Olof Mellberg is thrilled to be kicking off his Juventus career this week.

"I know I have arrived at one of the most important clubs in the world. Once I knew of their interest, I considered no other offer," said the former Aston Villa player who had already signed his contract in January.

"From January onwards I watched all the Bianconeri's games and got to know my new teammates. So far I am also very impressed by the affection of the fans.

"We follow Italian football very keenly in Sweden and Juventus are one of the most loved clubs.

"Watching so many matches in the last six months I saw how many strong defenders there are, but competition is not a problem for me."

The push for places has been reduced with the news that Jorge Andrade is out for the season with a recurring fractured kneecap.

"In my career I have almost always played in central defence, the role where I feel most comfortably, although with Aston Villa I was also used on the right," continued Mellberg.

"I am sure together we can take Juventus back to the top of Italian and European football."