Giorgio Chiellini is ‘ready’ for a ‘new experience abroad’ and MLS side Los Angeles FC are expected to announce his signing today.
The Italy international left Juventus one year before the end of his contract following Italy’s failed attempt to qualify for the World Cup. He played his last Serie A game in May and retired from international football at the beginning of the month after a 3-0 loss against Argentina at Wembley Stadium.
He is now ready to fly overseas, where he will join Los Angeles FC. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the MLS side will announce his signing today.
“I need an experience abroad to end my playing career gradually,” the 37-year-old told Radio Anch’Io lo Sport. “I can move to a growing league to learn something as well.
“I am ready for a new role on the pitch,” Chiellini continued. “But mentally, I’d also be ready to become a director.
“I’d like to know everything going on around the pitch, inside the offices, but it takes time, patience and desire to sacrifice. We’ll talk again in a few years and hopefully, I’ll have understood the particularities and difficulties of the role.
“My adventure in the USA will prepare me for what will happen next.”
Juventus have signed Federico Gatti, who made his Italy debut against England on Saturday night.
“Federico left me a good impression during those few days we spent together before the game against Argentina,” said Chiellini.
“He is a nice guy who has passion and technical and physical qualities above average. He must work and doesn’t need pressure, but he has everything to do well with Juventus and the national team.”
Chiellini was also asked his thoughts on the upcoming campaign and who will be the favourite to win the title in Serie A.
“I think Inter are still ahead of everyone else, also for next season and even if they lost the title. We’ll see what happens in August-September.”
#Chiellini: "Ora un'esperienza fuori, poi sarò pronto per fare il dirigente. Intanto Gatti…" https://t.co/I9rYtrXkgU
— La Gazzetta dello Sport (@Gazzetta_it) June 13, 2022
Not a good idea. He’s slow and not fit enough for the league.