28 May 2013
Giorgio Chiellini believes the Bianconeri have every reason to be proud of their “great” run in this season’s Champions League and claims both club and players are united in their mission to go one better next time around.
Before reflecting on another memorable campaign in Turin, Chiellini, speaking from Italy’s Coverciano training base, began by considering next Friday’s important World Cup 2014 qualifier against the Czech Republic.
The 28-year-old said: “The game in Prague could represent the turning point, winning would guarantee our place in Brazil. But we need to stay alert, if it doesn’t go well we’re back among the chasing pack.”
Returning to Juventus-related matters, the defender emphasised the club’s commitment to keep moving forward after reclaiming its rightful place amongst the European elite.
“The club is doing its best to improve every area of the team and be in the position to compete at an even higher level. We weren’t even in Europe two years ago, this season we returned to Champions League after a lengthy absence and enjoyed a great run.
“We topped our group ahead of both reigning European champions and winners of this year’s Europa League Chelsea and Shakhtar, who probably would have beaten Borussia Dortmund or given a better account of themselves if they had kept hold of Willian in January. He’s an extraordinary player who made the difference.
“We breezed through the last-16 and then came up against Bayern, a team that has objectively shown itself to be the strongest at this current moment. As far as I’m concerned they were in an incredible physical condition, because they beat both us and Barcelona over those three weeks. We now need to continue to improve year on year.”
