Allegri reveals Pep admiration: We have lots in common

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri has revealed his respect for Bayern Munich counterpart Pep Guardiola, as the two sides prepare to lock horns in the Champions League.

The Old Lady will welcome Bayern to Juventus Stadium on Tuesday, in the first leg of the last 16 clash.

And Allegri showered the former Barcelona trainer with praise ahead of the clash, as Juve look to bounce back from a draw against Bologna.

"I admire him, his Barcelona team had incredible class," he told Suddeutsche Zeitung.

"I think we have a great deal in common. We both played in the centre of midfield, like most coaches, and we had great technique.

"I was never a champion [as a player]. I think it's fantastic an average player can become a great coach."

Allegri added that he was not planning to give Bayern special attention, and trusted in his stars to play their own game.

"Of course we study the opponents, but it makes no sense to be thinking about that all day, it would drive you crazy," he admitted.

"I tell my players all the time: 'You guys make the tactics.' They must play feeling happy, otherwise there is no sense in even taking to the pitch."