Crisis cements Allegri position
MILAN, Nov 30, (AP): One important person stands to potentially benefit from the latest Juventus scandal that has sent shockwaves throughout the soccer world.
Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri’s job was seemingly at risk less than two months ago, with the club struggling on the field, but the Bianconeri’s offthe-field problems could give him more power at the storied Italian club.
Juventus are back in crisis mode following the resignation of club president Andrea Agnelli and the team’s entire board of directors on Monday following an investigation by Turin prosecutors into alleged false accounting.
More than ever Juventus need stability on the field, which might cement Allegri’s position and even give the coach more influence when it comes to transfer decisions.
“Massimiliano Allegri remains the point of reference of Juventus’ sporting area,” club owner John Elkann said. “We count on him and on the whole squad to continue to win as they have shown to be able to do in recent games, keeping our objectives high on the field.”
Elkann is the chief executive of Juventus’ holding company Exor and also the cousin of Agnelli, whom he appointed as Juventus president in 2010.
“The resignation of the Juventus board of directors represents an act of responsibility, that puts the interests of the club first,” Elkann said.
“I want to thank my cousin Andrea for giving us extraordinary emotions, which we will never forget. In these 12 years we have won so much. The credit is mainly his, as well as the women and men who achieved memorable goals under his leadership.”
Juventus have already named Elkann’s right-hand man Maurizio Scanavino as their new CEO, while Gianluca Ferrero is expected to replace Agnelli at the helm of the club.
Exor said in a statement that it will nominate Ferrero when the rescheduled shareholders meeting takes place on Jan. 18 to choose a new board.
“Ferrero has a solid experience and the necessary technical competence, as well as a true passion for the Bianconeri, which make him the most suitable person to cover the role,” it added.