Sarri: I Was Called Taliban for Playing Sarriball

Juventus coach Maurizio Sarri claimed he has been ostracised as a 'Taliban' by critics for wanting to play his own style of football.

The Italian tactician's attacking brand of football, which has been dubbed 'Sarriball' by the media, was highly popular while he was at Napoli between 2015-18, as he led the Serie A club to two second-place finishes.

Sarri has veered away from his familar style since joining Juve in the summer to fit in attacking players such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Gonzalo Higuain and Paulo Dybala into the team.

However, despite going unbeaten with the Serie A champions so far, he believes that he can't keep critics happy no matter his side plays, jokingly suggesting he was seen as a member of Islamic fundamentalist group 'The Taliban'.

"I was defined as a Taliban because I always wanted to play my football, now it’s not good enough because I adapt to the different characteristics of my players," Sarri said in a pre-match press conference prior to the Old Lady's Champions League match against Atletico Madrid.

"If I had to listen to or read the things that are said about Juventus, I would go crazy. I just get on with my work.

"I would like to see the most consistent team and certain attitudes, but we must take into consideration the different characteristics of our players."