Pirlo unconvinced by Juventus performance in win

Juventus huffed and puffed but aided by two hilarious errors by the Ferencvaros goalkeeper were able to leave Hungary with a comfortable 4-1 win in their Champions League group game.

Speaking after the game, coach Andrea Pirlo was displeased with how the victory was obtained.

“We’re satisfied with the result, but could’ve done much better in terms of the performance. We made a lot of mistakes down to complacency, so we need to improve.”

Fabio Capello, in his role as analyst, asked Pirlo if he would have a conversation with his forwards about their apparent ‘selfishness’.

“I talk to my players a lot, but they make the choices when they are on the pitch. They could’ve been less egotistical and killed off the game earlier.

“We are playing with two forwards plus two wide men. Once we get everyone in shape, we can evaluate who to use together. So far, not everyone has been at 100 per cent, so it’s been normal to rotate them and leave one out.”

Midfielder Arthur Melo started the game but was taken off midway through for Rodrigo Bentancur.

“Arthur wasn’t well from the start, he felt ill and was nauseous. We were ready to substitute him after 20 minutes, but he wanted to finish the half.

“His position should be slightly more advanced compared to today, but he was struggling to breathe and run today, so he was deeper to let him recover and compensate.”

Photo by Daniele Badolato - Juventus FC/Juventus FC via Getty Images

Alvaro Morata got over his Barcelona disallowed hattrick with a brace, and speaking after the game, expressed how much he was enjoying being back at Juve.

“I said when I came back here that I felt like a more complete player and I matured as a person by going through the good and bad in my career. It was all a learning experience.

“The motivation I want in my football is the same as any person needs in life, to feel wanted and loved. I think I have all that I need at Juventus. I can still improve and I believe we’ll continue to grow together and go far.”

Club captain Giorgio Chiellini thought his side were too complacent at times.

“We made it seem easier, and in my mind we were too comfortable in the first half and slowed the tempo too much. We did better when pushing after the break and raised the tempo to create chances.

“We mustn’t kid ourselves, there was a big difference in the level of the teams, but after the win at Spezia, we want to go into the break for international duty with another victory against a much stronger side like Lazio.”