Allegri calls for patience as Ronaldo and new signings settle

Juventus has two wins from two in Serie A, but Massimiliano Allegri believes there is much more to come given time.

Published : Aug 26, 2018 09:55 IST

Massimiliano Allegri was pleased with the way Juventus dealt with the occasion of Cristiano Ronaldo's home debut against Lazio, although he insists it will take time for the champion to settle.

Juve was busy in the transfer market, bringing in Ronaldo, Joao Cancelo and Emre Can among others, while also sealing the return of former favourite Leonardo Bonucci.

The Bianconeri has not been wholly convincing in its first two wins of the season, but a 2-0 defeat of Lazio satisfied the coach as he continues to see progress.

"It was a different game to Verona [a 3-2 win at Chievo on the opening day]," Allegri told Sky Sport Italia .

"At first, we played in a hurry. There was a danger of getting carried away with the enthusiasm of Cristiano Ronaldo's first home match. We had to be patient.

"But I'm happy with how the players did. It was an important match, the first match against a direct rival.

"We need to work and improve. But we have Cancelo, who is a new player, Bonucci returned after a year, Ronaldo, a new player, that's 30 per cent of the team. It takes time."

On Ronaldo, he added: "Italian football is completely different to Spanish football. Ronaldo understands that and he is settling in very well. He's a very humble guy and I'm very pleased with the impact he has made so far."

Miralem Pjanic signed a new five-year deal with Juve this week and he was delighted to celebrate with a fine opening goal.

"I am very happy to remain at this wonderful club," he said. "I dedicate the goal to the fans, my team-mates and the club.

"I have improved so much in recent years and it is thanks to my experience here. I thank everyone for their support and help."

Sign in to unlock all user benefits
  • Get notified on top games and events
  • Save stories to read later
  • Access to comment on every story
  • Sign up / manage to our newsletters with a single click
  • Get notified by email for early bird access to discounts & offers to our products
Sign in

Comments

Comments have to be in English, and in full sentences. They cannot be abusive or personal. Please abide to our community guidelines for posting your comment