Alcaraz: Allegri explains reason for Southampton loanee snub in latest Juventus loss

Juventus News Newsnow Serie A

ByLorenzo Bettoni

Feb 16, 2024 11:44

Massimiliano Allegri says Carlos Alcaraz is a ‘nice guy’ who ‘learns quickly’ but the Juventus coach needed ‘other players on the pitch’ in a 1-0 loss against Udinese on Monday.

Alcaraz joined Juventus on an initial loan deal from Southampton in the January transfer window and the Bianconeri have an option to make his move permanent for €49.5m at the end of the season.

The Argentina international made his Serie A debut in a 1-0 loss against Inter at San Siro on February 4 but was an unused substitute the following week when the Serie A giants suffered another 1-0 defeat against Udinese.

Nevertheless, Allegri seems happy with the midfielder’s impact in Turin.

“He’s a nice guy; he is improving, and he can learn quickly. I am happy with what he’s doing,” the Italian tactician said at a press conference on Friday, as quoted by Ilbianconero.com.

“I didn’t introduce him against Udinese because we needed other players on the pitch.”

Juventus also signed Tiago Djalo last month but the Portuguese centre-back has yet to make his debut with the Old Lady.

“Djalo is returning from an injury, he is training well with the team. Perhaps he will have a chance,” Allegri explained.

Juventus collected just one point in the last three Serie A games and Allegri said his players must pay attention to details if they want to beat Hellas Verona on Saturday.