MY ACCOUNT
Juventus are “not afraid” of being hit with a ban from European competition despite their Serie A points deduction.
That was the defiant message from Juve’s chief football officer Francesco Calvo, who was appointed in January just days after the Bianconeri were hit with a 15-point punishment.
Those charges for the Turin side followed investigations into financial violations from past transfer dealings, with former Juve president Andrea Agnelli and ex-sporting director Fabio Paratici handed bans.
While Massimiliano Allegri’s side aim to battle back on the pitch, there are suggestions a second investigation by UEFA could result in Juve being banned from playing in Europe.
But Calvo insisted Juve have no reason for concern with European football’s governing body.
“We are not afraid that what’s happening in Italy will have consequences in Europe,” CalcioMercato quoted Calvo as saying before Juve’s 1-1 draw with Nantes in the Europa League on Thursday.
“We are in constant contact with UEFA, we are not afraid, and the proceedings in Italy aren’t over yet.”
Allegri’s men face an uphill battle to qualify for the Champions League next season, trailing fourth-placed Roma by 12 points after the punishment last month.
Matters have not been made easier by the absence of Paul Pogba, who is yet to make his second debut for Juve after re-joining from Manchester United ahead of the 2022-23 season.
The France international was first sidelined by knee surgery, with Allegri suggesting on Saturday Pogba could be three weeks away from returning after further fitness issues.
Calvo remains content to wait for the return of Pogba, who was not considered by Juve to just be a quick fix.
“He is a long-term investment. We are waiting for him and I am sure he will return soon,” Calvo added. “Massimiliano Allegri is a reference point in such a difficult season.
“Our ideas are in line, also regarding the future. As a team, we’ve always been united.”
