This
web site is an online diary maintained by azzurri.Friday 03 December
Welcome back David!
Juventus.com
"I'm feeling good, I'm not feeling any pain; I can sleep without any problem and I'm regaining my optimal mobility".
David Trezeguet is back to Sisport Centre, where he's resumed training and now looks in a good shape. After one month and a half since the shoulder surgery that kept him away from the pitch and from Turin, the Frenchman tells how he's spent this time.
"The day after surgery I started treatment in the swimming pool, in order to regain mobility, which was already quite good and after one month I started running. I was very careful about food, that is very important when you are forced to stop physical activity.
"I'm now still training on my own to avoid any accidental strike and I'll start using the football again next week. Approximately on December, 19th we'll have a consultation with the medical staff and the coach about my conditions and we'll plan my return on the pitch. I may be playing again by the end of January."
David is impatient to get back to the real game, which is a sign that physical problems are over and so are any psychological obstacles.
"Fear is over. Was I asked to get back to the field of play next Sunday I would do it without any problem, I'm more worried about getting back to my full fitness as soon as possible. After all, surgery was made necessary by my way of playing… anyway I'll be back for the most interesting phase of Serie A and Champions' League too."
Trezeguet can recover his fitness calmly, since Juventus has been able to cope with his absence and maintain the lead in the table and win all European fixtures.
"I had no doubt that the squad would do well even without me. I just have to look at them players' quality to see that this is a winning group that can go far. I'm happy for the strikers, who regularly scored.
"Ibrahimovic has fit into the group very well; he just needed a little time, he's now showing his great potential. Del Piero and Zalayeta are doing great too. I feel the urge to play again because this team do well, they score and win and I want to be part of this group again as soon as possible"
David dedicates his latest thought to his teammates and coach who were particularly close to him during this month and a half: "While I was in Lyon, my National team mate Cissé had a serious injury too and I immediately called him as I know that when you're injured you're happy to be phoned, it is positive for your spirits.
"Well, I've been phoned by everyone at Juventus and they made me feel important as we're not only colleagues but friends too."
Trezeguet: 100 Goals, Scudetto And Champions League
Goal.com
The French striker wants to win everything this season. David Trezeguet will be back in January to help Juventus in their quest to win the Scudetto and Champions League.
The Bianconeri are doing already well without his services and Trezeguet complimented his squad for the excellent start to the season, while setting out his personal targets.
"My team mates are doing very well. Ibrahimovic is great, and apart from scoring goals he is also good at giving assists. I'm preparing myself to return at 100%, this is my objective. It will not be easy, but I shall try. I have so much will to play that I would be ready to go on the pitch already against Lazio.
"I want to win the Scudetto and Champions League. Shevchenko deserves the Golden Ball because he is a great champion. I dream of reaching 100 goals in the league like he did. I did not watch the San Siro match, but I can say that excluding any shocking setbacks, the Scudetto race is only between Milan and Juventus."
Real head Cassano chase
Football Italia
Real Madrid are favourites to sign Antonio Cassano if the starlet is made available for transfer. The youngster is only contracted to Roma until the summer of 2006 and talks over an extension are proving problematic. Although Inter and Juventus are known to be keen on the attacker, Real are in pole position according to reports.
Unconfirmed whispers state that they are willing to pay around £17m and offer the loan of Fernando Morientes. The Spanish international could allegedly arrive in January even if Cassano would only move to Spain at the end of the season.
The Madrid outfit have been associated with the former Bari player for some time given his potential as a world star. The Azzurri ace is believed to be keen on the option of playing for Real, but Juve and Inter are not giving up the chase.
Stories emanating from Milan maintain that the Nerazzurri are willing to offer £11m plus a player. While Juventus are set to table a bid of £8m plus Nicola Legrottaglie and Rodrigo Taddei – if they sign him from Siena in January.
Agent reveals Juventus interest for ex-Chelsea striker Mutu
Tribal Football
Adrian Mutu's representatives have revealed the interest of Juventus in the disgraced former Chelsea striker. The Romanian is serving a ban for failing a drugs test and was sacked by Chelsea last month, but his agent, Massimo Brambati, revealed: "We have had many offers from foreign countries and from Italy.
"Juventus are one, but they're not the only Italian club interested. However, Mutu would favour a return to Italy."
Gasbarroni closer to Palermo exit
Tribal Football
Palermo midfielder Andréa Gasbarroni has declared he will quit the club in January. Gasbarroni is keen on a move to Sampdoria and has ruled out a switch away from the Serie A.
"Here I do not have space, in January I will leave. I want to remain in Serie A, to work again with Novellino would be the best," he said. "I don't want to speak badly of Palermo. I would rather we left on civil terms."
Tacchi off to Barca?
Football Italia
There are fresh reports in Spain that Alessio Tacchinardi will leave Juventus for Barcelona in January. The Turin giants have recently denied such claims but the media are confident a move will take place. The midfielder doesn't presently feature in Fabio Capello's plans and an exit may be on the cards.
Tacchinardi is seemingly fourth choice at the Delle Alpi behind Emerson, Manuele Blasi and Stephen Appiah. Despite extending his contract with the club last season, the Italian could be close to bringing his 10-year relationship with the Old Lady to an end.
Barcelona are interested in the former Atalanta player given their midfield injury crisis at the Nou Camp. They have also been linked with Olivier Dacourt of Roma but the Spaniards are on good terms with Juventus. That after they made a similar move last January when they signed Edgar Davids from the Italian club.
It is understood that an agreement has been reached in principal, after Barca chief Juan Laporta met with Juve Vice-president Roberto Bettega.
Lokomotiv Moscow make offer to Juventus defender Iuliano
Tribal Football
Lokomotiv Moscow are in talks with Juventus defender Mark Iuliano. Juve director general Luciano Moggi has told the veteran he won't stand in his way if he wants to leave Turin in January. Lokomotiv have already tabled a contract offer to Iuliano, who has been given ten days to decide whether to accept it.
Thursday 02 December
Juventus - Lazio
Football Italia
Mimmo Caso's job is on the line and Juventus need to get back on track after their slip at the San Siro. There certainly isn't a lack of motivation in this fixture.
The Bianconeri saw their lead cut to just four points after throwing away a 2-0 lead in the closing stages of the Derby d'Italia last week and cracks are beginning to show in this fortress. That was only the second time this season they have conceded more than one goal and even the return of Jonathan Zebina didn't reinforce an already stunning back line.
Alessandro Del Piero is battling to recover from a muscular problem and is likely to start from the bench in favour of Marcelo Zalayeta and Zlatan Ibrahimovic – both on target against Inter. It will also be an intriguing tie for ex-Roma boss Fabio Capello against a side he repeatedly conquered in the Derby della Capitale and for former Biancocelesti star Pavel Nedved.
Caso has been under a lot of pressure recently with Lazio's poor run of results in Serie A, the UEFA Cup and Coppa Italia. Following their 3-2 home defeat to Cagliari, President Claudio Lotito confirmed he was considering the tactician's future.
Angelo Peruzzi won't be able to face his old club after a red card in Sunday's defeat, so Matteo Sereni returns between the posts. Paolo Di Canio and Ousmane Dabo are back after their bans expired, but it's likely we'll see Simone Inzaghi supported by a trident consisting of Antonio Filippini, Goran Pandev and Juve transfer target Cesar.
So far this season Juventus have made short work of the smaller sides but struggled against the more prestigious outfits, so will they slip up again?
Juventus (probable): Buffon; Zebina, Thuram, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Emerson, Blasi, Nedved; Ibrahimovic, Zalayeta
Lazio (probable): Sereni; Oddo, Talamonti, Couto, Lopez; Dabo, Liverani; A Filippini, Pandev, Cesar; Inzaghi
Ref: To follow...
Trez eager to return
Football Italia
David Trezeguet is confident that he will be playing again by the end of January following shoulder surgery. The Frenchman is now back in Turin to resume treatment and is happy with how he is progressing.
"I'm feeling good," said the striker. "It is great to be back amongst my teammates and I'm desperate to play as soon as possible. Psychologically I'm very calm and I'm not worried about challenging opponents on the field of play.
"I'm more worried about getting back my full fitness and form in order to be completely ready when I return."
Trezeguet has been sidelined since the October 3 clash at Udinese but he has big plans for the future. "I want to win Lo Scudetto and the Champions' League," he added. "It would also be great if I could reach 100 Serie A goals."
Although losing the striker for three months was a blow to the club, the Bianconeri have coped remarkably well without him.
"My teammates are doing some great things right now," he noted. "Especially Zlatan Ibrahimovic. He is a very strong player who not only scores goals but also pops up with a number of assists.
"The 2-2 with Inter? I didn't see the game but I think it is safe to say that the title race is between Milan and ourselves."
Trezeguet, who has spent the last month recovering in France, will have his next medical consultation on December 19.
Ibra thanks boss Capello
Football Italia
Juventus boss Fabio Capello has won the praise of summer signing Zlatan Ibrahimovic. The Swede has settled in well at the Stadio Delle Alpi and he claims the tactician is one of the reasons why.
"He is a great Coach and one who knows how to get the very best out of me," the former Ajax ace told the Gazzetta dello Sport. "There is a good connection between us because he has belief in me and I have real faith in him."
The international striker has impressed many in the game this term and underlined his quality in the 2-2 with Inter on Sunday.
"I can still improve though," he added. "Even if I have to admit that I am disappointed with the result. We were excellent and things were going well at 2-0 but the incredible happened in the last 15 minutes."
That draw allowed Milan to close the gap on Juve, which led to Kaka claiming that the Rossoneri are the better side.
"We don't lack anything at this club and we fear nobody," added the 23-year-old. "Milan have Kaka and Andriy Shevchenko but we don't envy anything they have. The League table will say for sure who is really the stronger side."
Zlatan blasts former club
Sky Sports
Juventus striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic has blasted former club Malmo for the way he was treated in his move to Ajax back in 2001.
The Sweden international thinks Malmo made the most of his £5 million transfer to the Dutch giants and that the club took advantage of the fact he had not retained an agent during the move.
"The club took everything, I got peanuts," Ibrahimovic told Expressen. "I had no agent, that was my big mistake. I got exploited and would have got a completely different contract with Ajax if I had an agent.
"It's thanks to me Malmo have still got the staff and the club that could invest in a title side. I wasn't even thanked before a match."
Juventus eye midfield duo
Football Italia
Marek Jankulovski of Udinese and Siena's Rodrigo Taddei are reported January targets for Juventus.
Although the League leaders have stated that they intend to buy nobody in the New Year, the media claim one of the two men will be netted. Both are understood to have been made available by their respective clubs if an adequate offer is made by the Italian giants.
The Udinese ace is believed to be Juve's primary objective after they failed to sign him in the summer. Now Udinese have conceded that the Czech international could be on his way after Christmas.
"We can't deny any of our players the chance to join a big club," stated patron Giampaolo Pozzo. "If a certain bid is made then we'll make Jankulovski happy."
However, Taddei is also a possible signing given that his contract with Siena expires at the end of the season. The Tuscan club, who yesterday reintegrated the Brazilian back into the squad after a contract dispute, are expected to sell him in January.
Juventus could offer cash and defender Mark Iuliano in exchange for the creative attacking midfielder. Roma are also very keen on Taddei though and are prepared to negotiate a player plus cash deal too.
In other transfer news, Inter are being associated with Roma midfielder Olivier Dacourt. The Giallorossi could receive Kily Gonzalez and Cristiano Zanetti as part of the deal.
Monaco's Maicon flattered by Juventus interest
Tribal Football
AS Monaco wing-back Maicon has admitted he is flattered by the interest of Juventus. Juve director general Luciano Moggi has approached Monaco about the Brazilian and been told he can sign the 23 year-old for a cut-price £2.5 million with the French club having financial difficulties.
"For now," Maicon said, "I have only heard rumours and speculation, but who would not want to play for such a strong and important club like Juve? I would be very happy."
Iuliano ponders future
Sky Sports
Juventus defender Mark Iuliano is considering his future after attracting the interest of a number of clubs. The Italian international is currently out of favour at Juve and could be interested in a move away for regular first team football.
Charlton Athletic and Lokomotiv Moscow are both believed to be keen on Iuliano and the player's agent Alessandro Moggi revealed several clubs had expressed an interest in him.
"There are many offers for him and it could not be different, as his contract will run out in June 2005," Moggi told skysports.com. "At this very moment, we are talking to Juventus and we will soon decide where his future will be."
Barcelona move on for Juventus' Tacchinardi
Tribal Football
Juventus midfielder Alessio Tacchinardi is on his way to Barcelona.
Barcelona press reports, including Gol, suggest an agreement has been struck for a six-month loan of the Italy international. Juve chief Roberto Bettega and Barca president Joan Laporta struck the agreement over the weekend.
Tacchinardi will move to the Nou Camp on-loan for a fee of £900,000, which covers his contract at Juve for the second-half of the season. Barca coach Frank Rijkaard wanted Tacchinardi after seeing Gerard ruled out long-term with injury last week.
Platini: Juve should win it
Sky Sports
Michel Platini has insisted that Juventus have the strength to hold on to top place and claim the Serie A title, and also insisted that Deco is the rightful winner of the Ballon d'Or.
Platini, who is an iconic former player of Juve, believes that current Bianconeri coach Fabio Capello has the players at his disposal to maintain the pace in Serie A and take the Scudetto.
"Juve are the strongest," the Frenchman told Il Giornale. "The 15 points more than Inter is confirmation of that, and the gap to Milan is also important.
"Capello has at his disposal two of the world's best players: [Gianluigi] Buffon, who is simply the best goalkeeper, and [Gianluca] Zambrotta - who has put distance between himself and Roberto Carlos."
Andrei Shevchenko is set to be unveiled as the winner of the prestigious France Football award, but Platini believes Portugal international Deco would be a more worthy winner.
"I vote for Deco," added Platini. "He won everything - the [Portuguese] league and the [European] Cup and even got second place at the European Championship.
"If I have to indicate the strongest player I'd say Ronaldinho, but the criteria referred to results obtained on the international level. That's why I would say Shevchenko, who is good, does not have the same credentials."
Lippi: Sheva has my vote
Football Italia
Marcello Lippi reveals he has given his FIFA World Player of the Year vote to Andriy Shevchenko and reassures Antonio Cassano.
"The extraordinary consistency with which Shevchenko finds the net suggests he deserves to win it," explained the Italy boss. "I have already voted in his favour. The only one who might be able to snatch it away is Deco because of the number of trophies he won in 2004."
The Milan hitman is the hot favourite to take both the Balon d'Or and the FIFA Award this month and can now count on the support of Italy's international Coach. In an interview with RAI DUE programme '10 minuti' Lippi also commented on the future of controversial figure Antonio Cassano.
"Cassano is a great champion who above all needs to find his consistency at club level. Once that is sorted out and he has relaxed into the role, he can be considered for the Azzurri."
The Roma star could be called up for February's international friendly in preparation for the World Cup qualifier in Scotland. His row with Gigi Del Neri saw him sidelined from both teams, but he made an impressive return to form with four assists in their 4-0 drubbing of Siena last week.
The lack of big star names in the 1-0 friendly win over Finland saw Messina's Stadio San Filippo remain half-empty, but Lippi insists there is no lack of affection for the Azzurri.
"I want to see an Italy squad that is determined and brimming with enthusiasm. Despite what some may say, I have learned from my own experience in this job that players are passionate about representing their country and are only too happy to engage in international duty."
Wednesday 01 December
Alex available for Lazio
Football Italia
Juventus are hopeful that Alessandro Del Piero will be available for the Lazio clash on Sunday. The captain missed the 2-2 draw at the weekend against Inter because of injury but he's close to a return.
Del Piero is still training on his own but it seems certain that he will be at least a substitute in Week 14. The No 10 is currently following a strict rehabilitation programme, working closely with the club's medical staff.
Del Piero's making good progress and he is set to resume full training with his teammates later this week. Boss Fabio Capello should therefore have the international at his disposal for the club's next game.
However, the tactician is likely to start the match against the capital outfit with Marcelo Zalayeta and Zlatan Ibrahimovic in attack.
Mexes in Roma confession
Football Italia
Philippe Mexes has admitted that he is finding it tough to cope with life at Roma right now. The youngster joined the club from Auxerre in the summer but he's struggled to live up to his potential.
"This is the most difficult period of my career," he told French newspaper L'Equipe. "When the team struggles, then individuals often struggle too.
"I can't say that I am satisfied with what is happening but I hope that we can now start to win games with some consistency.
"We have a very young squad and that was one of the reasons why I accepted Roma's offer. Perhaps we just need a transitional year to get to know each other a little better."
The capital club have had a disastrous term so far, appointing three new Coaches following the departure of boss Fabio Capello in the summer.
"I had lunch with Capello and he told me that the fact I was talking to him meant that he intended to stay. Then he joined Juventus the day after," added Mexes.
The French international also admits that he's taking his time to adapt to the Italian championship.
"It is a League which is very difficult for defenders," he continued. "I have learnt a lot on a physical and tactical level but I'm not enjoying myself as I did at Auxerre."
Tevez snubs Italian move
Football Italia
Italian clubs looking to sign Carlos Tevez in the near future are set to miss out on the Argentine starlet.
The striker, who was so good for his country during the recent Olympic Games, will reportedly remain in South America despite interest from European sides.
Tevez is currently at Boca Juniors but whispers claim he will join Brazilian giants Corinthians for around £10m.
Although the international was more likely to move to Spain, a number of Serie A clubs were tracking him. Milan and Inter were associated, even if newly promoted Palermo were paired with him last summer.
Tuesday 30 November
Juventus duo rue draw
Football Italia
The Juventus duo of Fabio Cannavaro and Zlatan Ibrahimovic have regrets about the 2-2 draw with Inter.
Although the result looks reasonably good on paper, the Bianconeri threw away the points by conceding twice in the last 10 minutes.
"A side like ours can't give two goals away like that," admitted the former Parma defender. "We were far too relaxed and you just can't do that against sides like Inter.
"We were a bit cautious in the first period but we played with the right mentality after the interval and deserved our lead. It's a real shame because with a little more determination we would have taken home the three points."
Ibrahimovic, who scored from the penalty spot, was also disappointed with how the San Siro clash ended.
"I'm not happy at all because we were 2-0 up and allowed them back into the game," said the striker. "In a way this seems like a defeat even if I have to admit that we played really well at times in the game."
Meanwhile, director general Luciano Moggi used the result to take a gentle swipe at the Nerazzurri.
"Am I angry? Absolutely not," he replied. "Especially as I saw a lot of Interisti who were happy with a draw. This shows our strength…"
Zambrotta: "The finale, what a pity!"
Juventus.com
Gianluca Zambrotta's comment on the draw against Inter at the San Siro: "The only regret is that we badly managed the final minutes of the match; we should have managed them better but the fact is that they introduced four great strikers.
"However, let's not complain, we still got out from the San Siro with 1 point gained against a great team."
Inter Milan to beat Juventus for Jankulovski
Tribal Football
Inter Milan are ahead of Juventus in the race for Udinese midfielder Marek Jankulovski.
Frustrated by Lazio president Claudio Lotito's stand over Cesar, Inter coach Roberto Mancini has turned to Jankulovski, who has been put up for sale ahead of the January market by Udinese.
Juventus have held talks with Udinese about the Czech Republic international, who would welcome a move to Turin, but ideally want to sign him in the summer on a Bosman.
In the meantime, Udinese are favouring Inter's cash-plus-player offer, which includes Giorgis Karagounis and Gio Pasquale, for the January market.
Jankulovski, who has already rejected a move to Russia in August, will have to be convinced by Mancini to choose Inter over Juve before the deal can be sealed.
Juventus ask Monaco about Maicon
Tribal Football
Juventus are eyeing AS Monaco wing-back Maicon. The Brazilian has already been the subject of an enquiry from Juve director general Luciano Moggi.
Maicon only joined Monaco in the summer from Cruzeiro and the French club have told Moggi he can be signed for £2 million.
Juve will hold fire, however, as Moggi believes the young Brazilian still must improve his defensive game before he is ready to move to the Serie A.
Monday 29 November
Inter 2 - 2 Juventus
Football Italia
Inter completed an incredible fightback from 2-0 down to draw 2-2, but Juve have still surely put an end to their Scudetto hopes.
The Derby d'Italia is always a heated affair, but it was particularly crucial now as it was Inter's last chance saloon to get back into the title race. Leaders Juventus could cut the Nerazzurri out of the running once and for all with a result at the San Siro.
Juan Sebastian Veron, Alessandro Del Piero and long-term injury lay-off David Trezeguet were out, so Obafemi Martins was chosen to partner Adriano. Edgar Davids was given a rare start to face the club he left in very bitter circumstances almost a year ago, while Jonathan Zebina returned a month after his thigh strain and Fabio Cannavaro took on his old teammates.
The match was marred by crowd trouble between Inter fans and the police before kick-off, but the scuffles were kept outside the Stadium and were calmed by the time the match began.
The first yellow card came after just seven minutes for Andy van der Meyde's late challenge on Pavel Nedved. The Dutchman was at the centre of attention soon after when he gathered Martins' pass and saw his effort deflected off target by Cannavaro.
Inter were definitely the more aggressive to begin with and Zebina required some tricky defending to close down Adriano, while Gianluigi Buffon comfortably got behind one of his free kicks.
There was bad news for the home side after 25 minutes when Giuseppe Favalli fell awkwardly and was off the field for treatment. Inter were in ten men when Juve pushed forward and Mauro Camoranesi ran on to a through ball, but Davids performed a stunning tackle inside the box. From the resulting corner Gianluca Zambrotta's half-volley was wide.
At the other end Inter wasted three golden opportunities in one move, as Martins couldn't reach Davids' cross, Dejan Stankovic scuffed his effort and Davids blasted over the bar.
Emerson's strike from the edge of the box was easily held, but Davids was again crucial with a goalline clearance on Nedved's header from a Camoranesi corner kick. Francesco Toldo was beaten, but the ex-Juve man was ready at the near post to clear with his knee.
There was a dangerous Adriano counter-attack from Stankovic's long pass, but again he was pressured by Zebina and Buffon controlled the ball.
Favalli was unable to continue after that knee injury and made way for Ze Maria at half-time. The Brazilian was called into action almost immediately, forced to nod away Camoranesi's cross before it could reach Zlatan Ibrahimovic at the back post. From the resulting corner Ibrahimovic was allowed a free header, but didn't get enough contact on it to trouble Toldo.
Camoranesi's first touch let him down when Marcelo Zalayeta had held up the ball for him.
The deadlock was eventually broken after 53 minutes with long-range Pavel Nedved strike from all of 25 metres, though it took a decisive deflection off teammate Zalayeta to leave Toldo stranded and the authorities gave the goal to the Uruguayan. Despite not knowing much about it, Zalayeta celebrated his fifth Serie A goal of the season.
Inter hit back with Adriano and his powerful strike was pushed out off Cannavaro's shin. But the goal boosted Juve's confidence and they began piling on more pressure with Emerson and Ibrahimovic.
The Nerazzurri were extremely dangerous soon after when Buffon punched out one of Sinisa Mihajlovic's trademark free kicks from 31 metres, though the goalkeeper was almost knocked backward by the force of it.
However, disastrous Inter defending cost them dearly once again. Ibrahimovic drew two players out with him and Camoranesi intelligently found a totally unmarked Zalayeta on the edge of the box.
By the time Toldo brought him down Ze Maria had recovered his position, so it was not a red card, but Ibrahimovic did convert the penalty despite the 'keeper getting a hand to it.
Roberto Mancini, who turned 40 on Saturday, introduced Christian Vieri and Alvaro Recoba for an all-attack formation with four strikers on the field.
Buffon did well to intercept a splendid Inter team move before Adriano could pounce on Recoba's pass from six yards.
The Nerazzurri got back into the game and set up a blistering finale when substitute Christian Vieri ran on to a lifted Recoba pass and drilled an angled drive into the far corner.
They had 11 minutes to make up the difference and the entire team poured forward with Buffon performing a desperate close-range save on Vieri's header.
There were penalty appeals when Adriano fell under a mis-timed jump from Lilian Thuram.
It didn't matter, as moments later Inter drew level with the Brazilian's fantastic volley on an Obafemi Martins cross from the right. It was a memorable fightback from 2-0 down to 2-2 in the space of six minutes and now their players were pushing for the victory.
Anything could happen in these closing moments and Ibrahimovic's volley skimmed the woodwork, then in stoppages Buffon fumbled a corner kick but nobody was able to take advantage of this rare error.
Inter: Toldo; J Zanetti, Cordoba, Mihajlovic, Favalli (Ze Maria 46); van der Meyde (Recoba 68), Cambiasso, Davids (Vieri 68), Stankovic; Adriano, Martins
Juventus: Buffon; Zebina, Thuram, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi (Pessotto 83), Emerson, Blasi, Nedved; Ibrahimovic, Zalayeta
Ref: Rodomonti
Capello rues missed chance
Football Italia
Juventus have seen their lead cut to four points after losing a 2-0 lead at Inter and both Coaches discussed the missed opportunities at the San Siro.
"We could have held the ball a bit better, but two fantastic goals from Inter turned it around," commented Fabio Capello after the 2-2 draw. "The first goal was the decisive one, as before that there was only one team on the pitch."
The Nerazzurri seemed dead and buried before throwing on Christian Vieri and Alvaro Recoba to join Adriano and Obafemi Martins.
"They put on some fresh legs and the key man was Vieri, who opened up the play for Martins and Adriano, so the first goal was entirely to his credit," commented the Juve boss.
"Clearly we are a little bitter as we had the result in our grasp, but we did prove that we came here to the San Siro looking for the victory. We relaxed and were playing around with Inter, which you absolutely must not do against a side of this quality. Unfortunately our only regret is that lack of concentration and grit in the closing stages."
The Bianconeri had put themselves in a commanding position with Zlatan Ibrahimovic's penalty, but some say Francesco Toldo should have seen red for his foul on Marcelo Zalayeta.
"I never comment on refereeing decisions and we always accept them. I don't want to spark any controversy," added Capello.
Roberto Mancini also commented on that incident, but had another angle on the performance of the referee.
"Ze Maria was behind Toldo at the time, so he was not last man, while I am sure that Lilian Thuram challenge on Adriano was a penalty," stated the Nerazzurri boss.
"Considering how the game was going, we can be happy with this draw. It's incredible that we found ourselves 2-0 down with minimal opportunities for Juventus and a balanced match overall. The lads did incredibly well to get back and refused to give in until the final whistle, so they made me proud tonight."
Mancio managed to recover from this seemingly impossible situation by throwing on four out and out strikers.
"When you're 2-0 down you have to take risks to get back into the game and once we scored the first that belief really built up inside of us and drained out of Juve," added the Coach.
"We should be getting a few more crosses in from Andy van der Meyde, but on the left we don't have many players at our disposal who can perform that role. Giuseppe Favalli was meant to push, but he picked up an injury and had to come off."
Christian Vieri proved decisive with that goal and admitted he was for once content with being a substitute.
"I am happy with my performance, as when I came on it was a tough situation," said the striker. "Thankfully my shot went in and that really sparked the comeback, but our final 20 minutes were just great. The tactic with four strikers was fuelled by desperation, but in future at least we know it can work when we're in a tight spot."
However, former Juve man Vieri concedes the title race is probably beyond them after this result.
"15 points are certainly a lot, but we have to believe in the Scudetto and try to win each game as it comes without looking at Juve or Milan. I don't think we lack character, but we have drawn a lot of matches we frankly deserved to win."
Moggi: Inter are finished
Football Italia
Juve director general Luciano Moggi has turned the heat up on tonight's showdown by claiming Inter's Scudetto challenge is already over.
"I don't think they can get back into the title race regardless of the result," said the transfer guru. "They're just too far away and let us not forget that if we slip up, Milan are in a much better position to take advantage."
The Nerazzurri are a staggering 15 points adrift of the leaders after just 12 games, so a comeback to pick up their first League title since 1989 would be quite an achievement.
Despite the constant verbal battles between Moggi and the Inter staff, there are reports emerging this week that he is being lined up to give the San Siro side some organisation next season.
"No thank you," said the wily old fox of Italian football. "I am happy at Juventus and until they throw me out I've no intention of leaving."
The Turin giants have been at the centre of controversy following Friday's doping trial verdict. Chief of medical staff Riccardo Agricola was found guilty of administering substances even when the players were not suffering from injuries.
"I agree with Fabio Capello, who agrees with director Antonio Giraudo. There is no case against the club and the appeals process will do its job."
Juventus chief Moggi rules out Inter Milan switch
Tribal Football
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi has ruled out moving to Inter Milan. Moggi is wanted by Inter supremo Massimo Moratti, but said before last night's clash: "I don't see myself working at Inter, I am happy at Juventus.
"I also now am part of the Board of directors and I do not see why I would have to leave.
"My contract runs to 2006 and I will remain here for sure. After that, we will see: if they still want me, I will remain, otherwise I will go somewhere else."
Juventus chief hints at stay for Barcelona target Tacchinardi
Tribal Football
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi has ruled out signing anyone in the January market. Moggi also hinted that midfielder Alessio Tacchinardi will stay in Turin, despite the interest of Barcelona.
He said: "In January we will not return to the market. If on the park bench we have people like Tacchinardi and Montero, then I would say that we do not have a need to reinforce the team."
Zeman-Lippi in TV bust up
Football Italia
Zdenek Zeman has finally commented on the Juventus doping verdict and entered into a live television row with Marcello Lippi.
The Lecce boss sparked off the investigation in 1998 with an interview suggesting the Bianconeri were using too many substances and the trial concluded on Friday with club doctor Riccardo Agricola handed a 22-month suspended sentence for 'sporting fraud' and administering drugs including EPO.
"I don't think the Doctor drugged himself," stated Zeman on today's television programme 'Stadio Sprint'. "He was giving the substances to someone else and he wasn't paying for them, so those people should know about it. That's my interpretation of the situation."
The club, in the shape of director Antonio Giraudo, was cleared of all wrongdoing, but this is a verdict that does not satisfy Zeman. The programme came to life when Italy boss Lippi was introduced from another studio.
"This sentence does not change the respect I have for everyone I worked with in Turin," said the ex-Juve Coach. "That goes for the medical staff, directors and players. The only reason that team won so much was its strength of character."
Zeman reacted to that statement and insisted, "I can say that the facts speak for themselves. In 1999 Lippi admitted he had administered creatine to his players."
Lippi was furious at this interjection and hit back. "Seeing as Zeman is so busy being the moral guardian of football, I'll also reveal some of my players told me that during their time working with Zeman he also used creatine."
Creatine is not a banned substance, but the use of it in sport has caused controversy over the last few years.
"I had already admitted that at Lazio we used creatine," added Zeman, "but we only tried it for a month at doses of three milligrams, whereas Juve were using 20 milligrams. I'd expect that much to cause problems for a player."
The presenter asked if Lippi would ever shake hands with Zeman and the answer was far from comforting.
"I say it isn't right to constantly criticise the system when you yourself are a part of it. I tell Zeman that if he doesn't like it, he can get out."
Zeman had the final word and noted, "I can stay inside the system and try to improve it from the inside."
Federation job awaits Collina
Football Italia
Pierluigi Collina will hang up his whistle at the end of the season and reports suggest he will take over as Italy's top refereeing designator.
Officials are forced to stop refereeing in the Peninsula when they reach the age of 45 and claims this rule would be changed have seemingly not been backed up.
"I turn 45 years of age on February 13 2005, so I will stop my activity in June," he explained. "I must say that making this decision on the effectiveness of an official purely on the date he was born is rather limiting, but referees are men of rules and as such will always stick to them."
UEFA's regulations are a little less stringent and Collina will be able to take control of European ties until December 31 2005, but the future is now panning out for the World's most famous ref.
The 'Corriere dello Sport' today claims that he is being lined up to take over from the controversial Paolo Bergamo and Pierluigi Pairetto as Italy's designators – the men who decide which referee will be assigned to a game.
Even here the matter is done partly by pot luck, as officials are split into categories depending on their experience and form this season then names are picked out of a hat. Designators are also responsible for training and disciplining referees throughout the campaign.
Sunday 28 November
Inter Milan v Juventus: Preview
ESPN Soccernet
A relieved Juventus travel to a sold out San Siro stadium to face Internazionale in Sunday night's "Derby d'Italia".
The Bianconeri had a big weight lifted off their shoulders on Friday when a Turin court cleared the club's general director, Antonio Giraudo, of any wrongdoing in a trial investigating doping at Juve between 1994 and 1998.
The trial, which has lasted three years, was prompted by comments made in 1998 by then-Roma coach Zdenek Zeman, insinuating Juventus players were on drugs. Although club doctor Riccardo Agricola was found guilty of sporting fraud and given a 22-month prison sentence, Juve nevertheless seem satisfied with the outcome.
"This sentence not only clears my name, but it also clears the club of any wrongdoing," said a delighted Giraudo. "We are very satisfied with the sentence, but we await the appeal made by Agricola's lawyers."
The news will no doubt have been a relief to Fabio Capello, who insisted earlier this week that the outcome of the trial would not hinder his outfit.
The Serie A leaders have earned 10 league victories and have won all five of their Champions League games in style, having not yet conceded a goal in the group stages of Europe's premier competition.
Juve's accomplished defensive performances have been the main reason for their formidable campaign, with the Bianconeri having only leaked four league goals this term.
Much of Juve's success in defence is thanks to former Inter defender Fabio Cannavaro. The Italian captain, who has proved to be a key player in Capello's defensive barrier, was surprisingly sold by Inter in the summer, a move which shocked the home fans.
His departure has left goalkeeper Francesco Toldo badly exposed, with Inter having one of the worst defences in the competition - 20 goals conceded in 12 games.
Roberto Mancini's men remain the only unbeaten side in the top flight, but that is no consolation for a side who have drawn 10 of their 12 games this season and who are already 15 points off the pace. It is no surprise that Sunday's encounter is considered the Nerazzurri's last opportunity to get back in the title race, in spite of the fact that two thirds of the campaign remain.
"We need to win," said Internazionale owner Massimo Moratti. "It's true that Juventus have a big advantage, but we cannot give up hope. We need to believe that we can make a comeback."
City neighbours AC Milan will be rooting for Inter as they hope to reduce their five-point gap to Juve. And Moratti is ready to give the Rossoneri a helping hand. "We will gladly help Milan," he said.
Mancini, who earlier this week celebrated his 40th birthday, has successfully guided the Nerazzurri to the next stage of the Champions League, but has yet to make his mark in Serie A. The former Lazio boss has only one wish for Sunday's game.
"A victory against Juventus will be the best present I could get," admitted Mancini, nicknamed 'Mr X' by the home fans, following his team's draws. "I expect a night of fantastic football."
Inter welcome back striker Adriano, currently Serie A's joint top scorer with Milan's Andriy Shevchenko and Roma's Vincenzo Montella. Juve will be without Alessandro Del Piero in attack, but in-form Uruguayan Marcelo Zalayeta and Zlatan Ibrahimovic will ensure the Nerazzurri defence have a hard night's work.
Capello going for glory
Football Italia
Fabio Capello insists his Juve will go to the San Siro looking for the victory – something the Coach hasn't managed in over a decade.
"Juventus don't know how to aim for a draw," pointed out the tactician ahead of Sunday's Derby d'Italia. "We always have the three points in our mind and want to confirm our position as leaders."
The Bianconeri could probably afford to share the spoils at the San Siro, but Inter are desperate for a win after falling 15 points behind.
"Inter are a great team and in pre-season had more potential than any other with regards to individual players and overall quality, but they simply haven't delivered on that promise."
Capello's record at the San Siro is not a promising one, as since his Milan won the local derby 2-1 in November 1993, he has picked up just four draws and six defeats here.
"Roberto Mancini's men are gambling an important throw of the dice here and they will have a strong desire to get back into the title race. We must confirm what we've achieved up until now and play with the classic Juventus character."
Jonathan Zebina and Gianluca Pessotto are back in the squad following injury worries, while Alessandro Del Piero and Ruben Olivera have not even made the trip. The major doubt is between Alessio Tacchinardi and Manuele Blasi in midfield.
Fabio Cannavaro is also set to start against the club that dropped him so unceremoniously in the summer.
"Cannavaro is not just an important player for Juventus," added Capello, "but for any team that has the pleasure of working with him, and that includes the Italy squad. If Inter decided to sell him then they were convinced he wouldn't be missed."
It has been a tough few days for the Turin giants, as on Friday chief of medical staff Dr Riccardo Agricola was found guilty of prescribing medication including Epo and given a suspended 22-month prison sentence. Capello chose not to comment on the trial outcome.
Juventus squad:
Gk: Buffon, Chimenti, Bonnefoi
D: Montero, Tudor, Legrottaglie, Pessotto, Birindelli, Zambrotta, Thuram, Zebina, Cannavaro
M: Tacchinardi, Emerson, Nedved, Camoranesi, Appiah, Blasi, Kapo
F: Ibrahimovic, Zalayeta
Canna plans Nerazzurri revenge
Football Italia
Fabio Cannavaro was dropped by the Nerazzurri in the summer and hopes to give them even more regrets when he steps back into the San Siro on Sunday.
"I didn't want to leave Inter before proving what I could do," confessed the defender. "When they told me that there was a deal to sell me to Juventus, I admit I was very upset."
The Italy captain was signed from Parma in 2002, but a succession of injuries and overall poor team performances saw Cannavaro pushed to one side.
The split was completed this summer when he was handed over to Juventus in a straight swap with third choice goalkeeper Fabian Carini, but it has proved to be a bargain for the Bianconeri with his fantastic defensive partnership with Lilian Thuram.
"Roberto Mancini has always told me he was disappointed at my departure and that it was a club decision," revealed Cannavaro. "I believe in Mancini as a man."
Inter are certainly regretting that choice now, as their defence has let in an astonishing 20 goals compared to Juve's four.
"The Nerazzurri thought I was a broken player," added the 31-year-old, "but instead they gave Juventus a perfectly healthy man."
He'll have the opportunity to increase those regrets on Sunday night, as the Bianconeri can end Inter's Scudetto hopes once and for all. The San Siro is now officially sold out for this Derby d'Italia, so the heated atmosphere is guaranteed.
Bojinov calls Chelsea
Football Italia
Lecce may claim they don't want to sell him for at least another year, but Valeri Bojinov admits he's waiting for an enticing offer from a big club.
"If an offer we couldn't refuse came in from an important side, why shouldn't I accept it?" said the teenage hitman. "This isn't just for me, but also for the good of Lecce."
The youngest player ever to make his debut in Serie A at the age of 15, Bojinov has really come into his own this season with eight goals. Nicknamed the 'Bulgarian Wayne Rooney', the 18-year-old has already attracted interest from Chelsea, Juventus, Milan and Roma.
There are even reports that Roman Abramovich has put a £8m bid on the table for a January move – as he would be eligible for the Champions' League.
"My dream is for the fans and club to have fond memories of me when I leave," he told Tuttosport. "I want to remain in the supporters' hearts by scoring lots of goals."
Lecce will take on Bologna this weekend, but Coach Zdenek Zeman remains cagey on the verdict of the doping trial into Juve's medical practices.
"Right now I only want to discuss our match," said the man whose interview six years ago kicked off the investigation. "I will comment when the time is right."
Saturday 27 November
Nedved fears Adriano
Football Italia
With Inter-Juventus fast approaching Bianconeri midfielder Pavel Nedved has admitted that he fears Nerazzurri striker Adriano.
"Of all their players, Adriano is the one who I worry about the most," admitted the Czech star. "It isn't natural to have as much strength as that. He is an alien. We must be very careful not to let him get in any one on one situations with our defenders."
One player who will be missing, however, is Nedved's former Lazio colleague Juan Sebastian Veron. "That is better for us," continued Nedved. "I know Juan very well and he is an excellent player."
The 32-year-old, however, knows that with or without Veron, the Bianconeri will have a tough match. "We aren't thinking about the gap between us in the League," insisted Nedved. "inter are a very strong side and will face us on a level playing ground.
"We may be a little more relaxed because of our points advantage, but that's it. Everyone knows that Inter-Juventus isn't a normal game."
Lippi sees Inter revival
Football Italia
Italy boss Marcello Lippi has looked ahead to Sunday's Derby d'Italia as Inter face Juventus.
"It is a fundamental game for the Scudetto," the tactician, who has bossed both clubs, told Tuttosport. "Juventus will have the desire to prove themselves as the leaders by attempting to increase their 15 point advantage over Inter to 18.
"The Nerazzurri will be hoping to get back into the title race by taking points off a direct title rival."
Many consider Inter to be already out of the Scudetto chase but Lippi believes they still have a chance. "There is not a 15 point difference between these two clubs," he noted. "Once Inter wake up they will start running very fast."
The game will also see two of Serie A's most impressive forwards face each other in the form of Adriano and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
"They are two great attackers," Lippi outlined. "The Brazilian has the ability to find the back of the net from any angle. The Swede has class and technique. He is as good a goalscorer as he is an assist man."
Giraudo cleared
Football Italia
Juve's Managing Director, Antonio Giraudo, has been cleared of all charges concerning the alleged doping scandal surrounding Juventus. This was the verdict given today by Judge Giuseppe Casalbore after four hours of deliberation.
Doctor Agricola, meanwhile, received a one year and ten month sentence in prison as well as a €2000 fine. The prosecution were asking for three years and one month for Agricola and two years and one month for Giraudo.
Juve react to doping verdict
Football Italia
Juventus are not entirely unhappy with the result of the doping trial that found the club medical staff guilty of using banned drugs such as EPO.
"I was used as a guinea pig in what was essentially an experiment in law and a test case," stated Doctor Riccardo Agricola, who was given a suspended 22-month prison sentence. "Nonetheless, I am relaxed because I know that I am innocent. The players know that nothing serious happened and everything that goes on at Juventus is perfectly legal."
Agricola was found guilty of sporting fraud and the prescription of drugs that could be harmful to their health, but the club – in the form of director Antonio Giraudo – was cleared of all wrongdoing.
"I was cleared and therefore Juventus was declared innocent," said Giraudo. "This is a very important point, as the club has never gone against the rules of this sport."
The general view is that the six-year trial was "an away draw," as Juve's lawyer Luigi Chiappero put it. Giraudo's sentence is a key one, as the club cannot be held responsible for the actions of the medical staff, while there will be an appeal that could well overturn Agricola's punishment due to the lack of solid proof.
"We are satisfied with the innocence of Giraudo," added Bianconeri representative Paolo Trofino. "The one raw point is Agricola's penalty, even if it's unlikely the Court of Appeal will uphold it. We will prove that Agricola did not commit any crime and the only thing he was charged with was the prescription of EPO – for which there was very little evidence."
The FIGC and CONI sporting bodies are biding their time and released statements explaining they would wait until the Turin Court explains the reasoning behind its decision before taking any action.
