Juventus travel to Atalanta looking for a win to climb the standings

Juventus travel to Atalanta in their early fixture on Sunday with the goal of overtaking Lazio in second place. However, Atalanta will also be determined to make a late push for a top-four finish and Champions League qualification.

Allegri congratulates Napoli on winning the Scudetto

During his pre-match press conference, coach Massimiliano Allegri congratulated Napoli for winning the Scudetto for the third time. He acknowledged that Napoli deserved the title and praised their achievements.

“When a team wins, it means they have proven themselves to be stronger. Each season is different, with situations that can go in your favor or against you. But Napoli deserved this Scudetto in terms of performance and results. We should congratulate them for what they have achieved.”

Since their nine consecutive Scudetti victories ended in 2020, Juventus has struggled to win the title again.

“As a team, we always aim for pride. It's normal that after three years we haven't been competitive for the championship. Next year, Juventus must regain their competitiveness and strive to win the league title.”

Hiring a sporting director is an important step to compete for the title, but the position is currently vacant, and various candidates, including Napoli's Cristiano Giuntoli, have been linked.

“There are 30 crucial days left in the season. From June 5th, the club will decide what to do regarding a sporting director. It's pointless to speculate on potential choices until then.”

With five games remaining, Juventus will face challenges to maintain their top-four position, especially with a Europa League semi-final coming up midweek.

“Despite facing difficulties, the team is doing well and fighting. We need to take it one step at a time, focus on tomorrow's match, and see where we stand in the standings. Then we can shift our attention to the Europa League.”

Juventus' recent record against Atalanta does not inspire confidence.

“Juve hasn't beaten Atalanta in six games. Atalanta is coming off three consecutive victories. They are a strong team at home and in good form.”

“The direct clashes between contenders will provide more insight and determine the final rankings. We're focused on getting the points we need to secure a top-four finish.”

Allegri was asked what his players need to do to ensure Champions League qualification.

“The direct clashes will have a significant impact on the final points needed for Champions League qualification. Currently, we need 73 points, but it could be possible with 72 depending on today's results. I won't bore you with the exact numbers.”

The recent injury crisis seems to have improved, and Allegri should have all his attacking players available for the upcoming match.

“Kean is back after a month on the sidelines, Milik and Vlahovic are in good form. With matches every four days, every player starting or coming off the bench will be crucial.”