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Matthijs de Ligt Explains Why He Snubbed Barcelona & Paris Saint-Germain For Juventus

Matthijs de Ligt Explains Why He Snubbed Barcelona & Paris Saint-Germain For Juventus

Matthijs de Ligt & Cristiano Ronaldo

Netherlands star Matthijs de Ligt has explained why he turned down offers from FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain to join Juventus.

After starring for the Netherlands and Ajax Amsterdam last season, the central defender earned himself a move to the Serie A champions ahead of this campaign.

While it was reported that a number of Europe's top sides were keen to sign him at the time, the player has now revealed there were offers from Barcelona and PSG.

"They have a particular style and I knew being here would make me a more complete player."

The Dutchman also went on to explain the differences he has experienced between playing for Ajax and Juventus.

"There are more eyes on you and people expect a great deal, all of which is new compared to my time at Ajax," he added.

"I think that I've done well in every match since the start of November and I am happy that the club has faith in me.

"I was on the bench for a little while and talked it over with the coach. I then had that problem with my shoulder and then a groin strain, so I couldn't train.

"The coach [Maurizio Sarri] told me very clearly: 'Calm down, we need you further along in the season and in your best shape, so there's no rush.'

"I also had to learn the language, as at the start it was just me and Aaron Ramsey who couldn't speak Italian. We both spoke English, so spent a lot of time together.

"[Giorgio] Chiellini also speaks English and he helped me a great deal. It was tough at first, when we sat around the table and everyone spoke Italian, but I took lessons along with my girlfriend."

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