Juventus Manager Allegri Backs Szczesny Despite Loss to Sassuolo

 Juventus Manager Allegri Backs Szczesny Despite Loss to Sassuolo

Juventus Manager Allegri Backs Szczesny Despite Loss to Sassuolo(Image-Getty)

Juventus faced their first defeat of the season in a 4-2 loss to Sassuolo over the weekend, primarily due to errors made by goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny. However, despite the setback, manager Massimiliano Allegri is standing by the Polish international, confirming his place in the lineup for Tuesday's match against Lecce.

Szczesny found himself at fault for two of Sassuolo's three goals, and the match ended in embarrassment with a stoppage-time own goal by Federico Gatti, extinguishing any hopes of a Juventus comeback.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, Allegri acknowledged the defensive lapses, saying, "With Sassuolo, it was not a bad performance, but we defended badly and there were single inexplicable errors. At Juventus, we have to live with pressure and a sense of responsibility."

Allegri continued to express his support for Szczesny, recognizing his capabilities as a European-level goalkeeper and emphasizing that mistakes, though regrettable, are part of the game.

"Szczesny is the starting goalkeeper and tomorrow he will play, aware, however, that (Mattia) Perin is an important keeper."

With experienced players like Leonardo Bonucci, Juan Cuadrado, and Angel Di Maria having departed the club, Allegri addressed concerns about leadership within the squad.

"We have Danilo, there is Szczesny, and then Alex Sandro even though he is currently injured. Also (Daniele) Rugani who has grown a lot. We lost in experience compared to last season but gained in speed and enthusiasm."

In terms of goal-scoring prowess, Federico Chiesa and Dusan Vlahovic have both contributed four goals each in the opening five games. Allegri faces the decision of whether to rest one of these key players.

"Chiesa is doing very well, he's much more present in the game. I will need to evaluate. He spent a lot of energy on Saturday, as did Vlahovic."

Currently occupying fourth place in the standings, Juventus trails leaders Inter Milan by five points. They are set to host unbeaten Lecce, who sit one point ahead of Allegri's side in third place.

"Lecce is a solid team, and (Roberto) D'Aversa is a very good coach. They are playing very well, they have technique and solidity. After surviving relegation last season, they are now doing very well."