Arthur appreciates Juventus welcome, ready to play anywhere

Juventus today officially unveiled midfielder Arthur Melo, who joins the club in a player exchange transfer with Barcelona after Miralem Pjanic went the other way.

Speaking to the media gathered for the reveal, the Brazilian was very grateful to be at Juve.

“This is a very important day for me, I thank my family, the managers, Fabio Paratici, and everyone who have welcomed me.

“I have the privilege to play with great players, playing with Cristiano Ronaldo is almost the realisation of a dream. The project convinced me, it’s very ambitious.

“I was very well received, not only by my Brazilian teammates, but by all the players, the staff and management. The fans are also making me feel affection and it’s all wonderful. I feel almost like home.”

The new player has yet to speak with Andrea Pirlo, who will be making his managerial debut when the Bianconeri open the season against Sampdoria after the fixtures for the upcoming season were announced earlier today.

“I haven’t spoken in detail with the coach. He has played football like few others, he moved and played in a unique way. Anyone who loves football knows who Pirlo is. Working with him is an honour, his greatness needs no introduction.

“I feel the privilege of playing for such a coach. We haven’t talked about the formation and position on the pitch yet. I can play in various positions and in various modules: I’m available and there won’t be any kind of problem.”

Arthur was also grateful to his previous side, thanking Barca for bringing him to Spain.

“I can only thank Barcelona, they showed great affection for me. I was treated very well, as part of a very ambitious project.

“I though it could be an impetus for my career. One of the main reasons for my move was the Champions League.

“The Juventus project is extremely ambitious. The Champions League is a priority, I will work with my teammates to achieve that goal and many others.”

The Italian game is quite different from what he’s gotten used to in Spain, but the midfielder is ready for the challenge.

“Serie A, I believe, has more physical contact. It’s a great League, it will be a difficult season, but Juventus are a great team.

“There will be many battles and we can’t wait to get started.”