With fixtures against Napoli, Bayern Munich and Inter all pencilled in the diary this month, there is little doubting the importance that this February could have on Juventus’ season on both domestic and European fronts.
In many ways, therefore, Roberto Pereyra’s return from injury could not be more timely. Having been out of action for three and a half months, the midfielder played the final 24 minutes of the Bianconeri’s 2-0 win over Frosinone on Sunday, with both goals scored after his second-half introduction at the Stadio Matusa.
Commenting on his lengthy spell on the sidelines since tearing his thigh muscle against Atalanta on 25 October, Pereyra admitted that he was relieved to have swapped the treatment table for the dressing room just before a crucial period of his side’s campaign.
“It’s not been easy following matches from the sidelines without being able to help my team-mates. Luckily I’m now back with the rest of the squad.
“I think that the match against Frosinone was very important for us in terms of preparing properly for Napoli. We played well and that performance has filled us with confidence.”
This self-belief was not the only quality which Pereyra said his side possesses. The Argentine had several other superlatives up his sleeve to describe the club he has now served for over 18 months and ones which he urged the team to exhibit once more in their upcoming encounters.
“We’re a no-nonsense, humble group of players that have always shown the utmost conviction in everything we do.
“We’re approaching matches with greater aggression than we did at the start of the campaign, with our hearts and minds always set on victory.
“This Saturday, I expect a fantastic spectacle at Juventus Stadium. It will be even more exciting from a playing perspective and hopefully we can take the three points. That’s our objective.”
Looking beyond the weekend, Pereyra spared a few thoughts for yet another mouthwatering tussle coming up quickly on the club’s continental calendar, when Bayern Munich will be in town on 23 February.
“They’re a top side that plays excellent football. We’re focused on entering that match in the best shape possible.”
With those words, Pereyra’s attentions turn back to the training ground and preparations for a telling month of football ahead.