De Ligt admits Juve 'surprise'

By Football Italia staff

Matthijs de Ligt has admitted his ‘surprise’ at the level of his Juventus teammates and that it will be ‘difficult’ to become a starter.

De Ligt has been thrown straight in by Juve following his €85.5m transfer from Ajax, already facing the likes of Harry Kane in the International Champions Cup, while scoring an own goal against Inter.

“I’m very happy with my teammates, they’re really friendly. I learn from them every day,” the 19-year-old told Tuttosport.

“There are many experienced players here, so I’m really happy. I’m surprised at the level of everyone here.

“They’re all focused and no-one stands out because all the individuals are very strong. Obviously, it’ll be difficult to be a starter with such strong players, but I’ll do my best.

“Cristiano wasn’t the main factor for me to come to Juve: there were many elements which led me to decide to accept the Bianconeri’s call.

“After that, it’s nice when someone as great as him says something to you, but really: it wasn’t the key factor.”

The Dutchman was then asked whether he could be the next great Bianconeri defender.

“I’ve just got to Juventus, so I’m not thinking about club legends and giants. Obviously, I know big things are expected of me, but I’m not thinking about it.

“I try to live for the moment, working to improve every day. After that, we’ll see what happens.

“I don’t know if we’re the best defensive unit in the world. We have good players and we all have to fight, but only two will play.

“Having said that, I don’t know if we’re the best unit in the world.”

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