Andrea Barzagli insists the arrival of Angelo Ogbonna will provide extra motivation for Juventus’” data-scaytid=”3″>Juventus’ defenders.
Andrea Barzagli insists the arrival of Angelo Ogbonna will provide extra motivation for Juventus’ defenders.
The Italian international, who has joined the outfit from city rivals Torino, will potentially provide competition for Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini.
“Ogbonna will help us,” the 32-year-old commented. “If you want to increase the quality of a squad then it is normal to buy high level players.
“Angelo can become a great champion and his presence will be important in not only games but also in training.
“To have a teammate who could be selected instead of you pushes you to work hard and give your best. That is why bringing in Ogbonna was the right decision.”
Centre-back Barzagli had a fine 2012-13, but he did struggle at times for Italy during the Confederations Cup last month after a long season.
“I was a bit overcooked after the Confederations Cup, but I want to play all of the time,” the former Palermo man added.
“Will I work differently ahead of the World Cup? I don’t think I’ll change any of my preparation. The intention is to never give anything up.
“It’s hard to think about the World Cup when we have such a busy season ahead of us. The priority is my club, then I’ll think about the national side at the right moment.”