A stern warning has been issued by Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri against what he perceives as overconfidence and high expectations relating to the Champions League.
The Bianconeri are being discussed as real contenders for the crown this year, given the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo and their devastating Serie A form, and end a long wait to get their hands on the trophy again.
However, Allegri is unhappy with being labelled as being among the favourites and insisted that it is not simply a case of turning up to win it, particularly given the difficulty of their round of 16 tie against Atletico Madrid.
“The Madrid match will be a good game but a very difficult one. Here, we are talking as if we just have to wait until June 1 to win the Champions League,” he told the assembled media.
“It is a crazy thing and football and competitions like that don’t happen like that. Unexpected things are part of the norm and it isn’t like a 38-game league season, where you can afford some slips.
“Of course it is our goal to take it home but we aren’t among the mega favourites. That isn’t written anywhere. We have played in two finals in the last three years and we’d like to bring the cup back so hopefully it will be a good year.”
Allegri has twice led the Old Lady to Champions League finals, but they have been beaten on both occasions against Barcelona and Real Madrid respectively.
Source: forzaitalianfootball.com