Medhi Benatia relies on Gonzalo Higuain and Paulo Dybala to rewrite history: 'I came to Juventus for that reason'.
The 29-year-old returned to Serie A on loan from Bayern Munich, and impressed in the pre-season by scoring against Tottenham Hotspur and South China.
Medhi Benatia relies on Gonzalo Higuain and Paulo Dybala to rewrite history: 'I came to Juventus for that reason'.
The 29-year-old returned to Serie A on loan from Bayern Munich, and impressed in the pre-season by scoring against Tottenham Hotspur and South China.
“We’re happy to be kicking off the campaign this weekend,” Benatia told Sky Sports, in an interview published on Juventus' official site. “Expectations are high and, while it may seem on the outside that success will be a formality, we can’t and won’t be taking anything for granted.
“Whoever joins Juventus has to take on board the fact that this side has a responsibility to win. I came here for that reason. We want to keep the silverware coming, even if we know it won’t be easy with stiff competition among our opponents. Our main objective is that of claiming a sixth Scudetto, which would see us rewrite the history books.
“We’ll need to pick up from where we left off at the end of last season and also give something extra in order to dream big in Europe as well. The word ‘dream’ might make it seem like an impossible aim, but I firmly believe that this club and this team are working towards winning it. It will be tough but it needs to be our objective."
Speaking of his teammates, the Moroccan singled out Gianluigi Buffon as a model he looks up to.
“Up front we’re fortunate to have great players among our ranks. If Higuain and Dybala were to hit the same sort of numbers as last season and we keep things tight at the back, then we’d be making solid steps towards the title.
“Regarding our rearguard, it’s a pleasure working with such great defenders that you can learn a lot from. Then there’s the captain. I’ve come up against him many times in the past and I’ve always had immense respect for his career and what he stands for. He’s a role model for all youngsters.”