HOME > Football

Sabatini: Juventus must beat Bologna if he wants to enter the Champions League, and he is still excited about Salah s goal

4:44pm, 6 May 2025【Football】

May 1st In the Italian football world in recent years, Sabatini has left a strong mark. Facing an interview with the Italian media "Turin Sports", Sabatini talked about the past and his words were a little choked. "In fact, I'm very lucky," Sabatini said. "I don't want to indulge in the past too much, otherwise I will fall into sadness. Last night I watched a Premier League show praising Salah's achievements... I'm still excited to see him still score countless goals at Liverpool. This makes me reconcile with myself, and it's not easy: I'm essentially a self-torturer and never forgive myself for making mistakes."

Do you think you can still contribute a lot to football?

I have faced death directly. Now I am a "temporary worker" in life, but I am still breathing. I still have many plans in my mind, and I am sure I will complete them. After hanging up this phone call, I will immediately revisit the Argentine Super Derby between River Plate and Boca to see if any details are missing...

How many games do you watch every day?

A lot, most of them late at night: The night has always been my friend. During that time, everything flows in the right direction: I can solve problems that are not solved during the day. The thoughts are also more private and more delicate...

A little like a writer?

Yes, or like an artist. People who work in this industry are a little crazy about artists. Most of my signings in my career were born at night. The player that excited me the most? Javier Pastore. When he landed in Palermo at the age of 20, he performed amazingly. Maradona summoned him to the national team soon after, calling him a "football reckless man" because he even dared to pick the ball during training. Unfortunately, he suffered a serious hip injury when joining Rome and failed to show all his talents.

Do you have any regrets?

One of the biggest regrets is Rabiot: he had already decided to join Rome, but failed due to a small misunderstanding with his mother. Adrian is an extremely professional player and he will be happy and give great performances in Rome. I still remember this.

After leaving Juventus, Rabiot chose to return to Marseille in France. How do you view Dezelby?

Robert's obsession with the game organization is almost paranoid, just like Simeone Inzaghi - he is also very good, and I wish him all the best. Before going to Inter Milan, he was seriously underestimated, and I never understand the reason...

Have Tudor convinced you in the past few weeks?

Igor has the courage and charm of coaching a team like Juventus. I don't fully understand his football philosophy, but he has less time than his peers. What is certain is that since Juventus took office, the pace has changed significantly - more reflected in the players' fighting attitude rather than the game style.

What players do you want to sign from Juventus?

My team always needs players like Ilditz. I am also obsessed with Cambiaso and Concesan, who is young but adapts to every position with the calmness and dedication of a 35-year-old veteran; Concesan fascinates me - his heart can speed up when he changes direction and wind is coming under your feet. Juventus has no reason not to buy him out. In this era when 200 sets of tactics are needed to create a numerical advantage, such a player who can break the deadlock with two passes is simply a gods gift...

Can Juventus enter the Champions League next season?

It all depends on the match against Bologna on Sunday. They must win at any cost and don't plot. This showdown will determine the entire season.

How are the two teams in the state?

Bologna is a football miracle that can always match any opponent and show its style and intensity in every game. I think they are the best teams in Serie A this season, and their strength is far better than Juventus on paper. They have a deep lineup, outstanding players and interchangeable.

How has Juventus performed this season?

I was sure Mota would play a great season, but things went against my wishes. Their lineup is good and they will get back on track in time. The problem with Juventus is its reputation: this club is not used to failure, and for them, losing is more painful than other teams...

You have repeatedly emphasized that players need to be cared for in all aspects to play. Did the dilemma between Kuppmeinas and Douglas Louis originate from the incomplete integration with the Juventus environment?

Of course. Look at Bologna – the whole city loves the team, they can beat any opponent at Dalala Stadium. Players are vulnerable and need to be appreciated and protected. It is the responsibility of coaches and management to reassure them and to motivate them in times of crisis. Kuppmenas is almost like a guest at Juventus this year.

Vlahovic is also an emotional player...

I have always liked Toussen. Like all Serbs, he was proud and needed to be at the core to play. If he feels that he is just an "additional product", it will be over and he must be given an extraordinary sense of mission.

How do you view Kolo Muani?

Nice player. It is obvious that space is difficult to get in Paris... He should not be regarded as Juventus' savior. Despite his outstanding physical fitness and a sense of goal, he is not the son of destiny.

Vlahovic is almost off the brink. How would you deal with Muani's contract?

I will try to keep him and believe he will be better next season.

If you partner with David, Retge or Osmaine...

I respect Juventus management and it is not convenient to overstep the situation and make suggestions.

Then who do you prefer?

My team chose Toussan, but Khlo is also good - good at running and impacting space...

Does Mota's ball-handling style go against the historical essence of Juventus' victory first?

does not believe. Mota's "Byzantine" football does not mean more failures. He just lacks environmental resonance at Juventus - from clubs to teams. Perhaps he has insufficient communication with the players or lacks empathy. This was beyond my expectations...Who among the coaches I have worked with best understand the needs of players?

Sparletti. Although character sometimes covers this, he always possesses this trait. He would rush into the locker room to motivate the team. Of course, the tacit understanding between the coach and the team needs to be consolidated, and he can always do it...

Why is Orsolini not valued by the national team?

I just sent him a message two days ago: "Rica, you have finally become the real Orsolini!" He deserves Bologna's love. Spaletti didn't call him or was difficult to place due to the double striker system, but sooner or later he will be selected - Luciano likes the decisive players.

How do you view Italy's last European Cup?

Sparetti admits that it is too demanding on players. As a perfectionist, he probably overwhelmed them with tactical training. But this is normal - Luciano's vision is long-term and will achieve his goals at all costs.

Can you enter the World Cup this time?

Of course. Spaletti’s project is great and his cycle will be amazing. By enabling new players, he is building a strong national team. I have full confidence in him.