Del Piero confirms Italy departure

Former Juventus forward Alessandro Del Piero said his playing future lies away from Italy.

The 37-year-old veteran made over 700 appearances for Juve before leaving the Serie A champions at the end of the season.

And although he is unsure about his future, he confirmed it will not be in Italy.

“I hope I’ll still be playing as much as possible (at my club),” Del Piero said.

“I know I can’t be playing for many more years, but surely next year I’ll be playing football.

“I would like to thank the Italian clubs which have contacted me, but I’ve always given the same answer. I’ve thanked them, but obviously my future in Italy can’t be in any other team.

“I believe this is the right thing to do. Therefore I will surely play in a foreign country.”

The Italian said he has no specific desire to play in a certain league or competition, but that he will be motivated by the challenge.

“I’m not interested in playing the Champions League or playing in secondary level championships, I’d like to choose the most ideal situation and check the most stimulating opportunities,” he said.

“To play in one championship or in another isn’t one of my main objectives.”