Thursday, 31st July, 2014
Patrice Evra has insisted it was a very difficult decision to leave Manchester United for Juventus, but revealed personal reasons were behind his choice.
Evra was officially presented as a Juventus player this afternoon, taking the number 33 shirt with the Italian champions.
He only extended his contract with Manchester United in May and had been tipped to remain at the club for a further season to ease young left-back Luke Shaw into his role.
But the France international decided his future would be better served in Turin, a choice dictated by personal reasons, he admits.
"It was really difficult [to leave Manchester United]", he told a press conference.
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"It is for personal reasons. I asked the club if I could leave.
"When I knew Juventus were interested, the most difficult part was to leave Manchester United.
"But I did it and I made my choice, and I am really happy with my choice."
Evra also bemoaned racism which has cropped up in the Italian game, explaining it is something he does not understand.
"Racism is difficult to talk about", said the left-back.
"I don't understand why some people still compare other people just because they have a different colour. Maybe they fear the other person.
"It is sad to be here and to talk about it. I don't understand it."
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