Allegri confirms Azzurri ambition. Here's how it affects Juve

18 nov 2017

Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri has rejected speculation he could replace Gian Piero Ventura as Italy coach following the Azzurri's shock failure to qualify for the World Cup. Ventura was sacked after a 1-0 aggregate play-off loss to Sweden ensured the 2006 champions lost out on a place at Russia 2018 - the first World Cup Italy will miss in 60 years.

Allegri is reportedly among the front-runners for the post, along with names including former Juve and Italy coach Antonio Conte, Carlo Ancelotti and Roberto Mancini. But while Allegri would be interested in coaching Italy later in his career, he is keen to stay in Torino – where he’s seeking a fourth successive Serie A title for Juventus under his leadership - for now.

"Italy? Absolutely no," Allegri told reporters ahead of Sunday's match at Sampdoria. "I'm happy at Juventus and I want to stay here. We will see about that in the future. The national team is a future ambition, but right now I'm only focused on Juventus because we have plenty to do together. I'll talk about the opportunity in a few years."