Allegri preferred to give Higuain a rest

Juventus easily beat 10-man Torino in the Derby della Mole 4-0 to maintain their 100% start to the Serie A season. After the game, manager Massimiliano Allegri spoke to the media about the opponents on the day, and how he saw the match unfold.

“At last we’re starting to run a bit. The lads had a really good game, including the opening 20 minutes, then once Torino went down to 10 men we controlled the match.

“Even then, we allowed a couple of situations that could’ve been avoided. We slowed the tempo a bit too much after the break, but still created a great deal.

“It wasn’t easy, as this Torino side is tough to beat, but it was the best way to prepare for Wednesday’s Champions League game.”

Gonzalo Higuain was benched with Mario Mandzukic preferred as the center forward in a surprise move after Allegri’s show of support for the Argentine previously.

“Higuain was on the bench because there are many games and I preferred to give him a rest. He’s an important player for us, there are moments when things work better at one time than another. There will be times when everyone gets time out, otherwise we won’t be able to maintain our consistency.

“Tonight I preferred to leave him out, he has already scored two goals this season and will score many more. He just needs to rediscover – or perhaps he never lost it – the calm of not feeling the need to score at all costs.

“I thank Mandzukic for his performance. I’m sure he could happily play in midfield too, he’s got physicality and technique, so can do a job anywhere.”

Paulo Dybala continued his hot streak, bagging a brace to give him ten goals already. Remember, he only had eleven all of last season.

“When we’re in control, we must try to avoid injuries. For example, Paulo Dybala kept the ball for too long in the second half and drew the foul, when he should’ve passed or shot immediately.

“Dybala is doing very well, but I know there are periods when the others will score goals, so we have to work to improve both as individuals and as a team.”

Napoli still lead the Bianconeri on goal difference at the top of the table, but how did Allegri view their challengers?

“Napoli are playing very good football and getting results, which after all is what really matters. People only remember those who finish first, not second or third when playing well.”