Edgar Davids told Juventus they miss Arturo Vidal and “only Mario Balotelli can help himself now” at Milan.
The Dutch ‘Pitbull’ sat down with La Gazzetta dello Sport to cast his eye over the Serie A scene, above all reigning champions Juventus.
“I am not worried, as after four or five years of constant success a dip in form is normal. The important thing is to ensure it’s only a passing phase.
Edgar Davids told Juventus they miss Arturo Vidal and “only Mario Balotelli can help himself now” at Milan.
The Dutch ‘Pitbull’ sat down with La Gazzetta dello Sport to cast his eye over the Serie A scene, above all reigning champions Juventus.
“I am not worried, as after four or five years of constant success a dip in form is normal. The important thing is to ensure it’s only a passing phase.
“The new players need time to adjust. I am sure Juve will reach a high level this season. Obviously starting with two defeats automatically means you are no longer favourites for the Scudetto, but on the bright side the only way is up.”
Much has been said of Juve missing Andrea Pirlo and Carlos Tevez, but Davids insists Chile international Vidal is the real loss.
“It is important to be gritty and strong to win back the ball and give consistency to a team. Vidal is one of the best in the world in that role. If you don’t have someone like that, you must change the way you play.
“Tactics must adapt to the players and not vice-versa. After many years together, the players had formed a bond, so Juve will be different now.”
Paul Pogba reportedly turned down €12m per season to play for Chelsea, while Juventus rejected €100m.
“How much is he worth? The market dictates that,” added Davids. “He has incredible potential and everything to become one of the best players in the world. I think he could well be worth €100m.”
Someone whose price-tag has plummeted is Balotelli, returning to Milan on loan just one year after the move to Liverpool.
“The only person who can help Balotelli now is Balotelli. When you change team, you have the right mentality and the Coach respects you, it all becomes easier, but at the end of the day it is all down to him.
“I have seen players with half his talent become leaders in big clubs. What matters is the mentality.”