Juventus president, Andrea Agnelli, has claimed that it was outgoing boss, Max Allegri, who made the decision to leave the club.
Speaking at a press conference to pay tribute to Allegri, Agnelli refused to discuss the club’s next manager.
The Bianconeri announced on Friday that the 51-year-old would be departing the club at the end of the season despite having a year left on his contract.
Allegri has won five successive Serie A titles since replacing Antonio Conte in 2014.
“Today I’m here to speak only about Allegri and celebrate what he’s achieved at Juventus.
“He’s written this extraordinary story by himself. I won’t be answering any questions about the Coach for the 2019-2020 season.
“Max has been very courageous since the start, the circumstances in which he arrived was difficult.
“We had to wait 14 months, until the memorable July 16 2014, when he accepted to become – amid general protests – the coach of Juventus.
“As we were about to drive up, we were alerted that the crowd was waiting for us. The driver wanted to take us to a secondary entrance, but I insisted we’d come to the main gate, because we had no reason to hide or be ashamed.
“It takes huge courage to take Juve on July 16 and go on to the Scudetto and Champions League Final in the same season. That takes cojones and Max has them.
“These five years have been marvellous for me. Five Championships, four consecutive doubles – these achievements are extraordinary.
“We also had 18 months as neighbours, and Andrea Barzagli was living between us too, so we had breakfast together at the same bar almost every day. We shared visions of life, football and everything else, seeing each others’ kids grow up.
“We came back to win the title against Napoli when everyone had already written our sporting obituary. This season we won with weeks and weeks to go.
“I think above all and else, I have found a friend, someone I can confide in on many, many, many matters. At this point, I also have to consider the planning and future of Juventus.
“When this team comes together in July, it will begin with the objective of winning, both in Italy and in Europe,” Agnelli said.
Agnelli then confirmed that it was Allegri’s hope to end on a high, that was the reason for the break.
“As time went on, we all considered and analysed various situations and I cannot deny there is some sadness in realising this was probably the best moment to close one of the most extraordinary eras in the history of Juventus.
“This is what happens when intelligent people look at a situation and decide to end on a high rather than drag it forward.
“Max was the director of all this, the leader of the orchestra, so I want to present him with this jersey.
“Thank you Max for everything you’ve done for Juventus and me,” he added.
An emotional Allegri added: “I thank the President and all the players in all my years.
“I’m leaving this team with success and with great potential. My exit changes nothing.
“I still have a great relationship with Juventus, the President, vice-president Pavel Nedvěd and sporting director Paratici.
“When I arrived, I found a great structure. I’m confident in this company, they’re a great company. These are wonderful men.
“Tomorrow we must celebrate for two things. First because we won the historic eighth Scudetto and second because Barzagli is leaving, the Professor of defending.
“I am very emotional, sad and moved. But enough is enough. Tomorrow we need to celebrate against Atalanta,” he said.
- DAILY POST
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