BSP-03 ‘Proud moment’ as Ramsey makes Juventus debut in final pre-season friendly

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‘Proud moment’ as Ramsey makes Juventus debut in final pre-season friendly

MILAN, Aug 18, 2019 (BSS/AFP) – Aaron Ramsey made his debut for Italian
champions Juventus on Saturday in their final pre-season friendly, a 1-0 win
over Serie C side Triestina.

The Welsh international midfielder and former Arsenal star, who signed a
four-year deal in February worth a reported seven million euros ($7.9
million) a season, came on for Federico Bernardeschi in the 70th minute of
the game in Trieste.

“This was a very proud moment for me to put on this famous jersey,” said
Ramsey who hadn’t played since April due to a hamstring injury.

“I am happy that I got a few minutes out there tonight. I have been working
hard to get back fit and hopefully now I can stay fit.

“I know I haven’t had the minutes on the pitch, apart from tonight, but I
feel good physically. It will take a few games to get there.”

Ramsey won three FA Cups in his 11 years at Arsenal and played a key role
in Wales reaching the semi-finals of Euro 2016.

“I am really excited to be a part of it and experience the Italian league,”
he continued.

“We start now on Saturday, so I am looking forward to that and playing my
first competitive match.”

Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo did not make the trip to north-eastern
Italy because of muscular problems, while coach Maurizio Sarri was also
absent because of flu.

A stunning Paulo Dybala goal after 38 minutes was enough to seal a win for
the reigning Serie A champions.

The Argentine, who has been linked with a move away from Turin, celebrated
wildly but then missed a penalty in the second half.

Ramsey, meanwhile, threatened with a quick one-two with Gonzalo Higuain,
back from a loan spell to Chelsea, but sent the ball just wide of the goal.

Juventus begin their quest for a ninth consecutive league title at Parma on
August 24.

BSS/AFP/MSY/0833 hrs