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I will play another year, then see how I feel

during the Serie A match between Juventus and Cagliari Calcio at Allianz Stadium on August 19, 2017 in Turin, Italy.

kriralok desk:

Giorgio Chiellini plans to play at least one more season before retiring as he aims to sign off in style with Italy at the delayed Euro 2020 tournament.

The Juventus defender has missed the majority of the 2019-20 season after suffering a serious knee injury in August, though he returned to action prior to the coronavirus-enforced suspension.

While he will turn 36 in August, Chiellini has no intention of hanging up his boots in the near future, suggesting there is a possibility of him carrying on beyond the 2020-21 campaign.

In an Instagram Live chat with actress Martina Colombari, the wife of former Milan and Italy defender Alessandro Costacurta, the centre-back also revealed how a move into coaching is unlikely once his playing days are finally over.

“I will play another year, then I’ll see how I feel and how my legs hold up,” Chiellini said.

“I could retire next summer or have another season after that. I would like to continue in football, probably more a directorial role than management, but you never know in life.

“I hope to get there [Euro 2020] in excellent condition to live this last international event to the fullest.

“We have experienced players and many strong youngsters. Ending with a great European [Championship] would be a great satisfaction, closing the circle.”

Chiellini admitted the injury was a huge blow but embraced the “challenge” of making a full recovery, something that may not have been the case at an earlier stage in his career.

“At the beginning it was difficult, accepting an injury is not easy, but I’m glad I had it at 35 because you have a different maturity. I found it as a challenge with myself,” he explained.

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