Emre Can, former Juventus midfielder and now captain of Borussia Dortmund, spoke candidly to La Gazzetta dello Sport ahead of Dortmund’s friendly against Juventus in Germany this Sunday. Reflecting on his time at the club, the changes at Juventus since his departure, and looking to the future, Can was both nostalgic and optimistic.
Remembering Juventus and Cristiano Ronaldo
“Unfortunately, I won’t be playing on Sunday, but I will be at the stadium to greet many friends,” said the 31-year-old German utility player, who featured 45 times for Juventus and 48 times for Germany. “I will never forget Juventus, especially my first day at Continassa with CR7. It was a dream to play with him. Cristiano is one of the greatest players in history, and I feel privileged to have known him not just as a player but also as a person. He is a great worker, a winner, but also humble and down to earth.”
Juventus’ Generational Change and Chiellini’s New Role
“The Juventus I knew has changed a lot. Back then, there were Chiellini, Bonucci, Barzagli, Dybala, Ronaldo and Khedira. Recently, Juventus underwent a generational turnover; from my squad, only Perin, Pinsoglio, and Rugani remain.” Yet Can expressed confidence in the club’s future: “Chiellini as a director impresses me positively. He was a great player and knows Juventus like few others. I firmly believe with him involved, the club will start winning again. I can’t wait to see Giorgio on the sidelines — I’m recovering from an injury myself and should be back in a few weeks.”
The Unique Borussia Dortmund Atmosphere
Speaking about his current team, Can said, “At home, there are no friendlies. Be it summer, Bundesliga or Champions League, whether things are going well or not, our Yellow Wall always gives you goosebumps. It will be the same on Sunday. The atmosphere is unique.”
Reflecting on His Juventus Spell
“Football is like that,” he remarked. “Allegri wanted me strongly, then after one season Sarri arrived with other ideas. No regrets though, just an incredible experience—winning the Scudetto and living the unforgettable Champions League comeback against Atletico Madrid with Cristiano’s hat-trick. That was definitely my most emotional night in Turin. I also enjoyed living in Turin and getting to know Italian culture—especially your daily coffee ritual!”
Could Juventus Use Another Emre Can?
“Never say never in football. I was very happy there, but what will happen in one or two years, I don’t know. Right now, my focus is on Borussia Dortmund — I’m captain and want to help my teammates and have a strong season. The World Cup in the US next summer is coming, and I will do everything to earn my spot with Germany.”
Praising Sancho and Advice for Juventus
Turning to potential Juventus targets, Can had high praise for his Borussia Dortmund teammate Jadon Sancho: “He’s very strong. Karim has great technique, a fine shot, scores goals and is incredibly fast. I could see him at any big club, including Juventus, but for now, he’s a top player and we want to keep him.” When asked if he would recommend Sancho to Juventus, Can simply said, “Of course. I would recommend Sancho to Juventus. He’s a mix of technique and speed and could help the club become winners again.”
Thoughts on Juventus’ Young Talent
Could Juventus’ rising star Kenan Yildiz have played in his Juventus? “Our Juventus was full of champions and world-class players, but Kenan has talent and would fit in that squad,” Can explained. “Yildiz is special, with fantastic skills. It’s no coincidence he wears the number ten, a number that carries great weight in Juventus history. He has different characteristics from Dybala, but for Tudor’s team, he is what Paulo was for us. Juventus also have other valuable players. I have a soft spot for Khephren Thuram – a physical and dynamic midfielder, exactly the kind of player I like.”
On the Serie A Title Race
Finally, Can gave his view on the Scudetto battle: “This year, I would watch out for Allegri’s Milan. Max is a winner and a great coach. He’s very tactical, demands a lot on the pitch, but off the training ground, he’s the funniest guy, joking with everyone. He will be Milan’s added value along with Modric. But I will be cheering for Juventus and hope this is the year we see the Scudetto return to Turin.”
