Fri 27 Feb
Juventus make offer for Chelsea, Man Utd target Jimenez
Ternana midfielder Luis Jimenez is fast emerging as the hottest property on the European transfer market. The 20 year-old Chilean has attracted officials enquiries from Chelsea, Manchester United and Atletico Madrid.
However, Juventus are said to have moved to the head of the queue after general manager Luciano Moggi made a £1.4 million offer for the midfielder this week.
Barcelona deal closer for Juventus star Trezeguet
Barcelona have been told that Juventus striker David Trezeguet is ready to leave the club at the end of this season. Marca says Trezeguet has made Barca aware of his intentions through an intermediary, even though his current deal doesn't expire until 2005.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta revealed earlier this week that he had held talks with Juve GM Luciano Moggi about a possible deal for Trezeguet in the summer.
Juve rule out Trezeguet sale
Italian giants Juventus have dismissed speculation that David Trezeguet is set for a summer switch to Barcelona. The Frenchman has been associated with the Nou Camp outfit this week but his future seems to be still in Turin.
"Trezeguet is staying," explained director general Luciano Moggi. "If they want him then they can ask us but we won't be handing him over."
The international's future has been a constant source of speculation for some months now. He's only tied to the Delle Alpi outfit until 2005 even if reports last month suggested an extension was on the horizon. However, pen has yet to be put to paper which helped fuel rumours of a £20m switch to the Nou Camp in the summer.
Meanwhile, Trezeguet didn't train today after picking up a shoulder injury in the 1-0 loss at Deportivo. Tests have confirmed he will be sidelined for at least a month. He is out of the Ancona clash, as are Enzo Maresca and Paolo Montero who are also injured.
Further bad news for the Bianconeri is that Pavel Nedved will miss Sunday's League game. He's suspended.
Given the absences, boss Marcello Lippi may decide to place youth team striker Benjamin on the bench. The Nigerian youngster scored on his first team debut earlier this season in a 2-1 Coppa Italia win at Siena.
Del Piero: Juve down but not out
Juventus captain Alessandro Del Piero says his team remain Champions League contenders despite their 1-0 defeat at Deportivo Coruna in the first knockout phase.
"We could and should have done much better. If we want to qualify (for the quarter-finals) we'll have to do much more in the second leg," Del Piero was quoted as saying in Corriere dello Sport on Thursday.
"We can still turn the contest around."
The return leg will be staged at the Stadio delle Alpi on March 9.
Wednesday's result continued Juventus's poor record at the Riazor Stadium, where they have drawn twice and lost twice in the past four seasons.
Del Piero and European Footballer of the Year Pavel Nedved gave below-par performances and Juventus's evening was made worse by a shoulder injury to striker David Trezeguet which is expected to keep him out of the return leg.
Trezeguet's replacement, Fabrizio Miccoli, insisted that it would be a mistake to count Juventus out.
"One-nil was the worst result we could get here, but I believe we can come back," he said. Their disjointed performance, however, raised questions over whether they are capable of repeating last season's run in the competition, when they finished runners-up to AC Milan.
Though currently third in Serie A, six points behind leaders AC Milan, Juventus have struggled against direct title rivals and suffered a humiliating 4-0 defeat to second-placed AS Roma earlier this month.
Moggi remaining hopeful
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi is confident that their Champions' League campaign is still alive.
The Italian champions lost 1-0 at Deportivo La Coruna last night but the official is confident ahead of the return leg.
"You all know that Juventus give their best in moments of difficulty," said the transfer guru. "We will therefore show our ability at the opportune time."
The Old Lady struggled to impress in Spain on Wednesday, which led to some suggestions that they may have missed Edgar Davids.
The Dutchman was allowed to join Barcelona on loan in January because he had no intention of renewing his contract that was set to expire in the summer.
"We don't have any regrets about anyone," added Moggi. "And I include Davids in that who I still respect as a great champion."
Meanwhile, there are unconfirmed whispers in Italy which suggest that Enzo Maresca's season is virtually over.
The Juve midfielder was ruled out for 40 days yesterday after tests revealed a small back fracture.
However, it has been claimed that the former Piacenza and Bologna star could be sidelined for as long as 70 days.
If that is the case then the ex Under-21 international will only be available for selection in the closing weeks of the campaign.
Thurs 26 Feb
Deportivo La Coruna 1-0 Juventus
Del Piero disappointed
Juventus were defeated 1-0 at La Coruna after a sluggish display, but hope they can turn it around in Turin.
Marcello Lippi's men have never won at the Riazor, but take on Deportivo La Coruna for the fourth year on the trot in the Champions' League.
The Bianconeri welcomed David Trezeguet back from a thigh injury, but Enzo Maresca and Igor Tudor were out of action. Juve came out with their third choice 'Cave Purple' strip.
Nicola Legrottaglie has been under fire this season and his error handed Diego Tristan the ball on the edge of the box within four minutes, but he and a teammate were able to recover the situation with a desperate challenge.
Alessandro Del Piero had Juve's first real chance on 13 minutes, but a decisive tackle stopped him in the box before he could line up the shot.
Another disastrous defensive error let Valeron through soon after, but Gianluigi Buffon was equal to his fierce shot.
Pavel Nedved gallopped down the left flank and put in a taut cross, but it was just past Trezeguet in the six-yard box.
Valeron poured forward on the counter-attack and wanted a penalty when he fell under pressure from Gianluca Pessotto, but the referee waved play on.
Juve went closer than anyone on 28 minutes when Del Piero swept a sudden shot towards Molina's goal from distance and it dipped just past the crossbar.
There was panic in the Juventus area on the half-hour mark. Two Victor crosses were not cleared effectively and Lilian Thuram's last-ditch tackle proved decisive on Tristan.
Moments later Nedved's inspired through ball let Del Piero through on goal, but Molina stayed on his feet and performed a brilliant save on his chipped finish.
There was controversy soon after when Trezeguet couldn't get his shot on target because Deportivo defender Jorge Andrade's body - and Juve suggested also his hand - were in the way.
The Spaniards also wanted a penalty, but replays show Alberto Luque perform a blatant dive.
Moments later this player - who walked out of training following a row with Coach Javier Irureta this week - showed the best side of his game. A Thuram error allowed Luque to volley into the far corner past a helpless Buffon.
There was more bad news as Trezeguet clattered into Molina as they both went for a cross and the Frenchman fell heavily on to his shoulder. The striker already suffered a similar injury earlier this season and was replaced by the pacey Fabrizio Miccoli.
Deportivo were given a golden opportunity to double their lead just two minutes into the second half, but Victor incredibly fired wide with only Buffon to beat.
Pessotto's deflected cross almost caught Molina by surprise at the near post, but the goalkeeper scrambled back to clear.
There was yet more bad injury developments for the Bianconeri as Paolo Montero pulled up with a suspected groin strain. Alessandro Birindelli came on, pushing Thuram in to central defence.
The Spaniards continued to push harder than a sluggish Juventus side and Luque blasted another angled drive wide before a decisive Thuram tackle prevented Tristan getting his shot in.
Antonio Conte bolstered the midfield to move Gianluca Zambrotta back to his left-back role.
Within seconds of stepping on to the pitch, the substitute nodded a Miccoli free kick inches wide of the far post.
Miccoli had a golden opportunity soon after when he charged on to Del Piero's through ball, but Molina rushed off his line to narrow the angle and the finish went over the bar.
The game sprung into life and Buffon changed direction very quickly to parry Victor's deflected shot from the edge of the box.
Deportivo made a rare defensive error with Andrade soon after, but Del Piero sliced horribly wide from six yards when it might have been easier to score.
There were plenty of scoring opportunities in this second half as Valeron turned a free header wide and a powerful Sergio free kick sailed over the bar as both sides were wasteful upfront.
The Bianconeri doctors were certainly kept busy, as Conte was accidentally kicked in the face and suffered heavy bleeding to his nose, but the veteran was able to carry on with uncomfortable padding. Conte was also booked in stoppage time and will miss the second leg.
Soccernet
Albert Luque put his training ground row with boss Javier Irureta behind him to give Deportivo La Coruna a slender advantage going into the second leg of this last 16 tie in Turin in two weeks' time.
The Spanish international volleyed home from close range in the 37th minute after Lilian Thuram had failed to deal adequately with Lionel Scaloni's right-wing cross.
Depor's victory margin could have been greater, as Juan Carlos Valeron, Victor and Diego Tristan all wasted good chances against a Juve defence that often looked slipshod.
But Depor will be thankful that Alessandro Del Piero, who missed two excellent opportunities, had an off night, and that second-half substitute Fabrizio Miccoli fired over the top when it appeared easier to score.
Juve started poorly and Nicola Legrottaglie, who has looked extremely nervous in recent weeks, gave the ball away to Tristan close to the penalty area in the fourth minute.
To his credit, however, the Italian international recovered well to make a fine saving tackle inside the box,
Pavel Nedved and Del Piero then combined well but the Italy forward failed to pick out anyone inside the area with his eighth-minute hooked volley.
Legrottaglie was up to his tricks again shortly afterwards, this time presenting Sergio with the ball, but luckily for Juve the midfielder's aim was wayward and Buffon was not called into action.
Deportivo were dominating an off-colour Juve in the first 45 minutes and the influential Valeron played in Victor down the right, and when the Spanish international sent in a low cross no Depor player was on hand to apply the finishing touch.
Even though they were under the cosh, Juve have the players to cause any team problems and Del Piero had the Riazor holding its breath when his 30-yard effort went narrowly over the top with goalkeeper Jose Molina anxiously scrambling to his left.
The visitors then had Thuram to thank for getting them out of jail on the half-hour mark after Valeron and Victor had again carved open the Juve defence.
The Frenchman made a superb last-ditch challenge to deny Tristan six yards out as the Spain striker was about to put his side in front.
If that was a lucky escape for Juve, the visiting fans will still be wondering how Del Piero failed to put them in front a minute later.
Put through by a superb pass from Nedved, the 29-year-old looked a certain scorer but could only chip his effort tamely at Molina.
Depor took full advantage of their escape and they deservedly went in front eight minutes before the break.
Scaloni's right-wing cross was headed straight up in the air by Thuram and Luque made no mistake with a close-range, left-foot volley to record his third goal in as many Champions League matches.
Miccoli replaced David Trezeguet in attack at half-time for the Bianconeri, the French international falling awkwardly on his shoulder towards the end of the first-half and being forced out of the action.
Juve's defence remained as shaky as it has looked all season, and they were lucky not to concede a second two minutes after the restart, Victor firing well wide with his left foot after being sent clear by the excellent Valeron.
Legrottaglie then sent a near-post flick header just wide from Miccoli's insidious right-wing free-kick, and in the 64th minute Miccoli himself squandered a wonderful opportunity to score a priceless away goal for his team.
With the Depor defence caught square, the pint-sized striker was sent clear by a raking ball from Alessio Tacchinardi, but he delayed his left-foot shot too long and ended up blazing over the bar from six yards.
Buffon the kept his side in it with a brilliant reflex save after Valeron's shot had deflected off Legrottaglie before the latter, who grew in confidence after his nervous start, made two great tackles to deny substitute Walter Pandiani and Victor.
The out-of-sorts Del Piero blasted wide after defender Jorge Andrade had made a hash of clearing Antonio Conte's cross after 68 minutes, before Valeron headed wide when Victor's free-kick had found him unmarked eight yards out.
More and more gaps were beginning to open up as the sides tired and Depor searched for the second goal that would give them a formidable cushion going into the second leg in Turin.
Sergio was unlucky 10 minutes from time when his tremendous 25-yard effort flew a whisker over the top when it had appeared bound for the top corner.
Lippi: "We deserved to lose"
Marcello Lippi admits that Deportivo deserved to beat Juve on the night, but he remains confident of overturning this 1-0 defeat.
"All in all I'd say the result is the correct one," confessed the Juventus Coach. "Our real regret is a poor start with too many misplaced passes and extra space given to the Spaniards."
"We had a great chance with Alessandro Del Piero in a one on one with the goalkeeper. As soon as we shook off our initial worries and began to play well, we conceded a goal."
That winning strike was created when Lilian Thuram's wayward header fell to Alberto Luque.
"There were mistakes all over the pitch, many of them very simple passes, and that was down to an initial psychological fear. We managed to shake that off and are confident going into the second leg."
"Some of our players aren't on top form at the moment, but the fact there were so many early errors and risks made everyone nervous."
The second half fightback was dented by a series of injuries that saw two out of three substitutions forced upon Lippi.
"David Trezeguet and Paolo Montero went off in quick succession and we struggled to get back on track," he explained, "but even then went very close to scoring a goal with Fabrizio Miccoli."
The Frenchman fell heavily on to his left shoulder after a collision with the goalkeeper and there are fears he could be sidelined for several weeks.
"Trezeguet will undergo tests to determine the extent of this strain in his shoulder and whether there are any tears in the muscle."
Juventus were sluggish in Spain, but nonetheless had several scoring opportunities in the second half.
"Deportivo didn't create a great deal after the break either, but this defeat does nonetheless make us hopeful of turning the result around in the second leg."
Juventus have never won at the Riazor, but in their last three encounters the Bianconeri tended to have the better results in Turin.
"We are also confident by the fact that Deportivo are better at the Riazor than away," added the tactician, "but also that we have turned more damning first leg results around and have done well at the Delle Alpi this season. We will certainly need to do more, that is beyond doubt."
Gianluca Pessotto had a similar view of the 90 minutes at the Riazor and revealed the players' interpretation.
"We struggled tonight because Deportivo are a very compact side that don't tend to leave space at the back," explained the fullback, "so unless you really raise the tempo you won't get behind their defence."
"Most of their scoring opportunities were created by our own mistakes in midfield and that raised the tension throughout the team."
"Despite Deportivo dominating possession to a degree," he added, "we still had the opportunities to equalise and that gives us confidence for the second leg."
"It is crucial in football, especially on the continent, to take your chances when they come along. Currently we have a 49 per cent possibility of qualifying for the quarter-finals, but it is a situation that can easily be turned around."
Lippi disappointed with performance
Juventus coach Marcello Lippi was disappointed with his side's performance but rated the tie as still wide open.
"We didn't play a good game," Lippi said. "Deportivo have a good chance to get through this tie but so do we. We had some bad moments early on but we improved and in the second half we had a few chances."
Lippi was unhappy with the defending that led to Deportivo's goal after a poor headed clearance from Lilian Thuram. "The goal came from Deportivo's least dangerous chance," the coach said. "I hope things go better in the second leg."
"This isn't enough"
Marcello Lippi isn't a happy man tonight but nothing is lost yet. "We can't play like this because it isn't enough to go through," the manager said. "This team has a problem when we play away games and we have to work on it".
"I think that we had a couple of good chances but we missed them and that explains the defeat," he added. "I am hopeful for the second leg though because this team has a lot of confidence and we will do our best".
Juventus coach happy to escape
Juventus coach Marcello Lippi was happy with the result, despite losing last night 1-0 at Deportivo La Coruna.
Lippi also revealed that star striker David Trezeguet could be missing for three weeks, while defender Paolo Montero is also a doubt for the return-leg.
"A defeat is never positive, but the result tonight gives us hope for the return-leg," said Lippi. "I believe the game in Turin will be very different to what happened tonight.
"We didn't start the game very well, but as it went on we became stronger and had two good chances to score. We were on top when they scored their goal.
"I was very proud with how we responded after halftime. We were very effective, but needed to make more of our possession. But having said that, Miccoli had a great chance to get us a goal near the end."
Pessotto: We made too many mistakes
Gianluca Pessotto knows that Juventus played a bad match tonight but he thinks that the future can still be bright. "We made a lot of mistakes tonight and we deserved to lose but I think that there are some positive things that we can take home from this game," the midfielder said.
"First of all we had a lot of good chances and missed them and second they only scored one goal because there was a pint tonight that I thought that we were going to lose 2 or 3-0".
Maresca in injury blow
There is mixed news for Juventus today. Their youth team has won the Viareggio tournament but Enzo Maresca is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
The midfielder picked up a back injury in the 1-0 win at Bologna and tests have today confirmed he could be out for as long as 40 days.
Juve had believed that the problem wasn't too serious and he was even included in the squad for tonight's Deportivo clash.
However, the former Under-21 international had to withdraw from the Champions' League tie as there were no signs of improvement.
Today X-Rays highlighted a small fracture to a vertebrae which will require six weeks on the sidelines.
The loss of Maresca will be a big blow to boss Marcello Lippi given the fact that he was one of the side's most in-form players.
Juventus Youth side wins Viareggio tournament
Meanwhile, the Primavera side have won the prestigious Viareggio youth team tournament on Thursday.
The young Bianconeri beat Empoli 3-0 in a replay after Monday's first game ended in a 3-3 draw.
Goals from Chiumiento, Konko and a Palladino penalty ensured Juve repeated last season's success to lift their fourth Coppa Carnevale.
Barcelona president confirms talks over Trezeguet
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has confirmed he wants to sign Juventus striker David Trezeguet.
According to Italian media reports, Laporta told Juve chief Luciano Moggi last week: "After Davids, I want Trezeguet."
He also said, "It's still premature to talk about such things, but we are trying.
"I want to bring good players to Barcelona, who want to come here not for the money. Juve are a serious club and Moggi is a very clever operator.
"In exchange for Trezeguet, Moggi has asked me to name a player that I could sacrifice, but this is confidential and something I don't want to discuss in public."
Barcelona keen on Trezeguet and Vieri
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has admitted he would like to sign Serie A strikers Christian Vieri and David Trezeguet.
"I want to put two or three good new players at the coach's disposal," said Laporta in Tuttosport. Trezeguet and Vieri? They are two really major players but I don't want to go into details."
"The truth is that at the moment nothing is concrete because it is not the time to make definitive choices. With Juve we have a very friendly relationship and I consider Roberto Bettega a friend."
"At the moment we are delighted with the way that negotiations over Edgar Davids went. It is a pleasure doing business with Juve - they are a very professional club."
"We may well discuss Trezeguet, but that's not to say anything will come of the talks."
Davids has done well since leaving Juventus and the Catalan club are keen to make the deal permanent. "We will try to confirm Davids," added Laporta. "His performances have satisfied us."
"He is very enthusiastic and he has brought the winning mentality. We must convince him and I am confident."
Lazio in Juventus talks over Fiore
Lazio and Juventus are in talks over midfielder Stefano Fiore.
The 29 year-old has been a target for Juve chief Luciano Moggi for over two years and with the Rome club struggling financially, the time is right for Jive to open negotiations over the Italian international.
A cash-plus-player swap is being discussed, with Lazio keen to fill the breach left by Jaap Stam when he moves to AC Milan in the summer.
Juve are offering a choice of Mark Iuliano or Salvatore Fresi, currently on-loan at Perugia, in exchange for Fiore.
Juve in pole for Jimenez
Juventus are favourites to sign the talented Luis Jimenez from Serie B side Ternana in the summer. The Bianconeri have been linked with the midfielder for months and reports from Chile claim they will swoop for the 20-year-old.
"Juventus are in pole position to buy the player," Dino Letterio, one of his agents, is quoted as saying. They are following him very closely in a bid to see whether he can guarantee them consistent performances in the future."
"There are two options that Juventus have right now. They could buy half of his contract or buy him outright. They could then either allow him to remain with Ternana or send him on loan to another club as they did with Fabrizio Miccoli."
The latter was signed by Juventus from the same Second Division side before deciding to loan him to Perugia. It was at the Stadio Curi that Miccoli really impressed which led to an international call-up and a Juventus recall.
However, Juve's deal for Jimenez is by no means a certainty. Especially because clubs such as Real Madrid, Manchester United and Lazio have also all been linked.
Weds 25 Feb
Juve still sexy says Moggi
Juventus insist they haven't lost their appeal despite being rejected by Dejan Stankovic and Jaap Stam, both from Lazio. Stankovic turned down a January switch to Turin in favour of joining Inter, while Stam insists he would prefer a summer move to one of the Milan clubs.
But director general Luciano Moggi has hit back at claims that the club are not the force they once were on the transfer market.
"First of all, who has said that we were ever chasing Stam? We already have enough defenders of his age," he told the 'Gazzetta dello Sport'. Therefore our interests are elsewhere. Anyway, it doesn't seem as if the January signings have been that effective."
That last statement seems to have been directed at Inter who despite the capture of Stankovic and Adriano are still struggling. Reports recently also suggested that a lack of cash in the game may see Juve remain quiet on the transfer front. But Moggi has rubbished that claim too.
"We will strengthen the squad," he added. "But seeing as we are still in all competitions it isn't as if a revolution is needed here. The lack of money? That simply means that we will have to use our intelligence. But we are a club that always looks at the books."
It's believed that Juve will bring in a number of new defenders in the summer with the Parma duo of Matteo Ferrari and Daniele Bonera their main objectives. Moggi also used the interview to dismiss whispers that his time with the club may be coming to an end.
Meanwhile, Juventus will be without Enzo Maresca for the Champions' League game at La Coruna tonight. The in-form midfielder has withdrawn from the squad due to a back problem he picked up in the 1-0 win at Bologna
Conte set for Juve deal
Antonio Conte is set to start talks with Juventus over a new one-year deal with the Italian champions. The 34-year-old has less than six months left on his current contract but his Juve career is set to continue. However, Al Arabi are also chasing Conte and are believed to have tabled a massive two-year contract worth £5 million.
Conte started this campaign on the bench but returned to the line-up after the Bianconeri hit a bad spell just before Christmas. Despite his age, Conte has impressed in midfield with his physical ability and his vast experience.
Reports suggest that Conte will meet officials in the next few weeks in a bid to reach an agreement. The former Italian international has been in Turin since his 1991 November switch from home town club Lecce.
Conte, who was the club captain when he was guaranteed a first team shirt, is the longest serving member of the current squad.
Maresca injured
Bad news for Juventus ahead of the Champions League clash with Deportivo La Coruna. Enzo Maresca won't be able to play against the Spanish side tomorrow night. The midfielder suffered a blow to his back bone during the first half of the match with Bologna and the injury is still causing him pain. This morning Juventus left from Torino airport and Maresca wasn't among the players.
Champions League vs Deportivo
Juventus are hunting their first-ever win at the Riazor Stadium in Wednesday's Champions League first-leg tie against Deportivo La Coruna. The top European title remains coach Marcello Lippi's aim after last season's defeat in the final against AC Milan on penalties after a 0-0 draw.
And with the Scudetto title looking increasingly likely to end up at the San Siro with Serie A leaders Milan cruising six points ahead of the Bianconeri in the league standings, Juve's main priority now lies abroad. "Having won five Scudetti in seven years and having lost three of four Champions League finals, my thoughts are in Europe," admitted Lippi.
However, before Lippi can even begin to dream of his fifth European final, there is the small matter of the challenge of Spanish giants Deportivo to negotiate. In their past three encounters, the Italians have only managed two draws and one defeat on Galician soil, much to Lippi's concern.
"To a certain degree, our past record is worrying," he added. "We know our rivals well from our past encounters and we are aware of their ability - it will certainly be a good clash."
Juventus have managed to recover from their humiliating 4-0 league defeat against Scudetto rivals Roma with 1-0 victories against Reggina and Bologna, results which have allowed them to remain in third position in the league standings.
However, while Juve's defenders and midfielders have been on form in the last two weeks, the Bianconeri's strikers have struggled. Lippi will therefore be relieved to welcome back French forward David Trezeguet, Juve's highest goalscorer this season, for Wednesday's encounter.
Trezeguet, who has been out of action for the past two weeks due to a right thigh injury, has been on target in all of the previous Champions League games. The French forward will spearhead the Bianconeri's attack alongside Alessandro Del Piero with Czech star Pavel Nedved playing just off the front two.
Equally positive for Lippi ahead of Wednesday's clash is the fact that the Bianconeri defence, which faced fierce criticism last month, has proved solid in recent weeks. "We have not conceded a goal in the past two games, which shows that the level of concentration is there," said Lippi.
Juve will be missing defender Igor Tudor due to injury but midfielder Mauro Camoranesi returns after missing last weekend's win against Bologna due to suspension. Midfielder Enzo Maresca has remained in Turin due to a back injury.
Lippi has Del Piero hope
Coach Marcello Lippi is looking to Alex Del Piero to inspire Juventus in their tie at Deportivo La Coruna.
The Bianconeri face the Spaniards this evening and Lippi is hoping that his captain will light up the Champions' League encounter.
"Which player am I expecting a lot from? Del Piero," he stated. "I know that we are very close to seeing some special displays from him."
However, Lippi is well aware of the task ahead of his side this evening. Especially as they have only beaten Deportivo once in six European Cup games.
"We know that La Coruna are a difficult team to play against," added the tactician. "They are really dangerous in attack where they have talented players."
Although a win would obviously be ideal for Lippi, he admitted that a draw wouldn't be the worst result in the world.
"Even if we don't win we can still qualify," he noted. "These games last 180 minutes. We've drawn twice here and lost once but we've always played well."
Juventus' recent League form has also helped to increase confidence within the Bianconeri camp.
"We are improving all of the time," he added. "Physically we are fine and we seem more focused. Especially in defence where we haven't conceded in our last two games."
Del Piero agreed with his Coach. "Up until 20 days ago we hadn't expressed ourselves very well," said the No 10.
"But we've done well in the League and the two Coppa Italia games against Inter really helped us. Let's hope we can stay this positive until the end of the season."
Buffon: Let's end Spanish curse
Gianluigi Buffon believes Juventus are ready to pick up their first ever win at Deportivo's Riazor Stadium.
"This will be the decisive moment for our back line," noted the goalkeeper after keeping two consecutive clean sheets in Serie A.
"It is a nice change not to pick the ball out of the back of my net for 180 minutes," he joked, "but we are now going to face one of Europe's best sides. They know us and we know them, above all the atmosphere in the Riazor Stadium."
Buffon and his fellow Bianconeri are certainly familiar with the arena, as they have played Deportivo in the last three editions of the Champions' League.
Juve have never managed to win here, but this is their first encounter with Deportivo in a knockout stage.
"This will be a very different match to the one we had last season," he noted of their 2-2 draw.
"Back then we were a new team only just beginning to mature, but now we have greater confidence in our abilities on the European stage. That is why we are not going there looking for a draw."
Juventus certainly have been the bête noir of Spanish sides in recent times, knocking out Barcelona and Real Madrid on their way to the Champions' League Final.
Tues 24 Feb
Trezeguet back for Juve
David Trezeguet should feature for Juventus in their European tie at Deportivo La Coruna after recovering from injury. The Frenchman missed the 1-0 win at Bologna on Sunday but he's recovered from a slight muscle problem. The striker, who was replaced by a disappointing Marco Di Vaio, is expected to start alongside Alessandro Del Piero.
The only notable absence from the squad for Wednesday's Champions' League trip is Igor Tudor who has a thigh strain. Enzo Maresca is also included in the party despite having a back problem at this present time.
Udinese remain in Juventus talks over midfield pair
Udinese and Juventus remain in talks over midfield pair David Pizarro and Marek Jankulovski. A cash fee has all but been agreed for the duo, around £7 million. But Udinese also want a player in exchange. Ideally, Juve midfielder Enzo Maresca is the man Udinese want in the swap, though Juve have so far offered fringe striker Giuseppe Sculli, who is currently on-loan at Chievo Verona.
Juventus coach Lippi fancies Serie B
Juventus trainer Marcello Lippi hasn't ruled out coaching another Italian club. Asked about his future, Lippi declared: "What do I consider intriguing at a professional level? After many years at Juve, I'm sure it is right not to go to another top Italian team, but that is not to say that I do not want to stay in Italy. Maybe in Serie B."
"But it would even appeal to me to experience a foreign country. When people ask me if I would be interested in coaching Italy, of course I am going to say yes."
Lippi looks into the future
Marcello Lippi has revealed his hopes for the rest of the season, as well as commenting on his possible life after Juventus.
"Last year at this stage of the campaign we had four points less than today yet we were first in the table," he told 'Radio Anch'Io' this morning. "I liked the way we played in the 1-0 win at Bologna and I can't criticise my players at all for their effort this season. Milan and Roma are simply performing above average."
Juventus are still in the Scudetto race as they are one point behind Roma and six adrift of Milan. Yet Lippi has hinted that the Italian Championship is not the number one objective for Juventus this term. "If I had to choose between the Champions' League and the Scudetto? Well we've won five titles and just one European Cup in my time here. That should answer the question."
Juve are back on the European trail this week when they travel to Deportivo La Coruna on Wednesday. And fortunately the Italian side are now looking better defensively.
"We've conceded too many goals this term but that wasn't just down to the rearguard," continued the tactician. "In fact if we could go back to the summer transfer campaign then I wouldn't have asked for any more defenders. That is the truth. In the last few games I think something has changed at the back though. We seem to be more focused."
Lippi was also questioned about his own future where he confirmed that he is interested in becoming the Italian national boss. "I would obviously like that chance," he stated. "After 10 years here I don't want to Coach any other top sides in Italy.
"I could maybe also try an experience in Serie B or abroad. But I'm just concentrating on Juventus for now."
Lippi's final thoughts went to Juve legend John Charles who died at the weekend. "I had the good fortune of meeting him," he added. "When we spoke about Juventus, past and present, he would get very emotional. He was a great man."
Chelsea eye new Italian boss
Claudio Ranieri's time as Chelsea boss could be coming to an end after the 2-1 loss to Arsenal. Reports in England today suggest he could be replaced by Juve's Marcello Lippi or Fabio Capello of Roma. If Capello is signed then Ranieri could take his job at the Stadio Olimpico in return.
Nedved keen on Prem
Pavel Nedved has hinted he would like to play in England before retiring in 2006 when his contract with Juve ends. "I would not say no to an experience in the English Premiership," said the Czech ace. Juve may cash in on the 31-year-old with a possible swap deal with Juan Veron of Chelsea being suggested.
Mon 23 Feb
Bologna 0 Juventus 1
Juve earn their first win at the Stadio Dall'Ara since 2001 to stay in the Scudetto race.
Marcello Lippi wanted to rotate the squad ahead of their Champions' League clash with Deportivo La Coruna. However, he was taking no chances and fielded both Alessandro Del Piero and Pavel Nedved from the start, while Marco Di Vaio replaced the injured David Trezeguet.
Bologna have been on fine form of late and Hidetoshi Nakata hoped to continue his long record of scoring against the Bianconeri, as he has already bagged five in these meetings. Beppe Signori was able to start despite fitness problems. Carlo Mazzone was forced to reshuffle the midfield as Fabio Pecchia and Leonardo Colucci are suspended.
Juventus wore black armbands and held a minute's silence before this match after the death of the legendary John Charles.
Both sides went close early on with Gianluca Zambrotta, Mauro Camoranesi and Beppe Signori. The Bologna striker broke through the centre and somehow ballooned over the bar.
Gianluca Pagliuca has been on stunning form this season and performed a desperate reaction save on the half-hour mark. Pavel Nedved's fierce drive took a massive deflection and the veteran managed to tip it over the bar with a strong hand.
Mauro German Camoranesi was causing several problems and his cross was nodded over by Di Vaio.
The ex-Parma man has not been on good form in recent months and he really should have scored just before the break. Di Vaio burst through the centre on Enzo Maresca's illuminating pass, but his lob was off target with only Pagliuca to beat.
Bologna very nearly scored in first half stoppage time with Nakata's taut cross getting past both Gianluigi Buffon and Ighli Tare.
Moments later Pagliuca was again called to palm out another powerful Nedved drive from the edge of the box.
Juventus eventually broke through at the dawn of the second half. Del Piero whipped in a free kick and found Mark Iuliano's outstretched foot at the back post, but replays show he was not offside when the ball came in.
The home side occasionally tested Buffon with a Tare header on Signori's free kick, but overall their pressure rarely turned into scoring opportunities.
Fabrizio Miccoli and Gianluca Zambrotta tried to score with solo efforts, but it remained an open game until the end.
Soccernet
Mark Iuliano's second half goal kept Juventus within six points of Serie A leaders AC Milan with a scrappy win in Bologna.
It was a far from convincing performance from the champions but their experience will tell them that it is points and not performances that are at a premium at this stage of the season.
With the death of the legendary John Charles and AC Milan's dramatic comeback win over Inter on Saturday and with a Champions League second round clash with Deportivo to come this week, Juventus were not short on distractions.
Before the game a commemoration was held in memory of former Welsh international Charles who was known as "il gigante buono" (the gentle giant) during his stint with Juve.
But they set about mid-table Bologna from the very start although they failed to carve out clear chances for all their dominance and slick passing in the first half-an-hour.
With veteran striker Giuseppe Signori returning from injury for the side six points off relegation, Bologna were acutely aware of the importance of a win to keep relegation worries from their door but they rarely made it out of their own half in the opening stages.
The first real opening came with six minutes of the half remaining when good link play between Enzo Maresca and Del Piero saw Marco Di Vaio clean through in the box, but he failed to score for the first time since November and fired over with only goalkeeper Gianluca Pagliuca to beat.
Later, Juve's diminutive midfielder Mauro Camoranesi forced a good save from former Inter 37-year-old Pagliuca from close range after a deep cross to the far post.
And in stoppage time Bologna finally put a sweeping move together.
The 35-year-old Signori played a wonderful crossfield ball to loan-signing from Parma Hidetoshi Nakata, whose low cross rolled tantalisingly across the Juve box, just a yard ahead of the lurking Albanian striker Igli Tare.
Pagliuca was alert again at the beginning of the second period, reacting quickly to another hopeful Juve ball over the top to punch clear of Di Vaio.
But the Serie A champions were still too isolated going forward and not looking like breaking the deadlock.
Juventus coach Marcello Lippi withdrew the mis-firing Di Vaio for Fabrizio Miccoli after ten minutes of the second half and his side took the lead almost straight away.
Del Piero forced a foul with a dangerous run at the Bologna box and found Iuliano at the far post with the help of a deflection off the wall with the resulting free-kick.
The deflection left the 30-year-old unmarked at the far post with Pagliuca stranded and he made no mistake, stabbing the ball home from close range to score his second goal of the season - his first coming in the 2-1 over Bologna at the Stadio Delle Alpi in October.
Giving the Bianconeri a 57th minute lead, Iuliano also achieved his highest ever goalscoring total for a season in 14 seasons as a professional.
But the home side refused to give up the fight - a Signori free-kick caused the struggling Juve defence problems and the scores would have been levelled if Tare had directed his header either side of goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon.
Signori repeated the trick with 15 minutes left but this time it was Cesare Natali who failed to make Italian international Buffon work for his save and Juventus claimed all three points.
Lippi: Stam can do what he wants
Marcello Lippi talked about Stam after the match with Bologna and expressed his point of view. "Stam is a great defender and every top club is interested in him," the manager declared.
"He said during the week that he doesn't want to join Juventus and I respect his opinion," he added. "He is a professional and he can do whatever he wants to".
A satisfied Marcello Lippi also commented his team's win against Bologna.
Lippi declared: "Juventus has made four more points than last year, we are in the Tim Cup final and still in the Champions League. Better than this we cannot do; if Milan doesn't slow down we can't do anything about it. Today we played a good game and we faced a good Bologna side."
Sun 22 Feb
Juventus monopolize next transfer window
Although the Italian Serie A has reached its climax with Milan, Roma and Juventus chasing the 2003/04 Scudetto, intense transfer market action is underway for the next season.
Juventus are at the center of the most sensational rumours. Chelsea offered 15 million euros and Juan Sebastian Veròn for Pavel Nedved. The Blues are ready to shell out 30 million euros if Juventus plans for the future don't include the Argentinian star.
Real Madrid offered forward Guti, defender Pavon and 15 million euros to buy David Trezeguet. The proposal impressed the Bianconeri management, that is already looking for a substitute. The most credited candidate to replace Trezeguet is Fabio Bazzani, Sampdoria forward, who has been called by Trapattoni to join the national team in more than one occasion. Milan, who also seemed to point to Bazzani, are now heading for Lazio Bernardo Corradi (another International for the Azzurri), after the announced signing of Lazio's Dutch defender Jaap Stam. That would give way to Juventus for Bazzani, who is currently valued 13 million euros.
From Spain, Valencia are mounting an assault to get to Juventus Uruguayan defender Paulo Montero: 5.5 million euros. Juventus already spotted the ideal replacement: the target is Brazilian defender Lucio. The most famous Italian club contacted Bayer Leverkusen with a solid offer: 13 million euros plus a player among Tacchinardi, Birindelli and Pessotto.
There is more: Juventus are trailing the strong Czech midfielder Marek Jankulovski. Udinese want 10 million euros. Roma are also involved in the negotiation.
Brescia signed a new contract with their coach De Biasi. The Rondinelle are also looking for a goalkeeper and they seem to be interested to one of the most promising Italian goalkeepers: Amelia, currently reserve at Parma and regularly called to the Under-21 national team.
Atalanta, serious candidate to promotion from Serie B to Serie A, are already looking for Zalayeta, Juventus forward currently on loan to Perugia, and could sign Favalli, whose contract with Lazio expires at the end of the season.
Juventus and Chelsea clash over Rosicky
Juve are looking to steal Borussia Dortmund midfielder Tomas Rosicky from under Chelsea's nose. The Czech international's agent claims a move to Chelsea would have happened in January only for time to run out during talks between the clubs. However, Juve are hoping the chance to play alongside Pavel Nedved, who says he would love to play alongside fellow countryman Rosicky, will be their trump card.
Chelsea alerted as Juventus ponder Nedved future
Chelsea are ready to move for Juventus star Pavel Nedved in the summer.
The Daily Star says Nedved's intimation that he may retire in 2006 has convinced
Juve to cash in on the 31 year-old.
"I would not say no to an experience in the English Premiership," Nedved said.
Recalling fond memories of Euro 96, where his goal in the semi-final against Italy steered the Czech Republic into the final, Nedved suggested that might be a selling point.
"It was in England where I showed my true value for the first time," he added.
Barcelona's Rosell in Italy for talks over Vieri, Trezeguet
Barcelona vice-president Sandro Rosell was in Milan yesterday to discuss
the potential summer arrivals of Inter Milan striker Christian Vieri and
Juventus' David Trezeguet.
Talks between Barca and Juve over French ace Trezeguet have already taken
place, when the two clubs struck a deal for Edgar Davids' move to the Nou
Camp. Juve want a cash-plus-player deal for Trezeguet, with Thiago Motta,
Xavi and captain Carles Puyol all on the Italians' wanted list.
Meanwhile, Rosell is being encouraged by Inter to bid for Vieri. However, the striker's high wages is proving a stumbling block, particularly after Barca put in place a new salary structure this season.
Juventus secure first refusal on Jankulovski
Juventus are set to clinch the transfer of Udinese midfielder Marek Jankulovski
at the end of the season.
The Czech Republic international has declared an ambition to play for Juve
next season, though he is also being trailed by the likes of Arsenal and
Barcelona.
Tuttosport says Juve chief Luciano Moggi has secured first refusal on Jankulovksi and he also remains in talks with Udinese over teammate David Pizarro.
Lippi strikes a balance
Marcello Lippi realises he must win at Bologna to maintain Juve's Scudetto hopes, but also rotate the squad ahead of their Champions' League clash.
"We will go to the Stadio Dall'Ara in order to win," insisted the Coach. "It is the only result possible in order to stay in the race, while all we can do after that is hope the other teams slip up."
The Bianconeri clambered back into the chase with a slender 1-0 victory over Reggina, but many of their top stars will be rested ahead of Wednesday's encounter with Deportivo La Coruna.
"There will be some changes to the line-up," confessed the tactician. "It won't matter who starts the match, as long as we put out a balanced side."
David Trezeguet and Igor Tudor have not even made the trop to Bologna, while Alessandro Del Piero, Pavel Nedved and Gianluca Zambrotta are expected to sit this one out.
The situation will give Euro 2004 hopefuls Marco Di Vaio and Fabrizio Miccoli the opportunity to shine in a Stadium Juve have not conquered since May 2001.
"Another draw here would simply not be enough," commented Lippi when looking back at last season's 2-2 result. "That would represent a tiny brick in the wall, whereas at this stage we need three-pointer slabs."
However, the Bianconeri insist that the title is not out of reach yet and a third consecutive Scudetto remains possible.
"Milan have done very well to create this gap at the top of the table, but we must do everything within our power to whittle it down."
Sat 21 Feb
Del Piero cheers Azzurri competition
Alessandro Del Piero made an impressive return to the Italy squad and insists this strength in depth makes them Euro 2004 favourites.
"I think that Giovanni Trapattoni's only problem this summer will be deciding between the myriad of options open to him," noted the Juventus captain.
"The fact there are so many of us playing at the highest level, especially in attacking positions, can only be a good thing for the Coach of an international side."
The Azzurri trio of Del Piero, Francesco Totti and Christian Vieri combined well during the first half of their 2-2 draw with the Czech Republic midweek, but there are several starlets jostling for places.
Antonio Cassano is expected to push into the side if he continues to shine for Roma, while Fabrizio Miccoli and Marco Di Vaio are impressing at Juve.
Casting an eye over the whole tournament, the experienced international sees three main contenders for the crown. "The ones to watch will certainly be holders France," continued Del Piero, "but I would keep a close eye on the Czech Republic."
"They are on fine form right now, have stars of the calibre of my friend Pavel Nedved and showed by twice fighting back for a 2-2 draw that they have a great deal of character. And don't forget the Czechs are unbeaten in 19 games."
Italy are said to be among the favourites for the tournament in Portugal, particularly after the draw placed them alongside Sweden, Bulgaria and Denmark.
"I wouldn't say we had the easiest Group phase," insisted the Bianconeri hero. "There is always an outsider that surprises in these competitions and I see Bulgaria filling that role."
Juventus: Nedved staying ...
Juventus insist that Pavel Nedved will not be sold in the summer. Nedved's future at the club is in doubt after he admitted this week that the champions could decide to sell him.
But Juve director general Luciano Moggi has since met with the player in order to clarify the situation. "I had no doubts," Moggi is quoted as saying. "Nedved is happy at Juventus and he will end his career here. There is no space for Chelsea."
The former Lazio player had always insisted in the past that he would want to hang up his boots with the outfit in 2006. Yet rumours escalated of a possible departure when it was revealed that Juve are set to make a financial loss for the first time in seven years.
And with the likes of Chelsea and Barcelona reportedly ready to offer £20m for the 31-year-old, Juve could have been tempted to cash in.
Lucio to join Chelsea?
After missing out on Lazio's Jaap Stam, the Delle Alpi side now risk losing Brazilian star Lucio to Chelsea.
His club Bayer Leverkusen claim that they have a verbal agreement with the Italian side over the stopper's sale. Yet Juve have apparently gone quiet and the German outfit are ready to do a deal with the Stamford Bridge club instead.
Bayer Leverkusen have told Juventus now is the time to begin serious talks over defender Lucio. Tuttosport says Bayer have issued Juve's board with an ultimatum: "Either make us an offer or Lucio goes to Chelsea."
Chelsea are in the box seat to land the Brazilian, with Juve still to table a concrete offer for the World Cup winner. Chelsea boss Claudio Ranieri is lining up Lucio as a replacement for former AC Milan defender Marcel Desailly.
AC Milan gain ground on Juventus in Montolivo talks
AC Milan chiefs are battling to claw back ground on Juventus in the race for Atalanta midfielder Riccardo Montolivo.
It's understood Juve chief Luciano Moggi is negotiating first refusal on Montolivo with Atalanta, but Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani and transfers chief Ariedo Braida are making a late move for the 18 year-old.
Montolivo's agent insists he will not leave Atalanta at the end of the season, but with Juve and Milan wrestling for his services, it's likely this will be Montolivo's last campaign with the Serie B team.
