Marotta on Pirlo and Vucinic

Beppe Marotta admits Andrea Pirlo’s injury was an unexpected blow and “won’t force” Mirko Vucinic to stay at Juventus.

The director spoke to Sky Sport Italia after tests showed Pirlo is out for at least a month with a second degree lesion to his knee ligament.

“This was unexpected and we won’t say anything more today. He will start treatment tomorrow and try to get back as soon as possible,” noted Marotta.

There was a message on the club website of Milan, Pirlo’s former team, wishing the midfielder good luck in his recovery.

Marotta was also asked about the reports that Vucinic will be sold or loaned out in January – possibly to Manchester United in exchange for Nani.

“Clearly the media is talking about potential new signings, but this team has scored without fail for dozens of games. There is no ‘goal problem’ and the defence has settled down now too.

“Happy as we are with the players at our disposal, we won’t force anyone to stay. Those who do remain must do so with great hunger and fight for a place in the starting XI. Still, nobody so far has expressed the desire to leave.

“I wouldn’t talk about January arrivals right now, as the squad is achieving extraordinary things and we have one of the best Coaches in the world. Antonio Conte has been able to make the most of the resources and I wish to underline the Juventus Model.”