Thuram: ‘Not’ Pogba’s heir at Juventus, Weah ‘thrilled’ to go back home | OneFootball

Khephren Thuram insists there can’t be two Paul Pogba as Juventus prepare for a Champions League game against Timothy Weah’s former club Lille with ‘confidence.’

The Bianconeri have six points in three Champions League games and must bounce back after a 1-0 home loss to Stuttgart in the previous round.

They have already travelled to France, where they’ll visit Ligue 1 side Lille on Tuesday.

The French club lost 2-0 to Sporting CP on their 2024-25 Champions League debut but shocked Madrid clubs Real and Atletico, beating both.

“It’s an excellent team that plays good football with a very good coach, but we are prepared,” Thuram said at a press conference on Monday, as quoted by Ilbianconero.com.

Thuram: ‘Not’ Pogba’s heir at Juventus, Weah ‘thrilled’ to go back home

Paul Pogba EPA-EFE/FRIEDEMANN VOGEL

“They keep ball possession and give freedom to their players. I am surprised; they already beat some top European clubs. Lille have strong players, and they have confidence.

“We have prepared for the game as we usually do. We respect the opponent and are confident. We will give our all tomorrow.”

Thuram hasn’t yet scored his first goal for Juventus, but he contributed to a Maduka Okoye own goal on Saturday when the Old Lady beat Udinese 2-0.

“My father and brother called me and congratulated me [after the game],” said the France midfielder.

“My father told me where I could improve, and that’s the most important thing.”

Thuram had celebrated like his idol Paul Pogba on Sunday but insisted that he was not the heir to the Juventus midfielder, who is expected to leave the club in the coming weeks.

“Absolutely no. There aren’t two Pogba,” he said.

“He is a strong player and has proved it in his career. I try to be the best version of myself, but I can’t say I’m his heir.”

Tomorrow’s game will see ex-Lille star Weah, now in his second season at Juventus, face his former club as an opponent for the first time.

“Weah told me about Lille, but I already know it well. I’ve played many times against them. Tim is thrilled to go back home,” Thuram concluded.