Juventus have been perfect this season in Serie A collecting 21 points from 21. The Bianconeri are on the march to another Scudetto. Juventus sit six points ahead of second place Napoli after defeating their rivals last weekend.
On Saturday, Massimiliano Allegri will take his team to the Dacia Arena to play Udinese. The league’s other Bianconeri sit down in lower mid-table. Udinese are 14th having obtained eight points from a possible 21. Just three points currently separate Udinese from the relegation places. Manager Julio Velazquez needs to improve the side quickly or a fight for survival will be on the cards.
Velazquez joined Udinese in the summer after managing Spain’s Alcorcon. Last season saw the manager narrowly escape relegation with Alcorcon. His appointment as Udinese boss was a surprise, but based on past teams managed, the results have not been shocking. Udinese have lost their last two matches by 2-1 scorelines, respectively. Goals have been hard to come by (eight scored) and the team’s defence hasn’t kept them out either (eight conceded). Udinese’s last four games have seen at least two goals scored in each.
Juventus, on the other hand, have been ruthless in Serie A. The Turin team has tallied 16 goals (most in the league) while conceding just five strikes. Juventus have scored at least two goals in each of their league matches this term. Allegri’s team has been head and shoulders above the competition. When Juventus have needed a goal, they have kicked into a second or third gear to get it.
Allegri will have a few players missing this weekend. Douglas Costa is suspended following a red card on September 17. Centre-back Daniele Rugani and midfielder Sami Khedira are also missing due to injury. However, Juventus have plenty of cover for the players missing.
Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo is dealing with off-pitch problems back in England. Despite his issues, the Portuguese star has tallied three goals and four assists in Serie A. Mario Mandzukic leads the Bianconeri in goals with four.
Juventus have numerous ways to beat opponents. Based on the team’s form, Juventus could run the table and finish the Serie A season without a loss. Udinese will not pose much of a threat despite Juventus’ injuries and suspensions. Juventus have started the season with nine wins in a row in all competitions.
It is the best start to a season they have ever had. Juventus will win again on Saturday heaving more pressure onto Velazquez and Udinese.