21 July 2015
Measured on and off the field but possessing the necessary aggression when required, Daniele Rugani appears to have all the right tools to fulfil his ambitions at Juventus.
Despite sealing a move to the club that he has supported since he was a boy, a love “passed down from (his) father”, the promising youngster had his feet on the ground as he was presented to the media at Juventus Center this afternoon.
The young defender, whose stock rocketed following an impressive season at Empoli last term where he did not receive a single caution and played every minute, was quick to thank the club for the faith they have shown by bringing him to Turin.
He began: “Juventus have invested in young talent this summer and we are all keen to repay the trust shown in us.
All us young guys can do is show what we have to offer and contribute to the team as best we can. I have a great opportunity here but I won’t be taking anything for granted.”
Joining an already formidable backline, featuring Giorgio Chiellini, Andrea Barzagli and Leo Bonucci, Rugani acknowledged that he was in the perfect place to build on his game and learn from his new defensive team-mates.
“I admire Bonucci for his mentality on the field, Chiellini for his tenacity and Barzagli for his concentration, these are all players with immense experience that I can learn so much from. I am a composed player on the pitch but I can be aggressive when I need to be.”
The 20 year old’s modesty in thanking the club and admiring his new colleagues was balanced though with a quiet confidence in his own qualities, notably the ability to play in a three or four man defence.
“In a way, my versatility is partly why I am here and I can play in a three or a four. I’ll slot in wherever the manager needs me.”
With the European Championships in France on the horizon, the Tuscan born stopper has a big season and indeed a bright future as a Bianconero in his sights.
