Massimo Carrera believes the Bianconeri need to temper Napoli’s counter-attacking threat if they are to emerge victorious from Saturday night’s top of the table clash at Juventus Stadium.
The Partenopei – who currently share top spot with Juventus on 19 points – build their game on catching their opponents on the break, and former Napoli defender Carrera is mindful of the strengths possessed by Mazzarri’s men.
Speaking to reporters gathered at Juventus Center, the 48-year-old said: “Both teams line up with 3-5-2 systems, but we aim for a more offensive game. They have a greater reliance on counter attacks and individual moments of skill. We’ll look to dictate the play, but need to be smart to try and halt their counter-attacks.”
Many have suggested that tomorrow’s fixture represents a clash of the two most genuine Scudetto contenders. Carrera, however, anticipates plenty more twists and turns as this year’s title race unfolds.
“There’s still a long way to go in the championship and many other sides can enter the reckoning. It’s understandable that Napoli are aiming for the Scudetto - they’ve got everything in place to do so.”
The work done by Carrera in successfully steering the Bianconeri through choppy waters during Conte’s touchline absence has drawn admiring glances from far and wide.
But the first-team coach insists he is fully committed to his duties at Juventus.
“Management is not something that currently interests me. I’m happy working alongside the manager and staff and am fully focused on my job. I’m happy with what I’m doing.”
Question marks continue to hover over the conditions of Gigi Buffon and Mirko Vucnic after the Bianconeri duo returned from international duty with differing ailments.
“Gigi will tell us if he’s able to play or not following our final training session. It will be down to him to make the decision. Vucinic’s condition is more serious as he’s been debilitated by gastric flu. We’ll see whether he’ll be fit enough to make the squad.”
Source: Juventus.com
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