01 November 1897
Paulo Dybala has revealed his determination to grow into a top player and challenge for major honours after officially being unveiled as a Bianconeri player at Juventus Stadium this afternoon.
The 21-year-old, who has signed a five-year contract, explained how he hopes to combine personal development with trophy glory in the black and white stripes.
He began: “Playing for a great club like Juventus represents an important step for me. I hope to develop both as a player and as a person and to become a key member of the team. This is the perfect club to start winning things in my career.”
Having travelled to Berlin to watch Juventus’ defeat to Barcelona in last month’s Champions League final, Dybala is optimistic that the team can mount another convincing assault on Europe’s elite club competition this term.
“Last year Juventus enjoyed a great season. It’s a pity that they could not win the Champions League, but I think the club can go one step further this campaign.”
The Argentine, who notched 13 goals and provided 10 assists for Palermo last season, offers plenty of versatility to Massimiliano Allegri’s attacking options and says he feels comfortable playing anywhere across the frontline.
“Regarding my position on the field, I have operated both behind the strikers and up front so I’ll need to speak to Allegri to find out where he sees me best fit in his plans.”
Of his decision to wear the number 21 shirt, the striker explained: “It’s a number that I like. It’s my age and was also sported by great players in the past.”
Joining Mario Mandzukic and Simone Zaza as the new forwards recruited so far this summer by Juventus, Dybala said that competition for places up front would benefit the club.
“It helps to keep us on our toes because we’re playing in three competitions and there’s also the Super Cup in August. There’s plenty of desire to do well here and we want to show this on the pitch.”
