The 32 Rules of Massimiliano Allegri (#13 to #16) (Patreon)

13. “To win another championship we must concede fewer goals than anyone else.”

The main idea of this passage seems to be that in order to win a football match, it is essential to have a balance between the number of goals scored and the number of goals conceded. The author argues that while it may seem obvious, this balance is often overlooked in favor of focusing solely on scoring goals. The author then provides an example from a Juventus match to illustrate this point, emphasizing the importance of both offense and defense in achieving victory. The author also stresses the importance of respecting one's opponents and working together as a team to achieve success.

14. “To be authoritative, not authoritarian.”

The rule means that the coach should have the ability to make decisions while maintaining a positive relationship with the players. Being authoritative does not mean that the coach should become authoritarian, but instead should involve the players and other project components in decision-making. The coach should demonstrate specific expertise in the matter, making each player feel like a part of the project and not cut off. In this way, the players will feel like an irreplaceable piece of the mosaic.

Allegri was also under pressure from journalists, who asked him about his coaching style compared to his predecessor, Antonio Conte. Allegri responded by saying that being authoritative, rather than authoritarian, was crucial to his philosophy. The coach should teach without raising their voice, involving the players in decision-making and making them feel like an integral part of the team.

15. “The main actors are always the players.”

The main takeaway from this rule is that the players are the most important component of any team. A coach's job is to recognize the qualities of each player, build their self- esteem, and create a sense of involvement and importance for each player, regardless of their technical abilities. A coach should treat every player equally and recognize their unique contributions to the team. Ultimately, the success of a team is the result of the collective effort of all its members, and a coach's role is to bring out the best in each player and put it all together. It is essential to value the role of the players and the club and attribute credit for success to them.

16. “Life and football are similar: it's all a matter of balance.”

The author believes that balance is one of the fundamental rules of football and life. Balance is achieved by maintaining a correct balance between technical, emotional, and behavioral components. Balance often goes hand in hand with calmness, and both of these attitudes must be pursued especially in moments of enthusiasm or discouragement. In moments of excitement, balance must intervene to calm easy exaltations. The author cites the example of the signing of Cristiano Ronaldo, where he says that matches should be approached one at a time, and balance is always needed. The author also emphasizes the importance of the group's philosophy and the need for psychological work to maintain balance and calmness.