05 February 2021
There has been an evident path of growth and awareness in Andrea Pirlo’s team since the first time they met each other, in Rome, earlier in the season. Tomorrow, the two teams will face-off against each other in a battle that sees the two teams separated by one-point on the log.
Speaking ahead of the fixture, Pirlo says he is aware of the Giallorossi’s strengths, and will go out fielding his best possible XI at the Allianz Stadium.
Here’s what he had to say:
THE OPPOSITION
Roma are one of the best footballing sides in Italy. They are good at counter-attacks as they have very fast players. I expect a difficult match. Compared to the first game in Rome, many things have changed, for the better. Now my staff and I know our players well and we're trying to get them all to perform at their best. Dzeko and Borja Mayoral are both great strikers, but we shouldn't worry about who will start tomorrow. I will field my best possible team.
CURRENT FORM
We have improved a lot mentally, the defeat at San Siro helped us in this regard. We are happy with the latest results, but we must continue to be determined because ambition must never be lacking if we want to win. We have a large squad and that's very important for us, as we play so many games over so few days. We have to make sure that we use the right amount of energy, both physical and mental.
SCUDETTO RACE
The Scudetto race is still very open. There are many teams that can have their say and the many games concentrated over a few weeks will keep teams fighting and things uncertain until the end.
PIRLO’S PLAYERS
Dybala is still training by himself, whilst Ramsey worked with the group, but he is not 100%. Cristiano is an exemplary professional. Seeing him train every day is a stimulus for everyone and his desire to continue to improve is impressive. The same goes for Buffon, Chiellini and Bonucci. Bentancur plays a very important role. He started the season a bit subdued because he played so many matches close together at the end of last season. Now, he's back to his usual levels and we're satisfied with his performance. Chiellini is fundamental for this team, because he helps his teammates a lot in terms of attitude. He came back fresh and full of energy and for us he is a great resource to have available.
