Aquilani would have had no problems staying at Liverpool

Alberto Aquilani has revealed he would have been happy to have stayed at Liverpool this season after his surprise season-long loan move to Juventus.

The Italian midfielder admits the move to Juventus came as a surprise as he was preparing himself for the new season at Anfield.

However, the former Roma man conceded a move to Juventus was too good to turn down after a disappointing first season at Liverpool last term.

"It was really fast, a blitz," Aquilani told Tuttosport. "One day I was speaking with [Roy] Hodgson and we were discussing Liverpool's season and three days later I found myself having a medical in Turin.

"Liverpool counted on me and in the end I would also have stayed because at the end of last season I was getting in gear physically and I had played the last eight games of the campaign.

"The fans had started to show me affection. Then this opportunity arrived and I didn't even need a minute to think about it. Liverpool wanted to only send me on loan, but [Juve general director, Beppe] Marotta insisted to have the option to buy."

Aquilani is enjoying his early days in Turin and is relishing the prospect of playing for the Bianconeri.

"Turin has made a beautiful impact on me," added Aquilani. "I also like the climate because with respect to Liverpool...

"It's a beautiful city. I didn't expect it to be like this. It has been a positive surprise.

"Juventus on the other hand aren't a surprise. I knew the city, but Juventus is Juventus just like you see on the outside. It's one of the most important clubs in the world."

 
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