With their Champions League versus Olympiacos behind them, Juventus are preparing to face Atalanta in Serie A. During his press conference, Massimiliano Allegri started off by discussing Gonzalo Higuain: "He is an important part for our team, even when he started on the bench. They are players that have stayed since the first scudetto who deserve to be trusted: I am talking about Buffon, Barzagli, Chiellini, Lichtstenier and Marchisio. They are an example for the group. Gonzalo should not be content with what he has and he has to continue to fight together with the rest of the group. The team needs him and he will play tomorrow."
Allegri also discussed the injury situation: "There will be changes tomorrow because there is a need for rest. Chiellini will start tomorrow, if nothing happens in training, but something will change. It is a certainty that we won't play with a back three. I am happy about the international break because it will give us time to recover some players from injury. Khedira has knee inflammation and won't play tomorrow. Marchisio? I hope to get him back as soon as possibile. Pjanic? I hope to have him back against Lazio. De Scigilo is undergoing his training program and it is the same for Pjaca and Howedes. Is he being treated by Schalke? We have an important medical staff and we dont't help from others. We will have everyone ready to play eventually. For tomorrow game's, I can count on Matuidi, Bentancur, Sturaro and Asamoah. We have the players to have a good game."
The game against Atalanta will not be easy: "To play in Bergamo is always very complicated, Atalanta is a team that can cover a lot of ground. They are going through a great period and they played a great game against Lyon. We have to show our technical skills and we have to come back to Torino with the 3 points. We have to stay concentrated for 95 minutes. Who will play upfront? I have to evaluate Cuadrado, as I don't know who will play between him, Douglas Costa or Bernardeschi. Federico will become important and will play game from the start. We need everyone to stay fresh." The beginning of the season was positive for Allegri, but there is a lot more to improve on: "We have to certainly improve in the quality of play and with individual players: there is time to do it."
In his concluding comments, Allegri discussing the youngsters at Atalanta and the sacking of Ancelotti: "Carletto has been lucky, as he has been only sacked once in 30 years. He has won everything and I believe he is the most accomplished coach in the world. I think he will take some time to himself. The young players is the proof that Juventus are working towards the future. At Atalanta, they are guided by a great coach who has had an eye for uncovering talent. With Gasperini, they can grow a lot."
