Chievo winger Simone Pepe was surprised by his former team’s Juventus slow start to the season but he expects the Bianconeri to get back to winning ways.
The 32-year-old also explained why he joined the Flying Donkeys rather than Udinese after a five-year spell with Juve came to an end in the summer ahead of his return to face his old side on September 12 at J-Stadium.
“After the international break a different championship will start,” said Pepe to Sky Sport Italia.
“It is strange to see Juventus on 0 points but I am sure that they will recover, I just hope it comes after Saturday.
“We are going to Turin to play our game and we will try to put them in difficulty.
“Three absolute champions have left in [Andrea] Pirlo, [Arturo] Vidal and [Carlos] Tevez and it’s not easy to replace them, the club has signed many good players and now they need to bed in.”
The Italian international also went on to explain why he chose to join Chievo on a free transfer.
“Chievo are a serious club who have spent many years in Serie A,” added Pepe.
“I spoke with Udinese but then the president Gino Pozzo told me that it wasn’t possible for me to return to Udine.
“I am very happy to be here and I’m at coach’s disposal.
“We have started brilliantly, I have settled in really well in the changing room and my team-mates have helped me get into top shape.
“My head is in good shape, these last two seasons on the sidelines helped my character.
“I must never forget that whatever happens, I am lucky to play this sport for a living.”
