'Champions League Juve Objective'

Juventus chief Beppe Marotta reassured Stephan Lichtsteiner and Claudio Marchisio, calling the Champions League “an objective.”

“Every time Juventus take part in a competition, it is their duty to attempt victory. We must always target the ultimate and aim to go all the way, so naturally the Champions League is something we want to achieve.

“It is not a dream, nor an obsession, but quite simply an objective for this club.”

Do huge investments guarantee success in football or can a Leicester City-style fairy-tale still happen?

“Now football is to be considered a business, so when there is competence and motivation, you’re more likely to achieve your aim.

“The Champions League is a tournament more than a League, so there is a certain unpredictability about it and you need to have everyone fit and on form in the right moment. On the other hand, the domestic league is more spread out and in the long run the strongest team will emerge.”

Lichtsteiner was surprisingly left off the Champions League squad list, as Juan Cuadrado and Dani Alves have the right flank covered.

“We are very grateful to Lichtsteiner for all he has done, but the thing about a football team is there’s competition for places. All players should be happy when champions arrive, as it strengthens the team overall and increases chances of success.

“He cannot take part in the early phase of the tournament, but could potentially come back in later. His contract is about to expire, but we do have an option to extend it. This is not a disciplinary move.”

Marchisio is included, despite being out of action after knee ligament surgery.

“Marchisio had this serious injury, but the predictions are within a couple of months he could get back to being the Marchisio of old. He’s a guarantee. We are all here waiting for him, as not only is he the player who always wore the Juventus jersey, but he’s also precious for the team.

“We are in a process of evolution for Juventus that started in 2010. We want players who can increase the quality level of our team and all the resources of the club have been aimed at investments for the sporting arena.”

The Bianconeri won the first two games of the Serie A season, but Marotta has a warning.

“Last year we started very badly and then recovered. We mustn’t rest on our laurels.”