Juventus President Giovanni Cobolli Gigli warns “half the Scudetto” will be decided when they go head-to-head with Inter on April 18.
“I can see a good chance of the Scudetto,” smiled the patron despite a seven-point gap from the leaders.
“A few days ago I said it was only a 30 per cent chance, which some say was too prudent, but I sat down and worked things out by comparing our calendar with that of Inter and Milan.
“In those calculations I placed victory against Inter – as we must win that game at all costs. If we get the three points then, our chances will rise to 40-45 per cent, especially if Udinese remember they have always caused problems for the Nerazzurri.”
When the campaign restarts next weekend, Jose Mourinho’s men will travel to the Stadio Friuli, while Juve welcome on-form Chievo.
“I do believe in the title, even though I consider myself realistic. The wonderful thing is everyone believes, from [general manager Jean-Claude] Blanc to [Claudio] Ranieri and the team.
“I am lucky enough to have access to the locker room and it is spectacular to see how fired up the players are.”
Gianluigi Buffon said this week that the Scudetto was in Inter’s hands, but Cobolli Gigli casts a different light on that statement.
“[Alex] Del Piero, [Pavel] Nedved and even Buffon believe, despite the fact they may say otherwise for superstitious reasons.”
The President is also looking to the future, as Juventus have pledged big buys over the summer to reinforce the side.
“We will certainly sign a top champion, but you won’t get any names out of me now,” he grinned in Tuttosport.
“I can say our transfer dealings will not stop there, as we will also improve with players on Bosman deals and release cash through sales.
“We will always have a solid base of six or seven Italian players, as we do not believe in having a multi-national corporation of a team.”
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