Former Juventus Player Ruben Olivera Full Interview

Ruben Olivera played for Juventus from 2003 to 2009 spending most of his career on loan. One of his loan spells was with Sampdoria during the 2006-2007 season. Ahead of Juventus’ match against Genoa club, the Uruguayan has his say about Juventus and the upcoming game during an interview with ilbianconero:

Do you think Juve are only conditioned by injuries or is there something else?

‘Juve in these last matches have taken six points between Spezia and Empoli which are fundamental. It is not obvious to win against teams like this and the Bianconeri have managed to make important steps even for something more than fourth place. For many, they may seem like easy matches, but we have all seen what teams like Verona and Sassuolo have done. In important competitions, the players motivate themselves, in my opinion, they can still improve a lot.’

Can Allegri do more or is he doing the best?

‘Allegri is doing the utmost. If Juve had the full team, we would have talked about another championship. Players like Chiesa and Dybala are fundamental, there is a lack of players of this type. Dybala’s situation is already different from that of the other injured. Vlahovic arrives with all possible reasons, is 22 years old, and is already an exemplary professional. They told me that when he was in Florence he always came first in training, you could see that he had the mentality of a leader, and the team is taking advantage of his presence.’

Is Vlahovic on the same level as Haaland and Mbappè?

‘He has nothing to envy of Haaland. Mbappe is also different as a type of player compared to the two of them. At Juve, he can only grow and then, find me someone at 22 who has the same personality as him. When he went to Florence, he did not suffer the slightest pressure from the Franchi. He has the right head to become one of the best in the world.’

Would you give up on Dybala to get to Pogba?

‘Instead of Pogba, I would take Zaniolo. Juve does not have to renew the contract with Dybala, he is very strong, but we have been waiting for him for three years. He is always chasing the best form and Juve cannot wait any longer. Zaniolo has the right talent, and I would be happy if he went to Juve.’

What game do you expect between Sampdoria and Juve?

‘In Marassi it’s always a bad match. Sampdoria needs points, the fans will give an edge and Juve doesn’t play with a clear mind. Sampdoria will push from the start because they have nothing to lose and the Bianconeri will have to be good at not losing their heads in some circumstances of the match.’

Should Juve believe in the Scudetto?

‘It is in their DNA, knowing the environment the Scudetto is at the top of their thoughts. By winning at Marassi they will get even closer. The others do not have a simple schedule and the Bianconeri can take advantage of it, there are many mangy teams that will make those in front lose points.’

The Old Lady play Sampdoria on Saturday looking to continue their 14 games unbeaten run and to maintain their top-four hopes in Serie A.