'A smart guy' - Atalanta coach hails 17yo defender Ahanor after display against Juventus

Atalanta coach Ivan Juric expressed both pride and caution after his team’s 1-1 draw with Juventus, reserving special praise for 17-year-old defender Honest Ahanor. 

The teenager, signed from Genoa during the summer transfer window, delivered a commanding display that underlined his growing reputation.

Juric admitted the club took a significant gamble in bringing Ahanor to Bergamo but believes the investment is already beginning to show dividends.

"It was a signing that teased us a lot, it was risky to pay so much for it,” Juric said, as quoted by Tuttomercatoweb.

"In the first month he suffered from the adaptation, my requests, then he recovered, he wants to learn. 

"He had already done well, today he is back at very good levels, he is a smart guy who wants to improve. 

"Now he has to stay lucid, continue to work like this but I have no big doubts."

Born in 2008, Ahanor has displayed maturity beyond his years since joining Atalanta. 

His performance against Juventus showcased his composure in possession, strength in duels, and tactical awareness against one of the league’s most dangerous attacks.

The young defender’s rapid progress has not gone unnoticed. 

Born in Italy to Nigerian parents, Ahanor is eligible to play for Nigeria at international level, a prospect that could soon place him on the radar of the Nigerian Football Federation as they plan for the future of the Super Eagles.

Wale Adejumo

Photo Credit: atalanta.it

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