06 November 2014
Roberto Pereyra has praised the group ethic at Juventus, saying the strong bond between the players off the field plays a crucial factor in their performances on it.
The 23-year-old, one of five summer additions to the first-team squad, has enjoyed a decent start to his Bianconeri career and believes the warm welcome he received after joining from Udinese enabled him to hit the ground running.
Speaking on Jtv’s ‘Filo Diretto’, Pereyra began: “It’s a great group we’ve got here, made up of humble lads who always knuckle down and work. I think you can see this when we take to the field.
“I get on very well with all of my team-mates and was given a fantastic welcome when I arrived. I go out for something to eat with Morata and Caceres and also hang out with my roommate Asamoah.”
The Argentine, who was named alongside Carlos Tevez in the Albiceleste squad for the upcoming friendlies with Croatia and Portugal, then spoke about Juventus’ midweek Champions League success and tactical adjustments made by Massimiliano Allegri for the meeting with Olympiacos.
“It was a tough game, as they all are in the Champions League, but thankfully we put in a strong performance and emerged victorious. We responded well to the change in formation and it’s down to Allegri to decide whether we keep playing with four in defence or revert back to three.”
A key factor behind the 3-2 win was the incredible atmosphere produced Juventus Stadium, with Pereyra comparing the supporters’ passion and intensity to those in his native South America.
“They’re very passionate and constantly spur you on. When you join this team you hear the supporters and it makes you want to get out there and always win. It’s wonderful and seems similar to South America, where all the fans urge you on.”
Ending with a thought on this week’s return to Serie A action against Parma, the midfielder urged his team-mates to keep their foot firmly on the accelerator in order to strengthen their grip on top spot.
“It will be a tough encounter but we need to maintain our stride. We’re on the right track and need to win to stay at the summit.”
