09 February 2019
The Bianconeri head coach was present at Allianz Stadium this afternoon where he spoke about what his squad can expect from the trip to Reggio-Emilia. The boss
On Dybala
Paulo Dybala has an important responsibility: to wear the No.10 and the captain's armband when Chiellini isn't there. He is intelligent, and he apologised. Case closed. He hasn't changed his way of playing, what has changed is the way people play around him.
Keeping Fit
I have asked the lads to be good when it comes to managing themselves on and off the field. We are at an important part in the season; therefore, everyone has to be in their best physical and mental condition. The physical condition of the team is good and is increasing. We have a championship to win, and when it is the right time, we will think of the Champions League.
Possible starters
We have 60 points and we have the best defence in the league. We had some discontent against Parma, but the defence had done well and we were crucified. Dybala is a doubt with Federico Bernardeschi. One of them will play. In defence, Mattia De Sciglio along with Daniele Rugani, Martin Caceres and Alex Sandro will play. João Cancelo could be a great change during the course of the game, even further up. Sami Khedira will play with Bernardeschi. If Dybala plays, then Bentancur or Emre Can. Blaise Matuidi is well. Wojciech Szczęsny will return in goal. Khedira is mentally fresh, and against Parma he was very dangerous.
Return of Caceres
Caceres is a great buy. He had a great game against Parma, but the defenders need to work with the rest of the team to do well - collectively we defended badly. We have to improve the defensive phase.
The opponents
Roberto De Zerbi is a young and good coach; one of the more promising coaches. His teams occupy the field well in width and they distribute the ball well. Sassuolo is the ideal environment for him. It will be a difficult game if we aren't good at remaining compact. Sassuolo has quality and enthusiasm.
Thoughts on João
Cancelo has grown a lot, and he must still grow in the disciplinary phase on the field. However, he is an extraordinary player. With the ball at his feet, he's at a high level.
Injury update
Andrea Barzagli will return to training with the group next week.
