Thuram: ‘No need’ to convince Kolo Muani to stay at Juventus | OneFootball

Khephren Thuram insists he won’t need to convince his compatriot Randal Kolo Muani to stay at Juventus, but reveals he doesn’t talk much about football with his brother Marcus: ‘We are both passionate about the NBA.’

Thuram released an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport after contributing to a 5-0 win over Al Ain in Juventus’ Club World Cup debut earlier this week.

“I’m very happy to be involved in it [Club World Cup]. It’s the first time, and we are proud to represent Italy. It’s always great to participate in these tournaments with Juventus, and we must do our best,” said the France international.

Juventus have started off on the right foot and aim to reach the Final.

Thuram opens up about Club World Cup and NBA

TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 09: Khephren Thuram of Juventus passes the ball whilst under pressure from Ederson of Atalanta during the Serie A match between Juventus and Atalanta at the Allianz Stadium on March 09, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

“Of course, we believe in it, but right now we have to focus on the present,” said Thuram.

“We’ll take it one game at a time, and we’ll see.”

Is the atmosphere at the Club World Cup similar to other European or international competitions?

“The Champions League is different for me. I’ve never played in a World Cup, but I did play in the U21 European Championship, and I think it’s similar,” said Thuram.

“You can reach the final quickly, there are knock-out games, and if you hit the right rhythm, you can win.”

Thuram’s brother, Marcus, is an Inter striker who is also involved in the Club World Cup.

MILAN, ITALY – MAY 06: Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona is consoled by Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale after the final whistle of the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Semi Final Second Leg match between FC Internazionale Milano and FC Barcelona at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 06, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

“We talk all the time, and he’s happy to be here as well,” said the Juventus midfielder.

“He told me that they’re working well, but we don’t talk too much about football; mainly, we discuss other things.”

So, what do they discuss?

“NBA, which we are both passionate about. The Finals are on.”

Which NBA team does he support?

“Generally, the LA Lakers, but only because LeBron James is there. If he moves to another team, I’ll switch too. I’ma huge fan,” Thuram replied.

Thuram doesn’t need to convince Kolo Muani to stay at Juventus

WASHINGTON, DC – JUNE 18: Randal Kolo Muani #20 of Juventus FC celebrates scoring his team’s fourth goal with Kenan Yildiz #10 and Francisco Conceicao #7 during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group G match between Al Ain FC and Juventus FC at Audi Field on June 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images)

Thuram’s compatriot, Kolo Muani, scored a brace in Juventus’ win over Al Ain earlier this week, but the striker is on loan from PSG, and the Bianconeri hope to retain him for the 2025-26 season.

“He is one of the world’s best strikers. He’s fast, scores goals and works hard for the team,” concluded Thuram.

“I don’t need to convince him [to stay]. This is Juventus, and everyone wants to stay.”