"Juventus" striker Fernando Llorente firmly believes that in the upcoming season his team is capable of competing for the UEFA Champions League title. Last year, the Italian champions, led by Antonio Conte, were eliminated after the group stage. However, Llorente thinks that Madrid's "Atletico" proved that it is possible for the wealthiest clubs in the Old Continent to be challenged, as they reached the final and only conceded the advantage to "Real" in extra time. "I think Juventus belongs to the group of clubs that will fight for the Champions League trophy," the Spaniard told Tuttosport. "We have to try. Obviously, it will be very difficult. But last season, for example, no one thought that Madrid's Atletico could go that far." "In football, anything can happen. We have to work very hard to have successful years. We must believe, dream that we can do it." Llorente also admitted that he had difficulties when he first moved to the club last summer, but he feels proud of his first season in Serie A. "At the start of last year, it was very hard for me," the striker continued. "For the first few months, I couldn't get used to Conte's working methods." "After the summer camp in Chatillone, I felt physically and mentally drained. However, scoring 18 goals shows that it was a good season." "Now I hope to play better. I hope to get more chances. Fans must trust this team. We are now even stronger."
