Gonzalo Higuain slams Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis after Juve switch

28 July 2016 18:23

Gonzalo Higuain could not stand to spend "another minute" with Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis, the striker has claimed after joining Juventus.

The Argentina international, 28, became the third-most expensive player of all time when he joined the five-time reigning Serie A champions for 90million euros (£75.3m) on Tuesday.

De Laurentiis accused Higuain of a "betrayal", adding that his departure showed "the unscrupulous nature of football".

And Higuain pulled no punches in response when a sked about De Laurentiis' comments at an unveiling press conference televised on Juve's website.

"I can only say that now I have no relationship with him because his way of thinking isn't the same as mine," he said. "If I made this decision it's also because he pushed me into it.

"When my three years there came to an end I felt it was time for a change. I want to thank the fans and my team-mates, but not him.

"I no longer had any kind of relationship with De Laurentiis, I can't be clearer than that. He didn't treat me well and we didn't have a relationship. I couldn't stand to be around him for another minute."

He was more conciliatory towards coach Maurizio Sarri, saying: "I can only say nice things about him, he's been a great coach to me and helped me to improve. If he's angry with me I ask him for forgiveness."

Switching his attention to his new employers, Higuain is desperate to help them achieve further success.

"Everyone knows what Juve are all about," he said. "The whole set-up here is based on winning and they are used to doing so. This club is built for success.

"The ambition shown over the summer was an important factor for me. Combined with the desire of the players already here, this was an offer I could not refuse. The depth of this squad is one of its greatest strengths and the competition for places all over the field is a massive advantage for us."

Compatriot Paulo Dybala scored 19 Serie A goals for the Bianconeri last season, raising the prospect of an exciting partnership in Turin.

"I've enjoyed linking up with Paulo on international duty and really appreciated the video he sent to welcome me," said Higuain. "He is a fantastic player and I'm excited to see what we can achieve together, hoping we can move the club forward in the coming years."

A great Juve forward of the recent past was also in his thoughts.

" When I was at (Real) Madrid one of my favourite players was (Alessandro) Del Piero," he said. "He was a big inspiration to me and I watched Juve to see him play."

Source: PA