Lloyd Kelly: Juventus defender’s journey from nursery to the Champions League

This possibility would have seemed very remote a year ago.

Kelly admitted that his move to Newcastle did not go “the way he wanted” after joining from Bournemouth on a free transfer in June 2024.

This was the form of Dan Byrne and Lewis Hall, who played in Kelly’s preferred positions at left centre-back and left-back, and he ended up making a handful of appearances for Newcastle in the league.

“As a player, you want to come in and show what you can do and play consistent football,” he said.

He added, “But I don’t feel bad about Newcastle. They gave me a chance to grow and play at a really good club.”

Instead, Kelly reflects fondly on the “incredible” atmosphere he experienced at St James’ Park.

He is also “proud to stand alongside” the players who ended Newcastle’s 70-year wait for a major domestic trophy by winning the Carabao Cup.

Kelly had moved on by then, but had started in wins over Wimbledon and Chelsea in the earlier rounds and came off the bench in the first leg of the semi-final win over Arsenal.

Just as striker Miguel Almiron was recently sent a medal to celebrate his contribution – the Paraguayan also departed in the mid-season window, for Atlanta United – there is one on the way for Kelly.

The centre-back clearly left on good terms with manager Eddie Howe, who previously brought him to Bournemouth before he signed for Newcastle.

He said: “The number of players who played under his leadership and advanced is the highest.” “I will always respect him.”

Kelly had not long said goodbye to Howe when he found himself walking into the Juventus dressing room for the first time.

It was a space where defensive giants such as Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini sat.

And now Kelly is following in their footsteps.

“I’ve come a long way,” he said. “You could say I’m just getting started.”