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Massimiliano Allegri hails ‘extraordinary’ Paul Pogba after impressive Juventus cameo against Sevilla in Europa League semi-final.
Juventus manager, Massimiliano Allegri, praised Paul Pogba for his outstanding cameo against Sevilla in the Europa League semifinal.
Pogba assisted Federico Gatti to a crucial equalizer in the 97th minute of the game on Thursday night at the Allianz Stadium, ensuring that the Bianconeri will go to Spain for the second leg of the Europa League semi-final next week on even terms.
The French midfielder came on in the 70th minute to replace Angel di Maria, and he took advantage of the situation by using a variety of passing techniques to help his team win the match.
Allegri was thrilled to see Pogba make an essential move but was informed that the World Cup champion from last year is not yet ready to start a game.
“When games are in the opposition half, he is in an extraordinary player. If he was in optimal condition, of course I would have him in the starting XI every game. He gave a very important contribution this evening,” the manager stated.
Juventus was behind the game following Youssef En-Nesyri’s goal in the 26th minute, but Allegri believed his team had done enough to earn a draw.
“Up until the goal, my team had moved the ball well, but when we got up there, it all seemed too easy and we made far too many mistakes,” he continued.
“On the counter-attack, we were caught out because we didn’t track back and left gaps, also risking a second in similar circumstances. The lads did well to fight back and get a deserved draw that leaves everything to play for in the second leg.”
Prior to travelling to Sevilla for the second leg of the Europa League semi-final on Thursday, Juventus must take care of a Serie A match against Cremonese on Sunday.