Medhi Benatia hailed the “winning mentality” at Juventus, but admitted Gianluigi Buffon’s departure leaves “a hole” in the squad.
Today’s 2-1 win over Verona closed their campaign with Scudetto and Coppa Italia victories, but also saw Buffon, Stephan Lichtsteiner and Kwadwo Asamoah wave goodbye.
Medhi Benatia hailed the “winning mentality” at Juventus, but admitted Gianluigi Buffon’s departure leaves “a hole” in the squad.
Today’s 2-1 win over Verona closed their campaign with Scudetto and Coppa Italia victories, but also saw Buffon, Stephan Lichtsteiner and Kwadwo Asamoah wave goodbye.
“It was a success for the whole team. During the season, people criticised and said we didn’t play beautiful football, but in reality it’s because the others hope someone else will win after six years, yet at the end we always win,” Benatia told Sky Sport Italia.
“There were many great moments, but the defeat to Napoli left me sad. I was doing well, a draw was the right result, but then I lost Kalidou Koulibaly and I was really demoralised. We managed to win the title anyway, the others had their celebration all ready, but at the end of the day we’re the ones celebrating.”
Benatia was also involved in the last-gasp penalty incident against Real Madrid in the Champions League.
“I had nothing to do with that, as it wasn’t a foul. Then we know the story and what happens in certain situations.
“The difference at Juventus is you breathe in the winning mentality. There are players here who every day show you what it’s like to live within Juve. I am thinking of Gigi, Giorgio Chiellini, Andrea Barzagli, Claudio Marchisio… important people for anyone who enters the locker room.
“The Coach also kept everyone on their toes and we achieved some incredible numbers. I am sad that the captain is leaving. I’ve played with many champions, but Gigi is special, both on and off the field.
“His departure really does leave a hole in Juventus.”
Benatia was asked about his own future.
“You can never be 100 per cent sure in football. I have two years on my contract. I’ll focus on the World Cup and then see what is best for me and for Juve.”