Allegri: Juve played their best of the season

Juventus completed a routine 2-0 win away at Udinese and ensured Massimiliano Allegri went into the international break a happy and satisfied manager with ten wins across all competitions.

“We worked hard to ensure we got off to a strong start this season. It was a difficult game, I think we played perhaps our best of the season, allowing Udinese practically nothing.

“It could’ve been at risky fixture, but we showed great maturity and determination. The lads know what we are working on, at times we have been a little complacent after taking the lead, but we didn’t do that today.

“Rodrigo Bentancur impressed me in midfield, both tactically and technically, then of course he scored the goal. I think above all, we are not too hasty, but move the ball around quickly and all over the field to make the most of the great technical qualities at our disposal.

“The break for international duty came at the right time, though, as we needed a rest. We need to set new targets every time, which now is a series of clean sheets. If we don’t keep setting ourselves targets, we risk resting on our laurels.”

Allegri played arguably his three best forwards across the front line in a 4-3-3, with Mario Mandzukic at the top, Paulo Dybala and Cristiano Ronaldo on either side.

“The forwards did very well in winning back the ball, and the trio in attack have to take turns between who tracks back. Mandzukic obviously is very helpful when defending, but the important thing today is that they were all spread out and in their correct positions, covering the pitch.”

Fullback Joao Cancelo got a special mention too.

“Cancelo has improved a great deal. He was always an extraordinarily-gifted player technically, but at times he trusts his pace too much and is a little slow in starting his runs, so he needs to run at the same time as his opponent.”

Allegri was also asked again about the exit of Director General Beppe Marotta.

“At the club, we have always made the decisions together. I discuss the characteristics of the players I am looking for and Fabio Paratici is very good at going out there to find the players who fit the bill.

“Within this club, we discuss every tiny detail to ensure we make as few errors as possible and I can only achieve that with the aid of my staff. Especially as the less the players hear my voice in training, the better. They’ll get fed up, otherwise!”