This
web site is an online diary maintained by azzurri.Friday 25 March
Italy have Totti worry
Football Italia
Italy star Francesco Totti is struggling to be fit in time for Saturday's World Cup qualifier against Scotland. The Roma playmaker has a gash on his right foot, which caused him to sit out training for a second time yesterday, and is now a major doubt for the Group 5 fixture.
The news will come as a blow to Coach Marcello Lippi who has already seen Milan's Alessandro Nesta and Roma's Vincenzo Montella, the Serie A top scorer, pull out of the squad.
If Totti does fail to recover in time, his role is expected to be filled by Roma teammate Antonio Cassano, who would partner Parma's in-form forward Alberto Gilardino in attack. The Azzurri tactician would have no problems playing Cassano in such a delicate encounter.
Lippi said: "Cassano is very happy and relaxed with the national team, I like the spirit of young players and their willingness to take chances."
Buffon calls in ‘perfect' Cassano
Football Italia
Gigi Buffon has invited Roma starlet Antonio Cassano to come and join him at Juventus next season. The attacker is being tipped to leave the capital in the summer and Buffon insists Turin would be the perfect environment for his talents.
"He is a player who has grown up a lot in recent times," admitted the Italian international goalkeeper. "He's a lot more disciplined than he was at the European Championship Finals. He would be perfect for Juventus."
The 22-year-old has had his problems both on and off the field during his career so far, but Buffon insists Cassano could develop into a great wearing the Bianconeri shirt. "He would certainly have to abide by a few more rules with us but he could win the Golden Ball with our help," he added.
Buffon, currently on international duty with Cassano, also pledged his own future to Juve following reports of interest from Real Madrid. "I think a goalkeeper is the last of Real's problems right now," stated the £33m man. "I have a long contract with Juventus and I'm happy in Italy."
The custodian was also asked for his opinion on Gennaro Gattuso and Giuseppe Pancaro's decision to refuse an optional blood test, following Milan's win at Roma on Sunday. "Players have the choice to take the test or not, therefore I don't understand what all the fuss is about," he noted.
"I firmly believe that our football is one of the cleanest in doping terms on the planet. I'm ready to bet on that."
Juve close in on Kovac
Football Italia
Robert Kovac is set for a move to Turin giants Juventus next season, according to Bayern Munich general manager Uli Hoeness. The Croatian international centre-back is out of contract in the summer and Hoeness has suggested a Delle Alpi switch is on the horizon.
"We offered him a two-year contract extension with an option on a third year, but he's apparently received an offer from Juventus which we can't and won't match," he said. "Regretfully we've had to accept the fact that Robert will leave the club at the end of this season."
The Old Lady are keen to rejuvenate their central defensive options for the new campaign, due to the lack of cover for Lilian Thuram and Fabio Cannavaro. Juve presently only have Paolo Montero and Ciro Ferrara at the club as possible alternatives, following the January departures of Nicola Legrottaglie, Mark Iuliano and Igor Tudor.
Given that Montero is widely considered as past his best, and that Ferrara will retire in the summer, the club need some new faces. Bayern will now look to replace Kovac with Chelsea's young German defender Robert Huth, who has stated he is keen to move in order to play first team football.
Peruzzi staying, Giannichedda going
Football Italia
Goalkeeper Angelo Peruzzi has pledged his future to Lazio, while midfield enforcer Giuliano Giannichedda is on the verge of leaving. Peruzzi, who had been tipped to quit the club in the summer and make way for ex-Ipswich ‘keeper Matteo Sereni, has reiterated his desire to stay.
"I have another two years on my contract left to run," said the 35-year-old. "I hope to see that out."
Transfer whispers had suggested that the former Italian international could move to city rivals Roma.
But Peruzzi has closed the door on a possible return to his former club. "I don't believe I will be going to Roma," he added. "I am a Lazio player and I'm only thinking of Lazio. I don't think there is a chance that I will join another club in the summer."
Meanwhile, Giannichedda is reported to be a target for Juventus after turning down an extension to his current contract which expires in June. Juve Coach Fabio Capello is looking to strengthen his midfield options as Alessio Tacchinardi and Stephen Appiah have been unconvincing this season.
The Old Lady are keen to offer Giannichedda, who is also a Barcelona target, a similar contract to the £1.2m a season deal he is currently on. Giannichedda may not be the only Biancocelesti player heading north, with versatile defender Luciano Zauri also being watched by the Turin club.
Juventus chase Lazio pair Giannichedda, Zauri
Tribal Football
Juventus are set to rumble Lazio's contract talks with midfielder Giuliano Giannichedda and have teammate Luciano Zauri also in their sights.
Giannichedda is coming off contract and has been in talks with Lazio president Claudio Lotito and director general Gabriele Martino about a new deal. But his representatives have been approached by Juve, where coach Fabio Capello sees him as the ideal midfield partner for Brazilian Emerson.
Meanwhile, Juve are also interested in fullback Zauri, who has a little over a year left on his Lazio deal. Juve fancy Zauri as a replacement for Chelsea target Gianluca Zambrotta, particularly with Giorgio Chiellini reluctant to return to Turin from his loan with Fiorentina.
Lazio want £2 million for Zauri, but could lower their demands if Juve add midfield veteran Gianluca Pessotto to the deal.
Juventus now ready to listen to Chelsea offer for Zambrotta
Tribal Football
Juventus are ready to listen to Chelsea's offer for fullback Gianluca Zambrotta. After earlier indicating that the Italy international was not for sale, Juve directors are now warming to the idea of cashing in on Zambrotta's rising star.
Its been suggested Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is prepared to offer as much as £25 million for the defender - cash that would be very welcome at Juve after director general Luciano Moggi admitted their present finances would mean working in the Bosman transfer market over the summer.
Real Madrid to approach Juventus for Emerson
Tribal Football
Real Madrid will approach Juventus for midfielder Emerson before the end of the season. The Brazil international chose Juve over Real Madrid last summer as he departed AS Roma, but Real chiefs have received information suggesting the midfielder is unsettled in Italy.
Emerson's family home has been targeted by thugs this season and Real are hoping to lure him to Spain when the summer transfer window opens. If Emerson, 29, refuses their offer, Real will turn to a younger alternatives with Liverpool's Alou Diarra and Lyon ace Mickael Essien both in their sights.
Juventus welcome Everton, Villa bids for Appiah
Tribal Football
Juventus are encouraging Premiership clubs to bid for Ghana international midfielder Stephen Appiah. Juve director general Luciano Moggi has been given the green light by coach Fabio Capello to cash in on the Ghana international, along with fellow midfielder Alessio Tacchinardi.
Both players are surplus to requirements for Capello and will be sold to raise fresh transfer funds for the summer market. Appiah has a host of Premiership admirers, including Everton, Middlesbrough and Aston Villa, while Tacchinardi remains a target for Barcelona after coming close to moving to Spain in January.
Barcelona invite offers for Saviola, Riquelme
Tribal Football
Barcelona are actively touting Argie pair Juan Roman Riquelme and Javier Saviola around Europe. Barca president Joan Laporta knows the best way of raising transfer funds for coach Frank Rijkaard is by selling the Argentine duo, who are not regarded as first team material by Rijkaard.
Saviola is currently on-loan at AS Monaco, but will return to the Nou Camp in the summer as their coach Didier Deschamps isn't interested in signing the striker permanently. It's a different case for Riquelme, with Villarreal and Deportivo La Coruna both battling for his signature. Brazil's Corinthians have also expressed interest in the midfielder.
Juventus signing Mutu appears at Chelsea hearing
Tribal Football
Juventus striker Adrian Mutu appeared for the first time at a Premier League hearing yesterday as part of Chelsea's £8million compensation claim against the Romanian. The Blues sacked Mutu, 26, earlier this season when he failed a drugs test and was banned for seven months. But Italian giants Juventus signed him on a freebie, prompting Chelsea's claim for damages.
Mutu's solicitor John Hewison confirmed in a statement: "The hearing is now complete."
Thursday 24 March
Canna fears Scudetto play-off
Football Italia
Juve and Milan have been locked at the top of the Serie A table for weeks and Fabio Cannavaro fears the Scudetto can only be decided by a play-off.
“I expect this head to head situation to carry on for some time to come,” said the Bianconeri defender. “I hope it’ll all be resolved before the final day of the season, but the showdown with Milan will be too early to be decisive.”
The two clubs will face off at the San Siro on May 8, but there will be another three League games before the end of the season. Goal difference counts for nothing and we could see the second Scudetto play-off, as in 1964 Bologna beat Inter 2-0 on neutral turf to take the title.
“I think that at the end of the day the title will be decided by an unexpected poor result, or even the absence of a star player.”
Both teams have had to do without key elements this season, as David Trezeguet, Pavel Nedved, Andriy Shevchenko and Pippo Inzaghi have been long-term injury worries. “Juventus are more of a solid side, while Milan can count on greater quality and passing,” explained Cannavaro.
The former Parma and Inter defender was interviewed at the Coverciano training ground as Italy prepare to face Scotland in Saturday’s World Cup qualifier.
“The fact that Antonio Cassano and Alberto Gilardino are fighting for places shows what quality the Azzurri have at the moment. Lately we’ve had to do without Christian Vieri and Alessandro Del Piero due to injury, so it’s important to know we have young players who can fill in for them.”
Francesco Totti is now an injury doubt for the Scotland game after again skipping training due to a cut on his foot. However, the Roma star is expected to recover in time for Saturday's game.
Capello postpones Real return
Football Italia
Fabio Capello has opened the door for a return to Real Madrid but has committed his immediate future to Juventus. The tactician has been linked with a summer move to Spain, yet he intends to see out his current contract that expires in 2007.
"Every Coach in the world would love to train Real Madrid," said the former Italian international. "I have great memories of my time there. I loved coaching Madrid because they are one of the great clubs and they have stayed in my blood.
"But I have two years left on my contract with Juventus and that is how it is."
Capello was paired with the capital club earlier this month, just weeks after Juve knocked Real out of the Champions’ League. That loss led to reports that current boss Wanderley Luxemburgo will be replaced for the 2005-06 season.
Capello, whose won League championships with both Roma and Milan, lifted the Liga title with Real in 1997. The Madrid outfit have also been associated with Liverpool’s Rafael Benitez and Carlo Ancelotti of Milan.
Real Still Like Emerson
Goal.com
Real Madrid are once again being linked with a move for Juventus midfielder Emerson in the Spanish press. The Merengues moved for the Brazilian last summer when he was at Roma, but the player eventually opted for a move to Turin.
It is unlikely that Juve would be willing to let their midfield linchpin leave, and if this is the case, Real may make a summer move for either Essien, Pedretti or Diarra.
Vialli confirms Chelsea interest in Juventus fullback Zambrotta
Tribal Football
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi has told Chelsea to forget about trying to land fullback Gianluca Zambrotta.
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho wants Zambrotta as his pursuit of Arsenal left-back Ashley Cole flounders and has spoken with club owner Roman Abramovich about making a major bid for the Italy international. Former Blues boss and Juventus captain Gianluca Vialli has also confirmed the London club's interest this week.
But Moggi has made it known to Chelsea, through intermediaries, that Zambrotta is not for sale - at any price.
Fiorentina's Chiellini cool on Juventus return
Tribal Football
Fiorentina fullback Giorgio Chiellini has indicated he is reluctant to return to Juventus in the summer. The Italy international's registration is co-owned by the two clubs and talks are set to commence over where the defender will play next season.
Chiellini declared: "Until June, I will be with Fiorentina and do not want to consider anything else. I hope that by then (Juve ds Luciano) Moggi and (Fiorentina president Andrea) Della Valle makes the choice that is for the best of the clubs and for me.
"If I had remained with Juve, I would not have had the chances necessary in order to get into the National team."
No contract talks as Roma ready to cash in on Cassano
Tribal Football
AS Roma will sell striker Antonio Cassano at the end of this season. The announcement that Roma will hold new contract talks next week with Francesco Totti, Vincenzo Montella, Cufre and Traianos Dellas suggests Cassano will be cashed in by the club in the summer.
Cassano's current deal has little over a year left to run, leaving Roma only the summer transfer window to get value for money. Leaving it until January could easily see the striker sign a pre-contract with another club and walk out on Roma on a Bosman next June.
Juventus are favourites to land the Italy international, despite the rival interest of Real Madrid.
Chelsea demanding £8M from Juventus signing Mutu
Tribal Football
Chelsea are demanding their sacked striker Adrian Mutu pay them £8 million in compensation. The Blues have taken their case to a Premier League panel, which heard boss Jose Mourinho and chief executive Peter Kenyon testify, along with Juventus lawyers.
The Blues claim Mutu, 26, breached his contract when he tested positive for cocaine last October. The Romanian had three-and-a-half years remaining on his five-year contract at the time and Chelsea want back £8m of the £15.8m fee they paid for him.
Chelsea argued their case at a Premier League Appeals Committee hearing, but Fifa will have the final say. Brendon Batson - a former official of the players' union, the PFA - also gave evidence at the hearing, along with Peter Kay, chief of the Sporting Chance charity for sportsmen with addictions.
The PFA and Sporting Chance assisted Mutu following his positive test.
Casillas fears Buffon arrival
Football Italia
Real Madrid ‘keeper Iker Casillas won’t sign a new contract unless his club rule out a bid for Juventus ace Gigi Buffon. Casillas, Spain’s No 1, is ready to remain at the Bernabeu but wants assurances about his future before putting pen to paper.
"Before renewing my contract I want to know if Buffon is arriving," he said as rumours of Real’s interest in the Italian gather pace. "It’s normal that Real look for new players but I cannot leave anything to chance. I have been in football too long to do that."
Casillas, who has been with the capital outfit since he was eight, added: "I am a Madrid man through and through and have no other desire but to continue playing for them. But if Buffon is arriving, I want to know before I make another commitment to this club."
Real Madrid are already reportedly negotiating contract renewals for both Luis Figo and Ivan Helguera. Now it seems to be up to Real’s director of football, Arrigo Sacchi, to make a decision on Casillas’ contract which currently expires in June 2006.
Buffon arrived at Juventus in July 2001 for a staggering £33m from Parma – the highest fee ever paid for a goalkeeper. The shot-stopper is next in action on Saturday when he’ll look to keep out Scotland in the World Cup qualifier.
Fiore issues Valencia blast
Football Italia
Stefano Fiore has moved closer to an Italian return after he heavily criticised current club Valencia. The midfielder already had his problems with previous boss Claudio Ranieri but his troubles are continuing with new Coach Antonio Lopez.
Fiore left Lazio in the summer but he’s now played just seven minutes in the last five matches under the new tactician.
"Ruben Baraja gets injured and the Coach decides to play a defender in midfield instead of me," he stated. "I was considered as one of the best midfielders in Europe when I was in Italy and I just don’t understand why I can’t find any space in the team.
"I’m just waiting for Palop (the reserve goalkeeper) to be selected ahead of me now."
Fiore has recently been linked with both Inter and Juventus as his relationship with Lopez continues to deteriorate.
"I don’t like tacticians who explain their decisions to players because I think they are just telling untruths," added the former Parma and Udinese man. "Lopez says he’s happy with my work but then he never lets me play."
Fiore’s outburst hasn’t gone down too well with the Spanish tactician. "He’s not acted in a professional manner," he stated. "I think he’ll be fined."
A summer move now beckons with Juve allegedly ready to offer £5m plus right-back Alessandro Birindelli for the Azzurri player.
Preview: Italy still on the offensive
Football Italia
Each of the attackers called up by Italy boss Marcello Lippi will have their reasons for wanting to do well in the World Cup qualifier against Scotland.
With the Serie A top scorer Vincenzo Montella withdrawing from the squad with injury this morning, the job of finding gaps in the Scottish defence on Saturday could pass on to Alberto Gilardino and Mauro Esposito. The duo have scored 30 League goals between them so far this season, as one attempts to get his club out of the relegation zone, while the other continues to shine with surprise package Cagliari.
But the Parma striker and the Sardinian winger are not the only attacking players with something to prove at the San Siro. Palermo ace Luca Toni is looking to make an impact on the international stage after his 13 goals in 26 games for the ambitious Sicilian outfit.
The Roma duo of Francesco Totti and Antonio Cassano could also use the match as a springboard to give them a good end to what has been a disappointing season. Although Lippi is without Montella, Christian Vieri, Alex Del Piero and Pippo Inzaghi, he still has a choice of attacking talent that many tacticians, including Scotland’s Walter Smith, would unquestionably envy.
Words: Simon Finaldi
Wednesday 23 March
Zambrotta next for Chelsea?
Football Italia
Juventus are today being linked with two young Italian defenders but they may lose Gianluca Zambrotta to Chelsea. Andrea Barzagli of Palermo and Parma’s Daniele Bonera are set to be targeted as the Old Lady look to strengthen an already mean defence for next season.
However, Zambrotta has become a target for free spending Chelsea, with Coach Jose Mourinho having already identified the need for a top quality left-back. It now seems unlikely that Chelsea will purchase Arsenal defender Ashley Cole and Zambrotta could be a more feasible target for the London outfit.
The Bianconeri may be persuaded in selling their outstanding full-back for a fee of around £15m, especially as the highly-rated Giorgio Chiellini is set to return to Turin once his loan period with Fiorentina ends. Chiellini, currently on full Azzurri duty, could be joined in Turin by two other Italian internationals.
Bonera has been one of Parma’s most consistent performers this season and an offer of £3.5m may be enough to tempt the Tardini outfit to sell. The 24-year-old, who was already strongly linked with the Turin giants last summer, can play at both centre-back and right-back.
Meanwhile, Barzagli has become a regular in the national squad after a series of commanding performances at the heart of Palermo’s defence this term. Should the former Chievo and Under-21 ace leave the Renzo Barbera, Palermo will step up their attempt to sign Cesare Bovo on a permanent basis.
The latter is co-owned by the Sicilian club along with Roma, but has been playing for Parma this season.
Chelsea willing to offer £23M for Juventus star Zambrotta
Tribal Football
Juventus have been informed by Chelsea intermediaries that owner Roman Abramovich is willing to offer £23 million for left-back Gianluca Zambrotta. Juve chiefs are considering the proposal, but are yet to get back to Chelsea representatives with an answer.
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho sees Zambrotta as an ideal alternative to Arsenal left-back Ashley Cole and money will be no object for the big spending Londoners. The deal could hinge on Giorgio Chiellini. The fullback is currently on-loan at Fiorentina and may be brought back to Juve next season as Zambrotta's replacement.
However, the stumbling block is Chiellini, himself, who has spoken openly of his wish to remain in Florence long-term.
Juventus favourites for Udinese defender Felipe
Tribal Football
Juventus and Inter Milan are chasing exciting Udinese defender Felipe. Just 20, the Brazilian has played a major role in Udinese's impressive campaign this season and has caught the eye of bigger clubs.
Felipe is already being regarded, along with Anderlecht's Vincent Kompany, as the hottest young defensive property on the European market and has drawn comparisons with AS Roma defender Cristian Chivu. Indeed, Inter are considering Felipe as an alternative to Kompany.
However, if Udinese do decide to sell, Juventus are favourites to snap up the youngster as he shares the same agent as Pavel Nedved and Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Juve's board are understood to be discussing a possible co-ownership proposal to be put to Udinese in the summer, which would see the Brazilian remain on-loan.
Kovac Set For Juve - Hoeneß
Goal.com
Bayern Munich general manager Uli Hoeneß has repeated his belief that defender Robert Kovac will leave for Juventus in the summer. The Croatian star is out of contract at the end of the season and is free to talk to other clubs.
Hoeneß told the official Bayern Munich Web site: "We’ve been negotiating with his agent. We offered him a two-year contract extension with an option on a third year, but he’s apparently received an offer from Juventus which we can’t and won’t match, so regretfully we’ve had to accept the fact Robert will leave the club at the end of this season.
"Let me repeat: we genuinely regret this, but we are determined to pursue our plans for sensible financial management, and there’s no place for the kind of deal he’s been offered."
Bayern are now training their sights on Chelsea's German international Robert Huth whose future at Stamford Bridge will be decided by coach Jose Mourinho.
The player's agent Manfred Schulte told British television channel Sky Sports News: "I think he’s very proud that Bayern Munich, the biggest club in Germany, is interested in him, but he’s a Chelsea boy who has come through the ranks of the academy and is 100 percent committed to the club. The situation is we have spoken to Jose Mourinho and Jose will make the final decision at the end of the season."
With the World Cup finals in Germany in 2006, expect to see many expatriate players eager to return home to remain in the limelight. Huth is likely to be no exception.
Summer scramble for Sagnol?
Sky Sports
Bayern Munich's France international full back Willy Sagnol has emerged as a possible summer transfer target for Manchester United. Sagnol is one of the most highly rated right backs in world football and he has only increased his stock during his five seasons with the Bavarian titans.
A move to Chelsea failed to materialise last summer, as even the moneybags Blues were put off by Bayern's rumoured €25 million asking price. It is believed that, with Sagnol approaching the final year of his contract, Bayern will sanction a sale for a cut-price fee this summer.
It is not clear if Chelsea will renew their interest, but there are strong suggestions in Sagnol's native France that Sir Alex Ferguson is ready to enter the market. Despite seeing United's profits drop and being told he will have to sell before buying, Ferguson is believed to view the 28-year-old as a missing piece of his jigsaw.
Ferguson may have a number of bargaining chips at his disposal, with the likes of Kleberson and David Bellion possibly surplus to requirements, and any sales could be used to finance a deal for Sagnol. The wily Scot is unlikely to have a clear path to Sagnol, though, as Italian sides Milan, Juventus and Roma as well as Spanish aces Valencia are all believed to be keeping a watching brief.
Sagnol is keen to test himself in a new league and would surely fancy a crack at The Premiership, but the Italians could well have more muscle if it came down to a bidding war.
Arsenal tracking Verona starlet Behrami
Tribal Football
Arsenal have been linked with Verona striker Valon Behrami. The Swiss youngster is also being chased by Juventus and his registration is currently owned by Genoa.
Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is keen on Behrami, but insists he won't sign players just for the sake of it: "We have to find the right way to build a great team. To put [new] players in front of Senderos, [Cesc] Fabregas and [Gael] Clichy just because they have made a name would be a mistake.
"That is why we have to add one or two players. We must be wise and not destroy what we have built up with our intense work."
Roma secure Premiership target Cerci to pro deal
Tribal Football
AS Roma have moved quickly to secure highly-rated striker Alessio Cerci to a long-term deal. Aware of Premiership clubs scouting the youngster in Primavera games this season, Roma have made sure to sign Cerci to a pro contract. The deal keeps the prolific striker at Roma until 2008.
Lippi appreciates Cassano
Football Italia
Marcello Lippi claims he can’t wait to work with Antonio Cassano as the starlet looks set for a starring role against Scotland.
“This is the first time since taking charge of the Azzurri that I have been able to work with Cassano,” explained the Italy boss. “I really want to know this lad better and discover what he can do on the pitch. He is one of those four or five elements who can give creativity and flair to an already solid squad.”
The Roma youngster was not called up by Lippi in previous occasions due to injury, form and disciplinary problems, while he missed the 2-0 friendly win against Russia in February with a fitness problem.
“I like the spirit of young players and their willingness to take chances,” continued Lippi. “But they must understand that you need respect for the people you work with and that there are rules the whole squad has to follow.”
Cassano was famously frozen out of the Under-21 side following furious rows with Coach Claudio Gentile, while he had bust-ups with Roma tacticians Rudi Voller and Gigi Del Neri this season. However, he seems set to take on a key role in the Italy side that will face Scotland in Saturday’s World Cup qualifier at the San Siro.
His Roma teammate Vincenzo Montella is a major doubt for that tie, as he suffered an ankle injury during training. “We are moderately pessimistic on his chances of recovery,” stated chief of medical staff Enrico Castellacci. “We’ll evaluate his condition more closely tomorrow.”
Francesco Totti will also start despite his disappointing form of late, and the red card for a petulant kick at Milan’s Massimo Ambrosini on Sunday highlighted his lack of discipline.
“We have to change our attitude,” insisted Lippi. “There is too much tension in Italian football and a lot of this aggression has to be wiped out, because it simply won’t be tolerated overseas and could damage the Azzurri’s progress. I understand his club is having problems at the moment, but the general attitude has to change.”
Totti knows more about this than most, having been banned for most of Euro 2004 after he was caught spitting at Danish midfielder Christian Poulsen. Questions about Alessandro Del Piero were inevitable, as Juve’s top scorer has been left out of Lippi’s Italy squad for the second game running.
“I have known this player for 10 years and nobody has trained him as much as me,” said the former Bianconeri boss. “We speak every fortnight and I am very happy to see him regain that public support that had been lacking of late. He is being considered for the World Cup side and the same goes for Christian Vieri.
"I can’t keep calling the same 11 players for every game, as then I’d be stuck when it came to building an entire squad for the tournament.”
A host of new names are expected to be called for next week’s friendly test with Iceland, to be played in Padova.
Tuesday 22 March
Alex plots Azzurri return
Football Italia
Alessandro Del Piero is confident that he will still be on the plane to the 2006 World Cup despite being axed by Italy. The Juventus ace, now 30, was yesterday omitted from the squad that will face Scotland on Saturday but the No 10 believes he will return.
"If I continue to play in the manner that I have been recently then I won’t have any problems regarding my spot in the squad," he said. "I don’t feel as if I’ve been ruled out of the running to be a part of the set-up for Germany 2006."
Marcello Lippi’s decision to ignore his former captain has surprised many given his recent form at the Delle Alpi. Even boss Fabio Capello, who has substituted him so many times this season, was full of praise after his fine display in the 1-0 win over Reggina.
"Del Piero is improving with every game and, after the goal, we saw the kind of player that earned praise from the world over in his glory days," said the tactician.
"I perhaps got a little carried away with my goal celebration but we were finding it tough to break them down," added Del Piero. "I thought that Roma would have been able to stop Milan last night but they didn’t and our battle continues."
Del Piero will now spend the next two weeks with his club in preparation for some tough tests. "We travel to Fiorentina before our Champions’ League tie, we can’t afford to be distracted by Liverpool prior to the Florence trip," he concluded.
Capello Admits Madrid Admiration
Goal.com
Fabio Capello has hinted that he would jump at the chance to go back to Real Madrid and insisted that everyone would love the job. The Juventus coach has been linked with a return to the Spanish giants in the summer, but he did admit that he is tied to Juventus until 2007.
"Every coach in the world would love to train Real Madrid. I have great memories of my time there and they are in my blood. I loved coaching Madrid because they are one of the great clubs and they are in my blood. But I have two years left on my contract with Juventus and that is how it is."
With Madrid making an early exit from the Champions League and playing catch-up in the title race, it is widely expected that Vanderlei Luxemburgo will be replaced at the end of the season.
Capello is thought to be high on the list of potential candidates as Madrid’s director of football, Arrigo Sacchi is huge fan of his. The former Milan and Roma coach led Madrid to the league championship in his one season at the club in 1996-97.
Essien has Juve option
Football Italia
Lyon midfielder Michael Essien is again being linked with a summer move to Italian giants Juventus. The Ghanaian ace has been paired with numerous clubs recently, but reports in Italy suggest that the Bianconeri are in a good position to land the starlet.
However, they face some stiff opposition for him given that Manchester United, Arsenal and Barcelona are also looking to lure him away from the Stade Gerland
"For the moment I have no idea what will happen," said the 22-year-old at the weekend. "I still have three years left on my contract with Lyon, but I like Arsenal and Manchester United as well. In the end it will be my decision, just as it was when I turned down PSG to come to Lyon."
The youngster has been a revelation since he joined from Bastia in 2003, and Lyon President Jean-Michel Aulas values him at £20m. The club will do everything in their power to persuade Essien to stay, but are reported to be following Saint-Etienne's Didier Zokora as an eventual replacement.
Juventus chief Bettega scouted Porto's Seitaridis
Tribal Football
Juventus chief Roberto Bettega was in the San Siro last week to see Inter Milan thrash Porto 3-1 in the Champions League. Bettega was in attendance to run his eye over Porto fullback Giorgis Seitaridis, who only moved to the Portuguese champs last summer.
Juve are in the market for a new right-back and have also been scouting Parma's Daniele Bonera. Greek international Seitaridis could be made available by Porto at the end of this season after they lost millions on their early Champions League exit last week.
New Juventus deals for Thuram, Pessotto
Tribal Football
Juventus are in talks with veteran pair Lilian Thuram and Gianluca Pessotto over new contracts.
French defender Thuram's current deal expires in 2006 and he is speaking with Juve about a two-year extension, which would take him up to 36 years of age. Midfielder Pessotto's deal runs out in June and he has been offered a new, 12-month contract.
Chelsea boss Mourinho linked with AC Milan, Juventus
Tribal Football
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho is being linked with AC Milan and Juventus. The News of the World says the Serie A rivals have pencilled Mourinho's name at the top of their managerial shortlist should either of their respective trainers be lured to Spain by Real Madrid in the summer.
Juve coach Fabio Capello and AC Milan's Carlo Ancelotti are both under consideration by Real president Florentino Perez, who is desperate to overhaul the club's technical department after two years of poor results.
If either Italian coach is convinced to leave for Real, their club will go for Mourinho, despite the Portuguese only being a year into a five-year deal.
Chelsea chasing Juventus fullback Zambrotta
Tribal Football
Chelsea are chasing Juventus fullback Gianluca Zambrotta. Blues boss Jose Mourinho wants a new left-back and sees Zambrotta as a possible answer after all the controversy over his push for Arsenal's Ashley Cole.
Zambrotta has emerged this season as one of Serie A's prime defensive wing-backs, after being on the outer over the summer. Mourinho wants to bring Zambrotta to London and has told Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich to do all he can to convince Juve to sell.
Monday 21 March
Zambrotta: "A heated end of season"
Juventus.com
Dear supporters,
First of all, Happy Easter! I wish you to have nice days and "recharge your batteries" and, if you don't mind, let me wish the same to me. A disqualification is forcing me to miss the match with our National team and not being able to play for Italy, no matter why, is always disappointing.
In this regard, I want to wish the Azzurri to play a great match on Saturday and to take home an important win; I won't be able to be on the pitch but I'll certainly be by their side with my mind. I'll take advantage of this forced break to work quietly here in Turin, making use of the remaining days before next fixture and to get ready for what is supposed to be a heated end of season.
In Serie A, the challenge against Milan is exciting: we’re proceeding side by side and the least mistake can cost us a lot. I don’t think that the direct match between us two can be decisive and, in any case, there are still many matches to play and win before the one at San Siro Stadium. Whatever happens, I believe that the winner will be decided at the end.
As for Champions League, the first and second leg matches against Liverpool will be fascinating, but most of all meaningful: the thought goes to the Heysel tragedy and to what happened that night 20 years ago. We’ll play competitively but also, as usual, with much fair play, to make the two matches what a match should always be: a sports celebration.
Again, my best wishes.
Yours faithfully,
Gianluca Zambrotta
Buffon reveals overseas ambition
Football Italia
Gianluigi Buffon has revealed he intends to end his career overseas, while Alberto Gilardino is looking at a big Serie A side first.
“I will stay in Turin for a long time,” insisted the Juventus goalkeeper in today’s Tuttosport newspaper. “But I won’t rule out the opportunity to play in other Leagues. It would be a great experience and I like to live life to the full.”
Buffon is generally considered to be the best goalkeeper in the world and is still only 27 years of age, but he has already won the Scudetto and completed a record-breaking £30m move from Parma in 2001. He has been linked with a number of international giants, including Real Madrid, Barcelona and Manchester United, but he insists he won’t leave Juve anytime soon.
Another Parma hero looking to move on to bigger things is Alberto Gilardino, who has been transfer linked with Madrid, Arsenal, Juventus and especially Milan. “If I should leave Parma, I would like to do it with some fond memories of the Stadio Tardini,” the striker told the Gazzetta dello Sport.
“In any case, I would only move on if I received an offer from a really big club. I certainly thought Juventus would do more to sign me in the summer, but at the end of the day I am happy the way things panned out. I still see my future in Italy.”
Most sources believe that Milan have already captured his signature for next season, but the Italian international is concentrating on Parma’s salvation and the 2006 World Cup for now.
“There is a real harmony in the Nazionale at the moment,” he stated. “I immediately settled into the squad. It’s all down to Marcello Lippi, who is a winning Coach and knows how to build a group that has the same team spirit as at club level.”
Fiore demands Serie A return
Football Italia
Stefano Fiore’s agent has again confirmed that the unsettled Valencia man will return to Italy this summer with two particular clubs in mind.
“I can certainly say that Stefano did not come all the way to Spain just to warm the bench,” blasted his agent Federico Pastorello. “By not playing regular first team football, he has lost his place in the Azzurri squad. Although I haven’t personally had contact with them, Juventus and Inter would be the best options.”
The Italian international midfielder moved to Valencia along with Lazio teammate Bernardo Corradi when Claudio Ranieri took over at the Mestalla last summer. However, he had problems settling in from the start and the sacking of Coach Ranieri this month only compounded Fiore’s problems.
A return to the Biancocelesti had originally been suggested, but with their financial problems and Fiore’s current form, that does not seem to be on the cards any longer. Inter and Juventus had both been linked with the player last summer and during the January transfer window, with the Nerazzurri slightly ahead in the running thanks to the presence of his old Lazio Coach Roberto Mancini.
There is talk of a total clearout of the Italian imports at Valencia next season, which would see Marco Di Vaio, Corradi and ex-Parma defender Emiliano Moretti moving on.
Azzurri: Del Piero skips Scotland
Football Italia
Marcello Lippi has called Antonio Cassano and Mauro Esposito to face Scotland, but Alessandro Del Piero is dropped again. Lippi has unveiled the squad set to take on Scotland in next week’s World Cup qualifier, to be played at the San Siro on Saturday March 26.
Cassano is yet to feature under Lippi’s reign due to injury and disciplinary problems, but the Roma man should play a key role despite failing to impress new Giallorossi tactician Bruno Conti.
Del Piero is Juve’s top scorer in Serie A this season and his goal decided yesterday’s match with Reggina, but the captain is dropped once again in favour of Cagliari’s Esposito, Parma’s Alberto Gilardino and Palermo hitman Luca Toni. Christian Vieri is also out with a knee injury that has kept him sidelined for almost a month.
Gianluca Zambrotta is suspended for the Scotland tie, so Palermo’s Fabio Grosso and Fiorentina man Giorgio Chiellini vie to replace him in defence. Roma goalkeeper Ivan Pelizzoli is out injured, so Udinese’s Morgan De Sanctis and Monaco shot-stopper Flavio Roma are called up to understudy Gianluigi Buffon.
Italy squad:
Gk: Buffon (Juventus), De Sanctis (Udinese), Roma (Monaco)
D: Barzagli (Palermo), Bonera (Parma), F Cannavaro (Juventus), Chiellini (Fiorentina), Grosso (Palermo), Materazzi (Inter), Nesta (Milan), Zaccardo (Palermo)
M: Barone (Palermo), Blasi (Juventus), Camoranesi (Juventus), De Rossi (Roma), Gattuso (Milan), Pirlo (Milan)
F: Cassano (Roma), Esposito (Cagliari), Gilardino (Parma), Montella (Roma), Toni (Palermo), Totti (Roma)
Valencia outcast Fiore favours Fiorentina over Inter Milan, Juventus
Tribal Football
Valencia midfielder Stefano Fiore is understood to be favouring a move to Fiorentina at the end of this season. The Spanish Liga club are touting the Italian to Serie A clubs for around £4 million and has received encouragement from Fiorentina, Inter Milan and Juventus.
Fiore's representatives are yet to hear from interested clubs, but the midfielder is known to favour a move to Florence. "We have not had contact with Juventus, neither with Inter," said Fiore's agent, Federico Pastorello. "For sure, Stefano does not want to stay with Valencia just to be on the bench.
"In the next week we will speak with the club in order to consider the situation. As I have said, we have not spoken neither with Inter nor with Juventus, but they are the sort of important clubs that would obviously be appreciated by Stefano as a future destination."
Fiorentina's Bojinov: I want Inter Milan move
Tribal Football
Fiorentina striker Valeri Bojinov has made a 'come and get me plea' to Inter Milan majority shareholder Massimo Moratti. In an amazing claim, just months into his Fiorentina career, Bojinov declared: "Inter to me is likeable. I have been in Italy for six years and have not won anything.
"I send a message to the patron of the Nerazzurro, Massimo Moratti: if they want to win something, they must buy me."
Dortmund confirm Tottenham approach for Rosicky
Tribal Football
Tottenham Hotspur have made an approach for Borussia Dortmund playmaker Tomas Rosicky. The 24 year old Czech Republic international has emerged as a summer target for the Premiership club. The club's sporting director Michael Zorc has confirmed that Spurs have an expressed an interest in the gifted Rosicky.
Zorc revealed that the North London side had asked about his availability and the interest has been passed on to Rosicky and his representative.
Sunday 20 March
Capello eyes Reggina revenge
Football Italia
Reggina are one of only three teams to have beaten Juventus this season and Fabio Capello wants revenge this evening, but he’ll miss Pavel Nedved and David Trezeguet.
“We have to cancel out the bad memories of the Stadio Granillo,” said the Coach after their controversial 2-1 defeat earlier this season. “That loss really didn’t go down well at all.”
The Bianconeri saw two goals disallowed that day, including a last-gasp equaliser, while Reggina’s opener came from a lucky deflection off Fabio Cannavaro.
Nedved will not be able to take part in this game, as his comeback has been postponed once again despite his return to regular training after suffering concussion in the 1-0 defeat at Real Madrid on Feb 22.
“Nedved has not been included in the squad,” explained Capello. “He has trained regularly this week, but on Friday morning he told me that he didn’t feel well.”
The Czech has barely featured over the last three months with a knee injury and this clash of heads that kept him in a clinic for over a week.
“Pavel is the kind of man who always makes sacrifices for the team, so if he said he wasn’t ready then I must accept his decisions. I am not worried, and he’ll be ready to play against Fiorentina after Easter.”
Trezeguet is also out of the Reggina game after suffering an ankle injury during training this week, so Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Alessandro Del Piero and Marcelo Zalayeta should again complete the trident attack.
Ruben Olivera is suspended following his silly red card in the 1-0 win at Chievo last Sunday evening. “I didn’t understand his reaction to a foul,” chided Capello. “Sportsmen should set a good example.”
Juventus squad: Buffon, Ferrara, Tacchinardi, Montero, Pessotto, Emerson, Ibrahimovic, Del Piero, Chimenti, Birindelli, Camoranesi, Appiah, Zambrotta, Blasi, Thuram, Zalayeta, Zebina, Cannavaro
Juventus 1 - 0 Reggina
Football Italia
A splendid Alessandro Del Piero strike proved enough to see off Reggina after a hard-fought game with more than a few scares for Juve. The Amaranto are only one of three teams to have beaten Juventus in Serie A so far this season and Fabio Capello wanted revenge for that controversial 2-1 loss.
David Trezeguet and Pavel Nedved are out injured, while Ruben Olivera is suspended, so Marcelo Zalayeta stayed in the trident attack. Reggina were missing Jacopo Balestri and hitman Emiliano Bonazzoli through a ban.
It was Reggina who had the first chance after eight minutes, as Giacomo Tedesco robbed the ball in midfield and ran down the left flank, but Gigi Buffon just about managed to parry Marco Borriello's diving header from close range.
Nicola Pavarini smothered a weak Zalayeta header, but Borriello was again dangerous with an angled drive as Reggina repeatedly found acres of space down the left. The visitors were beginning to concern Juve and Borriello nodded Shunsuke Nakamura's corner kick just past the post.
The Bianconeri tried to put more pressure on towards half-time, but were hardly able to trouble the attentive Amaranto defence.
Alessio Tacchinardi replaced Manuele Blasi at half-time and Juve were definitely more aggressive. Mauro Camoranesi curled in a fine cross for Zlatan Ibrahimovic and his header rattled the crossbar with Pavarini beaten.
The Bianconeri were again unlucky soon after, as Alessandro Del Piero unleashed a fearsome right-foot strike from just outside the box that also thumped the frame of the goal. Zalayeta's weak finish was easily gathered after some great build-up play from Del Piero, but the deadlock was eventually broken in spectacular fashion.
On 65 minutes Jonathan Zebina charged down the right, Ibrahimovic's inspired backheel found Del Piero in space and he swept home with his left foot from seven yards. It was some fantastic team play from the Bianconeri who looked like a different team compared to the first half performance.
Reggina refused to give in and Borriello brought another tough save out of Buffon, the goalkeeper standing his ground to beat away the strike from close range.
Del Piero's confidence was up and he showed marvellous footwork to dribble past two defenders, while Pavarini was fortunate there was no-one to take advantage when he fumbled a Zambrotta cross. Reggina were unlucky as hitman Borriello limped off with a calf injury.
The Juve captain left another two defenders for dead and was brought down by Ivan Franceschini on the very edge of the penalty area. Ibrahimovic blasted the resulting free kick over the bar.
Capello switched to a 4-4-2 system by introducing Gianluca Pessotto for Zalayeta. Reggina remained dangerous, as Juve-owned Uzbeki substitute Ilyas Zeytulaev ran past two players and his shot whistled past the far post.
Giandomenico Mesto caused another scare with a solo run squeezed out for a corner by Fabio Cannavaro. Desperate to get back into the game, they also threw on another Bianconeri loan star, attacking midfielder Viktor Boudianski.
Cannavaro's inadequate clearance eventually fell to Mesto and the Under-21 international's low drive was just a few inches past the upright with Buffon stranded. Lilian Thuram stuck out a leg to charge down Colucci's effort in stoppages, but Juventus held on for the precious win.
Juventus: Buffon, Zebina, Thuram, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Blasi (Tacchinardi 46), Emerson; Ibrahimovic, Del Piero, Zalayeta (Pessotto 78)
Reggina: Pavarini; Cannarsa (Boudianski 86), Franceschini, De Rosa, Zamboni; Mesto, Nakamura (Esteves 81), Mozart, Tedesco, Colucci; Borriello (Zeytulaev 75)
Ref: Messina
Capello: Del Piero is back
Football Italia
Alessandro Del Piero was refreshingly honest in his post-match comments and Fabio Capello claimed he was back to his best at last. “To say our first half was below par would be an understatement,” said the captain after his lone strike beat Reggina.
“It was understandable considering the tour de force we’ve been through between Europe and Serie A of late, but we changed our approach in the second half. We realised the opening performance was poor and that we had another 45 minutes to change that.”
There are reports that Del Piero will be dropped from the Italy squad set to face Scotland next week, though this performance might have done enough to convince Marcello Lippi otherwise.
“I have to think about doing well for Juventus, then anything else comes as a result of that. Of course, if I don’t receive the Azzurri call then it’ll be a problem, but I’ll live.”
Fabio Capello was also full of praise for the captain, who earned himself a Man of the Match award for his performance in Turin.
“Del Piero is improving with every game and after the goal we saw the kind of player that earned praise from the world over in his glory days,” said the Coach who has often substituted the star this season.
The statistics certainly back his supporters, as Del Piero is officially the most decisive player in Serie A, as his goals have proven crucial in earning eight wins for the Bianconeri.
“Let us say that we allowed Reggina to play in the first half as we weren’t putting any pressure on them. Gigi Buffon was fantastic in goal to make sure we didn’t pay for those errors. I think that when you are between big games, these so called little ones are the more dangerous.”
The Bianconeri were expected to run riot over Reggina after beating Roma and Real Madrid over the last week, but it proved to be quite a struggle.
“It was another Juventus after the break. This is why football should introduce a time-out! Reggina were playing with one forward and the other ten behind the ball, so I thought we needed two heavy hitters upfront plus Del Piero in support to help break them down.
"Hitting the crossbar certainly shook the team up and showed them what they could achieve if they tried a little bit harder.”
Zlatan Ibrahimovic has again shown that his finishing leaves something to be desired, but his inspired back-heel set up Del Piero for the winning goal. “Ibrahimovic has these moments of sheer genius and he knew exactly what he wanted to do at that moment in time.”
Capello refused to comment on the Champions’ League quarter-final, as Juventus have been drawn against Liverpool. “Before facing Liverpool we’ll have to take on Fiorentina, so we won’t rush into discussing tactics for them,” insisted the Coach.
Reggina boss Walter Mazzarri was angry at his fifth defeat in six games. "After the 90 minutes we deserved a draw at the very least and I believe that Reggina were having the better of the play when the goal was scored," he insisted.
Lippi counting on Cassano
Football Italia
Marcello Lippi will name the squad to face Scotland on Sunday and it’s reported Antonio Cassano will play a key role, as Christian Vieri and Alex Del Piero are dropped. Cassano is not on particularly fine form at the moment and was left on the bench for Roma’s Coppa Italia tie at Fiorentina midweek.
However, the starlet has so far never played under Lippi’s reign as Italy boss due to injury, form and disciplinary problems, so his presence will be an important new element for the Azzurri in the World Cup qualifier against Scotland at the San Siro on Saturday March 26.
Inter striker Vieri is struggling with a knee injury and has not played since the Milan derby on February 27, so is therefore unlikely to be called. Del Piero’s ongoing lack of regular football at Juventus – where he has been substituted 18 times in all competitions this season – could cost him again.
This leaves Alberto Gilardino, Luca Toni, Francesco Totti, Vincenzo Montella and Cagliari revelation Mauro Esposito for the forward roles.
Gianluca Zambrotta is suspended for the Scotland game, so Lippi must experiment with a replacement. Fiorentina defender Giorgio Chiellini and Palermo’s Fabio Grosso are the likely alternatives, while Milan’s Giuseppe Pancaro is another option.
Palermo man Andrea Barzagli is struggling with a knee injury and could therefore open the door for a return to the Italy squad of Lazio fullback Massimo Oddo. There will be more experiments on Wednesday March 30, when Italy take on Iceland in a friendly game in Padova.
Another ten new names are expected to come in for that encounter, with reports suggesting they will be Marco Cassetti (Lecce), Dario Dainelli (Brescia), Max Tonetto (Sampdoria), Massimo Gobbi (Cagliari), Giampiero Pinzi (Udinese), Vincenzo Iaquinta (Udinese), David Di Michele (Udinese), Fabrizio Miccoli (Fiorentina) and Francesco Flachi (Sampdoria).
Lippi’s probable squad to face Scotland:
Gk: Buffon, De Sanctis, Agliardi
D: Barzagli, Bonera, F Cannavaro, Chiellini, Grosso, Materazzi, Nesta, Zaccardo
M: Blasi, Camoranesi, De Rossi, Diana, Gattuso, Pirlo
F: Cassano, Esposito, Gilardino, Montella, Toni, Totti.
Saturday 19 March
Trez dealt fresh injury blow
Football Italia
Juventus striker David Trezeguet’s injury-plagued season continued when the Frenchman missed training on Thursday due to an ankle knock. Trezeguet, whose spectacular overhead kick laid the foundations for Juve’s extra-time Champions’ League triumph over Real Madrid, is unlikely to play any part in his side’s Serie A clash against Reggina on Saturday.
The training injury has also placed a cloud over the sharp shooter’s participation in France’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Switzerland on March 26 and Israel four days later. His strike-partner Thierry Henry, a former Juventus player, is already a slight doubt with a calf injury.
Trezeguet drew level with Jean-Pierre Papin and Just Fontaine in France’s all-time scoring charts when he scored his 30th goal for the national team against Sweden, in a friendly at the Stade de France last month. That match was his first with Les Bleus since Euro 2004 after he missed three months of this season following shoulder surgery.
Champions’ League draw
Football Italia
Milan will play city rivals Inter in the quarter-finals of the Champions’ League, while Liverpool await Juventus. The two Milan clubs meet in the competition again, just two years after the Rossoneri won on the away goal rule in the semi-finals.
Meanwhile, the Bianconeri’s two games against Liverpool are set to be packed with emotion given that they meet 20 years after the Heysel Stadium disaster in Brussels.
The semi-final draw also took place today which has kept alive the possibility of an all-Italian Final. If Juventus beat Liverpool, they will play either Chelsea or Bayern Munich. The winners out of Lyon and PSV await one of the Milan sides.
Quarter-Finals
Liverpool v Juventus (5 Apr and13 Apr)
Milan v Inter (6 Apr and 12 Apr)
Lyon v PSV (5 Apr and13 Apr)
Chelsea v Bayern Munich (6 Apr and 12 Apr)
Semi-Finals (26/27 Apr and 3/4 May)
Chelsea/Bayern Munich v Liverpool/Juventus
Lyon/PSV v Milan/Inter
Moggi: It Won’t Be Easy
Goal.com
The Juventus General Manager believes that Juventus will face a difficult task when they play Liverpool over two legs in the next Champions League round.
Following Friday afternoon’s draw at Nyon, the Bianconeri are considered by most pundits as the favourites to go through to the semi finals as the Old Lady has been drawn against Benitez’s Liverpool. However Luciano Moggi doubts that these two games will be that simple for Juventus.
“Am I satisfied (with the draw)? I will only reply after the games. Right now I’m certain that we shall face a strong and prestigious opponent. If Liverpool arrived up till this point, they have defeated important opponents. We are not going for a walk in the park. After all, this will be the first time that Juve travels to Anfield Road, at least since I’ve been here.”
The first leg will be played at Anfield Road on the 5th of April.
Heysel to be remembered
Football Italia
Juventus and Liverpool will use their Champions’ League quarter-final tie to commemorate the Heysel stadium disaster. The two clubs have not faced each other in competition since the 1985 European Cup Final, when 39 fans died as a result of crowd trouble in Brussels.
"Our thoughts will obviously go to what happened back then," stated Juventus boss Fabio Capello. "It is important to remember so that nothing like that ever happens again."
Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry stated that he intended to work closely with the Italian club in an effort to mark the 20th anniversary of the disaster.
"We'll be in talks with Juventus to mark the occasion, and show how far football has come since then," he said. "It was all a long time ago and there is now a friendship between the two clubs and the two sets of supporters. It's never something you forget, but I'd say everyone will be more focused on the football now and it's a very challenging tie."
Capello added that he wasn’t surprised with the outcome of today’s draw, after his outfit defeated Real Madrid in the last round.
"I was expecting to face an English club," he added. "Over the last few years I have consistently come up against Premiership sides or Real. Am I glad to have avoided Milan and Inter? If you want to win this Cup then you must play everyone at one stage."
Juventus will start the two-legged tie as hot favourites but Luciano Moggi is remaining cautious. "This won’t be a walk in the park," stated the director general. "I’m convinced that we are playing against a strong and prestigious club."
However, Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez isn’t the happiest man as he was hoping to avoid Italian opposition. "They are always tough to play against," he stated. "Especially Juventus who are strong in defence and midfield. Playing at home first is also a disadvantage as we must not concede.
"Nevertheless, I’m remaining hopeful."
Juventus to offer Palermo Gasbarroni for Barzagli
Tribal Football
Juventus and Palermo have held talks over the future of defender Andrea Barzagli. The Italy international is wanted by Juve for next season and during a meeting this week to discuss the co-ownership of Andrea Gasbarroni, Barzagli's situation was also mentioned.
Gasbarroni is currently on-loan at Chievo and Juve are ready to hand their half of his registration to Palermo in part-exchange for Barzagli. More talks are scheduled for next week.
Barcelona to revive bid for Juventus ace Trezeguet
Tribal Football
Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard wants a new striker for next season and has his eyes on Juventus ace David Trezeguet.
Armed with the cash from a potential shirt sponsorship deal with Qatar Airways, Barca chiefs have already discussed making a major signing in the summer with Rijkaard. The Dutchman wants a new striker and is demanding Barca renew their bid for Trezeguet.
The French star almost signed for Barca last summer before he committed to a new deal with Juve this season. However, his shoulder injury and disparaging comments about Juve's title challenge this season have concerned directors.
With Juve chief Luciano Moggi claiming he will be forced to work in the Bosman market in the summer, its been suggested he will cash in on Trezeguet to land No1 target Antonio Cassano from Roma.
Moggi has made no secret of his interest in Cassano, but adding the firebrand to an attack that already boasts Trezeguet, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Alessandro del Piero, Marcelo Zalayeta and Adrian Mutu suggests one of the latter will have to be sold on.
Livorno to make yet another Juventus signing
Tribal Football
Livorno are pouring over the qualities of Juventus' fringe players ahead of the summer market. Juve are ready to hand Livorno one or perhaps two players in co-ownership next season after their assistance in the signing of Romanian Adrian Mutu in January.
Livorno already have through Juventus Matteo Paro, Raffaele Palladino, Davide Chiumento and Abdoulay Konko and will now seek to add to their squad again from the Turin giants next season.
Cassano: Don't read anything into Roma non-celebrations
Tribal Football
Antonio Cassano has defended himself after Roma fans questioned his commitment to the club following this week's Coppa Italia shootout victory over Fiorentina. Cassano refused to celebrate with his Roma teammates and his actions incensed the away support in Florence.
"I did not celebrate with my teammates because I was disappointed with my own performance," he declared yesterday. "There is nothing sinister to read into it. I was just upset with myself, that is all.
The influential Il Romanista says Cassano's agent already has a verbal agreement with Juventus for next season, though sources close to the player insist he will listen to Roma director Rosella Sensi's new contract offer before making up his mind.
The striker's current deal expires in 2006 and the summer market represents Roma's last chance to get value for money if Cassano refuses to commit to a new contract.
Bayern Munich's Kovac: No Juventus approach
Tribal Football
Bayern Munich defender Robert Kovac has played down reports linking him with Juventus. Juve chief Luciano Moggi confirmed his interest in the Croatia international, who is coming off contract this week. But Kovac said: "Bild newspaper published comments from my agent that Juventus was interested in me.
"The truth is that he has said nothing to me and there has not been any contact with the Italian club. It's all an invention."
