Former Torino and Roma sporting director Gianluca Petrachi was honest about his links with Juventus and gave his thoughts on Antonio Conte’s possible return to Turin.
The 54-year-old Italian director has been out of work in the footballing world since his dismissal from the Giallorossi in June 2020, ending a one-year spell in the capital. He took the club to court despite a €5m compensation payment and lost, being forced to pay back that amount and the added legal costs.
Petrachi was linked with the Juventus sporting director role last year and continued to be floated as a possible option until the club ultimately hired ex-Napoli man Cristiano Giuntoli, who earned praise for his transfer market work in the Campania capital.
Speaking to BianconeraNews, Petrachi first gave his thoughts on Juventus sporting director Giuntoli.
“Cristiano has shown that, thanks to his work, he’s arrived at Juve. I think he’s one of the best sporting directors around.”
He was asked about his reported links to the Old Lady.
“There was a lot of talk about it, I was alerted to a possible call, but it never came. I believe that my 10 years of Granata had an impact on the choice. However, Juventus made a good choice with Giuntoli, he is a serious professional.”
The 54-year-old spoke about his discovery of Gleison Bremer and if he can grow into a top centre back.
“I think Gleison in his role is already a top player. In Europe I don’t see many goal-scoring central defenders who have strength, speed and aerial ability like him. He plays in an international team, in Brazil and this is important.
“Furthermore, he is a humble player, very intelligent and has everything to remain at the highest levels from now until the end of his career.”
He commented on which player would be a strong addition to the Juventus squad in January.
“Anguissa because he is flexible, he knows how to do both phases, he is modern, he defends, but he is also good at inserting himself.
“He is the prototype of the midfielder who comes close to Pogba. He could be the coherent choice with respect to what Juventus needs.”
Finally, Petrachi discussed the idea of seeing Conte return to Juventus next summer.
“In life, never say never. I don’t fully know his thoughts. Antonio certainly made the history of Juventus, first as a footballer, then as a coach. There is a particular feeling compared to the black and white shirt. If a call came, he would fill him with joy, also because Conte is a true person.”