Juventus President Andrea Agnelli warns changes to the squad are “not a justification for 14th-place.”
The Bianconeri overhauled the team this summer, with Andrea Pirlo, Carlos Tevez and Arturo Vidal among those leaving, with the likes Mario Mandzukic and Paulo Dybala coming in.
“We were aware that the process of renewing the Juventus squad could create some difficulties,” Agnelli admitted at the shareholder’s meeting.
Juventus President Andrea Agnelli warns changes to the squad are “not a justification for 14th-place.”
The Bianconeri overhauled the team this summer, with Andrea Pirlo, Carlos Tevez and Arturo Vidal among those leaving, with the likes Mario Mandzukic and Paulo Dybala coming in.
“We were aware that the process of renewing the Juventus squad could create some difficulties,” Agnelli admitted at the shareholder’s meeting.
“But it’s not a justification for our current 14th-place in the table. The investments in [Paulo] Dybala, [Mario] Lemina, [Daniele] Rugani, [Alvaro] Morata, [Stefano] Sturaro, [Paul] Pogba and [Simone] Zaza guarantee us a great future.
“We’re always vigilant on the transfer market, and we’re ready to take advantages of opportunities like the Tevez one.”
Agnelli also laid out his ideas for reform in Italian football, something he believes is necessary to compete with the top sides in Europe.
“Italian football is in a transitional phase, and to reach the big European sides we need a national approach.
“I’ve never shied away from the fact that more money could be given to the lower Leagues, but in the context of a well-defined plan.
“Reducing the number of teams is critical, as is the introduction of B teams. B teams would allow us to have fewer loans, like in the Premier League.
“Premier League clubs have 175 players out on loan. In Serie A it’s 452. That’s how you lose control of a player’s development.
“Given the importance of sport in the Italian economic system, a consolidated sports plan would guarantee greater efficiency.
“In terms of competitiveness, Italy is losing ground to foreign Leagues. Every crisis brings opportunity, if you have the courage to face up to the problems.
“Italian football needs a credible response, credible proposals and credible people.
“In short, it needs change.”