Marotta 'hopes Pirlo and Tevez stay'

By Football Italia staff

Beppe Marotta admits Andrea Pirlo and Carlos Tevez might’ve played their final games for Juventus, “but I hope not.”

The director spoke to Sky Sport Italia and Mediaset after the 3-1 Champions League Final defeat to Barcelona in Berlin.

“I compliment the squad and Coach Massimiliano Allegri, as this was the final act of an extraordinary season. We played with honour and credit against a very strong opponent.

“This group started a few years ago and reached the Champions League Final after four consecutive Scudetti. Next term we hope to do even better.”

Pirlo was in tears at the final whistle and some believe it could be goodbye ahead of a transfer to America’s MLS.

“I hope not,” said Marotta. “Andrea is an icon of Italian football and has become an icon of Juventus too. I think his tears are understandable for a player who gave us such strong emotions over the years and it’s only right he should feel those emotions too.

“Now the season is over, from tomorrow we will begin meetings with the players who are subject to transfer speculation.

“It’s not easy to replace Pirlo. We have some eclectic players like Claudio Marchisio, while Allegri is capable of finding other alternatives.

“As you know, in midfield we are in contact with Sami Khedira and I cannot announce his arrival until it is made official after certain deadlines. He’ll boost an already more than satisfying midfield.”

Another who might be moving on this summer is Tevez, who made no secret of his desire to play for Boca Juniors again.

“The desire of the player is the predominant aspect in these situations, so we’ll talk to Tevez and see what he wants to do.

“I heard his agent’s comments, we have great respect for Tevez and want to keep him. We hope he wants to remain, but we must be prepared for anything.

“He has given so much to Juventus and I hope he can continue.”

However, when it comes to Paul Pogba, Marotta shut down the speculation sparked by agent Mino Raiola.

“His position is different. Pogba has a multi-season contract, is growing year on year and we need quality players to improve the team.

“In this case, the desire of the club is predominant over that of the player. Our rapport is excellent, we don’t want to sell him, there are no negotiations and we have no intention of starting any.”

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