Beppe Marotta confirms Juventus “rejected offers above €80m for Paul Pogba” and snubs Edin Dzeko. “Milan and Inter are Scudetto favourites.”
The director spoke to La Gazzetta dello Sport ahead of today’s Italian Super Cup against Lazio, kicking off at 13.00 UK time (12.00 GMT) in Shanghai.
The Bianconeri have been looking for a trequartista, a player who traditionally wears the Number 10 jersey, but surprisingly handed that shirt to Paul Pogba.
Beppe Marotta confirms Juventus “rejected offers above €80m for Paul Pogba” and snubs Edin Dzeko. “Milan and Inter are Scudetto favourites.”
The director spoke to La Gazzetta dello Sport ahead of today’s Italian Super Cup against Lazio, kicking off at 13.00 UK time (12.00 GMT) in Shanghai.
The Bianconeri have been looking for a trequartista, a player who traditionally wears the Number 10 jersey, but surprisingly handed that shirt to Paul Pogba.
“Pogba asked for the Number 10 shirt, remembering the big Juve players from when he was a child. We thought that yes, he does represent the unique aura of that jersey.
“Modern football has revamped the concept of a 10. We are still missing a midfielder who can cover various positions and it’s a small group to choose from, as few are Juve quality.
“We have three weeks and the Super Cup to get the first responses of this season, then we’ll see. Max Allegri is a modern and versatile Coach, so if there is a new arrival, he will adapt his tactics to their characteristics.”
After three consecutive Scudetti, Juve released Carlos Tevez, Andrea Pirlo and Arturo Vidal.
“We are optimistic for this season, but the truth is we changed three players and must cover that gap with renewed motivation,” continued Marotta.
“Juve also realised an era was coming to an end and brought down the average age of the squad. Paulo Dybala, Simone Zaza, Daniele Rugani, Stefano Sturaro and Roberto Pereyra bode well. If the results arrive, we’ll be a long-term squad already built.
“Those who left made personal decisions. Tevez made a lifestyle choice, it was a unique opportunity for Pirlo and also Vidal. The Chilean was happy with us, but could enjoy a new experience with a four-year contract.
“We are not a club who can afford €70m buys, but I say with pride that we refused offers above €80m for Pogba. We only sell those who want to leave.”
Inter and Milan have spent big on the transfer market this summer, while they also don’t have to worry about European competition, so are they the main contenders?
“I was surprised, especially at a time like this. It’s good to invest, though what happens on the field is decisive. Milan and Inter are favourites for the Scudetto because they have invested and have a superior winning mentality compared to the other rivals.”
Roma have bought Mohamed Salah and Dzeko, but Marotta is not concerned.
“We had thought about Dzeko years ago, while Salah was never an objective. We all think Juve are strong and are just missing a midfielder. I won’t name names, though.”
Marotta was asked whether those included Ilkay Gundogan and Palermo’s Franco Vazquez.
“Gundogan has international pedigree, but Vazquez has everything to prove, as so far he’s only played for a provincial club.”