On the eve of Juventus’ Champions League clash with Sporting Lisbon, Michele Di Gregorio faced the media to share his thoughts on the team’s form, mentality, and their ambitions under new management. The Bianconeri goalkeeper appeared focused and self-aware, emphasising accountability and collective progress.
After back-to-back wins, Di Gregorio noted an improved atmosphere within the dressing room. “The dressing room feels better after two victories,” he said. “When you win, everything flows more easily, but we know we can’t lower our concentration or we risk going back to square one. We’re focused on tomorrow and I think we have to continue on this path — we’ve played well and gained points.”
Reflecting on the managerial change, the goalkeeper highlighted how the squad took ownership of the situation. “When a coach is dismissed, the first to take responsibility are the players,” he admitted. “It brought us together; we talked to understand what needed improving. Against Udinese and Cremonese we tried to show a stronger attitude, to take responsibility. We feel accountable for everything that happens.”
Di Gregorio also praised teammate Teun Koopmeiners, who has adapted to a different position in recent weeks. “I’ve known him for a year and four months — he’s a serious guy and a strong player,” he said. “He played a role he hadn’t tried with us before, but when you’re talented, you can adapt anywhere, and he proved that.”
On his personal form and goals, the Juventus No.1 remained modest but ambitious. “You can always improve, and I tell myself that constantly,” he explained. “Improvement has to be daily. I hope I can always do better and help the team any way I can.”
As for team objectives, Di Gregorio was clear about the standards expected at Juventus. “When you play for Juve, there are always objectives,” he stated. “This is a club with a history of winning, and our goal is to try to win something, to build the foundations for success. But it’s always one match at a time, earning points.”
The goalkeeper also commented on the early impact of the new manager. “The coach is ambitious, just like all of us,” Di Gregorio said. “Here, you can’t settle for anything less. That’s our goal — to give everything to reach it. The group has embraced that mindset, and it’s the direction we want to keep going in.”
Although their time working together has been short, Di Gregorio revealed his early impressions. “We haven’t had much time to train yet, but his career speaks for itself,” he said. “What struck us most is his determination and desire. We also want to challenge ourselves, and we’re heading in the right direction. Hopefully, we’ll keep performing like we did against Udinese and Cremonese.”
Responding to recent comments from Juventus chairman John Elkann, Di Gregorio acknowledged the importance of accountability. “Responsibility was the key word in our discussions,” he said. “That’s the word we repeated most after the Lazio match. Each of us must feel responsible — as individuals, as a group, and towards the club. To wear this shirt, you must meet a certain standard in every aspect. Responsibility is exactly the right word.”
Looking ahead to the Champions League fixture, Di Gregorio expressed excitement and determination. “The Champions League excites you on its own,” he said. “It’s a special competition. Juve must win and keep progressing — that’s our motivation. We’ve been through a bit of a complicated period with the coaching change, but we’ve talked things through. Now we must keep going on this path. Responsibility must stay constant throughout the season.”
