Toronto FC signing Federico Bernardeschi has spoken of his problems at Juventus last season.

The midfielder chose to leave Europe after coming off contract at Juve last month.

Bernardeschi told Tuttosport: “Let's start with Juventus. I have maximum gratitude for the club, for the fans, for the team and for the whole Juve family.

“I had some major regrets when I first left. But then I realized with clarity that the cycle was over.

“The second season in Turin was my best. Juventus-Atletico was the best moment of all. Then everything changed with Covid-19.

“The championship got interrupted for months, everything became surreal, even when the matches resumed, everything had changed: the manager, the club, the empty stadiums and my role, as I continued to be tossed from one position to another.

“But I don't blame the managers at all. It was the fault of the circumstances, as there were some needs and I always announced my availability, because I like to put myself at the service of the team.

“Pirlo, for example, had a different idea of football and saw me almost as a left-back, but I couldn't play that role. I tried, always for the spirit of service and because Pirlo is a magnificent person and with him. I had a good relationship, which. But it didn't work.

“Last December, I was elected MVP of the month. Then some physical problems occurred and the whole season collapsed. I'm sorry, as it could have ended better. But in the end I leave Juventus with seven trophies and some matches that will always remain in my heart."