Pundits suggest Elkann was right to reject Juventus takeover offer

Giancarlo Marocchi and Beppe Bergomi highlight John Elkann’s ‘sense of belonging’ as Exor rejected an offer for a majority stake in Juventus.

Juventus minority shareholders Tether have seen a €1.1 billion bid rejected by Exor, a decision confirmed by club owner John Elkann in a passionate message released over the weekend.

Sky Sport Italia pundits Marocchi and Bergomi suggested Elkann, cousin of ex-Juventus President Andrea Agnelli, made the right decision, highlighting the strong sense of belonging he conveyed with his statement.

“I’ve spent a few years there, and there was the feeling of being part of the Agnelli family,” Marocchi, a former Juventus midfielder, said live on TV on Sunday.

“This pushed you to make sure the only thing that mattered was the victory. You looked at the past, and it was full of victories. In the present, you had to do the same.”

Inter and Italy legend Bergomi added: “I highlight this important sense of belonging, which the fans, the players and the staff feel. It’s the Juventus tradition.”

The Agnelli family has owned Juventus for over 100 years, while Tether have an 11,52% stake in the club and is represented on the board of directors by Francesco Garino.

Juventus secured a 1-0 win over Bologna on Sunday night, moving just one point below the top four.

Luciano Spalletti was appointed in October to replace Igor Tudor and has collected five wins in the last six matches.

Juventus’ next game is against Roma at the Allianz Stadium on Saturday, December 20.