Massimiliano Allegri wants immediate response from ‘angry’ Juve to shock defeat

Massimiliano Allegri has called on his “angry” Juventus squad to return to winning ways when they host high-flying Lecce.

Juventus missed the chance to go top of Serie A on Saturday after they slumped to a surprise 4-2 defeat at Sassuolo.

The Bianconeri had claimed 10 points from an unbeaten start, but came unstuck at the Mapei Stadium as Sassuolo battled to a second league win.

Fully focused on #JuveLecce pic.twitter.com/vW7DHK3qx5

— JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) September 25, 2023

“Tomorrow we have to get back to winning ways to immediately move on from the bad loss to Sassuolo,” said Allegri.

“The team are angry and sorry for what happened, but at the same time they’re motivated. There’s a real desire to get back on the pitch as soon as possible.

“We had a bad night, we made mistakes that allowed our opponents to win the game, but we didn’t play badly.

“We didn’t defend well, and individual mistakes cost us. I hope the home support will give us that extra boost against Lecce. We need to have the right attitude, be proactive and, above all, positive. It will be so important to get three points.”

¹ Inter² Milan³ Lecce⁴ Juve

We love this game.

Full standings: pic.twitter.com/GBPYkxpdEy

— Lega Serie A (@SerieA_EN) September 24, 2023

Third-placed Lecce will head to the Allianz Stadium unbeaten from their opening five league fixtures following three wins and two draws.

They sit one point ahead of Juventus, and four back from leaders Inter Milan, who have enjoyed a perfect start to the season.

“Lecce are a solid team, and they’re excellently coached by Roberto D’Aversa,” added Allegri.

“They’re a technical side and it’s not a coincidence that they’re still unbeaten. (Director of football) Pantaleo Corvino has put together a very competitive squad, and even last year too. It will be a good game.”