Lucumi gives first interview as a Juventus player: ‘Happy to be joining Italy’s biggest team’ | OneFootball

Jhon Lucumi has given his first interview as a Juventus player, speaking to the club’s official channels shortly after completing his move from Bologna.

Speaking with quotes via Juventus’ website, the Colombian defender is already relishing the step up: “I’m very happy to have arrived here. I’m joining the biggest team in Italy and I’m really excited. I can’t wait to adapt quickly to my team-mates and help out this season.”

Asked whether any Juventus defender in history had shaped his own career, Lucumi pointed to a familiar face from Colombian football before naming three club legends: “I think the first is Cuadrado. I think he did a great job here and he’s a point of reference in Colombia for having played for this team. And then Juventus have had great defenders: Chiellini, Bonucci, Barzagli. I think they’re role models for me and for all players who play in our position.”

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO – JUNE 17: Jhon Lucumi #3 of Colombia looks on during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group K match between Uzbekistan and Colombia at Mexico City Stadium on June 17, 2026 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Lucumi: ‘I feel like I’ve made the right move’ at Juventus

On his early dealings with head coach Luciano Spalletti, Lucumi kept things brief, suggesting there’s still plenty of ground to cover before the new season gets under way: “We’ve only said hello so far. We have time to talk and to understand from him everything he wants me to do for the team.”

The defender also addressed what he can offer a Juventus squad he rates highly: “I feel like I’m in a good stage of maturity right now. I feel like I’ve made the right move and, with these team-mates who are of the highest level, I know I can provide important help and give a lot to Juventus.”

Lucumi closed by sending a message to the Juventus supporters ahead of his home debut: “I’m happy to be here, I can’t wait to see them at the Allianz Stadium and I hope I can repay all this affection in the moments when we’re on the pitch.”