Marotta: ‘Juve made the decision’

Giuseppe Marotta confirms Juventus made the decision to remove him from the club and he fully intends to be “at another top club” in 2019-20.

The announcement last night that his mandate would not be renewed when it expired on October 25 and he’d be leaving the Board of Directors was a bolt from the blue.

Over the last 24 hours, it has become increasingly evident that Marotta was pushed out by President Andrea Agnelli.

Giuseppe Marotta confirms Juventus made the decision to remove him from the club and he fully intends to be “at another top club” in 2019-20.

The announcement last night that his mandate would not be renewed when it expired on October 25 and he’d be leaving the Board of Directors was a bolt from the blue.

Over the last 24 hours, it has become increasingly evident that Marotta was pushed out by President Andrea Agnelli.

“It is a situation the club wanted and I have to adapt to their desires and ideas, out of my love for both the people and of Juventus itself,” Marotta told Rai 2 show 90 Minuto.

“I think it’s a bit much to say I was kicked out. I simply have to follow the company line. I am a company man, I understand and therefore it is only right that other people step forward. I am sure that I have given 100 per cent over these years of great success. I hope those who replace me do the same.

“It is painful, because the world of work and of sport are made up of sentiments. In these eight or nine years, I have fortunately experienced so many wonderful emotions.

“I believe that I accompanied President Agnelli on this journey and now he is able to be a protagonist in this sport at both national and international level.

“Juve represent one of the most unforgettable pages in the book of my life. The best memory was in Trieste, when we won the first Scudetto of the Agnelli era with Antonio Conte on the bench. It was such a strong feeling and so unpredictable, as with hard work and dedication, we wiped out the gap from the top clubs in one year.”

It now remains to be seen what Marotta will do next, as options include the role of FIGC President, or jobs at Roma, Napoli, Manchester United and Barcelona.

“I can categorically deny that I will be a candidate for the FIGC, because that is not something I want to choose.

“I will not rule out joining another big club, as I am a man who spent the last 40 consecutive years in club football and it’s the first time I am taking a break during a season.

“I need to recharge, but I would like to begin 2019-20 at the helm of another team.”

Juventus have made no secret of their desire to win the Champions League this year, so if they make it to the Final, will Marotta be there?

“I’d be happy if Juventus make it to the Final, as it’d be the fruits of not just my labour, but also of my collaborators Fabio Paratici and Pavel Nedved.

“If they get there on June 1, I’d be there cheering them on, simply as a fan.”