Juventus manager Allegri believes Barcelona are favorites to win UCL
Massimiliano Allegri, the manager of Juventus, opened up about the team, he feels, can win the UEFA Champions League, in 2018/19. The two-time finalist manager believes that Messi-led Barcelona are the clear favorites, this time around. Notably, Allegri's Juventus lost the 2014-15 UCL final to Barcelona, but have become a strong contender this season after they acquired superstar, Cristiano Ronaldo.
Allegri motivated to work hard in the coming days
Even though Juventus have started off brilliantly in the Serie A and are leading the table by eight points, Allegri is concerned about the tough games up next. He is especially worried about matches against Roma, Inter, Atalanta, Fiorentina, and Sampdoria. However, he insisted that he wants to take the UCL one step at a time, and Juventus have the desire to win.
Juventus were defeated by Barca and Madrid in UCL finals
Allegri has taken his Juventus to the Champions League finals twice, in 2014-15 and 2016-17. However, he couldn't manage to win the top prize in club competition on both the occasions. Juventus were defeated in 2014-15 by Barcelona (1-3) and in 2016-17 by Madrid (1-4).
Allegri's comments on Barcelona's chances
"Barcelona are the favorites to win the competition, in my opinion. Then there are teams, including us, with the ambition to win it. We have that same desire every year", said Allegri regarding the Catalan giants. Although, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are not performing well in domestic football, Allegri has decided not to write them off, considering their unbelievable experience.
Why Barcelona might falter this term?
Undoubtedly, Barcelona's attack is impeccable, but their defense remains a concern. While Messi and others are lighting up their attack, the defenders are not holding the fort strongly. This can be a problem for Barca, while facing the top teams of Europe. Barcelona's problems have stemmed from their defensive frailties, having drawn matches against Bilbao, Valencia, and Girona- fixtures they should have won easily.
