Juventus director general Beppe Marotta discussed what Cristiano Ronaldo brings, Claudio Marchisio’s departure and Inter as Scudetto rivals.
Serie A opener Chievo-Juventus kicks off at 17.00 UK time (16.00 GMT), follow all the action as it happens on the LIVEBLOG.
Juventus director general Beppe Marotta discussed what Cristiano Ronaldo brings, Claudio Marchisio’s departure and Inter as Scudetto rivals.
Serie A opener Chievo-Juventus kicks off at 17.00 UK time (16.00 GMT), follow all the action as it happens on the LIVEBLOG.
“To be a real champion, you need quality as a player and a man, which represents Cristiano Ronaldo. He brings a great deal to Juventus and consequently to all of Italian football,” Marotta told Sky Sport Italia.
“This is the ninth year of Andrea Agnelli’s Presidency and the bar has been raised more and more every season. The players on the field, and on the bench, are all of a high quality.
“Management must target the best possible result, taking into account everything from football performances to cost and marketing.”
Claudio Marchisio terminated his contract by mutual consent yesterday, ending 25 years at Juventus through their academy to the senior squad.
“It would’ve been more difficult for him to get playing time than in recent years, it was only fair that we make that clear to him and he preferred to find another destination. I don’t know where he’s going next and I don’t think he does either.
“We thank Marchisio for all he has given Juventus over the years and even decades, but this is football and we move on.”
Marotta was asked who will be the main challengers for the Scudetto and had no doubts.
“I think Inter are the main contenders for Juventus. They’ve grown gradually over the last three years, picked up some very interesting players and I put Inter and Juve as the favourites.”