Despite having a lead in the Italian Serie A table, the champions Juventus have not been at their best in recent weeks. This has allowed their rivals like Napoli and Inter Milan to close the gap at the top of the table.
Juventus have managed just two wins in the last five matches, which has allowed Napoli to come level on points with them. It was only a few weeks ago that Napoli were 10 points behind Juventus. The title seemed only a few months away from the cusp of the current champions, but this poor form has put the title race firmly back on.
Despite this poor run of form, the manager Antonio Conte has said that he is confident that Juventus can win the title. He has argued that the poor form of the team in recent weeks has just been down to the lack of luck. Conte has also pointed out to the fact that they still remain top of the table, while they have also qualified for the semifinals of the Coppa Italia and the last 16 stage of the Champions league. Juventus have brought in the former Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka – a move that is expected to strengthen the attack, which has always been not at its best in recent years.
“Is it a difficult time for us? If I look at the table, then I’d say no. If I see we are through to the Champions League knockouts and reached the Coppa Italia semi-final, then I say no. We deserved more against Lazio, both home and away, despite the fact we used the Coppa to help players gain experience and get more playing time. A coach cannot just look at the result. It can happen that you try to give your all, but then concede two goals with the only real chances. I am not worried,” said Conte.