Pierre Kalulu reflects on red card storm as Juventus defender embraces pressure at top level

​Pierre Kalulu has opened up on the demands of life at Juventus and the fallout from his red card against Inter ahead of the Champions League play-off second leg versus Galatasaray.

“It’s a busy season, as is normal at big clubs. There are high expectations and we are always asked to live up to them. But it’s something we dream of since we are kids,” the French defender told L’Équipe.

He admitted he understands criticism but tries to keep his distance from social media. “I’ve been a fan myself and I know how criticism works… Even if they criticise you as a person, you shouldn’t take it personally,” Kalulu said, adding that he avoids reading comments whether things go well or badly.

On the Inter red card, he revealed: “I turned off my phone so as not to fuel the situation. Many people talked, but in the end the suspension remained. It’s better to leave everything behind.”

Looking ahead, Kalulu stressed that only performances on the pitch matter and finished with a clear ambition: the national team remains “a childhood dream and a privilege,” and he feels ready for the World Cup.
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