Juventus’ new signing, Angel Di Maria, is casting aside thoughts of Argentina’s World Cup campaign as he prepares for his first Serie A season.
Di Maria joined Juve last week after leaving Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer following seven successful years in the French capital.
The 34-year-old has signed a one-year deal in Turin.
And staying in top condition ahead of the Qatar World Cup might have played a part in his decision to remain in Europe.
Yet he insisted that his entire focus is on Juve and not on helping Argentina contest for a world title come November.
“The same Di Maria as always has arrived, who wants to win at all costs, who hates to lose and wants to be a champion: I think Juve chose me for this,” said Di Maria, who Paul Pogba has joined in signing for the Bianconeri.
“The most important thing will be to work hard and try to do my best.
“My head is now solely and exclusively at Juve. I came here to win and work with this great club. We will think about the national team when we think about it. I want to win with Juventus.
“The World Cup is one of the best experiences for a player.
“But it is essential to have your head focused on the present.
“I repeat, I will always do my best for Juve. I always give my best to every new beginning, and it will be the same here.”
Asked why he elected to join Juve, who have finished fourth in Serie A in consecutive seasons, Di Maria explained:
“Juve is Juve, they have won many titles, and they are a great club that now has a great desire to return to the highest levels.
“I want to make this happen. It will be essential to form a united group.
“I chose Juve because they are the most important club in Italy and have all the credentials to win.
“And I know it’s a strong team, and I want to be part of this team.
“If they have looked for me, they believe me to be up to it.
“If a virtual team like Juve is looking for you, it is almost impossible to say no.
“They waited patiently for the end of my contract.
“I wanted to come here. I was calm with my family, and the right moment came.”
Di Maria, speaking at his unveiling on Monday, also revealed a Juve great played a part in his decision to join Juve.
He said: “I have a good relationship with Gianluigi Buffon. I also talked to him when I signed the contract.
“He wanted me to come to Juve, and I think being here is very nice. I am calm and will do my best to help Juventus win.”
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