The AC Milan head coach addressed the media ahead of the trip to Marassi and was candid about the context of a difficult run-in after the club had appeared well placed for the title in March.
"When you have done two-thirds of the season very well, it is normal that there is disappointment. And we are the first to feel it. I knew it was going to be difficult. Now we have the chance to play this important match in Genoa. It will require a serious performance, with great order and patience. The squad has worked well all week and during the training camp the players have also had time to rest."
Allegri did not shy away from the context of a second half of the season that has seen Milan squander a commanding position.
"On 8 March everyone was talking about the title. In two months we wasted all our advantage because our second half of the season has been poor. But talking about the past now is pointless. What matters is tomorrow."
He was equally direct about the mentality he needs from his players against a Genoa side that are fighting for survival.
"We must not let anxiety take over, but we must have desire, aggression and conviction to get the result. The beautiful thing about football is that everything can change in an instant."
AC Milan's situation remains in their own hands, but the margin for error entering the final fixtures is slim.
A positive result at Genoa would go a long way toward securing Champions League football, which would in turn strengthen the club's position in the summer transfer market — including in their pursuit of free agents such as Goretzka.