With the last home league game upon us, Massimiliano Allegri addressed the press in the classic pre-match conference. The coach insisted that the team will give their all to honour the remainder of the season, starting off with tomorrow's clash with Lazio, Monday 16 May at 20h45 CEST.
STADIUM BOW
“It’s our last home game of the season. Lazio are in contention for Europe, so we must honour it as best we can, and close the season on a high note.
“Also, it’s the farewell match for Giorgio Chiellini in front of the fans, and for Paulo Dybala, so it will be a great occasion. Giorgio has been here for 17 years and finishes his career, at least in Italy, while Paulo still has his career ahead of him.
“With these two players leaving, following the hierarchy at the club, the new Juventus captain will be Leonardo Bonucci.”
TEAM CHOICES
“For tomorrow, Danilo is out as is Arthur. Denis Zakaria took a knock in training, so he’s not available either. Mattia De Sciglio is back after serving his ban in the Cup Final, while we need to see if McKennie can make it from Wednesday on for next week. We’ll continue to look to the youngsters, so Fabio Miretti will play again tomorrow.
THINKING POSITIVELY
“Wednesday was a wonderful sporting event. The setting was magnificent, it was a gripping emotional game, but unfortunately we came away empty handed. We have to carry with us the Cup Final defeat, and the anger of having lost, which is something that is difficult to forget.
“Sometimes, there are seasons like this one, when you miss out on trophies, but we can’t underestimate reaching the objective of qualifying for the Champions League next season.
“The positives must be considered along with the negatives, for example, our charge up the table, which was ended when we lost against Inter here at the Stadium. I’m not satisfied with not having won anything but I am satisfied with the growth of the team.
“The team has done their best. We’ve had many serious injuries, which have deprived us of important players for many months. Next year we will certainly grow more, both individually and as a team, and this is what we will be working towards."