Dani Alves was presented to the media this morning after completing his move to Juventus. He naturally took questions from the assembled press-pack and began by explaining why he chose the bianconeri; “I chose Juve because I like to dream of playing in great teams alongside great players and I think Juve has big dreams too that together we can make a reality.” He continued; “I know how much this club wants the Champions League and how much desire it has to win it just like the Italian championship. It has many great players and a great history and I want to be part of it”.  

After choosing the number 23 shirt he explained that; “I have chosen the number 23 like LeBron James as he is a sportsman who never rests on his laurels but always wants new challenges and to win them. It’s a number that awakens me to the fact that I’m in a new country with a new team so I can reinvent myself alongside new teammates”.
 

Speaking about his new coach Massimo Allegri, Alves stated that; “I have spoken with him but we’ve not discussed in detail what he wants from me. One thing that I do know here however is that it’s not about the individual but the team. Other clubs did contact me but I came to Juventus precisely because of this team ethic”.

Then the subject moved onto Paul Pogba, Alves explained that; “He is a really important player and it will be an honour to play alongside someone with his quality. He reminds me a lot of myself as he looks to have the same approach to life as I do. We are here to stay healthy and have fun because that is the only way you can reach your objectives.  

On Dybala he declared that; “I’m here to assist him as much as I can and if it makes a difference then it will be my pleasure. Strikers are only ever happy when they are scoring goals but me, I am most happy when I assist with them”. 
 

Finally, on the subject of a possible re-uniting with Barcelona teammate Javier Mascheranno he replied that; “I had a great rapport with him and it would be an honour to play here with him too but this does not depend on me of course. It would great to share this new adventure together”.


Steve Mitchell @barafundler