Cuadrado: I did everything I could to return to Juventus

Juan Cuadrado has stressed he did everything within his powers to make his transfer from Chelsea to Juventus happen as he was desperate to return to the Serie A champions.

The Colombia winger already spent 2015-16 on loan at the Turin giants, but seemed destined to return to Stamford Bridge for this season following the arrival of new manager Antonio Conte in London.

But Chelsea eventually allowed him to re-join Juventus on loan until June 2019 for an annual fee of €5 million.

“I did everything in my power to come back to Turin and I’m delighted to be here again,” the 28-year-old told JTV.

“It was a special moment hearing the fans cheer my name [during Saturday’s win over Sassuolo]. I’m flattered by their support.

“I’m looking forward to getting back to business, working hard, improving my game and giving my all for the team.”

Juve start their Champions League campaign against Sevilla on Wednesday and Cuadrado added: “We know how significant the Champions League is and we need to start as we mean to go on by winning our opening fixture; kicking off the campaign with three points is of utmost importance.

“From then, we’ll see where that takes us. We’re an excellent side and we should consider ourselves among the top few clubs in the competition.”