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Di Natale: Juventus are favourites to win Serie A
Jul 25, 2012 10:10:00 PM
The 34-year-old has spoken of his plans to retire in 2014, while not discounting the possibility of playing for his native Italy at the World Cup in Brazil
Udinese striker Antonio Di Natale believes Juventus go into the new season as favourites to retain their Serie A crown.The Bianconeri won their first Scudetto since 2003 last term in convincing fashion, finishing four points ahead of AC Milan after an unbeaten campaign.
With Kwadwo Asamoah and Mauricio Isla both leaving Udinese to join Juventus, Di Natale claims the Turin-based club are the team to beat, but insists he trusts his side's chances of making an impression once more in the Italian top-tier.
"We start from scratch as always, we hope that the desire to work will come back," Di Natale told Sky Sport Italia.
"The Pozzo family has always done good things at this club. It is a shame that some players have left, but the club know what to do. Some good players have joined us and we hope they will fit in well.
"Juventus are favourites to win the league. After, them, I would say that there are Inter and AC Milan. I would also like to mention Napoli, because they have been doing a great job in the transfer market.
"I would also include Roma, Lazio and us. The league will be a close affair."
The 34-year-old was rewarded for his excellent form last season with a place in Italy's squad at Euro 2012, where he scored one goal in five appearances.
"Playing at the Euros was a great experience," Di Natale added. "Now I have the last two years of my career ahead of me.
"Playing at the World Cup in Brazil? If coach Cesare Prandelli wants to take me, I would be very happy. I am at the coach's disposal."
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