Massimiliano Allegri has confirmed he will stay on as Juventus manager next season, despite the club’s disappointing quarter-final exit in the UEFA Champions League.
Juventus had no answers for an Ajax side filled with energy and talent, eventually going down 2-1 on the night and 3-2 on aggregate.
Allegri discussed his future post-game.
“I already talked with the president, I will remain at Juve next season and we are already planning the next campaign,” he said.
Allegri’s comments will likely anger supporters – many of whom have become frustrated with his ‘conservative’ approach to matches.
His decision to start Mattia De Sciglio ahead of the more attacking João Cancelo was heavily criticised in the round of 16 first leg against Atlético Madrid.
He again opted for De Sciglio last night, who struggled against the fiery front third of Ajax.
Club legend Claudio Marchisio, who is now plying his trade with Zenit Saint Petersburg in Russia, was pushed out at the beginning of the season, leaving Juve with just five central midfielders.
When considering Sami Khedira’s injury struggles, as well as Emre Can’s two-month stint on the sidelines, it does make the Marchisio decision even more baffling.
The pressure is certainly on Allegri and Juventus to deliver in Europe, especially given the €112 million spent on five-time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo.
It is the first time since 2010 that Ronaldo will not feature in a Champions League semi-final.
Juventus face Fiorentina on Sunday morning (AEST), where they will likely clinch their eighth consecutive Serie A title, barring a shock loss.
