:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/52386141/611942534.0.jpeg)
Beppe Marotta has said that he feels optimistic about a positive result for Juventus who take on AC Milan in the Italian Supercoppa this coming weekend in Doha, Qatar.
Milan beat Juve on penalties the last time they met for the Supercoppa, and won the last League round at the San Siro as well this season.
However, speaking to TuttoMercatoWeb, he said -
“It’s the first trophy of the season up for grabs.
“As history tells us, Juventus always play to win. We’re also going [to Doha] to win.
“Of course, there’s the unpredictability of it being a one-off game so you also need to have that bit of luck.
“Still, I’m aware that the team are in good shape, have a will to win and strong motivations so I’m very optimistic.”
In an earlier interview with Radio Anch'io Sport, he had also mentioned that the Bianconeri were close to wrapping up deals for Axel Witsel and Rodrigo Bentancur. The protracted Witsel fiasco ran on through the summer transfer window and is hoped to be resolved in January. Meanwhile, Juve have the first option to buy midfielder Bentancur following the transfer of Carlos Tevez to Boca Juniors in 2015.
"Witsel is a good opportunity for us. His contract expires in June and we are in touch with Zenit to see if we purchase him now. While we are waiting for their response, we are keeping a close eye at other options.
"We are also working on the signing of Bentancur. We have an option to sign him that expires in April. He is doing well at Boca and I think we will sign him, not in January, but for next season."
Juve have been linked with other players as well for the upcoming transfer window, with Marotta also commenting on the Atalanta duo Mattia Caldara (link) and Roberto Gagliardini.
"Caldara and Gagliardini are two very interesting youngsters.
"Several Italian and foreign clubs are after them. We are monitoring and trying to sign the best youngsters around.
"Having a core of Italian players gives fewer problems and makes it easier to learn the values of Juventus and Italian football."