Luca Pellegrini, who left Juventus for Eintracht Frankfurt on loan in the summer, discussed the differences between playing in Italy and Germany.
The 23-year-old Italian left back joined the Bianconeri from Roma in the summer of 2019 in a deal worth around €22m, but has struggled to break into the first team in Turin. He featured intermittently under Massimiliano Allegri last campaign but was loaned out to Eintracht Frankfurt this season in a bid to continue his development.
Speaking to Tuttosport, Pellegrini first highlighted some of the differences between football in Italy and football in Germany.
“The aspect that struck me immediately here is the mentality, different league, country with different customs compared to ours. As soon as I arrived in August, I immediately had to throw myself into the fray and I had to speed up the adaptation process.
“And then there is another way of perceiving the sporting event. The fans applauded and supported us after the 3-0 loss in the Champions League against Sporting. The Germans feel a lot of passion for their team and always have a proactive attitude.
“In Italy we are very conservative, here on the other hand you always look ahead and always go in search of a goal. And in fact matches often turn out very spectacular.”
He commented on Eintracht Frankfurt’s positive work on the pitch this season.
“I knew they were a strong and important club, otherwise I wouldn’t have accepted the move. We’re young and still have a lot of room for improvement and there is a wonderful project behind us.”
The 23-year-old compared Bianconeri coach Allegri to Eintracht coach Oliver Glasner.
“Difficult, as they are in two different leagues, but what they have in common is their personality, they have a very strong charisma.”
He touched on some of his idols in the left back role.
“As a child I really liked Paolo Maldini, now in my role I look up to Theo Hernandez and Alphonso Davies.”
Pellegrini gave his thoughts on Juventus’ slow start to the season and their upswing in form.
“I’m absolutely convinced that they can continue to grow after the break, they have a very strong team with many good players and real men.
“Their stated goal is to finish in the top four and, for what they are doing, they are succeeding and I’m sure they will complete the mission.”
Finally, Pellegrini discussed Eintracht’s goals this season and their upcoming Champions League game against Napoli.
“To continue at this pace on all fronts. In the Champions League we face a strong opponent in Napoli, but in football everything is possible. We will play for the win.”