Allegri evades talk over succeeding Wenger at Arsenal
Speculation over Arsene Wenger's future at Arsenal has spilled over into Italy after Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri refused to confirm or deny whether he will succeed the French gaffer in north London.
In recent weeks, reports have linked the Italian manager with a move to Arsenal as Wenger enters the final months of his contract without a new deal to remain at the Emirates Stadium beyond the current season.
But, when asked after Juve's 2-0 win over Crotone on Wednesday, Allegri refused to confirm reports one way or another.
"I won't deny or confirm anything," Allegri told Mediaset Premium, as translated by Jack Wilkinson of Sky Sports. "I am in sync with the club, now we have to focus on winning.
"At this time of the season the media always says I'm leaving, even when things are going really well."
Meanwhile, Juventus chief executive Giuseppe Marotta claimed that there's no need for Allegri - who has helped the Bianconeri win two league titles since his appointment in 2014 - to leave, considering the positive relationship that the club and the 49-year-old manager share.
"Aside from the fact we have a contract with Allegri, I think there are still great targets we need to achieve together and our rapport is very good," Marotta said before Juve's win.
"There is no reason for him to leave Juventus as there is great mutual admiration and affection."
(Photo courtesy: Action Images)
Wenger deflected questions regarding his future Thursday, insisting that he is only focused on helping the team succeed.
"Once again, thank you for caring about my future, but that’s not the most important thing,” Wenger told reporters, according to the Independent's Miguel Delaney. "My future is in front of me every time I make a half-turn. What is important for me is that Arsenal Football Club does well, and I dedicate my whole energy to the club doing well."
Arsenal currently sits 12 points back of leaders Chelsea in fourth place with 47 points through 24 matches. Meanwhile, Juve's victory over Crotone gives the defending champion a seven-point advantage atop the Serie A table after 23 games.