Legendary Italian goalkeeper Dino Zoff, in an interview with La Stampa, offered his perspective on the ongoing Serie A title race and Juventus`s objectives for the current season.
Regarding the Scudetto, Zoff stated that predicting Napoli as champions is “the most obvious thing,” given their one-point lead with just one match left to play, positioning them as favorites. However, he followed this with a somewhat perplexing comment about Napoli`s trajectory, referencing their league position a season prior and mentioning Kvaratskhelia being “sold to Conte.” He concluded that if Napoli were to win the league, “it would be a miracle,” a statement that suggests surprise at their achievement relative to past circumstances or squad changes mentioned.
Shifting his focus to Juventus, Zoff described the club as being at a critical juncture. He firmly believes that securing fourth place is essential for the development of young talents and stressed that “for the Bianconeri, failing this minimum objective would be unforgivable.”
Looking ahead to Juventus`s upcoming match against Venezia, Zoff expressed a positive view on the team`s recent performance, stating that “things that weren`t working have been put back in order, and a good deal of energy has been restored to the group.” Nevertheless, he emphasized that achieving the Champions League qualification spot “will inevitably weigh heavily on the overall judgment” of the season.
On the subject of the crucial match against Venezia and the Champions League aspirations tied to it, Zoff was unequivocal: “Given what`s at stake, Juventus simply must win.”