Spalletti: We need to focus on our day-to-day performances

Spalletti: We need to focus on our day-to-day performances

Ahead of the Juventus Men’s First Team’s Serie A Matchday 35 fixture at home to Hellas Verona, coach Luciano Spalletti gave his traditional pre-match press conference at the Allianz Stadium.

Let’s take a look at what the boss had to say.

“I wanted to start by paying my respects to a truly unique man in terms of values in both life and sport, like Alex Zanardi. I was fortunate enough to know him, and what he passed on to us was something incredible.”

ON THE OBJECTIVES

“You finish fourth if you deserve to finish fourth. We’ve maintained our standards and you shouldn’t focus on the maths, but on the day-to-day performances. We’re doing well, and we know what we’ve been through to be in this fight for fourth. We need to think about the Champions League, not fourth place. If you think about the former, you behave like a team that has something to prove.

“The Champions League rewards those who create chaos, not those who avoid it. Modern football is heading towards risk-avoidance, but it doesn’t just pay to maintain order and a low tempo. For example, I wasn’t happy with the game in Milan. Not taking a stance is something I don’t like. We adapted to how Milan set the rules. I don’t like it, and I made that clear to the team.”

THE INDIVIDUALS

“My job relies on forming connections with the players. I like to establish those bonds, share ideas, explain certain things. Kenan Yildiz is one of those players who always plays positively, even in tough times. He’s a great player and I’m lucky to coach him.”

“Yildiz is being analysed from all angles, especially for his health. He knows how important he is to us and he wants to be with us. He’s had some inflammation; it’s about management. He’s done well in the last few training sessions and doesn’t feel any pain.”