This
web site is an online diary maintained by azzurri.Friday 14 January
Coppa: Lazzari treble sinks Juve
Football Italia
Andrea Lazzari netted a superb hat-trick as Atalanta knocked Juventus out of the Coppa Italia. The 20-year-old was the hero in tonight's 3-3 draw, just weeks after he grabbed a brace in the 2-0 first leg victory.
Returning striker David Trezeguet got on the scoresheet for the home side, after his three-month injury lay-off, but was overshadowed by the Nerazzurri youngster.
Atalanta got off to the worst possible start as Cesare Natali scored an own goal just four minutes into the game. But the Bergamo boys hit back almost immediately when Lazzari ran through to score his first of the night.
Zalayeta put Juventus in front again on 33 minutes but the Under-21 international made sure his side went in level by netting just before the interval. Trez made it 3-2 as he finished well from close range, only for Lazzari to collect his third in injury time.
Atalanta, who were aided by the 79th minute dismissal of Alessio Tacchinardi, now face Inter in the quarter finals.
Juventus 3-3 Atalanta (3-5 on agg)
Scorers: Natali (A) og 4, Lazzari (A) 10, 43, 91, Zalayeta (J) 33, Trezeguet (J) 79
Capello unleashes Trez
Football Italia
Juventus need three goals tonight to stay in the Coppa Italia and David Trezeguet makes his comeback against Atalanta.
"What do I expect from my players? Simple, three goals," said Fabio Capello in his press conference. The result is crucial following their shock 2-0 first leg defeat at the Stadio Azzurri d'Italia, but at the same time he must rotate the squad.
This gives David Trezeguet the perfect opportunity to stage his comeback almost four months after undergoing shoulder surgery.
"David will play 60, 70 or 90 minutes, as it all depends on his match fitness and his feelings during the game. He is undoubtedly an important element for us, a player who provides us with a certain number of goals each season and key to our tactical style."
However, the Frenchman got on Capello's wrong side earlier this week when he told newspapers that Juve needed to start scoring more goals.
"Perhaps Trezeguet hasn't read the Serie A table recently," snapped the Coach. "We are top of the table with the third most prolific attack, our goals are spread out evenly throughout the squad and our goal difference is impressive."
Trezeguet's return also brings up other issues, such as the future of captain Alessandro Del Piero, who has already been substituted 17 times in 18 official appearances.
"You journalists think that Del Piero will be on the bench from now on, but I make my choices based on what I see in training and during the games. Everyone will have a chance to break into the first team."
With the arrival of Adrian Mutu at the club, this leaves Del Piero's position in serious doubt, even if the Romanian won't be available until his worldwide drugs ban expires on May 18. Meanwhile, there are already reports in the Italian Press that Mutu has only been signed as a summer offer to Roma in order to tempt them into releasing Antonio Cassano.
Juventus signing Mutu a "happy man"
Tribal Football
New Juventus signing Adrian Mutu admits he is "a happy man". The Romanian was secured to a five-year contract on Wednesday and will be free to play a role in this season's title run-in when his drugs ban ends.
"I am a happy man," said the former Chelsea striker, "because for me, Juventus is the biggest club in the world. There have been some talk over the last two years of me joining Juventus and now it has become a reality. I am very happy and want to do my best for this club and repay the faith they have shown in me."
Juventus release Iuliano to Real Mallorca
Tribal Football
Juventus have sold defender Mark Iuliano to Real Mallorca. With Iuliano inside the last six months of his contract, Juve agreed to release him to sign for Mallorca on a free transfer. The veteran of four Serie A championships will earn himself a long-term deal should he help Mallorca stave off relegation this season.
Barcelona told they must sign Juventus' Tacchinardi outright
Tribal Football
Barcelona must make a cash offer for Juventus midfielder Alessio Tacchinardi if they want to sign the Italian this month. Tacchinardi's agent, Alessandro Moggi, insists his client "will not play on-loan at any club", which has forced Barca into considering buying the utility.
Ideally, Barca wanted to take Tacchinardi on-loan for six months as cover for their injury-hit midfield, but now may be forced to look elsewhere for reinforcements due to the player's demands.
Japanese job for Del Piero?
Football Italia
As Juve's moves on the transfer market hot up, Bianconeri captain Alessandro Del Piero is tempted by the J-League. The Italian international has a troubled relationship with Fabio Capello after being substituted by the Coach 17 times this season.
David Trezeguet's return from injury, which sees the Frenchman start in Juve's Coppa Italia tie tonight, could see Pinturicchio pushed back on to the bench. The Azzurri star is highly rated in Japan, and a number of clubs have made it clear that they could offer Del Piero an incredible financial package, including J-League giants Kashima Antlers.
The Delle Alpi favourite has consistently refused a move away from the club which he has come to symbolise, though at the age of 30 his career has been winding down with a succession of injuries and long patches of poor form.
Meanwhile, Nicola Legrottaglie and Igor Tudor are close to agreeing terms for their transfer to the UK. Both players are being courted by West Bromwich Albion, who seem on the verge of pulling off an impressive coup. The Bianconeri are cutting down on their squad after selling Mark Iuliano to Hector Cuper's Real Majorca in a permanent move.
Adidas back Yokohama bid for Del Piero
Tribal Football
J-League club Yokohama Marinos are preparing a massive offer for Juventus attacker Alessandro del Piero. Its understood sportswear giants Adidas are involved in the deal, which would see Del Piero playing in Japan next season. Adidas sponsor both Del Piero and Yokohama and are keen to see the deal happen.
Del Piero's future at Juve is in doubt following Wednesday's announcement that Adrian Mutu has been secured to a five-year contract.
Barcelona must find £6M for Udinese's Iaquinta
Tribal Football
Barcelona have been told they must cough up £6 million if they want to sign Udinese striker Vincenzo Iaquinta. The Italian centre-forward is Barca's top choice to replace the crocked Henrik Larsson, but are baulking at Udinese's asking price.
Barca would prefer a loan deal, which has been categorically ruled out by Udinese president Giampaolo Pozzo. Barca president Joan Laporta has the cash to spend, but is reluctant to go higher than £2.5 million.
Pozzo will only sell for a big fee this month as ideally he would prefer to hold onto Iaquinta as Udinese seek Champions League qualification for the first time.
Arsenal, Spurs can land Brescia's Caracciolo for £6.5M
Tribal Football
Arsenal have been linked with Brescia centre-forward Andrea Caracciolo. Brescia are ready to cash in on the centre-forward this month with local press reports suggesting a sale could be completed in days.
Caracciolo has already turned down a lucrative move to Ukraine after rejecting an offer from Shakhtar Donetsk. However, if a bid of £6.5 million arrives, Brescia have made it known they will not stand in the young striker's way.
Along with Arsenal, Tottenham and Barcelona are also monitoring the situation. If Brescia do sell Caracciolo this month, they will move for Udinese striker Dino Fava.
Inter Milan locked in Messina talks over Parisi
Tribal Football
Inter Milan have resumed talks with Messina this week over wing-back Alessandro Parisi. After being priced out of a deal for Lazio's Cesar and being snubbed by Marek Jankulovski of Udinese, Inter chiefs are now locked in talks with Messina over left-sided Parisi.
Inter and Messina have actually been negotiating a deal for Parisi since November, but discussions have intensified over the past few days after the snubs from Udinese and Lazio. Parisi has been one of the big influences on Messina's surprise success in Serie A this season and has been likened to former Inter star Roberto Carlos.
Inter coach Roberto Mancini, despite his public declarations, is desperate to strengthen the left-side of his midfield and would welcome the January arrival of Parisi.
Livorno coach Donadoni wants Roma's D'Agostino as first signing
Tribal Football
New Livorno coach Roberto Donadoni wants to make AS Roma midfielder Gaetano D'Agostino his first signing. Roma are ready to offload the youngster, who can be signed on-loan this month and has already been the subject of enquiries from Rangers and Cagliari.
Lippi to boss in benefit tie
Football Italia
Marcello Lippi will lend his coaching skills to a special benefit match for victims of the tsunami disaster in Asia. FIFA and UEFA have joined forces to organise the event, to be held at Barcelona's Nou Camp on February 15, and the Italy boss is set to take charge of one of two star-studded teams.
Aided by Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger, Lippi will have Ballon d'Or winner Andriy Shevchenko as team captain, and a squad of as yet unconfirmed world stars at his disposal. Their opponents will be skippered by World Player of the Year and former Paris Saint-Germain star Ronaldinho, with former Brazil boss Carlos Alberto Parreira and current Barcelona Coach Frank Rijkaard in the rival dugout.
Barcelona are providing their stadium free of charge and all proceeds from the game will go to the Tsunami Solidarity Fund, set up by FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation.
Collina abdicates his crown
Football Italia
Pierluigi Collina is no longer considered as the world's best referee according to a new poll. The Italian's six-year reign is over as he slipped to No 2 in he latest IFFHS – The International Federation of Football History and Statistics – rankings.
The organisation rated Markus Merk as the best ref in 2004, after the German picked up 126 votes in comparison to Collina's 122. The Kaiserslautern-born Merk, a qualified dentist, took control of the Euro 2004 Final between Portugal and winners Greece.
Swedish official Anders Frisk, who was struck by a coin during the Roma - Dynamo Kiev game earlier this term, came in third. Collina, 45, is now approaching the end of his career but FIFA boss Sepp Blatter recently gave him the nod to appear at the next World Cup.
"In my opinion, you can't tell how good a referee is by looking at his age but by his physical and psychological condition," he said. Collina is expected to retire at he end of this season given that he has now reached the maximum age limit for a referee.
Thursday 13 January
Official - Mutu signs for Juve
Football Italia
Juventus have officially signed former Chelsea star Adrian Mutu, though he won't be available until his drugs ban expires in May. Reports in his native Romania over the last few days had hinted at a pre-contract agreement penned with the Bianconeri, but late this evening the five-year deal was confirmed by the Juventus website.
Mutu had been linked to Juve even before he tested positive for cocaine and was handed a seven-month suspension. Chelsea fired the player, so he is free to sign for any club he wants, even if the Stamford Bridge side has hinted it wants compensation from his future employers.
As the ban expires on May 18, the Romanian will be able to play the final two games of the Serie A season. Mutu turned 26 years of age on Saturday and the interest of other sides, including Fiorentina, has evidently pushed Juventus to stake their claim early.
He therefore returns to Serie A, where he had successful spells at Inter, Hellas Verona and Parma before joining Chelsea in a £15.8m move.
Chelsea demand millions from Juventus over Mutu
Tribal Football
Chelsea are threatening to block Juventus' signing of disgraced striker Adrian Mutu. The Romanian striker, sacked by Chelsea in October after testing positive for cocaine, signed a five-year contract with the Italian club last night and could return to action in May following a seven-month drugs ban.
However, Chelsea still hold the player's registration and it will not be released until after his claim for wrongful dismissal is heard by the Premier League, which is expected to be in the next 10 days.
The Blues will demand compensation from Juve for Mutu, who is valued at £13.7 million. Their resolve will not waver and if they fail to extract a transfer fee from Juventus they could pursue compensation through the courts.
A Chelsea source told the Evening Standard: "Our position hasn't changed one iota. We definitely feel we deserve some compensation from the player or his new club. You don't just wave goodbye to a £13m asset and say so be it."
Zebina snubbed Milan duo
Football Italia
Jonathan Zebina has revealed that he snubbed moves to both Milan clubs in favour of Juventus. The defender left Roma on a free transfer in the summer, opting for a switch to Turin rather than the San Siro. In an interview with France Football magazine, the stopper described how he almost signed for Milan but Carlo Ancelotti wanted him to deputise for Jaap Stam.
"I also refused Inter when they offered me a ridiculously low contract," explained the right-back."In the end I chose Juventus because they promised me a French boss but then Fabio Capello arrived instead – a Coach who I rate highly."
The Turin giants were expected to hire Monaco tactician Didier Deschamps before Capello was offered the job. Since signing for Juventus, Zebina has been capped for his country and credits the move to the Old Lady for raising his international profile.
Iuliano sold to Majorca
Football Italia
Juventus defender Mark Iuliano has been sold to Spanish side Majorca for an undisclosed sum. The player has not started for the Bianconeri in the League this season, making just one appearance in the Coppa Italia against Atalanta.
Former international Iuliano has been on the transfer list for some time, and the move could see him return to first team action in Spain's top Division. The full-back signed for Juve in 1996 and went on to win the Scudetto four times, two Italian Super Cups and a European Super Cup.
Iuliano Delighted By Mallorca Move
Goal.com
Mark Iuliano is relishing a fresh challenge at Mallorca after he completed his move from Juventus. The 31-year-old explained that it did not take him long to decide that a move to the Balearic club was the right move, even though they are in a relegation scrap.
But he also revealed that there were controversial reasons behind his inability to win a regular place in the Juve starting line-up over the past two seasons.
"I was not playing at Juventus for reasons that I do not want to make public," he said. "I think that joining Mallorca was the best move. After nine years in Turin I needed a new challenge.
"The club president, Mateo Alemany, only needed 15 minuts to convince me to join. It is a great opportunity for me both personally and professionally. The only concern I had was the position of Mallorca in league, but I have come here to help them and to enjoy success in the next few seasons."
Juventus favourites to land Benfica's Miguel
Tribal Football
Juventus are favourites to land Benfica wing-back Miguel. The Portugal international has already been the subject of a £6.5 million offer from Juve and directors are confident a deal will be struck at the end of this season.
Juve director general Luciano Moggi sees Miguel as a more consistent answer at right-back than Jonathan Zebina. Benfica have already indicated they will sell the young fullback in the summer, having enquired after potential replacements Rui Duarte (Estoril) and Abel (Sporting Braga).
Juventus in Bosman talks with Mutu, Monaco's Nonda
Tribal Football
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi is maintaining talks with two attacking Bosman targets for next season. Disgraced former Chelsea striker Adrian Mutu and AS Monaco's Shabani Nonda are both being lined up by Moggi for end-of-season deals.
Moggi's son, Alessandro, is now Mutu's agent and the Romanian will be free to resume his career this summer when he drugs ban runs out. Its been suggested Moggi Snr fancies Mutu as a potential replacement for the out-of-form Alessandro del Piero.
Meanwhile, Moggi is also keen on Nonda - but is unlikely to actually sign him to play for Juve. Moggi is considering securing Nonda to a contract in June and then immediately offer him to AS Roma to help seal a deal for defender Cristian Chivu in the summer.
Juventus veteran Iuliano waiting on Liverpool talks
Tribal Football
Liverpool are being linked with Juventus stopper Mark Iuliano. The experienced centre-half is off contract at the end of this season and Liverpool want to speak with the Italian about a Bosman deal in the summer. Iuliano has been told by Juve he can leave during this month's transfer window, but has already turned down offers from Olympiakos and Lokomotiv Moscow.
Parma and Bologna have held talks with Iuliano, but were scared off by his personal demands, while an offer remains on the table from Real Mallorca. While interested in a move to Spain, Iuliano wants to wait to see what Liverpool have to offer before making a final decision.
Juventus stopper Legrottaglie considers Villa, West Brom offers
Tribal Football
Juventus defender Nicola Legrottaglie is considering two offers from the Premiership. The former Chievo stopper can be signed on-loan from Juve and is weighing up contract offers from West Brom and Aston Villa.
Baggies boss Bryan Robson indicated on Tuesday that he hadn't given up on landing Legrottaglie, while its understood Villa have already agreed personal terms with the defender. In Italy, Villa are now regarded as favourites to land Legrottaglie, but much will depend on their interest in Newcastle United centre-half Andy O'Brien.
Italy make Euro 2012 bid
Football Italia
The Italian Football Federation will make a bid to host the 2012 European Championships. Italy have been linked with the tournament for some months and it has now been confirmed that the country will make an attempt to grab the event.
Federation chief Franco Carraro today held talks with Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi who promised government backing. The FIGC need the government's full support given that numerous stadia, already built for the 1990 World Cup, would need restructuring.
The peninsula has already hosted the tournament twice in the past in 1968, when the Azzurri won it, and 1980. UEFA, European football's governing body, will make a decision on whom to give the Finals to in December 2006. It is understood that Italy will face competition from Greece and a joint-bid from Poland and the Ukraine for the 2012 games.
Wednesday 12 January
Zebina wary of Milan surge
Football Italia
Juventus defender Jonathan Zebina believes his team need to rediscover their form quickly or risk being overtaken by Milan. Fabio Capello's side re-established a four-point advantage over Milan at the top of Serie A at the weekend, but Zebina still feels they will have their work cut out to clinch the Scudetto.
"It's obvious that the Rossoneri are better than anyone right now," the 26-year-old told France Football magazine. "They are going through the same exceptional period that we had at the start of the season.
"When we played them on December 18 they dominated the game, so in the end, a draw wasn't a bad result for us. We weren't good that night. We didn't impose ourselves and we allowed them to slowly take control of the spaces and the game which could have been fatal."
The Frenchman, who has established himself as the Juventus right-back following a summer move from Roma, added: "We still have our destiny in our own hands and it's up to us to re-find our rhythm quickly so that we maintain our advantage."
Moggi U-turn as Davids' Juventus return back on
Tribal Football
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi will have to eat humble pie if he is to bring Edgar Davids back to the club this month. Moggi fell out with the Dutchman over his contract wrangle last season, but Davids is wanted by Juve coach Fabio Capello, who is desperate to boost his midfield options.
Capello is refusing to allow Alessio Tacchinardi to leave for Barcelona during the winter market as he wants to use him as a bargaining chip with Inter over Davids.
The Juve coach regards only Emerson as an automatic selection in his midfield and wants Davids to play alongside the Brazilian. He has failed to be convinced by Stephen Appiah and Manuele Blasi.
Moggi has also asked for Davids' teammate, Cristiano Zanetti, but Inter coach Roberto Mancini refuses to allow the Italy international to leave the San Siro during January.
Bologna in talks with Juventus defender Legrottaglie
Tribal Football
Bologna are in advanced talks with Juventus stopper Nicola Legrottaglie. Despite an offer from Aston Villa reportedly on the table, Legrottaglie is now close to agreeing terms with Bologna over a deal which will see him play out the season on-loan.
Bologna have already struck an agreement with Juve over the move, but are baulking at paying 100 per cent of Legrottaglie's £650,000 wages he is due for the second-half of the season.
West Brom still hopeful over Legrottaglie
Tribal Football
West Brom boss Bryan Robson remains hopeful of landing Juventus defender Nicola Legrottaglie. The Italy international is available from Juve and has held talks with Aston Villa, Bologna and the Baggies.
Bologna are deemed favourites to land Legrottaglie, having already agreed a six-month loan deal with Juve. However, the Serie A club are having troubling matching the defender's wages.
Udinese reject Barcelona move for Iaquinta
Tribal Football
Udinese have rejected an approach from Barcelona for centre-forward Vincenzo Iaquinta. Barca wanted to take the striker on-loan for the rest of the season, but the enquiry was politely turned down by Udinese president Giampaolo Pozzo.
Pozzo insists none of his players will move from Udinese during January's market as they battle to win qualification for next season's Champions League for the first time in the club's history.
Juventus, Fiorentina and Palermo have all made enquiries after Iaquinta this season and Pozzo expects to sell the striker in the summer at a starting price of £10 million.
Parisi wanted by Inter
Football Italia
Inter want to sign Alessandro Parisi from Messina and could offer Giovanni Pasquale in exchange. The Sicilian club's 27-year-old defender, who has impressed this season, has caught the attention of Inter President Massimo Moratti. The Nerazzurri chief seems to be eyeing the Italian international as interest in Lazio's Cesar has cooled.
Arsenal ponder £17M bid for Chelsea, Man Utd target Essien
Tribal Football
Arsenal are involved in a four-way battle for Lyon midfield ace Mikael Essien. The Evening Standard says Essien has caught the eye of Gilles Grimandi, the former Arsenal defender who is now the club's scout in France, and is being monitored carefully.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger would prefer to wait until the summer to make any move for the player, who is valued at around £17 million by Lyon. But he could be forced into the market this month with Edu refusing to sign a new contract and Gilberto Silva struggling to shake off a persistent back injury.
Chelsea, Manchester United and Real Madrid also watching Essien closely.
Government To Back Italy's Euro 2012 Bid
Goal.com
The Italian government said on Wednesday that they will give full backing to the country's bid to host Euro 2012. "Italy launches its bid for the European Championship with the full support of the Italian government," Undersecretary Gianni Letta told a news conference.
Uefa will decide on the venue in December 2006.
Tuesday 11 January
Trezeguet gets green light
Football Italia
David Trezeguet is set to return to action this week after the Juventus ace passed a medical. The player, who has been out since having a shoulder operation in October, underwent a vital test in Lyon this afternoon.
The French International received the green light from professor Gilles Walch, the same doctor who operated on him before Christmas. Trezeguet is now expected to feature in Juve's Coppa Italia match against Atalanta on Thursday.
"I want to play as soon as I can," the striker emphasised. "On a psychological level, I'm there already and I have absolutely no fear of getting stuck in again."
The player's absence has seen Delle Alpi favourite Alessandro Del Piero return to scoring form, but Trezeguet now seems ready to battle for his place.
"I can't wait to play with my teammates again," he said, but admitted to some apprehension. "I am still worried about not being in top athletic and technical condition after the long lay off, so I hope I'll be ready when called upon."
His team have certainly coped well without him after they were crowned Winter champions on Sunday. The unofficial title, which is given to the League leaders at the half way stage of the season, is broadly seen as an indication of who will win the Scudetto.
However, the actual statistics show that this has only come true 47 times out of 72 in the history of Serie A. Fabio Capello's Roma were in pole position this time last year, but ended up losing out to Milan. Juventus have been crowned Winter champions 23 times in their history, winning the Scudetto on 16 of those occasions.
Capello, now Juve boss, has been at the top of the table at this stage of the season eight times in his career. Four of those were with Milan and three with Roma. The Rossoneri went on to claim the Scudetto all four times, but the Giallorossi managed to win the title just once.
Juventus chief: No story in Del Piero substitution
Tribal Football
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi has defended coach Fabio Capello's decision to substitute Alessandro del Piero during Sunday's victory over Livorno.
"When there are many champions in your squad, it is difficult to manage them all. But clearly you select whoever plays better," said Moggi. "Del Piero had an excellent first-half and when he exited he did not contest the substitution. He will return to be very useful for us, especially when Trezeguet returns."
Villa make Legrottaglie bid
Football Italia
Juventus are considering offers for two defenders who are not part of Fabio Capello's plans. Aston Villa have put in a bid for Nicola Legrottaglie, which could see the Italian lured to the Premiership. The Bianconeri are looking to reduce the size of their squad, and the out of favour stopper has been told that he is free to leave.
The Birmingham based club have this afternoon gone through the terms of their bid with Juve and the player's agent, and are now waiting for a response from both parties.
Veteran defender Mark Iuliano may also be set for a move overseas as Majorca have expressed an interest. The Spanish club's sporting director is set to meet with the former Salernitana player in the next couple of days to discuss terms.
Serie A outfits Siena and Bologna have not entirely lost hope of luring the former international south of Turin, but Iuliano's high wage demands may scupper any deal.
Juventus ready to bid for Udinese kid Muntari
Tribal Football
Juventus are interested in Udinese's exciting midfielder Sulley Muntari. The 20 year-old is the subject of an enquiry from Juve director general Luciano Moggi, who could follow that with a concrete bid this month.
Both Moggi and Juve coach Fabio Capello are fans of Muntari, but regard the youngster as a long-term prospect. The plan is to secure the midfielder to a Juve contract, but loan him back to Udinese for at least another 12 months, if not longer, to continue his rapid development.
Udinese coach Luciano Spalletti said of his prospect: "He is an outstanding talent who is always prepared to listen and learn. He has a great touch and excellent technical ability."
Villa deal on for Juventus' Legrottaglie
Tribal Football
Aston Villa have agreed personal terms with Juventus defender Nicola Legrottaglie. Its reported that the Italy international is keen on a move to Villa Park and that the Midlands club have officially opened talks with Juve about a fee for the player.
Juve have made Legrottaglie available this month and are unlikely to set a high price for his transfer. Its been suggested Villa will seek a six-month loan for the ex-Chievo stopper at a low price with the option of signing him permanently at the end of this season.
Inter Milan turn to Messina's Parisi
Tribal Football
Inter Milan are turning to Messina wing-back Alessandro Parisi to solve the problems on the left-side of their midfield. Inter supremo Massimo Moratti is fed up with the delays over negotiations for Lazio wing-back Cesar and is now putting together a bid for Parisi.
Moratti intends to offer Giovanni Pasquale, plus a cash component, to Messina for Parisi. But won't move until a final round of talks with coach Roberto Mancini, who is still determined to prise Cesar away from former club Lazio.
Monday 10 January
Juventus 4 - 2 Livorno
Football Italia
Juve put in another disappointing performance, but still get back on track with a victory against troubled Livorno. Juventus saw their lead sliced to just two points going into this game, with two consecutive draws against Milan and Parma.
However, they were the overwhelming favourites to get the victory against Livorno. With both Cristiano and Alessandro Lucarelli suspended, they also froze Igor Protti out of the side following his public row with Coach Franco Colomba.
Ruben Olivera surprisingly started in midfield, as Manuele Blasi was sent to the stands. Gigi Buffon was tested by a Doga chance, then Zlatan Ibrahimovic turned a free header just wide of the post from a corner kick. Marco Amelia then rushed off his line to clear from Pavel Nedved as Juve dominated the early play.
Alessandro Del Piero has been criticised in the press recently and substituted repeatedly, but it was the captain who opened the scoring after 17 minutes. He lost his marker to nod in Olivera's sweeping free kick from eight yards.
There was only one team in it and soon after Juve doubled their lead with a chaotic move. Ibrahimovic's diving header on a Zebina cross was pushed on to the crossbar by Fabio Galante, but Mauro Camoranesi was ready to tap in the loose ball.
Marco Amelia flew to fingertip an Ibrahimovic header over the bar, a move started by an impressive Del Piero backheel. Livorno may have had no strikers, but they still pierced the Juventus defence just before the break. Doga's long cross found a diving Jose Luis Vidigal header at the back post.
The visitors managed to string together a few corner kicks in the second half and Olivera's promising counter-attack was halted by Vargas. Del Piero's confidence was boosted and he performed a stunning piece of trickery with two backheels to send Nedved running, then curled a free kick just over the bar.
Livorno were also more confident and Buffon bravely rushed off his line with a perfectly timed tackle on Danilevicius, while Vigiani could only hit the side-netting of an open goal. Melara accidentally deflected an Ibrahimovic cross on to his own crossbar, giving Livorno a lucky escape.
Juve were beginning to struggle, but managed to restore their two-goal cushion with 15 minutes to go. Alessio Tacchinardi's cross was touched back for an Ibrahimovic piledriver from the edge of the box. There were protests that Zalayeta handled the ball, but the referee waved play on.
Yet Livorno re-opened the match yet again in the closing stages, as Matteo Melara was allowed too much time to control a corner kick and nod in from close range. There was controversy moments later when Vidigal was clearly held back by Fabio Cannavaro as he tried to reach Doga's cross, but the Portuguese player was also probably offside.
However, in the final minute Tacchinardi was brought down by Amelia and Camoranesi converted the resulting penalty.
Juventus: Buffon; Zebina, Thuram, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Emerson, Olivera (Tacchinardi 63), Nedved; Ibrahimovic (Pessotto 85), Del Piero (Zalayeta 67)
Livorno: Amelia; Balleri, Melara, Vargas, Galante; Passoni, Doga, Vidigal, Grauso (Colombo 76); Danilevicius, Vigiani
Ref: Farina
Post-Match Comments
Fabio Capello: "Livorno never give in, so it becomes dangerous when you give away two goals. At the start we were moving the ball around well, but in the second half we began to hold on to it for too long. Nonetheless, I believe the team knew how to survive under pressure. Alessandro Del Piero's substitution was a purely tactical choice, and there are no untouchables here."
Camoranesi the protagonist
Juventus.com
Mauro Camoranesi is once again a protagonist. The Italian-Argentine player scored two goals (the second on penalty) against Livorno and nearly scored a third one with a great header in the second half.
Camo comments his and the team’s performances: “I’m very happy about my first double but what makes me more satisfied are the three points, which we gained not without difficulties. We played very well in the first half, we created many scoring occasions, while in the second half we found a more self-confident Livorno”
Juve coach Capello praises Livorno
Tribal Football
Juventus maintained their momentum at the top of Serie A with a convincing 4-2 defeat of Livorno at the Stadio Delle Alpi. Mauro Camoranesi netted twice for Fabio Capello's men, the first of which gave Juve a 2-0 lead after Alessandro Del Piero had opened the scoring after 17 minutes.
Jose Luis Vidigal pulled one back shortly before the interval but Zlatan Ibrahimovic restored the home side's two-goal lead with a quarter of an hour remaining. Matteo Malara reduced the arrears, and gave the Leghorn side brief hope of snatching a draw, but Camoranesi had the final say with a last-minute penalty.
Juve coach Fabio Capello declared afterwards: "Livorno never give in, so it becomes dangerous when you give away two goals. At the start we were moving the ball around well, but in the second half we began to hold on to it for too long.
"Nonetheless, I believe the team knew how to survive under pressure. Alessandro Del Piero's substitution was a purely tactical choice, and there are no untouchables here."
Capello placates Del Piero
Football Italia
Fabio Capello assures there is "nothing personal" in his repeated substitutions of Alex Del Piero, though the captain could be benched against Livorno.
"When I decide to substitute him, it is because at that moment I need a player with different characteristics," explained the Juve boss. "There is nothing personal and I don't have any preferences within my squad."
Del Piero may be the captain, but he has been replaced 11 times in 12 games so far this season and his face showed anger when leaving the field during Thursday's 1-1 draw at Parma.
Capello experimented with Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Marcelo Zalayeta during training on Saturday, fuelling rumours the Italian international is set to start from the bench rather than move on to it this time. Something has to be done, as the Bianconeri are stuttering with two consecutive draws.
"Milan have closed the gap to two points, but I am satisfied with our overall performance, so there is no need to be concerned. I was sorry to read the Press slating Paolo Montero, as he was unlucky when it came to the goal."
Their next opponents are Livorno, who travel to Turin without both star strikers Cristiano Lucarelli and Igor Protti. "They may have lost against Inter," noted the Coach, "but they proved themselves to be a solid squad that can really hurt you on the break."
Stephen Appiah has not been included in the Juve side due to an injury, so Manuele Blasi will partner Emerson in central midfield. Lilian Thuram returns from suspension to bolster the defence.
Villa rival Southampton for Legrottaglie
Tribal Football
Aston Villa have joined Southampton in their interest for Juventus defender Nicola Legrottaglie. The Italy international is available from Juve and keen to leave Turin in order to play regular first team football. Parma are also keen, while its reported Legrottaglie has already rejected an offer from West Brom in the past week.
West Brom continue talks with Delvecchio, Iuliano
Tribal Football
West Bromwich Albion boss Bryan Robson is chasing two Serie A stars to boost his team's survival chances. Having secured Matias Almeyda from Brescia, Robson is locked in talks with Juventus over defender Mark Iuliano and also AS Roma striker Marco Delvecchio.
Both players have been made available by their clubs, says the Mirror, but are also considering rival Serie A offers and would prefer to remain in Italy.
Atalanta's Pazzini excited by Palermo interest
Tribal Football
Atalanta attacker Giampaolo Pazzini is excited by the interest of Palermo. He said: "The idea of wearing the Palermo shirt appeals a lot to me. The reports are flattering. The possibility of playing alongside Luca Toni excites me."
Chelsea wait for £9M River Plate favourite Mascherano
Tribal Football
Chelsea are believed to have wrapped up a £9 million deal for River Plate midfielder Javier Mascherano. Last week, super agent Pini Zahavi - the man behind many of Chelsea's transfer deals - was in Buenos Aires for talks with River Plate's directors.
With him, a source close to the Argentine club told the Sunday Mirror, was Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon. Chelsea are understood to have been keen on an immediate switch for Maschereno, but River Plate resisted as they knew that losing their most popular player would cause uproar among the club's supporters.
The Argentina international will join Chelsea in the summer according to Buenos Aries press reports.
Mourinho praises Serie A bosses
Football Italia
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has revealed his admiration for Carlo Ancelotti, Fabio Capello and other Italian Coaches.
"Where you have Capello, you have results," he told the 'Gazzetta dello Sport'. "I remember when I was an assistant manager at Barcelona and he was over at Real Madrid, as his greatest quality was organisation."
The notoriously defensive Mourinho may admire Capello's Juventus, but he also has kind words for the attack-minded Milan. "Capello isn't the only Serie A tactician I have a lot of respect for, as Carlo Ancelotti knows just how to make the most of a very large squad of players."
The former Porto boss even did his homework during the summer tour of the USA, where they encountered the Rossoneri.
"I watched them training in August and was really amazed," continued Mourinho. "Paolo Maldini, Alessandro Costacurta and Gennaro Gattuso especially were putting so much work into it, with the enthusiasm of beginners. A lot of the credit for that goes to the Coach."
Mourinho also took this opportunity to blast critics of his effective, but not particularly entertaining, style.
"I can't stand talk of this any longer," he slammed. "Chelsea only failed to score in three games this season and I always field three strikers with two attacking wing-backs. It's absurd to think we are defensive."
Sunday 09 January
Juventus v Livorno: Preview
ESPN Soccernet
Juventus coach Fabio Capello is trying to remain cool under pressure in spite of the Serie A leaders' shrinking lead at the top and he knows his team need victory over Livorno. Thursday's 1-1 draw at Parma, the second consecutive draw following the 0-0 stalemate with AC Milan before Christmas, shocked the Bianconeri fans.
With Juve struggling to show their best football in recent weeks, it has been Carlo Ancelotti's outfit which has stolen the limelight. Milan's 5-2 triumph against Lecce in mid-week left them just two points behind the leaders, and many are predicting that this could be the weekend where the Rossoneri finally steal the lead from the Bianconeri.
Unsurprisingly, Capello is not one of them.
"I am not angry or worried," said Capello. "We played a good game against Parma and the players' performance gives me no reason to worry in the immediate future. If you want to win the Scudetto you have to only look at your campaign and not focus on how close our rivals are."
However, Capello will no doubt have learned his lesson when AC Milan overtook his faltering former club, Roma, last January on their way to clinching the title. Juve have found it difficult to get a cutting edge in front of goal, with France international David Trezeguet injured and talisman Alessandro Del Piero out of form.
The Italian playmaker has been a starter in nine Serie A games and has been substituted in all of them by Capello. "I am happy with my form at the moment although I still have to reach my best level," Del Piero said.
Juve's problems are not the concern of newcomers Livorno, who will face Serie A's best defence at the Delle Alpi. The hosts have only conceded eight goals in 17 games.
Franco Colomba's outfit suffered a 2-0 defeat to Internazionale during the week - a result that meant they dropped to 13th in the standings. And they must brace themselves for a testing fixture list ahead that not only includes Juve but also AC Milan in the coming weeks.
Colomba admitted: "We cannot compare Livorno to any of these teams. We played Inter, we now travel to Turin and then we play against Messina before meeting Milan. Considering the calendar I think our only option is to win against the Sicilians but of course we will not go to Turin just to have a holiday."
Defender David Balleri is back after missing Thursday's game through suspension although Livorno will be without striker Cristiano Lucarelli, who is starting a ban. Juve coach Capello will be able to call upon all of his players, apart from Trezeguet.
The France striker will not be fit for the Livorno encounter, but he is expected to make his return from injury for Juve in the Coppa Italia game against Atalanta next week.
What a crowd for Ibrahimovic!
Juventus.com
"Thanks for your support" wrote Zlatan Ibrahimovic on his life-size standup before giving proof of his Italian wishing "Buon anno!" ("happy new year") to the crowd of youngsters and older people who flocked outside the Juventus Store at 4, Via Garibaldi in Turin where the Swede was awarded as "Player of the Month".
Zlatan, who's scored his eighth goal in the Italian championship, thanks the team: "They help me, I'm doing my best and I'm happy I've achieved more self confidence. You're complimenting me a lot but all of us are important in order to win, we must stay united."
He's asked about the moment Del Piero is going through and about Trezeguet's comeback: "Alex got injured, then he returned, the season is long and he's always very important for the team. Trezeguet is a very good player, but again everyone is important in the group"
When he's told that, according to many, he and the Frenchman are the strongest couple of strikers in the world, Zlatan answers with a joke: "I don't know, we're certainly the tallest!".
He also comments on the draw in Parma and the race to the Scudetto: "We were doing well, then Frey was very good too and finally they equalized. However the championship is long and we're ahead of Milan. So far, it seems to be a race between us and the Rossoneri but it may not be the last word.
The championship, as I said, is still long and some may get back into the race, Inter included." And Sunday it's Livorno's turn: "We have to win and we have strong possibilities to do so".
Zlatan bets on Trez partnership
Football Italia
Zlatan Ibrahimovic has fuelled speculation of a split with Alessandro Del Piero by claiming he can't wait to partner David Trezeguet.
"Trezeguet is one of the best hitmen in the world and we really need him now more than ever," said the Swedish international. "I don't know if when he returns we'll have the best strikeforce, but it'll certainly be one of the tallest!"
Ibrahimovic has settled in quickly to Serie A, successfully playing alongside both Del Piero and Marcelo Zalayeta, but the captain's poor form means he could find himself left on the sidelines when Trezeguet recovers from shoulder surgery later this month.
"Alessandro cannot always be at the top of his game," continued the former Ajax star, "but the team still needs him. Unfortunately, there are three of us fighting for places and one will have to go on the bench."
Ibrahimovic is celebrating his nomination as 'Juventus Player of the Month' following crucial goals, the most recent of which was in the 1-1 draw at Parma.
"I am settling in well and doing my best, but the team is helping me a great deal and I believe I'll get better with every game. I don't think we missed an opportunity at the Tardini, as Sebastien Frey performed some wonderful saves and we played well."
Nonetheless, that result has allowed Milan to close the gap to just two points, so a victory against Livorno on Sunday afternoon is crucial.
"We are still the leaders and two points are not to be sniffed at," insisted Ibrahimovic. "It looks like a two-horse race right now, but Inter are not out of the running for the Scudetto yet."
Cassano calls Real Madrid
Football Italia
Antonio Cassano has taken the derby defeat badly and publicly invited Real Madrid to make an offer for him in the summer.
"Real Madrid fascinate me and this club is a dream for any football player," he told television programme 'TV7'. "If I continue along my own path, nothing is beyond my reach."
This is certainly not the first time that the Italian international has hinted at his links with Real, but with contract renegotiations stalling and the 3-1 Rome derby defeat, it's becoming an increasingly likely prospect.
"I would really love to have an overseas experience, as I'm not too fond of tactics and in Serie A you are forced to deal with them whether against a small or a big club."
Cassano's current deal expires in 2006 and if a new contract is not drawn up before the end of the season, Roma will be forced to sell the £15m rated youngster. Other sides said to be tracking his progress include Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Barcelona.
"We will see what happens in the future," he continued. "In any case, my agent and I are evaluating every possibility. There are several overseas clubs who interest me, but Real Madrid are above the others."
Madrid patron Florentino Perez had hinted that an initial approach had been made last year, but Cassano's well-publicised personality clashes scuppered the deal. It is because of these problems that he is yet to play for the Azzurri under new Coach Marcello Lippi.
"I hope the call comes soon. I have spoken to Lippi a couple of times and he is a very honest person who says things to your face. I really admire that kind of man."
The television interview concluded with Cassano asked to give an overview of his career so far, from the promise of a £20m move from Bari to his starring role at Euro 2004.
"I'd say I've done very well for myself. I am a bit of an over-the-top character, so I will always give myself a pat on the back as I believe in my own ability."
As do Real Madrid.
Saturday 08 January
Juventus-Livorno
Football Italia
Juventus have seen their lead sliced to just two points and welcome a fired-up Livorno side still fuming at their defeat to Inter.
Fabio Capello's men have certainly suffered a dip in form recently, picking up just two points from as many games against Milan and relegation battlers Parma. Their defence showed worrying signs of weakness at the Stadio Tardini, though that should be rectified by the return of Lilian Thuram from suspension.
There are rumours Alessandro Del Piero could be dropped following his substitution, as Marcelo Zalayeta proved himself to be a reliable partner to Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Livorno are heavily reliant on the goals of Cristiano Lucarelli to see them through, so it is a particularly bitter blow that he, and his younger brother Alessandro, should be suspended for this trip to Turin. By far their top scorer with nine goals so far this season, the Amaranto born and bred will be sorely missed.
Veteran Igor Protti takes charge alongside Tomas Danilevicius, but it is the Livorno work ethic that proves most difficult for opponents to deal with.
Juventus (probable): Buffon; Zebina, Thuram, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Emerson, Blasi, Nedved; Ibrahimovic, Del Piero
Livorno (probable): Amelia; Melara, Vargas, Galante, Balleri; Grauso, Passoni, Doga, Ruotolo; Danilevicius, Protti
Ref: Farina
'Real' Alex will return
Football Italia
Alessandro Del Piero is confident he will soon be back to his best after being substituted yet again. The Juventus ace was replaced for the 11th time in 12 games by boss Fabio Capello during yesterday's 1-1 draw at Parma.
"I am satisfied because I know that I am close to rediscovering my best form," he told his personal website.
The No 10 is likely to start against Livorno on Sunday but he is set to face some stiff competition for a shirt in the near future. David Trezeguet is almost ready to return to action following shoulder surgery and he could be fielded alongside Zlatan Ibrahimovic instead.
Although Juventus dropped two points on Thursday, Del Piero is reasonably happy with how his side performed.
"We moved well and proved to be in good physical shape as the game highlighted," he continued. "They had a few good opportunities but when you consider certain situations, we should have perhaps gone back to Turin with all three points.
"Now we just need to think about the match against Livorno on Sunday."
Parma admit Bonera interest
Football Italia
Parma have revealed that Juventus are interested in signing versatile defender Daniele Bonera. "It is true that they want the player," general manager Luca Baraldi told Tuttosport. "They've been chasing him for some time."
The 23-year-old has been linked with the big three of Italian football – Juve, Inter and Milan – for the last two seasons. The former Brescia player, now a full international, is liked given that he can play both as a right-back and a centre-half.
It's unclear how much Bonera will cost but Baraldi suggested that a player plus cash deal could be agreed.
"We like Mark Iuliano and Nicola Legrottaglie but Juve know that we can't pay certain wages," he continued. "I hope that good sense prevails and that we can strike a deal."
Both men could move to the Tardini in January, with the former U-21 international captain heading to Turin in the summer. Meanwhile, Parma have confirmed that the club has been put up for sale. "It is true," commented President Guido Angiolini. "But there is no time limit involved."
Juventus make offer for Siena's Taddei
Tribal Football
Juventus have made an offer to Siena for winger Rodrigo Taddei. The Brazilian is seen by Juve as an alternative to Udinese's Marek Jankulovski, who is on his way to AC Milan next season. Juve have offered Siena president Paolo De Luca £1 million plus the loan of either defender Mark Iuliano or midfielder Alessio Tacchinardi.
De Luca wants the deal to happen, but only if Juve are prepared to loan Taddei back to his club for the rest of the season after the Brazilian's successful return to the first team.
Milan have Oddo interest
Football Italia
Lazio defender Massimo Oddo is understood to be a summer transfer target for Milan. The Italian champions are monitoring the stopper's situation given his uncertain future in the capital. Although many expect Oddo to remain at the Olimpico during the January transfer window, an exit at the end of term is likely.
The right-back, who is an international regular under boss Marcello Lippi, is admired by both Juventus and Inter. However, the Rossoneri have now joined the race for the highly-rated former Verona star. They are actively looking for a new right-sided player after also taking an interest in Lecce's Marco Cassetti and Giandomenico Mesto of Reggina.
Oddo is unlikely to reject a switch to Milan given that he's been a fan of the club since he was a boy. The 28-year-old is also already familiar with the Milan set-up given that he started his career there as a youth team player.
Man Utd ahead of Real Madrid in Mavuba pursuit
Tribal Football
Manchester United are threatening Real Madrid's bid to land Bordeaux midfielder Rio Mavuba. The 20 year-old is Real's top midfield target for January after GM Arrigo Sacchi chose the youngster ahead of vice-president Emilio Butragueno's favourite, Everton's Thomas Gravesen.
DiarioSport says United have made Bordeaux aware they're prepared to pay £10 million for Mavuba at the end of this season. If Real president Florentino Perez fails to convince Bordeaux to cash in now for a lesser fee, then Madrid will drop their interest in Mavuba and bid for Gravesen.
Knee surgery for Meghni
Football Italia
Bologna have been dealt a massive blow after it was confirmed that Mourad Meghni requires knee surgery. The 20-year-old talent has been a revelation this season but is now set for a spell on the sidelines. The Frenchman underwent a number of tests today where it was established that an operation was needed.
Meghni, who will go under the knife on Monday, is expected to be ruled out of action for around a month. There is further bad news for Bologna today, as striker Giacomo Cipriani is a major doubt for the game against Chievo on Sunday because of injury.
Spurs, Juventus target Behrami wants Premiership move
Tribal Football
Verona hit-kid Valon Behrami has declared he wants to play in the Premiership. The Serie B hotshot is being tracked by Tottenham, along with top-flight giants Juventus and AC Milan.
"In Italy I am very happy, but since I was a child I dreamed of playing in England," said the 19 year-old Swiss international. "To see my name linked with these great clubs does turn my head, but I want to keep my feet on the ground. I owe it all to the atmosphere that I have found here in Verona."
