Joao Mario reveals Tudor’s demands and ‘main support’ at Juventus

Originally posted on Football Italia | By Lorenzo Bettoni | Last updated Aug 21, 2025 9:44 AM ET

New Juventus defender Joao Mario reveals Igor Tudor’s demands made him feel ‘comfortable’ and admits his ‘main support’ in Turin is his compatriot Francisco Conceiçao.

New Juventus signing Joao Mario was unveiled at an official press conference on Thursday.

“The first days have been incredible. I’ve felt really good with this team so far. I’m part of a group with great quality, and settling in has been easy,” the Portuguese said via Ilbianconero.com.

Joao Mario’s unveiling press conference at Juventus

“We’ve worked hard to prepare ourselves in the best way for the season.”

The Portuguese right-back moved to Turin in a player-plus-cash swap deal involving Alberto Costa, who joined Porto.

“Juventus are a big club with a great history. I am proud to be here, and I’m motivated to help the team. I want to contribute to achieving as many victories as possible, which this club deserves.

“Having played for Porto and dealing with that pressure have helped me become accustomed to this context. I want to transform pressure into something positive.”

Joao Mario has already played a few pre-season friendlies and could even start in Juventus’ first official game of the season against Parma this coming Sunday.

Joao Mario reveals Tudor’s suggestions at Juventus

Which suggestions has he received from his new coach, Tudor?

“The coach’s demands are for an attacking style of football that makes me feel comfortable,” Joao Mario replied.

“That has definitely helped my adaptation as well. I need to be an offensive player and help the team. I’ve tried to improve day by day, and I feel I have, but the goal is to keep improving. Serie A is definitely a competitive league with great intensity, which will help me improve defensively.”

Joao Mario reunited with his compatriot Conceiçao at Juventus.

The Portuguese winger completed a permanent transfer to the Allianz Stadium this summer after spending the 2024-25 campaign on loan at the club.

“Francisco is my main support. I’ve known him for a long time,” admitted Joao Mario.

“We used to play together on the right and spent a lot of time together. I’ve already built a good relationship with all my teammates, I’ve been welcomed really well, and I’ve bonded with everyone, on and off the pitch, which is very important to improve understanding and help the team. So, we’re prepared to approach the league in the best possible way.”

Juventus will make their 2025-26 Serie A debut this coming Sunday at home against Parma, with kick-off time at 20:45 CET.

This article first appeared on Football Italia and was syndicated with permission.

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