Juventus director Maurizio Arrivabene defends Dusan Vlahovic and compares him to Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who was also criticised in his first season in Turin.
The Serbian striker had a tremendous impact at the Allianz Stadium but hasn’t been able to find the net in the last four games across all competitions. Pressure is mounting on the former Fiorentina man ahead of tonight’s Coppa Italia Final, but Arrivabene refuses to blame the Serbia international.
“Vlahovic can’t be questioned. I remember Juventus fans that even Zlatan Ibrahimovic was criticised in his first season at the club and ‘exploded’ in the following campaign,” he told Sky Sport Italia.
“It’s about trusting the player. Vlahovic will show his worth.”
Arrivabene warned Juventus fans that they should not expect big signings next summer, but he had said the same in January when the Old Lady eventually signed Vlahovic.
“The next transfer window will be strange, I don’t expect many coups, especially in the year of the World Cup,” he said.
“Perhaps something could happen in January, but for sure, we won’t make theatrical moves. We do want to make investments, but in a sustainable way to strengthen the team.”
Giorgio Chiellini has a chance to win his last trophy at Juventus before leaving the club in the summer. The Italy defender hasn’t officially announced that he’ll walk away in June with one year left in his contract, but suggested so yesterday.
In his latest interview, his friend and former teammate Claudio Marchisio revealed that the Bianconeri would have to replace their captain in 2022-23.
Giorgio deserves respect, surely, he is thinking about the future. We are ready to salute him or keep hold of him depending on what he decides,” Arrivabene ensured.
Arrivabene: "Vlahovic non si discute. Ricordate Ibra?". Marotta: "Facciamo un regalo agli interisti…" #CoppaItalia https://t.co/Igumi9E9aX
— La Gazzetta dello Sport (@Gazzetta_it) May 10, 2022
He needs someone who feeds him, like Pirlo.