Allegri: 'Isco is much more technical than Bale'
Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri spoke during the Italian club's Media Day ahead of the Champions League final against Real Madrid in Cardiff.
Massimiliano Allegri appeared before the press at the Juventus Media Day, held five days before his Juventus team will face Real Madrid in the Champions League final in Cardiff.
Madrid are the favourites, says Allegri
There is a feeling of optimism at the Turin-based club, which has already wrapped up domestic double with Serie A and Coppa Italia titles. Yet Allegri was quick to emphasise the strength of Real Madrid.
“This week we’re going to be relaxed, we’re going to prepare for the match in a stress-free environment. The optimism is a good thing, but I don’t think it’s fair to say that we are the favourites.
“Madrid are a team that are used to playing in finals, as indeed are we… but they are the favourites, without doubt.”
Isco more technical than Bale
Allegri also received questions about Zinedine Zidane’s possible starting XI and, in particular, the questions of whether Gareth Bale or Isco, Madrid fans' player of the year, will be handed a starting berth.
“Madrid are a club that has a group of important players beyond the starting XI, such as Asensio and Morata. Casemiro has given the them a lot of balance. If Bale plays, Los Blancos will have more depth, Isco is much more technical.”
Asked whether the return of the ‘BBC’ would be beneficial to Juventus, Allegri looked towards his own squad.
“Well, the BBC could also be made up of Buffon, Bonucci, and Chiellini. Or Benatia… we’ve got a load of letters,” the former-Milan coach smiled.
Dybala and Higuaín understand each other
Allegri was full of praise for his Argentine attacking pair of Dybala and Higuaín.
“They needed time… The picture changed and Higuaín's role was more alone, and Dybala had to adapt himself to that. Now, they understand each other perfectly.”
We’re more conscious of our own strength [than in previous years], and that makes me calm ahead of the final. We’re all satisfied with what we’ve done, but now we must bring the cup home.”