Matthijs de Ligt acknowledges he has been surprised by Juventus’ level

Juventus’ new signing Matthijs de Ligt has acknowledged that he has been surprised with the quality of players present in the club’s ranks. The Netherlands international had been linked with some of Europe’s elite clubs this summer but the Bianconeri eventually won the race to land his signature from Ajax.

Speaking to reporters, De Ligt revealed that he has formed an instant bond with his new teammates and he is learning more from the experienced players within the squad. He added that he has been surprised with the intensity of the players in training and may have to up his game to match up to the level, he told: "I get on well with my teammates, they are very nice. I learn from them every day. There are many experienced players so I am really happy. I am surprised by everyone's level: they are all concentrated, no one stands out because many individuals are strong. It is difficult to play with such strong players but I will do my best."

The Bianconeri have dominated the proceedings in the Serie A over the past eight seasons where they have won the title on each occasion. The same is expected to continue with the big-name arrivals at the club and it will be interesting to see whether they can make the push for the Champions League crown under the guidance of Maurizio Sarri.

Over the past five seasons, the Turin giants have managed to reach the final of the competition on a couple of occasions, but they have ended up on the losing side. The arrival of Ronaldo last season could not quite take them to the summit last season and the club will be hoping that they have done enough in the transfer market this summer to pull off European success.