Former Italy striker Paolo Di Canio has one doubt about Angel Di Maria joining Juventus and insists that Romelu Lukaku is not decisive in big games: ‘It’s not an opinion, it’s a fact.’
Di Maria is set to join Juventus on a free transfer from PSG and is undergoing his medical with the Serie A giants as we write.
He is expected to sign a one-year deal in Turin as he aims to return to Argentina next summer.
“He is an extraordinary, fantastic player. He was probably the only PSG star who gave his heart, helping defensively, tracking back when needed. It will be exciting to watch,” Di Canio told Sky Sport Italia.
“However, I have one doubt. I understood that he is coming only for one year. You know, there’s the World Cup… he does not back down, but when you are part of the project and sign a long-term deal is different.”
El Fideo will likely be part of the Argentinean squad that will play at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar between November and December and wanted to join a European club to prepare for the tournament in the best way.
He is not the only big name we’ll see in Serie A next season as Romelu Lukaku has returned to Inter on loan from Chelsea.
Di Canio isn’t known for being an admirer of the Nerazzurri star and doesn’t seem entirely convinced about his return to the Stadio Meazza.
“He may score many goals, but you won’t see him determined in every game, it’s history, it’s what he showed in his seven-year spell in the Premier League,” the ex-West Ham striker said.
“My position is clear. He is a great player. Someone calls him a champion. To me, he is an excellent player, not an elite striker.
“He has returned to Inter, we know he can help, he already won the title. His stats are excellent, but the fact that he flops in crucial games it’s not an opinion, it is a fact. He is 30 now, but he still has time to change.”
Lukaku returned to Milan on Thursday evening and will begin the pre-season with the Serie A giants today.
“Former Italy striker…”
Not really a striker and never played for Italy.
Should read “Former fascist nutjob who wasn’t good enough to play for Italy”