Vlahovic explains Arsenal snub and why he picked Juventus’ No.7

Dusan Vlahovic reveals he joined Juventus because of their DNA and claims the No.7 jersey ‘means nothing’ to him: ‘It was the closest to No.9.’

The Serbia international has moved to Turin in an €80m move from Fiorentina, signing a three-year and a half deal with the Bianconeri.

“First of all, I want to thank Fiorentina, my first team and Primavera teammates. Thanks to Barone, Pradé, Della Valle, Commisso and all the coaches of the last few years, especially Vincenzo Italiano who has supported me until the end.” Vlahovic said at his unveiling press conference.

“I wish him good luck. I also think of Prandelli. He made so many things for me and I will forever be grateful to him. Fiorentina welcomed me nicely when I arrived and I always tried to give my best, being professional until the end.

“Now, I am thrilled and proud to have signed with Juventus,” he continued.

“A glorious club. I am ready to give my best for the team and obtain great results. I want to thank Juventus President and all the people that brought me here.”

The 22-year-old had been linked with many foreign clubs, including Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle, but picked Juventus instead.

“There were many rumours about foreign clubs, but the choice was easy because the club and I have a similar DNA. Fight and suffer when needed. I think it’s part of my mentality as well, so the choice was not difficult,” the striker claimed.

Vlahovic has picked the No.7 jersey at Juventus but feels no pressure from wearing the same number that previously belonged to Cristiano Ronaldo.

“The No.7 jersey represents nothing. All the numbers are important here. I chose it because it’s the closest to No.9,” Vlahovic said.

“I am here to help my teammates and reach our targets. The shirt number is not important. Determination and commitment are what matter the most. I don’t care about the rest. The most important thing is to win games.”

Vlahovic also denied that he will move in the same home were Ronaldo had lived during his three-year spell in Turin.

“I don’t think so. I must remain humble. The pitch is all that matters. Winning games is all I want. The rest is not too important.

“My target here is to settle in as quickly as possible know all my teammates, even if I’ve known them on the pitch,” Vlahovic continued.

“I want to know them off the pitch and become friends. Having a good relationship with everyone is crucial to reaching important targets.

“Allegri welcomed me well, I am looking forward to starting and helping the team. I am really happy.”

Did he speak with Federico Chiesa before joining Juventus?

“I’ve spoken to Federico. As you know, we are friends. We’ve played together before,” the 22-year-old said.

“I am sorry for his injury. We’ll be waiting for him. I am looking forward to playing with everyone.”

Vlahovic could make his Champions League debut in February when the Old Lad will visit Villareal in the first leg of the Round of 16.

Does he feel the competition with Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland and does he think they are at the same level?

“It will be thrilling [to make my Champions League debut],” he said.

“I try to work hard and be focused on myself. I try to be focused at any time, I don’t know where I’ll get, but I’ll give my best to go far.”