This
web site is an online diary maintained by azzurri.Friday 07 January
Capello stays focused
Football Italia
Juventus face a tough test at the Stadio Tardini and warns his players not to get distracted by the results from Milan's game.
"We mustn't think about the Rossoneri's progress at all, because we have a four-point advantage and can only look ahead," said the Coach. "There's only one way to keep your cool in a long season and that is to take each game as it comes."
The Turin giants were disappointing in their 0-0 draw with Milan before the Christmas break, but that rest came at the right time and they are raring to go.
"Until the Champions' League comes round again in February it should be easier for players to handle the pace, though at this stage the squad understands how my system works and we can begin to rotate the line-up more frequently."
Juventus could also soon be making the most of a new reinforcement, as David Trezeguet has resumed full training.
"I think our tiredness was perhaps more psychological than physical, although it only began to show in the last two rounds, so it was nothing too serious. Trezeguet is back to full fitness and after his check-up on Jan 10 I believe he'll be ready to play."
Capello is forced to make changes for Thursday's trip to Parma, as former local hero Lilian Thuram is suspended, giving Paolo Montero a rare start.
"Parma are a very dangerous outfit on the counter-attack," commented the Coach, "because they have so much quality. They had some chances to hurt Roma in their last match of 2004, even if they ended up losing 5-1. We must be careful and determined, as their position in the table does not represent Parma's true value."
The Gialloblu are currently lodged in the relegation zone and looking increasingly desperate, even if new tactician Pietro Carmignani has had a few weeks to work with the players since that Olimpico drubbing.
Juventus have unveiled a £200,000 donation to help build an orphanage in Thailand following the tsunami disaster. Many Italian clubs are collecting funds to help the Asian nations affected and there will be a minute's silence before all Thursday's Serie A games.
Parma 1 - 1 Juventus
Football Italia
A late Marco Marchionni goal has blown the Scudetto race wide open, as Milan cut the gap to just two points thanks to this draw. The Christmas break came at the right time for an increasingly tired Juventus outfit, so they were expected to start 2005 with a bang against relegation battlers Parma.
Gianluigi Buffon and Fabio Cannavaro returned to their old hunting ground, but ex-Gialloblu captain Lilian Thuram was suspended, giving Paolo Montero a rare start. Zlatan Ibrahimovic suffered a thigh injury during the warm-up, but was able to carry on following treatment.
The home side was without Contini and Pisanu due to bans, while star striker Alberto Gilardino was a major doubt due to a back problem, but was able to start in a new 5-3-1 formation.
Juve had a strong start and were unlucky after seven minutes when a spectacular dipping volley from Mauro Camoranesi went past the outstretched hand of Sebastien Frey, but smashed on to the far post. Pavel Nedved scuffed wide from a very promising position, then Gianluca Zambrotta had a good chance to break the deadlock.
Frey performed a simply stunning reaction save on Ibrahimovic, as the Swede was unmarked on the penalty spot on Jonathan Zebina's cross. There was controversy when Cesare Bovo's handling offence on an Ibrahimovic cross towards Alessandro Del Piero went unnoticed.
Parma hit back just before the break with Fabio Cannavaro and Paolo Montero flinging themselves bravely at both Gilardino and Mark Bresciano efforts. Gilardino then struck the side-netting from close range, but Daniele Bonera's defensive header nearly resulted in an own goal.
Frey was on stunning form and flew to palm out a Del Piero free kick, then just got a fingertip to Emerson's powerful long-range angled drive.
Del Piero, Nedved and Ibrahimovic combined passes quickly, but the Swede was unable to finish the move adequately. At the other end, Montero threw himself at Gilardino's feet to close down his counter-attack.
Gianluigi Buffon performed a tricky save on Gilardino's header from a corner kick, but it was Juventus who took the lead with a frankly avoidable goal. Ibrahimovic was left completely unmarked from six yards to nod in from a corner kick.
Camoranesi very nearly made it 2-0 moments later from an Ibrahimovic assist, then Nedved's swerving long-range strike was just wide and another fine effort from the former Ajax man frightened Frey.
However, despite all the pressure, Juve were unable to put the result beyond doubt and Parma drew level with five minutes left. Paolo Montero's error sent substitute Marco Marchionni running and he took two attempts to finally put the ball past Buffon.
The final stages were fiery, as Bovo flung himself at Zalayeta's feet to close down a shot, then Nedved called Frey into another fine save at the near post, but tough defending prevented Parma snatching a shock win on the counter-attack.
Parma: Frey; Ferronetti, Bovo, Bonera, P Cannavaro (Sorrentino 77), Potenza; Bresciano (Rosina 70), Grella (Marchionni 65), Simplicio; Morfeo; Gilardino
Juventus: Buffon; Zebina, Montero, F Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi (Kapo 86), Emerson, Blasi, Nedved; Ibrahimovic, Del Piero (Zalayeta 63)
Ref: De Santis
Post Match Comments
Fabio Capello: "We proved that we are on form, but unfortunately we wasted two or three chances to put the result beyond doubt and paid a heavy price for an unlucky error. When you play this well you tend to win, but this is football and we must accept the draw."
Capello's words
Juventus.com
At the end of the match against Parma, with the Bianconeri having to be content with the draw, Fabio Capello underlines his team's good performance, although he's obviously unhappy about the result.
"Good match. In soccer, drawing a match that you were supposed to win is part of the game. The draw at Parma was the result of a ball badly bounced but we still should have closed the match before. In fact, we had two or three scoring occasions after taking the lead but we did not take advantage of them and Frey was really good.
"Anyway I'm satisfied with the team's performance, they showed to be in a good condition and kept the high standard until the end against such a lively opponent; however, I'm not happy about the result. We've been stronger for most of the match, we could have won."
Capello: We're Still Alive And Kicking
Goal.com
The Juve coach was disappointed with the result but not with his side's performance in the match against Parma which ended 1-1.
A Marchionni goal 5 minutes from the end ruined a good Juventus performance and decreased their lead over Milan to two points. However this did not seem to worry Fabio Capello too much and he was still extremely positive at the end of the match.
"We are still first and the squad seemed very lively. We could have closed the match before but we didn't succeed mostly thanks to our opponent's goalkeeper, then an unlucky rebound betrayed Montero and Parma, maybe not deservedly, equalized.
"I admit that in our two previous matches we had some difficulties in building up chances, but today we didn't. We played well and only Frey's ability stopped us."
Juventus offer Legrottaglie, Iuliano to Parma for Bonera option
Tribal Football
Juventus are offering Parma defensive pair Nicola Legrottaglie and Mark Iuliano. Both players are deemed surplus to requirements by Juve coach Fabio Capello and are keen on joining Parma this month. Juve have offered both players in exchange for first option on Parma fullback Daniele Bonera.
Capello wants Bonera in Turin for the start of next season and hopes the loan of Legrottaglie and Iuliano will be enough to clinch first refusal from Parma.
Zambrotta on Sacchi list
Football Italia
Juventus defender Gianluca Zambrotta is the latest player to be associated with Real Madrid. Technical director Arrigo Sacchi is understood to be a massive fan of the Italian and is pondering a summer approach. However, it is widely understood that Zambrotta is one of the few players at Juve who is considered as untouchable.
Zambrotta has become one of the most consistent performers for his club and country over the last two seasons. The former Bari player has really caught the eye after he was converted from a winger into a left-back by former boss Marcello Lippi.
The Spanish giants may be looking for a new full-back given the uncertainty regarding the future of Roberto Carlos. The Brazilian, who joined Real from Inter in the mid 1990s, may finally be coming towards the end of his Liga stint.
Meanwhile, Juve veteran Paolo Montero is being linked with a move to Genoa during the next month. The Serie B side are ready to offer the Uruguayan central defender a contract until June 2007.
Cosmi in Montero chase
Football Italia
Veteran Juventus defender Paolo Montero could be set to join Serse Cosmi's Genoa in the January transfer window. The Uruguayan hard-man, who is no longer guaranteed first team football in Turin, is wanted by the Serie B club.
Genoa are offering Montero a contract which would be a year longer than the one he currently has with the Turin giants, which is set to expire in June 2006. Montero has struggled to find a regular spot with the Serie A leaders this term, although he is set to start in today's clash against Parma as Lilian Thuram is suspended.
The international would be swapping Juventus for another League leader in any case as Genoa are currently five points clear at the top of Serie B - and are favourites for promotion.
Another forgotten Juve man, Ciro Ferrara, has made it clear that he is not interested in leaving the club despite a number of teams making enquiries. Although he is no longer in the Bianconeri starting line up, Ferrara is hoping to reach 500 appearances in a Juve shirt before he calls it a day at the Stadio Delle Alpi.
If Juventus manage to win the title this year, and Ferrara is a part of it, he would net his eighth Scudetto.
Villarreal's Rodriguez: Who can turn down Juventus?
Tribal Football
Villarreal defender Gonzalo Rodriguez admits he welcomes the interest of Juventus. The Argentine youngster is being tracked by Juve and he told AS: "I know about the reports, but they're only rumours.
"Any player in the world would be delighted to play there (Juve). They're one of the biggest clubs in the world. Who wouldn't want to play there? But I am also happy in Spain with Villarreal. I consider myself lucky to be here."
Chelsea owner Abramovich linked with River Plate mega raid
Tribal Football
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has been linked with a sensational triple swoop on Argentine giants River Plate. Clarin says British media firm MSI is funding the deal, which has links with Abramovich and Corinthians supremo, the Iranian Kia Joorabchian.
MSI are said to have funded the mega deal which will see striker Maxi Lopez join Benfica, Lucho Gonzalez move to Corinthians and midfield ace Javier Mascherano sign with Chelsea. Abramovich has also been linked with Corinthians where Argie star Carlos Tevez was signed from Boca Juniors last month in a deal that rocked South American football.
Bordeaux's Mavuba welcomes Real Madrid rumours
Tribal Football
Bordeaux midfielder Rio Mavuba admits he is surprised to be linked with Real Madrid. The 20 year-old French international is being considered by Real GM Arrigo Sacchi for the winter market and is ahead of Benoit Pedretti (Marseille) and Thomas Gravesen (Everton) on his shortlist of midfield targets.
"It is incredible, but I would not have any fear going there," insisted Mavuba. The youngster has been likened to Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira and along with Real Madrid, is also being tracked by Manchester United and the Gunners.
Thursday 06 January
Buffon Thankful For Break
Goal.com
The Juventus number one shot stopper believes that the Christmas break arrived at the right moment.
The Bianconeri have been far from impressive in recent weeks and Gianluigi Buffon is the first to admit that the squad looked tired. However he is sure that thanks to the Christmas break, the 'Old Lady' is back on its feet and ready for the next important five months.
"We are fine. During training I saw the right intensity. The break helped us as we were tired. In the next five months, the motivations will be different."
Juventus will travel to Parma on Thursday in what looks like to be a tricky encounter. "On paper we are stronger than they are, but it won't be an easy match. If Gilardino was unavailable, it would be a big loss for them."
Juve veterans attract suitors
Sky Sports
Juventus' veteran central defenders Paolo Montero and Ciro Ferrara have both attracted interest from other Italian teams.
Montero is a target of Serie B side Genoa, who have offered the player a two-year deal and opened talks with the Turin club. It appears that Juve could well be tempted to part with the Uruguayan - who is contracted to the club until 2006, but the situation with Ferrara is a little more complicated.
Ferrara is widely expected to take up a managerial role in the club at the end of his career, and is expected to hang up his boots in the summer when his current contract ends. Mindful of this, suitors Parma have offered to take the defender on a six-month loan deal, but it appears even this could be doomed.
Ferrara is currently one game away from making his 500th Serie A appearance, a feat he wants to achieve whilst in he shirt of his beloved Juventus.
Genoa make bumper offer to Juventus veteran Montero
Tribal Football
Genoa president Enrico Preziosi has tabled a bumper contract offer to Juventus defender Paolo Montero. The Uruguayan veteran has struggled for match-time this season under coach Fabio Capello and has been told by Juve director general Luciano Moggi he can leave if he finds a suitable offer.
Preziosi has moved quickly in the first week of the winter market and offered Montero a lucrative two-year deal. The Genoa supremo hopes Juve will grant Montero a free transfer in order to sign him during the January transfer window.
Southampton move for Juventus defender Legrottaglie
Tribal Football
Southampton are being linked with Juventus defender Nicola Legrottaglie. Saints could scupper Parma's hopes of landing the Italy international on-loan for the second-half of the season. Legrottaglie has admitted he has an ambition of playing the Premiership, but was expected to join Parma on-loan after they had offered Juve first option on fullback Daniele Bonera.
Jankulovski unsure of future
Football Italia
Udinese's Marek Jankulovski says he knows nothing about reports linking him with a move to Milan. The Czech international is expected to be sold in the summer and the champions are believed to be in pole position for his services.
But the former Napoli player, who is also being monitored by both Inter and Juventus, insists nothing has been decided. "I've read the stories that Milan are very close to my signature but I don't know anything about them," he stated.
Jankulovski was expected to leave the Stadio Friuli in August but remained after a proposed move to Juve fell through. He recently extended his contract with the Bianconeri but he is still likely to be off at the end of the season.
"Juventus, Milan or Inter? It is difficult to say that one team is better than the other," he continued. "If it was down to me then I would possibly choose Juventus, so that I could play alongside my great friend Pavel Nedved."
Wednesday 05 January
Cannavaro: training is the secret
Juventus.com
"In fact we ended the year a little tired and the break came at the right moment. We have recharged our batteries now and after an intense working week we are ready to start again".
Starting again for Fabio Cannavaro means getting back to a city with a particular meaning to him: "I lived a fundamental time of my career in Parma and I must admit that getting back there is always emotional.
"It won't certainly be an easy match: I watched theirs against Milan, they're very good at boxing in and turning defence into attack. They have fast and young players, who are wishful to show their skills, and they have Gilardino, who's always dangerous; most of all, they need points.
"On our side, we have to earn the most of points during this time of the season, also because as of february, with the return of the Champions' League fixtures, the schedule will be quite busy."
Thuram will miss the Parma match; he, along with Cannavaro and Buffon, experienced the best season for the Gialloblu: "Lilian won't be there as he's disqualified; anyway, his substitute will certainly be up to the mark.
"Me and him the strongest couple of defenders? I don't know, don't forget Nesta and Maldini who won the Scudetto last year. We certainly get along well, we've known each other for many years and we're lucky to be playing for Juventus where all of the team mates give their support in defence."
What does Fabio Cannavaro wish for 2005?
"I hope to go on the way I've done so far. I want to play and train constantly, which had not been possible during the last two years due to my tibia constantly aching. Since I joined Juventus, on the contrary, I have not missed one training day and I believe that, in the end, the results on the pitch show."
Juventus make offer to Lazio's Giannichedda
Tribal Football
Juventus have made a pre-contract offer to Lazio winger Giuliano Giannichedda. The left-sided midfielder has been tabled a three-year contract, worth £1.2 million-a-season by Juve chiefs. The offer far outweighs anything Lazio president Claudio Lotito can put in front of Giannichedda.
Juve have made their move after accepting defeat to AC Milan in their pursuit of Udinese left winger Marek Jankulovski.
Juventus want Newcastle's Bernard on pre-contract
Tribal Football
Juventus are stepping up their interest for Newcastle United wing-back Olivier Bernard. The Frenchman is off contract in the summer and is set to be approached by Juve director general Luciano Moggi about next season.
Moggi hopes to tie Bernard to a pre-contract, but will have to see off competition from Middlesbrough and Everton to secure the left-sided wing-back.
Moggi prepares offer for Cesar
Yahoo! Italia Sport
Juventus is trying to beat Inter for Lazio's Cesar. Lazio president Lotito's demands for the Brazilian have been deemed excessive for Inter president Moratti, thus letting Moggi in onto negotiations.
Having admitted defeat in their pursuit of Jankulovski, the bianconeri could enter the winter market by bringing to Turin a player who can deputise for Pavel Nedved and Zambrotta.
In the bianconeri's targets is also Giogio Chiellini whom they loaned to Fiorentina on a co-ownership deal and intend to buy back next summer. With the young player Juventus will have an adequate alternative to Zambrotta and with Cesar as alternative to Nedved.
Moggi proposes Kapo and Olivera for Maicon
Yahoo! Italia Sport
Juventus is insisting on Maicon, Monaco's 20-year-old right wingback, though the French club does not intend to sell. During negotiations with Monaco's Congolese-born forward Shabani Nonda to Juventus in June, Moggi made advances on Maicon.
Both clubs have made tentative discussions on Monaco's appraisal on the promising South American player, but Monaco coach Didier Deschamps could also accept a player-exchange deal. The names mentioned so far are Olivier Kapo, Mark Iuliano, Ruben Olivera and Paolo Montero, who was a teammate of Deschamps during Marcello Lippi's first reign at Juventus.
However, it is too soon to speak about a concluded deal, as Moggi had also been tracking Bayern Munich's defender Samuel Kuffour.
Papa Gilardino reveals AC Milan deal: But we wanted Juventus!
Tribal Football
The father of Parma striker Alberto Gilardino has revealed an agreement has been struck with AC Milan for next season. Gianfranco Gilardino also admitted both he and his son were sold against their wished.
He told Tuttosport yesterday: "Alberto will play with Milan next year. Only minor details need to be agreed. For me and also for him the transfer is one of disappointment: to go to Juve would have been the fulfillment of a dream."
He added: "Juve could easily have signed Alberto. But they never came in for him. Staying at Parma was a mistake this season, he would have been better off joining Roma last summer."
On Real Madrid's interest, Gilardino Snr said: "Alberto would never have gone to Madrid, even if he does admire Arrigo Sacchi. It is far too far away from his home."
Tuesday 04 January
Parma - Juventus
Football Italia
Juve boss Fabio Capello will be hoping that the Christmas break did his players some good after they showed signs of fatigue towards the end of 2004. Although they ended the year four points clear of Milan, the Bianconeri were struggling to live up to their form from earlier this term.
On paper, their Week 17 trip to Parma shouldn't be too taxing when you consider that the Gialloblu are in deep relegation trouble and lost their last Serie A game 5-1 at Roma. However, new boss Pietro Carmignani has had a little more time to prepare his troops since his appointment last month.
Nevertheless, the Tardini Coach does have a few selection problems. Cardone, Marchionni, Bresciano and Grieco have had their fitness troubles recently. While Pisanu and Contini will be unavailable due to suspension. Parma's hopes of piercing a very solid Juve defence will fall on the shoulders of Alberto Gilardino – a striker who nearly moved to Turin in the summer.
Capello has few selections problems for Thursday's game. David Trezeguet is still not available even if he has returned to training. While Lilian Thuram won't face his former club as the stopper is suspended. Paolo Montero should step in for the former French international.
Parma (probable): Frey; Ferronetti, Bovo, Bonera, Potenza; Bolano, Simplicio; Rosina, Morfeo, Grella; Gilardino
Juventus (probable): Buffon; Zebina, Montero, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Emerson, Blasi, Nedved; Ibrahimovic, Del Piero
Ref: To follow...
Capello in confident mood
Football Italia
Fabio Capello is confident that his Juventus side will soon be back to their very best following a recent dip in form. The Bianconeri ended 2004 with a few struggles but the tactician is confident that the Christmas break has served them well.
"I'm convinced that we will do some positive things. We've done a specific type of preparation and I'm sure that will become clear over the next couple of games," he stated. "We were tired against Milan on December 18, psychologically more than physically. But I'm convinced that we will battle for major honours until the very end."
The former Roma tactician also expects the return from injury of David Trezeguet to be significant.
"We will need fresh players in the New Year and he could be our secret weapon at home and in Europe," he added. "But I'm happy that I have a large squad to choose from. I will now need to simply make the right selections."
The tactician was also asked to comment on Antonio Cassano, after the latter admitted that he missed Capello at Roma.
"It has always been the case that people become aware that they are missing people only after they have gone," he added. "Antonio was right in what he said because I did aid him to mature. I supported him more than I would have anyone else because he needed help to grow up."
Will he join Juve? "I'm not answering that question," replied the Coach. "There is no doubt that Cassano is a great player, one who can make a difference. Everybody would like to sign him."
Montero to face Parma
Football Italia
Paolo Montero will replace the suspended Lilian Thuram when Juventus face Parma on Thursday.
The Uruguayan should get a rare start after Thuram was ruled out of the game against his former club. Although boss Fabio Capello has numerous centre-back options, he is expected to select Montero alongside Fabio Cannavaro in defence.
The League leaders will also still be without David Trezeguet who is recovering from shoulder surgery. But they have been boosted with the news that both reserve 'keeper Antonio Chimenti and Emerson are available. There were some doubts regarding the Brazilian's fitness but he is likely to start at the Stadio Tardini.
Parma favourites for Juventus defender Legrottaglie
Tribal Football
Parma are favourites to land Juventus defender Nicola Legrottaglie. The Italy international is quitting the Turin giants to revive his career and is also interesting AS Roma. Roma coach Gigi del Neri insists they cannot afford his Chievo protege, however a swap deal could be on with Christian Panucci moving to Juve to keep the cash component down.
Real to target Pizarro
Football Italia
Udinese's David Pizarro is the latest Serie A player to be linked with a transfer to Real Madrid. The Spanish giants have been associated with a host of Italian based stars after the recent appointment of Arrigo Sacchi as technical director.
Now reports emerging from South America insist that Sacchi has Pizarro high on a transfer shortlist. The Chilean ace is widely regarded as one of the best playmakers in the Italian game right now. He's been paired with a host of top clubs in the past, such as Milan and Juventus, but he still finds himself at the Stadio Friuli.
However, any proposed move to Real will have to wait given that Udinese are unlikely to sell in January. The Friuli outfit have a number of desired individuals in their ranks but the club insist they will all remain.
"The team will not be losing anyone because we want to have a great season," stated chief Gianpaolo Pozzo before Christmas. "In fact, we could even add to the squad instead."
Udinese are currently in third place and many at the club are dreaming of qualifying for the Champions' League.
Real Madrid strike deal with Santos for £16M Robinho
Tribal Football
Real Madrid have reached an agreement with Santos for winger Robinho. Sources close to the deal have told AS that a fee of around £16 million has been agreed for the Brazil international. Robinho will move to Spain in June.
Chelsea and Benfica both tried to snatch Robinho from under the noses of Real, but the player's heart was set on moving to Spain and he insisted on Santos negotiating a deal with Madrid. Real intend to finalise negotiations this month and plan to formally announce the deal before the start of February.
The arrival of Wanderlei Luxemburgo as Real's coach also smoothed negotiations. Luxemburgo is happy to see Robinho remain in Brazil for the rest of the season. The winger will stay with Santos until their Liberatores campaign is over - the final is due to be played in July.
Barcelona register Bojinov interest with Lecce
Football Italia
Barcelona are again being linked with Lecce striker Valeri Bojinov. The 18 year-old Bulgaria international is expected to leave Lecce at the end of this season and has Barca, Chelsea and Juventus are suitors.
Barca great and Bulgaria trainer Hristo Stoichkov is urging Bojinov to follow his footsteps and move to the Nou Camp. Barca president Joan Laporta has discussed Bojinov with Stoichkov and is convinced the youngster can have a big future in Spain.
Barca sports director Txiki Begiristain has already registered their interest with Lecce, but the Italian club's demands of an outright sale mean no negotiations will open until the end of this season.
Caracciolo staying at Brescia
Football Italia
Andrea Caracciolo is a wanted man but his agent believes he will remain with Brescia for now.
"I recently spoke to the club and they have not even considered any offers for the player," stated Tiziano Gonzaga. "This is because they want the player to remain calm and tranquil regarding the current campaign.
"All that my client must think about now is to keep playing well and try to score 12-15 goals a season."
Caracciolo is one of Italy's most promising forwards and was recently handed his first Azzurri cap. The former Under-21 international is regularly finding the net this season and has been linked with both Juventus and Milan. But he also has admirers abroad with the likes of Liverpool, Arsenal and Shakthar Donetsk all keen.
Monday 03 January
Del Piero ready to shine
Sky Sports
Alessandro Del Piero is confident of having a positive second half of the season with Juventus. The Italian international has struggled for fitness and form for some time and his future has been cast into doubt due to his lack of sparkle.
Juventus have found a new talisman in Zlatan Ibrahimovic and it has been claimed that Del Piero will struggle to cement a regular place in the side as a consequence. Del Piero would appear to be unfazed by the media talk, as he is looking to show his class in the New Year.
"I'm ready for the challenges that are waiting for me," he said. "I have a contract that will expire in 2008 and I have plenty of time to leave a good memory. Anyway, the team is more important than who is playing."
Canna fears Parma trap
Football Italia
Fabio Cannavaro returns to face his former club at the Stadio Tardini on Thursday and warns that troubled Parma can still pose a threat.
"We must be very wary of their attacking potential," said the Juventus star ahead of his homecoming party. "The counter-attacks could be particularly dangerous for us."
Few teams have been able to break down Juve's defence so far this season, but Italian international Alberto Gilardino and his teammates are worrying Cannavaro.
"I don't think we have the strongest central defensive pairing in Italy," he noted of his partnership with Lilian Thuram that has been in place since their Parma days. "Alessandro Nesta and Paolo Maldini are better because they have won something."
It will be a different test for the Bianconeri, as Thuram is suspended for this difficult trip to face the Gialloblu.
"It is always an emotional moment for me when I step back into the Stadio Tardini, even if it will be strange without Thuram by my side. I'm sure that whoever replaces him will fill in admirably."
There could be further changes for Thursday's tie, as David Trezeguet resumed training for the first time since undergoing shoulder surgery and partnered Zlatan Ibrahimovic in a game between ranks.
"His return is very important to us," added the ex-Parma captain. "It's a crucial moment in the Championship and up until now our strikers have been doing over-time. In January there will be just one game per week, so we'll be able to work on our fitness rather than playing every three days."
Juventus chief plays down Cassano's Capello remarks
Tribal Football
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi has played down comments made by AS Roma striker Antonio Cassano yesterday about coach Fabio Capello. In a rare interview, Cassano declared he missed working for Capello and credited the Juve trainer with building his career while they were together at Roma.
Cassano has long been linked with Juve, but Moggi insisted last night: "Look, I don't believe it was some sort of secret message to Capello and myself. It was an honest interview, nothing more. Of course, it doesn't surprise me that players talk about Capello in that way."
Laporta: Barcelona still in Juventus talks over Tacchinardi
Tribal Football
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has confirmed they're still keen on signing Juventus midfielder Alessio Tacchinardi during the winter market.
"Yes, we hope that something can be done," he told Gazzetta dello Sport, "because we need a player of his characteristics. But I am afraid that it is going to be complicated because they have said to me that (Juve coach Fabio) Capello does not want him to leave."
Laporta was also quizzed about a possible return to Barca for Inter Milan midfielder Edgar Davids. "No, he isn't the type of midfielder we're looking for," the Barca president added. "We already have Deco playing in his position."
Agent reveals Juventus, Milan contact for Udinese's Pizarro
Tribal Football
The agent of Udinese midfielder David Pizarro has revealed the Chilean has attracted enquiries from the three biggest clubs in the country. Gustavo Ghezzi declared: "We cannot deny that contact has been made with Juventus. Neither can I deny talks with Inter and AC Milan, which has been following him closely.
"But the future for Pizarro depends on Udinese. If they qualify for the Champions League, then there is a great chance he will decide to stay with the club next season."
AC Milan on verge of deal for Udinese's Jankulovski
Tribal Football
AC Milan are on the verge of sealing a deal for Udinese midfielder Marek Jankulovski. Milan are locked in talks with Udinese over a fee for the Czech Republic international, with an agreement close to being struck for this month's winter market.
Milan are offering £5 million plus co-ownership of one of their young players in exchange for Jankulovski, who will remain with Udinese to the end of the season. Dario Simic, Fabricio Coloccini and Christian Brocchi have all been offered to Udinese.
"This year I will be 28 and I believe ready to make a jump to a big club," said Jankulovski. "Where? Well, I have my ideas. I see my Udinese president has talked about Milan. If he has confirmed it, then who am I to deny it? If I am to sign for Milan, then that would be a great move for me."
Sunday 02 January
Cassano: I miss Capello
Football Italia
Antonio Cassano has launched a sensational appeal to be reunited with Juve boss Fabio Capello in the future.
"I do miss Capello a bit. Well, actually quite a lot," revealed the Roma youngster. "He was the most important person in my career and I will never be able to thank him enough."
This is Cassano's first interview in almost a year and he chose it to break the bitter feud that has continued since Capello left to join Juve this summer. The Coach and captain Francesco Totti traded insults in the press, but instead of backing his teammates, the youngster has moved towards the 'traitor'.
"Nobody else has been able to deal with me the way Capello did," he told television news programme 'TG1'. "He made me into an international player. There were a few rows, but just like father and son."
These statements will cause shockwaves within the Giallorossi, who have treated Capello with little more than disdain since his surprise move towards Turin. There were already reports that Juventus were preparing a bid for the player, whose contract is up for renewal, while Real Madrid and other overseas clubs are also interested.
The ex-Bari starlet found his form during the first half of 2004 and was perhaps Italy's best player at the European Championships, but has struggled with injuries and blistering arguments with new Coach Gigi Del Neri this season.
"My hopes for 2005 are that I can win a prestigious trophy. I don't mind whether that's in Italy or abroad, as the important thing in life is not to be a loser. We'll start from Roma, as that is where I am now, but you never can tell what will happen."
Cassano's well-publicised disciplinary problems saw him frozen out of his club side and the Italy squad, but he expects to take centre stage from 2005.
"I do miss the Azzurri," he concluded, "but due to one problem or another I haven't yet been called up by Marcello Lippi. I hope to return soon."
Samuel living Real 'nightmare'
Football Italia
Argentine defender Walter Samuel has admitted his move to Real Madrid has turned into a 'nightmare'. The 26-year-old joined Los Merengues from Roma last summer in a €25 million deal and was hailed as the man to shore up Real's leaky backline.
However, he has struggled for form since moving to Spain and had a fall-out with the club's fans during a league match against Albacete in November when he allegedly made gestures after being jeered. He is now being linked with a return to Italy during the transfer window with Internazionale and Juventus both reported to be keen to offer him an escape route back to Serie A.
Samuel concedes that his stint in the Spanish capital has developed into something of a disaster.
"Playing for Real Madrid was a dream, but now I am living a nightmare," he told Corriere dello Sport. "I have to admit that I have not performed to the best of my ability, and I have had to endure whistles from the fans which is something I never had either at Roma or Boca Juniors."
Pizarro's agent confirms Inter and Juve interest
Yahoo! Italia Sport
David Pizzaro's agent has said that the Chilean playmaker will stay with Udinese until the end of the season.
"His future will be decided by Udinese and whether they get into the Champions' League." he declared. "I do not refute that we have had contact with Inter and Juventus, but for now they have only made enquiries. We also have an optimal relationship also with Milan."
Saturday 01 January
Moggi targets Heitinga and Van der Vaart
Yahoo! Italia Sport
After Ibrahimovic's success, Juve has now targeted other Ajax stars. The primary targets are Johnny Heitinga and Rafael van der Vaart. The former is a defender and would represent a change for Thuram and Cannavaro, while the other is a central midfielder that would be a perfect complement to Emerson.
Other Ajax players Moggi is scouting include defensive trio Hatem Trabelsi, Maxwell and Zdenek Grygera, but at the moment all three remain as secondary objectives. The key in order to obtain these players is through Mino Raiola, who is also Ibrahimovic's agent. The Juve board need only guarantee the financings.
Juve and Milan to bid for Atalanta starlets
Yahoo! Italia Sport
The two Serie A title challengers are expected to fight out another challenge for Atalanta's young stars Giampaolo Pazzini and Riccardo Montolivo. Montolivo is a forward who can play on the left while Pazzini is a striker.
Juventus are expected to make a bid for the duo during the transfer window but immediately loan them back until the end of the season. Milan appears to be primarily interested in Montolivio, and have already made a bid for first option on the player, which was rejected by the Bergamo club, who are waiting for a better offer.
Moggi turns to Maicon
Yahoo! Italia Sport
The christmas break came at a right time for Juventus as it allows the bianconeri to recharge their batteries. However Fabio Capello is still not satisfied with some parts of his defensive mechanism and would like to make some reinforcements.
While rumors of a player exchange involving Nicola Legrottaglie and Roma's Christian Panucci are always alive, recent comments made by the player's agent in the last few days has not convinced Luciano Moggi of Panucci's desire.
Hence Juve's transfer guru has resumed negotiations with Monaco for the Brazilian Maicon. The skillful wingback is part of the Brazil's successful Copa America squad and could arrive in January, while another alternative would be Lazio's Massimo Oddo.
Milan derby for Samuel swoop
Football Italia
The two San Siro giants are said to be clashing on the transfer market in a bid to bring Walter Samuel back to Serie A in a £17.6m deal. It has been just six months since the defender left Roma for Real Madrid, but he has struggled to settle at the troubled Bernabeu club.
The arrival of new director of football Arrigo Sacchi has sparked massive changes, starting with the signing of Brazilian Coach Wanderley Luxemburgo, and there are set to be more developments during the January transfer window.
Inter were already in the running for Samuel's signature when he opted for Madrid, so with their own defensive worries and the lack of viable replacements for Fabio Cannavaro, they are leading the race to bring him back to Italy.
On the other hand, Milan would bring in the Argentine to strengthen an already impressive - but extremely veteran - back-line that currently includes Paolo Maldini, Marcos Cafu, Giuseppe Pancaro, Jaap Stam and Billy Costacurta.
The Rossoneri might find it difficult to raise the ready cash, but would have a direct link to the Madrid hierarchy through their former Coach Sacchi. Other options for Samuel would be Juventus and Chelsea.
