Denis Zakaria reflected on Juventus 2-2 friendly draw with Barcelona, the strengths of Angel Di Maria and the injury suffered by Paul Pogba.
The 25-year-old Swiss midfielder is preparing for his second season in Turin following his move from Borussia Monchengladbach back in January. Zakaria had a decent start to life under Massimiliano Allegri but many are expecting him to flex his muscles next season, showing what he’s actually capable of.
Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Zakaria first discussed the performance in the 2-2 draw with Barcelona.
“I’m happy with my match, I’m training well and slowly you also find the right feeling with your teammates, with the whole team but in particular with my department, the midfield.
“It was good match, useful to continue this phase of the season. Things can be improved, but the preparation is moving forward well.”
He touched on the strengths of new arrival Di Maria.
“It’s so easy for Angel to play that it becomes easy for us as well. He has immense quality that will help us so much this season and give us great satisfaction.
“He is a super signing by Juve, hopefully he will drag us all toward the goals we want to achieve.”
Finally, Zakaria discussed the knee injury suffered by Pogba and how he’s feeling following the blow.
“When we heard about Pogba it was a very sad moment. We have many players in midfield, not just me, who can play in his place. We will have to see how the coach will want to deploy us in his absence.
“How is Paul doing? I spoke to him right after he got hurt. It’s a tough time and it’s normal that it’s like that but Paul is strong, he has a great character, we are sure he will be back soon and will give us a big hand to win.”
Pogba’s injury is feared to be fairly serious and he could be forced to undergo a knee operation, which would leave him sidelined for at least three or four months, making him unavailable for the upcoming World Cup in Qatar. No decision has been made regarding the surgery at this stage.
Even Zakaria wants Pogba back even though Pogba can literally sideline him, but some so-called fan trolls here disrespect Pogba.