Paro: strong head, young shoulders
He may be only twenty-three, but when he takes to the field he shows the maturity of a seasoned pro. Born in 1983, Matteo Paro is one of the most promising products of the Bianconeri nursery, ready to take his game to another level. Following his Serie A debut in 2003 with Juventus, and spells on loan with Crotone, Chievo and Siena, Paro has shown himself to be more than worthy of a return to Turin. After catching the eye of Monsieur Deschamps, the midfielder has been a regular feature in the pre-season programme, pulling the strings for the Bianconeri from the middle of the park: “I’m very happy with the chances I’ve been given so far, the boss has faith in me and I’m hoping to return the favour with my performances on the field”.
When the championship kicks-off in a week’s time, the Old Lady will have to get used to her new surroundings : “We finally know what division we’re going to be playing in and in a way, that’s a relief, even if we were mentally prepared for B already. We can now focus on the season ahead”. The squad has shown itself to be in great condition over the last few games: “Definitely, we’ve worked hard and physically, we’re in the right shape. Obviously those of us who have been here since the first day are in slightly better condition than those who arrived later on”.
In truth, Del Piero is already on scintillating form, despite only joining up with the squad on the 10th of August: “Well sure, he’s absolute class! Alex is in fine form and when his tricks come off…he’s a joy to watch”. The latest master piece from the captain was a peach of a free-kick against Inter in the Trofeo TIM, “a house speciality” which the young Paro knows very well: “It’s true, I can also take set-pieces. Certainly, with Alex on the field I won’t get the chance to take many, but when the opportunity arises, I won’t let it slip by. I don’t want to promise any goals to the fans, but let’s just say I’ll try and provide a bit of excitement…”
- Juventus.com, Semptember 1st
It's great that at least one of our promising youngsters will probably get a chance to play regularly even if there are Gianni and Zanetti ahead of him.