The Belgian has the talent and, more importantly, the mental strength to cope with the pressure of filling the massive void left by the Frenchman in Juve's midfield.
Replacing Paul Pogba would be a daunting task for most players - but not Axel Witsel. Nothing fazes him. Not any more. Not since Aug. 30, 2009.
It was on that night that the then Standard Liege starlet became public enemy No.1 in Belgium for a reckless challenge on Anderlecht defender Marcin Wasilewski that left the Pole with a right leg so badly broke that he would be out of action for just under a year.