club and the former AC Milan coach has had his say on Paul Pogba’s role in midfield.

“I think the title race is open,” Allegri told reporters after Juventus faced their primavera side in a pre season friendly.

“It will not be easy for us to retain our crown.

“Today against the primavera side was a good run out.

“I am happy with how we played and I am confident ahead of the new season.

“It will be a demanding season for us, we will need patience as we have many new players in the side.

“For me Pogba can be a playmaker but it may take him a few years to grow and develop into the role.”

[Socrates 8330]

Massimiliano Allegri ignores Jose Mourinho comments

http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/chelsea/news/allegri-ignores-jose-mourinho-comments_241059.html

Aug 22, 2015

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri has purposely ignored comments made by Jose Mourinho on Friday and said that he would rather 'talk about Juve's championship'.

The Italian manager was accused of courting Oscar and Ramires throughout the summer by Mourinho and the Chelsea boss says that he would not rule out making a move for Paul Pogba, another comment which was ignored by Allegri.

"Mourinho's words? It's better to talk about our championship," said Allegri, according to Goal.com.

According to a report, the Blues are offering a record-breaking £86m for Pogba's services.

[Socrates 8330]

Allegri ignores Mourinho comments

The coach avoided being drawn on the Chelsea boss's remarks
regarding Oscar and Ramires, as well as the future of Paul Pogba.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/11/transfer-zone/2015/08/22/14653642/allegri-ignores-mourinho-comments?ICID=TP_HN_HP_RI_0_2

Aug 22, 2015

Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri declined the opportunity to respond to comments made by Jose Mourinho after being asked about the future of Paul Pogba on Saturday.

The Chelsea coach refused to rule out a move for the midfielder on Friday, but made a swipe at the Italian for publicly courting Oscar and Ramires during the summer.

"Mourinho's words? It's better to talk about our championship," said Allegri.

Juventus face Udinese in their opening Serie A fixture on Sunday having lost three key players over the summer, with Carlos Tevez, Arturo Vidal and Andrea Pirlo all departing.

The likes of Paulo Dybala, Sami Khedira and Mario Mandzukic have arrived as the Bianconeri have sought to rebuild, but Allegri is expecting a closer title race than last season.

"The new season starts tomorrow and it will be a big one," he continued.

"It'll be a much tighter title race this season, everyone has strengthened. Milan, Inter, Roma and us are in race for Scudetto, it will be a more balanced tournament.

"Winning the Supercoppa was the perfect start to the new campaign, it's given us a massive boost."

Allegri also offered an update on the fitness of several of his players and spoke of his delight at securing another summer signing: "Morata will rejoin the squad on Monday, we'll have a closer look at Mandzukic today.

"Fernando Llorente will be important for us again this year. He's in good shape and he's a player I trust. If we decide that Mandzukic isn't fit for tomorrow, Fernando is definitely in my plans. Chiellini will be available tomorrow.

"We're delighted with the arrival of Alex Sandro, tomorrow he'll be on the bench. Isla? He should stay with us."

[Socrates 8330]

Allegri Optimistic Following Champions League Draw

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/08/juventus-coach-optimistic-following-champions-league-draw/?

Aug 27, 2015

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri is feeling positive following Thursday’s Champions League group stage draw.

The Bianconeri were drawn in the same group as Manchester City, Sevilla and Borussia Monchengladbach which, as well as tough trips to England and Germany, means a reunion with Spanish striker Fernando Llorente will happen quicker than expected after he completed his move to the Spanish side.

“Playing against Manchester City, the tradition of Borussia, the friend of Juventus in Llorente, tough challenges and a fascinating draw but we’ll make it!” Allegri tweeted.

Massimiliano Allegri ✔@OfficialAllegri
I campioni del @MCFC,la tradizione del @borussia,l'amico della @juventusfc @llorentefer19 : sfide dure e affascinanti,ma ce la faremo!

The current Scudetto holders will hope to go one better in the competition this year after finishing runners-up to Barcelona last season.

[Socrates 8330]

'Allegri needs time to transform Juventus' -
Patience required after summer of sweeping changes in Turin

The Bianconeri are still coming to terms with the loss of several key men - as well as
their disappointment at seeing their primary transfer target, Julian Draxler, join Wolfsburg.

http://www.goal.com/en-za/news/4659/editorials/2015/09/01/14950132/-?

Sep 1, 2015

ANALYSIS By Romeo Agresti

To describe the conclusion of Juventus' transfer window as frenetic would not do it justice. The Bianconeri have earned a reputation for being shrewd operators because of the way in which they have worked the market in recent years. Paul Pogba, Andrea Pirlo, Carlos Tevez - the Bianconeri have re-established themselves as a major force in European football thanks to a succession of sensational signings. Moreover, they usually go about their business calmly and competently. It was the same this summer but then things descended into chaos in the final days of the window.

Juve were confident of addressing their long-standing need for a No.10 by signing Schalke starlet Julian Draxler. However, they failed to reach an agreement with the Bundesliga outfit and the Germany international instead joined Wolfsburg on deadline day, much to the Bianconeri's annoyance and embarrassment. In their desperation to provide Allegri with the trequartista he has repeatedly and publicly requested, the Italian champions turned to Inter midfielder Hernanes. After previous links with attacking midfielders of the calibre of Isco and Oscar, it was hard for most Juve fans to react to the arrival of Hernanes with anything other than a sense of anti-climax.

And it's not as if they were in a great mood anyway, with Allegri's men having lost their first two Serie A games for the first time in history. Indeed, there was a fear that Juve had been weakened over the summer and the losses to Udinese and Roma appeared to confirm as much. However, a period of adjustment was likely, given the high turnover of players in Turin this summer. The departures of Pirlo, Tevez and Arturo Vidal were always going to be keenly felt. These were players that were as influential off the field as on it, thus making them difficult to replace.

Juve's response was to undertake a complete renewal of Massimiliano Allegri's squad, signing several quality youngsters - Paulo Dybala, Simone Zaza, Daniele Rugani, Alex Sandro and Mario Lemina - as well as a couple of experienced internationals in Mario Mandzukic and Sami Khedira. It may appear rash but a cycle was over and Juventus knew this. For this reason, the powers that be at Corso Galileo Ferraris decided to make several new signings, to renew the motivation of a group that has won so much, as it would have been foolish to move forward with the same panel.

Yes, the fans are understandably unhappy with and concerned by a historically poor start to Juve's bid for a fifth successive Scudetto, but there was always an acceptance that there could be, and most likely would be, some teething problems.

Plus, there are some grounds for optimism. The earlly signs are that Dybala, signed from Palermo for a fee that could rise to €40 million, is the man to trust in both the short and long term. The Argentine has obvious natural ability but what has impressed most thus far is his personality, with the 21-year-old already looking like a character capable of taking on the responsibility of leading the club into a new era of success.

The onus is now on Allegri and his assistants, though, to get the best out a squad that has suffered so many painful departures. There is obvious room for improvement but making so many signings was an admirable admission that change was essential. Juve have been dominating domestically for four years now but new arrivals were required to take the Bianconeri to the next level in Europe. The hope is that reaching the final of the Champions League will come to be viewed as normal rather than an anomaly.

However, everything hinges on how quickly Allegri can successfully mesh the summer signings with the experienced core. Last season's successes have bought the former AC Milan boss time, which is just as well, because on the evidence of the opening two rounds of the new season, he is going to need it.