Why Juventus midfielder has no regrets of rejecting Arsenal three years ago

Juventus midfielder Manuel Locatelli had an opportunity to join Arsenal three years ago, but the Italian standout decided against going to North London.

After helping Italy clinch the European Championship in 2021, the midfielder became a sought-after player. Following some standout seasons with Sassuolo, the Gunners were eager to sign him and made a bid, but Locatelli ultimately chose to join Juventus, favoring the move to Turin.

Unfortunately for Juventus, Locatelli’s time there hasn’t been particularly fruitful. Since his arrival in 2021, he has only added one Coppa Italia to his resume. The 26-year-old has made 138 appearances across all competitions for the Old Lady while scoring four goals and recording 13 assists.

Manuel Locatelli recalls rejecting Arsenal in 2021

In a recent interview with Tuttosport, he was asked whether he regretted turning down a move to Arsenal three years ago. Despite how his tenure has gone with Juventus, Locatelli would make the same decision. The standout grew up a Juventus fan, so it’s no surprise he chose to join the Old Lady.

"No," Locatelli said. "But I love watching football, and I like watching their games and I respect their coach, [Mikel] Arteta. I live it every day and I say it with my heart. Every day I get to the pitch I’m happy to train, to do extra work in the gym, for me it’s a lot of passion.

"I like watching the games, the Champions League but also the Serie B matches. I love football, I watch the other footballers. I have matured a lot, as a person and a player. In these three years I had to be more consistent. I am always the first to question myself so I have another year to improve. I am here every day for this."

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