Barcelona striker Luis Suarez has admitted that he was close to joining Juventus from Liverpool in 2012 until Brendan Rodgers convinced him to stay.
The 27-year-old had been linked with a move to the Bianconeri ahead of the 2012-13 season but decided to remain with the Reds after speaking with new boss Rodgers, who had just signed on as coach of the Anfield outfit that summer, and learning the tactician’s playing philosophy.
Suarez revealed the news of his near-transfer to Juventus and why he chose to continue his career with Liverpool in his new autobiography entitled ‘Crossing the Line: My Story’ which is set to be released on November 6.
“There had been suggestions that I would be joining Juventus,” said the Uruguayan international, who ended up scoring 54 goals in his 66 Premier League appearances under Rodgers.
“Brendan spoke to me in Spanish and he told me to give him time, to give him a chance, and that I would like the way that we were going to play. It would suit me.
“It was more attack-minded and he needed me. So I listened to his plans and I was convinced to stay.”
