Tim Weah only wanted to join Juventus in the summer transfer window, claims his representative, with interest from “many clubs” being shunned.
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U.S. star bid farewell to French footballWas wanted by sides in Spain and GermanyEnded up packing his bags for ItalyWHAT HAPPENED?
The United States international made his way to Turin in an €11 million (£10m/$12m) deal after taking the decision to sever ties with Ligue 1 outfit Lille. That switch allowed Weah to link up with fellow USMNT star Weston McKennie at the Allianz Stadium.
AdvertisementGettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Juve were always the top priority for Weah, as he follows in the footsteps of his legendary father George by turning out in Serie A, with approaches from Spain and Germany being knocked back. Weah’s lawyer, Badou Sambague, has told : “Many clubs like Atletico Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen were interested in Timothy, but his priority has always been going to Juventus, because he knew the club and was following their progress. Nothing could’ve changed his mind. What convinced him was the history of the club, he wanted to work with the Bianconeri staff who believed in him from the start. Weah’s word is very important when he has given it and the directors were also very determined to sign him.”
WHAT THEY SAID
Weah has quickly earned the trust of Bianconeri boss Massimiliano Allegri, with Sambague adding on that working relationship: “The rapport with Allegri is very interesting, his coaches have generally been able to get the best out of his potential. The experience at a club like Juve will really help Timothy and he is already learning so much. I feel Italian football is starting to contribute in a strong way to his personal and professional development.”
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
Weah has admitted that he feels more at home filling a role on the left wing – where he often lines up for his country – but he is putting his versatility to good use in Italy by often occupying berths on the right of defence and midfield.
