Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri said that his side has already achieved an early objective by still competing in Serie A, the Coppa Italia and the Champions League come March and the Bianconeri must keep going on three fronts.
The Juve coach suggested that Andrea Barzagli may be ready to return from injury but he insisted that Juve are obliged to take the competition seriously seeing as they haven’t lifted the trophy in 20 years.
“Will [Andrea] Barzagli be back against Fiorentina? I haven’t picked the side yet but he’s certainly feeling better and I’ll evaluate the situation,” said Allegri at the pre-match press conference.
“He [Barzagli] hasn’t played in eight months other than in two friendlies and I’ll have to evaluate him and we’ll make a decision together.”
“Tomorrow is a semi-final, we’ll have to take the field with our best team, we’re playing against Fiorentina over 180 minutes who are one of the best teams in Serie A and [Vincenzo] Montella’s sides always play well.”
Allegri was then asked if squad players might get a game against the Viola if he decides to rotate his side for the Coppa Italia.
“I seem them everyday, I have to make decisions and pick 11 players for tomorrow.”
“It’s important that they’re all in good condition at the moment.
“We have players who have played more than 30 games, many more than they played last season.
“Maybe tomorrow I will play the usual team and then make changes on Monday against Sassuolo in the league.
“Tomorrow against Fiorentina the strongest possible team will be picked as always.
““The Coppa Italia is an important objective for Juventus.
“It’s been 20 years since we last won it, so it’s our duty to make a run for it.”
Allegri also took questions about the fitness of Paul Pogba and Stefano Sturaro.
“Those two [Pogba and Sturaro] are both doing well, I didn’t want to risk Pogba against Roma and he will play a part in the game while Sturaro will be on the bench.”
Allegri then spoke about how he feels the squad must keep concentrating and attempt to compete to win Serie A, the Champions League and the Coppa Italia.
“We must carry on to the end of the season.”
“Our season is at a crucial moment.
“We’ve achieved the early objective of still being in every competition by March.
“Although mathematically nothing is certain, we’re on track in the league.
“We have dropped too many points to small teams away from home, in the next games we need to do better.”
Allegri also praised Fiorentina for the style of play and admitted they will pose a tough test over two legs in the semi-final.
“They play good football and they have a good physical and mental condition.”
“[Vincenzo] Montella’s teams aren’t just technically skilled, they also play very well.
“Fiorentina keep the ball well in midfield thanks to their skilled players.
“However, we are used to controlling games but this is not essential, it will be important to read the game correctly and see how it is going.”
