Coppa Italia – Danilo: ‘Beating Atalanta changes the definition of Juventus’ season’

Juventus captain Danilo believes that beating Atalanta to the Coppa Italia trophy on Wednesday night will change the definition of the Bianconeri season, despite coach Massimiliano Allegri pleading the opposite.

Danilo and his coach conducted their pre-match press conference from the Stadio Olimpico on Tuesday evening, ahead of the cup final that is due to kick off at 20.00 BST on Wednesday night.

Allegri said that qualifying for next year’s Champions League was the sole target Juventus set themselves at the beginning of the 2023-24 campaign, and that they should take pride in their recent accomplishment.

Danilo, however, believes that ending the season with a trophy would be an additional ‘reward’ for the players and supporters.

Danilo assessment approaching Atalanta in the Coppa Italia final

“Winning the final would change the definition of our season,” Danilo said, reported via TMW. “We managed to cross the line for the Champions League, but a trophy would be a reward for our resilience and the teamwork that we show on a daily basis.

“In football and in life, you always have to look forward to new challenges. It will be a special match for me and the team, it’s something we can achieve together, and it would be nice to write a piece, albeit a small piece, of Juventus history.”

Like Allegri, Danilo was also asked if he truly feels that Juventus are the underdoges heading into Wednesday’s Coppa Italia final. He recognises the accomplishments of Gian Piero Gasperini and his team, but feels as though Juventus deserve respect as well for their previous success in the competition.

“Atalanta are having a great season, they have strong players and an expert coach. We have to respect that. But since 2012, Juve has reached 20 finals and that also deserves respect.

“Let’s focus on the present, it’s obviously a final and anything can happen. Atalanta have their merits, but we don’t feel any less important than them.”