Locatelli: ‘Juventus dream of Scudetto, but Inter are mature’

Manuel Locatelli confirms Juventus players do talk about the Scudetto ‘dream’ in the locker room, though admits that Inter ‘have decisive players who reached a level of career maturity.’

The Bianconeri have fallen four points behind the Serie A leaders after a 1-1 draw away to Genoa, though they both remain quite some way off the chasing pack.

“It has been a positive year overall, we are having a good season and are on the right track,” Locatelli told reporters at the CONI Lombardia Awards.

“Inter are a very strong team, above all they have decisive players who reached a level of career maturity. We must continue along our path and focus only on ourselves, as some young players still need to fully mature. We have our objectives and will give our all to the end of the season.”

While coach Max Allegri and directors are all adamant that a top four finish is the only priority for Juventus, the players have repeatedly broken ranks and confirmed they do talk about the Scudetto in the locker room.

“Clearly, we do have this dream and it is there. We must work to achieve our objectives and dreams. When you are in second place, you are forced to look ahead of you.”

Locatelli contributed one goal and one assist in 16 Serie A appearances so far this season.

This is also the year when Giorgio Chiellini decided to hang up his boots after seeing out his career in America with LAFC.

Locatelli, his former teammate for both club and country, wrote an emotional post about the defender.

“Chiellini is like a big brother to me, he attended my wedding and we speak often. When playing with him, I tried to learn every secret I could. He is an exceptional person.”