Juventus general manager Damien Comolli was furious with Douglas Luiz's antics as he refused to report for training with his team-mates.
- Luiz skipped pre-season training without permission
- Attempting to force a move after woeful season
- Apologised to team-mates and staff for his behaviour
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WHAT HAPPENED?
Luiz has been desperately trying to leave the Italian club just a year after joining from Aston Villa. In a bid to force a move, the midfielder refused to report to the club's headquarters for training this week. The Serie A club are offended by Luiz's actions and have decided to take disciplinary action against the Brazilian. Comolli clarified that the situation was resolved after Luiz apologised to the club.
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
The Brazilian made only 19 Serie A appearances for Juve last season and one appearance as a substitute in the Club World Cup this summer. Marred by injuries as soon as he joined the Italian club, the Brazilian is unable to find a new club. Premier League club Nottingham Forest have reportedly submitted a loan bid with an option to buy for the 26-year-old, but Juve's demand of €40 million (£34m/$46m) may be a hurdle for the English club.
Comolli, who is aware of the midfielder's plight, empathised with him but asserted that he should apologise to his team-mates and staff. The general manager is very clear that no player is leaving until the club receives a worthy offer.
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WHAT COMOLLI SAID
When asked about Luiz going AWOL, Comolli said: "The player disrespected his team-mates. Everyone must respect the shirt they wear. He then apologised to everyone, players, coaches, and me.”
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WHAT NEXT FOR JUVENTUS?
Luiz will be hoping for a quick resolution to his situation, with a Premier League return a possibility. Juve are also trying to offload Timothy Weah, who rejected a move to Nottingham Forest earlier this summer, but a move to Marseille has emerged as a possibility.