Allegri: Dybala could be left out

After the international break Juventus are back in Scudetto action this weekend playing against Sampdoria, with a midweek Champions League clash coming up against Barcelona as well.

Before the game, manager Massimiliano Allegri spoke to the media, and was quick to rubbish chatter about him taking over Nazionale, the Italy national team.

“Absolutely not. It is an ambition of mine, but not now. I have a contract with Juventus, I am happy here and need to build the Bianconeri future.

“We can talk about it again in a few years, if I am given that possibility.”

There was additional talk this week that Allegri would leave the Italian Coaches’ Association over President Renzo Ulivieri defending embattled FIGC head Carlo Tavecchio.

“If I have to make a decision, I will do so in the opportune venue. There are things that are working and others that are not working. Some of us were born to chat and others weren’t.”

Juve face a daunting game against Barca and Allegri is looking to distribute the minutes between the squad.

“Paulo Dybala could be left out, as I have to choose between him and Federico Bernardeschi. I have many doubts for tomorrow.

“Gigi Buffon and Andrea Barzagli won’t start. They are fine, but are shaking off a profound disappointment. Life goes on and they will overcome it.

“Miralem Pjanic and Juan Cuadrado are available, but I’ll decide tomorrow whether or not to use them.”

The top of the pack in the Serie A has tightened, are Juve coming into their own finally?

“Juventus are in the running for Champions League progress and are one point off an extraordinary Napoli team in the Serie A table, so I’d say we are on track.

“Until January 6, it is going to be a series of crucial head-to-head games. It’s not easy to play Samp, as they are unbeaten at home and have improved compared to last season. We will need a strong performance.

“This year, we’ve conceded 11 goals in seven games and that’s a lot for Juventus, so we must improve.”