This
web site is an online diary maintained by azzurri.Friday 06 May
Juventus keep tabs on Sampdoria's Pisano
Tribal Football
Juventus are keeping tabs on Sampdoria defender Marco Pisano. Called into Marcello Lippi's Italy squad this season, Pisano has been influential in Samp's successful Serie A campaign this season. Juventus director general Luciano Moggi is considering younger defenders for his squad next season and is keeping tabs on Pisano, who is contracted to Samp until 2008.
Arsenal's Edu welcomes Juventus talks
Tribal Football
Arsenal midfielder Edu admits he is flattered that Juventus are showing interest in him. The Brazil international is off contract in the summer and has been negotiating a Bosman deal with Valencia. However, late interest from Juve has turned Edu's head and he admitted: "Juventus is a great team and the interest that has arrived for me makes me happy.
"I have already spoken with Emerson, but I prefer not to say what we have spoken between ourselves. I am certain that I will not play in England next season and want to continue my career in Europe." Juve have offered a contract worth £1.4 million-a-year, while Edu is holding out for closer to £1.75 million-a-year.
Barzagli rejects Juve rumour
Football Italia
Palermo ace Andrea Barzagli has dismissed stories linking him with a move to Juventus. Some reports had suggested that a deal had basically been agreed between the two clubs for the central defender. But the Italian international is adamant that he wants to continue his career at the Stadio Renzo Barbera.
"Neither I nor my agent have received any offers from Juventus or any other clubs," said the 24-year-old. "I was also linked with a lot of teams last summer but I ended up at Palermo, the only side who showed concrete interest in me.
"I decided to accept their offer because President Maurizio Zamparini has always believed in my ability."
Meanwhile, the Sampdoria pair of Francesco Antonioli and Marco Pisano are today being associated with the Delle Alpi outfit. Juve allegedly want Antonioli to be their new No 2, behind Gigi Buffon, as Antonio Chimenti is set to leave. They also like the look of the young defender even if he is contracted to Doria until June 2008.
In other Juventus news, the club are set to introduce a new away strip from the start of the new campaign. They are expected to play in red shirts, white shorts and red socks. Their current second strip is blue and yellow.
Trapattoni: Benfica's Miguel, Luisao can be Serie A stars
Tribal Football
Benfica coach Giovanni Trapattoni has declared his two stars Miguel and Luisao can play at the top in Serie A. Fullback Miguel is being tracked by Juventus, while defender Luisao is said to have agreed a move to Inter Milan.
Trapattoni said: "They are two players ready for big success as they've proved in this tough competition. Many European clubs regularly visit us to check on them."
Real Madrid smashes AC Milan offer for Gilardino
Tribal Football
Real Madrid have made a mega offer to Parma for striker Alberto Gilardino. The Spanish giants' bid blows AC Milan's rival offer out of the water - including the contract that is on the table for the 22 year-old Italy international.
Real Madrid, under the instructions of their Italian general manager Arrigo Sacchi, have offered Parma £22 million plus striker Javier Portillo this week for Gilardino. Personal terms have also been discussed, with Real's five-year, £2.4 million-a-year contract, smashing Milan's proposed £1.4 million-a-year deal.
Parma chiefs are seriously considering Real's bid as it would mean the club wouldn't have to sell any other player over the summer market to clear spiraling debts. But the final word will be left with Gilardino, who has admitted he is reluctant to quit Italy with the World Cup only 12 months away.
Chelsea to wreck Man Utd hopes with £18M Essien bid
Tribal Football
Chelsea are planning to trump Manchester United for Lyon midfield star Mickael Essien. The Ghana international, who could have joined United for nothing after trials as a teenager, is a target for both Premiership heavyweights.
The Mirror says Chelsea Roman Abramovich has given his blessing to the Premiership champions' first major swoop of the summer and talks are at an advanced stage over a £18 million switch. Despite the player admitting his love for United, Sir Alex Ferguson cannot compete with Chelsea's financial muscle.
Chelsea make fresh £24M offer for Betis wing ace Joaquin
Tribal Football
Chelsea have made a fresh bid for Real Betis winger Joaquin. Betis insiders have told AS that Chelsea have tabled a £24 million offer for the Spanish international this week. Its also emerged that Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho traveled to Seville in December to try and close a deal for Joaquin ahead of the January market.
Joaquin is staying on the sidelines, but its understood if he must leave Betis his preferred destination is Real Madrid. During the January market, Betis president Manuel Ruiz de Lopera revealed that apart from Chelsea, he received offers from two more foreign clubs: "One from Italy and another from England."
Thursday 05 May
Milan - Juventus
Football Italia
Milan and Juventus meet at the San Siro in a Scudetto showdown. Both sides have been level on points, give or take the occasional week, for around two months now and there is finally a chance for one club to break away. But if the Stadio Delle Alpi meeting from December is anything to go by – a drab 0-0 draw – then a spareggio may be on the cards at the end of the campaign.
Coming up against his former club, Milan Coach Carlo Ancelotti has some tough choices to make. While Pippo Inzaghi is likely to only make the bench against his old friends, Paolo Maldini’s return from suspension means that Alessandro Costacurta drops to the bench. Andrea Pirlo is back to full fitness so he is a likely starter, as are Clarence Seedorf and Hernan Crespo.
Fabio Capello’s team selection is likely to be more straightforward as injury and suspension leave him with few options. Zlatan Ibrahimovic is still serving a suspension following an incident with Inter’s Ivan Cordoba last month, but David Trezeguet’s 20 minute cameo against Bologna means that he is likely to start in place of Marcelo Zalayeta. The only other expected change is Emerson returning in place of Manuele Blasi. Even if the latter could still start ahead of Stephen Appiah.
Last season’s championship race was settled when Ancelotti’s side beat a Capello Coached Roma at the Giuseppe Meazza– can he repeat the trick?
Milan: Dida; Cafu, Nesta, Stam, Maldini; Gattuso, Pirlo, Seedorf, Kakà; Shevchenko, Crespo
Juventus: Buffon; Pessotto, Thuram, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Emerson, Appiah, Nedved; Del Piero, Trezeguet
Ref: To folllow
Capello considers trident attack
Football Italia
Juventus continue their Press silence while testing out new tactical solutions, but patron Lapo Elkann admits he’s expecting an entertaining game against Milan this Sunday.
“I’d prefer to sit down and watch Milan-Juventus in the San Siro stands rather than talk about it,” revealed the heir to the FIAT empire. “I think it impossible to make a prediction right now. The important thing is that both teams could not be more motivated and it will certainly be a difficult encounter. I also expect it to be a spectacular one.”
The two clubs have been locked together at the top of the Serie A table for months now and Sunday’s showdown at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza could decide the Scudetto race.
Juve have decided to best prepare for this most important game of the season by refusing to speak with the Press, as they claimed in a statement last weekend that there was a plot to “damage the club” in this delicate time.
Prying eyes are nonetheless keeping close tabs on the training sessions to work out how Fabio Capello will set out his squad, especially in the absence of the suspended Zlatan Ibrahimovic and injured Jonathan Zebina. Lilian Thuram and Alessio Tacchinardi did not take part in training today, but should be fit enough to resume activity tomorrow.
With David Trezeguet returning to full fitness, it is rumoured that the Frenchman will start in place of Alessandro Del Piero, as Marcelo Zalayeta represents a more tactically versatile figure. Another option he has tested out this week is the trident attack with Del Piero countering Marcos Cafu and Zalayeta running at Paolo Maldini.
The Bianconeri have started with three upfront in five occasions this year and all of them – including the trip to Roma – saw them emerge with maximum points. However, when introduced during a match, it has only earned two draws and a defeat.
Juventus haven’t conquered the San Siro since a crushing 6-1 victory in 1996-97, followed by five draws and two Milan wins.
Zambrotta staying at Juventus
Football Italia
Gianluca Zambrotta’s representative has ruled out a transfer to Chelsea for the Juventus defender. The left-back has been paired with the Stamford Bridge outfit recently but the international seems set to stay in Turin.
"I can categorically exclude the possibility that he will leave Juventus," Beppe Bonetto told Spq Radio. "The Bianconeri just won’t sell him and not even a massive offer would be enough to tempt them to think about it."
Chelsea are keen on a new full-back after they were also heavily linked with Arsenal’s Ashley Cole. Zambrotta is one of the most highly-rated players in Europe after being converted from a right-sided midfielder by previous boss Marcello Lippi.
Juventus open Sampdoria talks over Antonioli
Tribal Football
Juventus are in talks with Sampdoria for goalkeeper Francesco Antonioli. Juve chiefs want to bring Antonioli to Turin as a backup for No1 Gianluigi Buffon next season. Negotiations opened with Samp officials this week and the deal could include Antonio Chimenti going in the opposite direction.
Juventus to offer kid Masiello in deal for Palermo's Barzagli
Tribal Football
Juventus are ready to loan out teenage midfielder Andrea Masiello next season. The 19 year-old has caught the eye for Juve's Primavera team this term and coach Fabio Capello is confident the youngster is a genuine prospect.
Palermo have already been sounded out about Masiello, who could move there as part of a deal which would bring Italy international Andrea Barzagli to Turin.
Gilardino to remain in Italy
Football Italia
Alberto Gilardino’s agent believes that the Parma ace won’t be joining a foreign club in the summer. The striker will leave the Stadio Tardini at the end of the season but he’s likely to remain in Serie A.
"The ideal solution for his family and his international prospects would be to stay in Italy," Beppe Bonetto told Spq Radio. "However, it is now obvious that he deserves to play for a big club. He’s managed to live up to the standards of last season which is a clear signal of his maturity."
Gilardino has been associated with a number of foreign clubs, including Real Madrid and last night’s beaten Champions’ League semi-finalists Chelsea.
"There have been a lot on inexact things written," added Bonetto. "Alberto has preferred not to comment on them as his side are in a fight to avoid relegation. However, I would like to underline yet again that I don’t think he’ll move abroad."
Gilardino has also been associated with both Milan clubs but Bonetto isn’t giving too much away. "It is almost certain that he will play or go to play at the San Siro next season," he concluded.
Wednesday 04 May
Trez out of Ireland showdown
Football Italia
David Trezeguet will miss France’s crucial World Cup qualifier against the Republic of Ireland after receiving a two-match ban from UEFA on Tuesday. The Juventus striker was sent off after head-butting Israel midfielder Ben Haim in the World Cup clash in Tel-Aviv at the end of March. Leading at the time thanks to Trezeguet's goal, Les Bleus ended up drawing 1-1.
The 27-year-old, who has featured in just two competitive matches since the appointment of Raymond Domenech as Coach last summer, had feared a heavier punishment. As it is, he will miss the home match against the Faroe Islands but, more importantly, the trip to Lansdowne Road in September.
France are currently joint top of Group 4 with Israel, but Switzerland and Ireland are just a point behind and both have a game in hand.
Lazio's Giannichedda won't comment on Juventus move
Tribal Football
Lazio midfielder Guiliano Giannichedda has refused to confirm he is on his way to Juventus in the summer. Giannichedda is believed to have agreed a deal with Juve and will move to Turin at the end of the season on a Bosman when his Lazio deal expires.
However, the midfielder insists he's only concerned with keeping Lazio in Serie A this season: "I have always said that I have spoken many times with president Claudio Lotito about my future. "But before I sort out my future, I want to make sure Lazio are okay. Our primary goal is to gain enough points to keep the club in Serie A."
Gilardino opens Milan door
Football Italia
Parma striker Alberto Gilardino has hinted that he’ll be joining Milan at the end of the season. The Italian international will be sold in the summer and he’s fuelled speculation that he’ll be wearing the Rossoneri shirt next term.
"A club like Milan is obviously of great interest to me," Gilardino, who netted four against Livorno on Sunday, told Radio Radio. "But only after May 29 will my future be evaluated. For now all that I am interested in is keeping Parma in Serie A even if the club know what teams I would prefer to join."
Gilardino is one of the hottest young players in European football with Real Madrid also apparently monitoring his situation.
"It certainly wouldn’t be a bad thing to join a formidable club like Real," continued the 23-year-old. "Arrigo Sacchi (Real’s technical director) knows me well seeing as he worked for Parma. I think he rates me as a player but we will have to wait and see what happens."
Gilardino was already close to a move last summer when Roma wanted him to partner Antonio Cassano and Francesco Totti. Can the trio still play together in the future? "I hope that this trident can be used with the national side," he said, seemingly ruling out a capital switch. "I link up well with them."
Gilardino will face the Olimpico outfit on Sunday in a game that will be crucial for their survival hopes. "The Giallorossi have some great individual players but they are only on 40 points," he added. "However, we won’t let our guard down."
Real Madrid make official approach for Arsenal's Reyes
Tribal Football
Real Madrid vice-president Emilio Butragueno has held talks with Arsenal chief David Dein over striker Jose Reyes. Butragueno made the official approach over the weekend and asked Dein to name Arsenal's price for the Spanish international. Dein refused to offer a figure, insisting Reyes was not for sale.
However, AS says Butragueno is convinced Arsenal will make Reyes available in the summer and the first phone call was just set to out some ground-work.
Indeed, Reyes' agent, Jesus Rodriguez de Moya, was in London last month to inform Dein that the youngster wanted to leave Arsenal. Dein has already consulted with manager Arsene Wenger about Reyes and they're agreed that a £10 million fee would be a good price.
"Anyone would like to play for Madrid," said Reyes. "It is a great club and one that never closes their doors to anything."
Bologna whiz Meghni cool on Juventus interest
Tribal Football
Bologna midfield dynamo Mourad Meghni says he is happy to stay at the club - despite the interest of Juventus. The French youngster is being targeted by Juve and Palermo for a co-ownership deal, which would see the midfielder play next season on-loan at Palermo.
But Meghni says: "I do not know the intentions of my club. If it depended on me, it would appeal to me to stay with Bologna. Why would I want to leave when I can be sure of regular games and also continue my development? I am still young and I have enough time in front of me to play for a bigger club."
Meghni makes Marseille call
Football Italia
Bologna playmaker Mourad Meghni says he would consider joining Marseille if the Ligue 1 club rekindled their interest in him. The 21-year-old Frenchman is regarded as one of the most skilful young players in Europe and has been nicknamed 'the new Zidane'.
He has been linked with moves to Juventus and Real Madrid, but revealed on Tuesday that Marseille was also an option. "If the bosses at Marseille show their interest in me again, I will give it some serious thought," he said.
Marseille’s attempts to sign Meghni last summer were blocked by Bologna, but the Italian club, currently 12th in Serie A, appear ready to cash in on the midfielder at the end of the season. Born in Paris, Meghni has scored three goals in 14 games this season.
Tuesday 03 May
Liverpool assess Kapo option
Football Italia
Liverpool are the latest club to be associated with a move for Juventus flop Olivier Kapo. The free summer signing from Auxerre has struggled to make an impact at the Stadio Delle Alpi, even if he’s not be helped by a number of injury problems.
Juventus are now set to release the French international at the end of this term, with numerous outfits showing an interest. Fiorentina, Sampdoria and Palermo have all been linked in Italy, while Monaco are also believed to be monitoring his situation.
But Liverpool are allegedly in a good position to sign the winger, as he is keen to link up with friend Djibril Cisse again after their time together a Auxerre.
I’m staying at Inter, says Vieri
Football Italia
Christian Vieri says he has no intention of leaving Inter at the end of the current campaign. The Italian has endured an injury-plagued term at the San Siro with many expecting this to be his last with the outfit. But the veteran striker insists that he has no thoughts of ending his Nerazzurri adventure in the summer.
"I still have a year left on my contract and I intend to lock all of the doors," said the 31-year-old.
The Italian international was also keen to point out that his relationship with boss Roberto Mancini was still healthy. "I haven’t got a single problem with Mancini," he underlined. "I remain at his full disposal."
Mancini also wanted to confirm that there are no difficulties between himself and his former Lazio teammate. "I admire Vieri as a man and a player," stated the tactician. "The fact that he has played so little in the last few months is only down to his knee problems."
Vieri came off the bench yesterday to score the second in his side’s comfortable 2-0 win over Siena. The veteran has again been associated with a host of clubs recently, including Juventus, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid.
Roma: Totti & Cassano will sign
Football Italia
Roma are confident that Francesco Totti and Antonio Cassano will soon sign new contracts with the outfit. Both players are only tied to the Stadio Olimpico side until 2006 which has seen them linked with summer moves.
Totti has been associated with the likes of Real Madrid and Milan recently, while Juventus are reportedly keen on Cassano. But Daniele Pradè, who is soon set to be named as the club’s new director general, believes the duo are going nowhere.
"We have already resolved the issue regarding Vincenzo Montella by extending his contract," Pradè told Radio Anch’io Sport. "When we are a little calmer about our future then we will start talks with Cassano and Totti."
The Giallorossi are in a mini-crisis after falling down the League standings over the past few weeks. Yesterday’s 2-2 draw with Brescia was only the second point they’ve picked up in their last eight games.
Meanwhile, Pradè also expressed his optimism for the future. "We have a youth system which is superior to the Ajax one which is considered as one of the best in the world," he added. "We have a serious project for the future which began with us solving our financial problems."
Gilardino puts Parma first
Football Italia
Alberto Gilardino says he won’t think about his own future until Parma are mathematically safe of avoiding relegation. The 23-year-old is one of the hottest talents in the Italian game and has been linked with numerous outfits over the last 18 months. But the Italian international is just concentrating on his present club for the time being.
"We need to make sure of our survival which is of real importance to everyone here," said the former Piacenza ace. "Only in the summer will I evaluate the offers on the table. Obviously the more there are to choose from, the better it is for me and Parma."
Milan were thought to have already reached an agreement for his signature but Juventus, Inter and Real Madrid are still being linked.
"The fact that I am of interest to clubs shows that I am confirming the good things that I did last season," he added. "Would I consider a move abroad? It depends but it would be important for me to keep scoring in Italy with the World Cup coming up."
Gilardino confirmed his ability on Sunday when he netted four in the amazing 6-4 win over Livorno – for whom Cristiano Lucarelli also netted a quartet. "I scored 23 goals last season and I wanted to repeat that feat," continued the classy forward. "I’ve now got 21 and there are still four games left."
Meanwhile, Parma official Luca Baraldi has confirmed that a Gilardino sale will occur at the end of the campaign. "It will be tough for us to keep hold of him," he admitted. "We’ll see what offer suits both him and us."
Parma's Gilardino: Being Juventus fan doesn't mean I'll join
Tribal Football
Parma striker Alberto Gilardino insists he hasn't made a decision over where he is playing next season. AC Milan, Juventus, Inter Milan and Real Madrid are all chasing the Italy international, who said: "As a child I was a Juve fan, but that does not mean anything.
"I have learned to approach football as a professional. In the summer I will listen to the offers that they will make for me. It excites me that many clubs are interested. But now I must stay focused on Parma. We have to try and stay up and for us it is too important to let our concentration slip."
Arsenal eye PSG winger Rothen
Tribal Football
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is planning a move for Paris Saint Germain winger Jerome Rothen. The French international only moved to PSG last summer, but has admitted an ambition to move overseas. The People says Wenger is a big fan of the hard-working, left-sided attacker and could bid for Rothen if veteran Robert Pires chooses to move on.
Monday 02 May
Capello has faith in Juve
Football Italia
Fabio Capello has lost none of his confidence as Juve prepare to face up to Bologna and the absence of Zlatan Ibrahimovic. “I am relaxed because I have faith in this squad,” said the Coach after Ibra’s three-match ban was confirmed on appeal. “We have to concentrate on performing our duties on the pitch and that is what counts.”
The Bianconeri will be without the injured Emerson, Jonathan Zebina, Paolo Montero, Alessio Tacchinardi and Alessandro Birindelli, but David Trezeguet does return to the squad.
“Clearly Ibrahimovic’s absence will be a heavy blow against both Bologna and Milan, especially as he was on form, but Trezeguet is getting back to full fitness faster than expected and will be on the bench this Sunday.”
Capello has been very critical of the way TV evidence was used to suspend Ibrahimovic for the biggest game of the season – May 8 at the San Siro – and tried to take a step back now that two different appeal courts rejected his protests.
“I ask the fans to stay calm and come to the Stadium. We will give everything we have to try and win this Scudetto and have already proved, such as last week at Lazio, that we can win even in the most difficult circumstances.”
Alessandro Del Piero limped off with a bruised back during the opening minutes of that encounter, yet Juve went on to win 1-0. “Del Piero still has a slight twinge in his back and is not 100 per cent fit, but he can play,” explained the Coach.
The Turin giants are expected to brush Bologna aside at the Stadio Delle Alpi, though Carlo Mazzone’s team has already beaten Milan on their own turf this season. “We must be wary of Bologna and not underestimate them. This side plays well and can be deadly on the counter-attack with a great Coach like Mazzone planning everything in advance.”
Juventus 2 - 1 Bologna
Football Italia
Two headers ensured Juve maintain Milan's pace, but they made hard work of beating Bologna.
The Bianconeri were the outstanding favourites to beat struggling Bologna, even if Coach Fabio Capello had precious few options at his disposal. Zlatan Ibrahimovic sits out the second of a three-match ban, while Emerson, Jonathan Zebina, Alessio Tacchinardi, Alessandro Birindelli and Paolo Montero are injured. The visitors were missing Tomas Locatelli among others.
There was an early scare for Juve, as Christian Amoroso went on a solo run and his angled drive was just wide of the target, then ex-Bianconeri youngster Giacomo Cipriani's header looped over the bar.
There was bad news for the Rossoblu after just 14 minutes, as Amoroso was stretchered off with what would appear to be a relatively serious injury, making way for Euro 2004 winner Theo Zagorakis.
It was Juventus who took the lead after 18 minutes. Mauro Camoranesi's cross from the right reached Fabio Cannavaro for a climbing header at the back post and it was a special moment for the defender, who has been in the news for a drugs video controversy this week.
That was Juve's first real scoring opportunity and, after Gianluca Pagliuca had been tested by Gianluca Pessotto's strike, they doubled their lead on the third. Another Camoranesi free kick from the right found Marcelo Zalayeta for a free header from six yards.
Bologna were not going to give in and got back into the game on 27 minutes. Former Milan midfielder Federico Giunti curled in a magnificent free kick that Buffon just couldn't reach in the top corner. Alessandro Del Piero curled a free kick just past the near post as Juve hoped to restore their two-goal cushion.
Carlo Mazzone's men certainly haven't been lucky with injuries this season and they lost Carlo Nervo before Cipriani was nudged by Lilian Thuram and crashed head-first into the advertising board. Luckily, the striker was able to continue.
Del Piero was having a very disappointing afternoon and somehow managed to nod Pavel Nedved's cross wide of the far post from all of two yards. David Trezeguet made his comeback from an ankle injury and hoped he would gain enough match fitness to face Milan next week.
Camoranesi's free kicks were causing the most problems for Bologna and Gianluca Zambrotta's header from this set-piece went close. Nedved went for goal himself and his shot was parried into the path of Trezeguet, but luckily for Pagliuca it ricocheted back into his arms off the Frenchman's ankle.
The Bianconeri wasted another golden opportunity to make the points safe with a save on Zalayeta. Bologna had a great chance to draw level in the final minutes, as Claudio Bellucci's low drive skimmed the woodwork, but Juve had several shots saved, including a late Nedved effort.
Juventus: Buffon; Pessotto, Thuram, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi (Oliveira 78), Blasi, Appiah, Nedved; Zalayeta (Kapo 89), Del Piero (Trezeguet 69)
Bologna: Pagliuca; Juarez, Legrottaglie, Gamberini, Sussi; Nervo (Meghni 30), Amoroso (Zagorakis 14), Colucci, Giunti (Tare 69), Bellucci; Cipriani
Ref: Messina
Juve impose Press Silence
Football Italia
Juventus have surprisingly announced an official Press silence until further notice following “suspicions that there are attempts to damage the club.” The wording of the statement is particularly unusual, as it suggests a conspiracy is in force against the Turin giants.
“Juventus FC are faced with some disturbing facts that push us to suspect certain situations have been put in place to damage the club at a crucial stage of the season,” it read on the official website.
“We wish to dedicate all our attention to the competition on the field, fully aware that we are in an emergency situation. For this reason, Juve’s members will not make any further statements until further notice in order to avoid fuelling more controversy.”
The Bianconeri have been at the centre of several topical issues this week, including the use of TV evidence to ban Zlatan Ibrahimovic for three games and the transmission of Fabio Cannavaro’s home video showing him attached to a drip before Parma’s 1999 UEFA Cup Final appearance.
The fact that the video tape was anonymously handed over to a television station just days before the May 8 showdown with Milan has aroused suspicions. Nonetheless, it is a bold move from the club and one that will only serve to raise further controversy ahead of such a delicate encounter.
Bianconeri director general Luciano Moggi had hinted that he believed Sky Italia – with its strong business links to Milan – had sought out the footage of Ibrahimovic striking Ivan Cordoba in order to ensure the player would miss the big game.
Juventus consider young Bologna trio
Tribal Football
Juventus are tracking the form of three of Bologna's brightest young players. Defender Alessandro Gamberini, midfielder Mourad Meghni and striker Giacomo Cirpiani are all being considered by Juve management for the summer market.
Juve did have co-ownership of Gamberini and his form this season has Juve directors admitting they've made a mistake in giving up their 50 per cent of his registration. French whiz Meghni is also a big favourite of Real Madrid president Florentino Perez and Juve are in talks with Palermo about signing the youngster to a co-ownership deal.
Meanwhile, striker Cirpiani is being considered as a backup for star Zlatan Ibrahimovic with Juve coaching staff concerned they need to provide competition for the Swede for him to reach his potential.
Barcelona president heaps pressure on Arsenal over Henry
Tribal Football
Barcelona president Joan Laporta's comments about Arsenal striker Thierry Henry has heaped pressure on manager Arsene Wenger. Laporta says he wants to sign the Frenchman - NOW - and is ready with a £30 million bid for the striker.
The Barca supremo declared: "The truth is I'd love to see Thierry Henry here. He would have to come now, given his age."
Henry has been growing increasingly frustrated at having to shoulder nearly all the goalscoring responsibility at Arsenal and has apparently voiced his concerns to Wenger.
Chelsea launch £30M bid for Barcelona ace Eto'o
Tribal Football
Chelsea are launching a stunning £30 million offer for Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o - only months after being slammed by the fiery African. The Sunday Mirror says Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has instructed top agent Pini Zahavi to make the first moves to lure the Cameroon star away from Barcelona in a bid to make them stronger than ever next season.
Eto'o, who moved to Barcelona from Real Mallorca last summer, is the man Mourinho believes can provide his team with a more lethal cutting edge - and the Blues boss is ready to break Chelsea's club record transfer fee to land him.
Since his £18.1m transfer he has scored 21 goals in 32 games for the La Liga champions elect. Eto'o also hit the net against Chelsea when the clubs met in their controversial Champions League first leg in Spain. The Cameroon striker is considered to have the pace, power and style that would help him thrive in the fierce tempo of the Premiership.
Chelsea to use PSV link to wreck Real Madrid's Robinho push
Tribal Football
Chelsea could rumble Real Madrid's hopes of landing Santos winger Robinho at the end of the season. Blues owner Roman Abramovich could use his association with PSV Eindhoven to lure the Brazil international away from the clutches of Real Madrid, says the Guardian.
PSV Eindhoven president Harry van Raaij has acknowledged unspecified arrangements with Chelsea. These may lead to Robinho playing in the Netherlands for two years while gaining the qualifications that would let him take up employment in England.
Inter Milan prepare new bid for Roma's Chivu
Tribal Football
Inter Milan supremo Massimo Moratti has made AS Roma defender Cristian Chivu his No1 shopping target for the summer market. Moratti has instructed transfer chiefs Marco Branca and Gabriele Oriali to step up negotiations with Roma for the Romania international, having met with the defender's agent last month.
Inter are prepared to offer £8 million for Chivu and are banking on Roma's financial problems to sway the deal in their favour. A three-year contract, worth £2.3 million-a-season is also being drawn up. Inter president Giacinto Facchetti hinted last week that a big summer signing would be made: "We cannot discard the idea of making a massive blow in the market."
Agent reveals Arsenal pushing for Caracciolo
Tribal Football
The agent of Brescia centre-forward Andrea Caracciolo has confirmed Arsenal have been badgering him about next season. "Caracciolo has to wait and see what position Brescia are going to be in next season," he said. "Few clubs can meet the £7m asking price, so we'll evaluate offers from England and Spain.
"Arsenal have contacted us several times and we hope Roma will join the race."
Sunday 01 May
Juventus v Bologna: Preview
ESPN Soccernet
Juventus continue their battle for the Scudetto by hosting Bologna at the Stadio Delle Alpi. The club known affectionately as "the old lady" of Italian football and AC Milan are both level on points with five games remaining in the campaign.
However, both teams are poised to play each other next weekend and Serie A could be provided with one of the most pulsating climaxes to a season in years. Fabio Capello's men secured a slender 1-0 victory over an inspired Lazio team last week courtesy of a goal from their Czech maverick Pavel Nedved to stay level with Milan, the reigning champions.
And Mauro Camoranesi believes the win shows his side are in top form after losing against Internazionale the previous week, as the race for the title intensifies.
"Our win against Lazio was an important one on a difficult pitch," he told www.juventus.it. "We knew they would put pressure on us, but we were brave and managed to score through Pavel Nedved and then close the match out to end a bad week on a positive note. The Lazio game proves we are in fine form."
Nevertheless, the Argentina-born midfielder is expecting an equally difficult contest. "I already know what the game on Sunday will be like - Bologna will keep it tight and try and hit us on the counterattack.
"We will have to be inventive to get the result and we must win this game to get ready for the San Siro next week," he added. "If we can beat Milan we will have the Scudetto 50% won."
Zlatan Ibrahimovic has failed in his bid to get his three-match ban overturned, after he caught on TV cameras having a fracas with Inter's Ivan Cordoba. The immensely talented and frustrating Alessandro Del Piero should be fit to play and his ability to create and score goals could be vital as Juve press for a win.
Meanwhile, veteran defender Ciro Ferrara has announced he will quit at the end of the season. The tough-tackling former Italy international has been at the heart of the Juve defence for a decade - and is sure to want to add one more medal to his considerably haul.
Bologna are without a win in four games, drawing two and losing two. The Rossoblu, who currently have 40 points, are six points away from the relegation zone but will hope to secure at least two points from their remaining four games to assure their Serie A status.
Bologna's Brazilian defender Juarez is aware his opponents will be looking for nothing less than victory.
"For Juventus this will be a very important game and in order to approach the Milan game in the right mood they have to beat us," he told the club's official website, www.bolognafc.it. "I am particularly worried about Pavel Nedved and Gianluca Zambrotta but Juve have good players all over the pitch."
Meanwhile, former Juventus defender Fabio Cannavaro is currently at the centre of a controversy over TV footage of him having a legal substance injected into him in 1999. The video shows Cannavaro being injected with a substance called Neoton which is not on the banned list.
Trez ready for Bologna test
Football Italia
David Trezeguet could be fit to face Milan next week as he’s in the squad for Sunday’s Bologna clash, but Emerson is again sidelined for Juve. Trezeguet himself had conceded his season could be over after tests showed the inflammation of the ankle was more serious than at first thought, but this period of rest has enabled him to recover relatively quickly.
The Frenchman will be on the bench for tomorrow’s encounter with Bologna at the Stadio Delle Alpi and took part in today’s game between ranks, but with Zlatan Ibrahimovic suspended, this means that Alessandro Del Piero and Marcelo Zalayeta start upfront.
“We accept the Ibrahimovic punishment and are nonetheless confident of success at the San Siro on May 8,” assured Coach Fabio Capello after a second appeal against the three-match ban was rejected. “After all, this season we have become accustomed to working in difficult conditions and have to think positive, otherwise we risk underperforming through sheer worry.”
Another concern within the Bianconeri camp is represented by Emerson, who has been struggling with hip and muscular problems for several weeks now. The Brazilian is again out of the squad to face Bologna, so Stephen Appiah returns from suspension to partner Manuele Blasi in central midfield.
Alessio Tacchinardi, Alessandro Birindelli, Jonathan Zebina and Paolo Montero are also injured and will be in the stands tomorrow afternoon.
Cannavaro: I did nothing wrong
Football Italia
Fabio Cannavaro has insisted he did nothing wrong after the video tape of him attached to a drip sent shockwaves through Serie A. “This was not doping,” said the defender who was filmed on his own camera the night before the 1999 UEFA Cup Final between Parma and Olympique Marseille.
“The substance was Neoton, which is not on the list of banned substances. It is simply an integrator that is given when players are feeling tired and a perfectly normal thing to do.”
The videotape was transmitted on State television on Thursday evening and showed Cannavaro joking around with medical staff and teammates in the hotel room as he was injected with the medication. “Perhaps people were a little scared by the sight of the drip, but everyone was happy and relaxed, so it was clear there was nothing underhand going on. Besides, it was my camera and I was doing the filming.”
Neoton is a substance generally used after cardiac surgery and is not banned, but it is one of the medicines named in the Juventus doping trial.
“It is an integrator of vitamins that is occasionally used when players become tired and not an unusual thing to do,” explained Cannavaro. “I don’t understand why this film was put into a programme about doping in sport when there was nothing illegal about it.”
The footage was taken six years ago, yet the videotape was only handed over to RAI anonymously a couple of weeks ago.
“They edited it in a way to show only their slant on it and not the joy and fun in that hotel room. Besides, what I really cannot understand is how my personal videotape reached a television company. They tried to invite me on to the programme, but only hours before the show was set to air, so I didn’t have the time to respond to these allegations.”
The Juventus defender and Italian international captain concluded his interview with a statement against the drugs culture in sport. “Nobody should take illegal substances as they can bring dire consequences and we have to set an example for young people. It wasn’t right to use those images in that way.”
Inter join Gilardino race
Football Italia
The Nerazzurri are ready to challenge local rivals Milan for the signature of Italian international Alberto Gilardino. Regardless of whether or not Parma manage to avoid relegation, their star striker is expected to leave the club at the end of this season and he is not short of options.
Real Madrid, Chelsea, Juventus and Valencia have all been linked, though many newspapers suggest that a deal with Milan has already been struck. Nonetheless, Inter are prepared to intervene with a large cash sum – plus the offer of players such as Giorgos Karagounis, Emre Belozoglu and Carlos Gamarra – to tempt him into the other side of the San Siro.
Patron Massimo Moratti agreed a budget of £21.6m in order to reinforce the squad during this week’s shareholders’ meeting and the first objective is to buy out all of Juan Sebastian Veron’s contract from Chelsea. With the likely departure of Christian Vieri and Alvaro Recoba, new forwards are needed and Gilardino has already replaced the centre-forward in the Italy line-up.
Should they fail to capture the Parma star, then Inter’s next preference would be Marco Di Vaio, who has struggled to settle in at Valencia and was already close to joining Roberto Mancini during his Lazio years. Reinforcements are also required in defence, with Roma’s Cristian Chivu – also a target for Milan and Juve – and Bianconeri star Gianluca Zambrotta earmarked.
Man Utd target Essien keen on Premiership move
Tribal Football
Lyon midfield ace Mickael Essien admits he welcomes interest from the Premiership. The Ghana international has been watched by Manchester United chief scout Martin Ferguson in recent weeks and is said to be a £10 million target for the Premiership giants.
The combative 22-year-old said: "I'll be happy in England. Everything in England attracts me - the fans, the clubs, the history."
Saturday 30 April
Ibrahimovic loses second appeal
Football Italia
Zlatan Ibrahimovic looks set to miss the big game against Milan after a second appeal against his three-match ban was also rejected. The Juventus striker was handed the suspension after he was caught on camera striking Inter’s Ivan Cordoba during last week’s 1-0 defeat in Turin.
His first appeal to the Disciplinary Commission was turned down yesterday afternoon and a second motion to the CAF (Federal Court of Appeal) was expected to be successful in reducing the sentence from three games to two.
However, the CAF agreed with the Commission and reiterated that the full penalty for this off the ball incident will stand. Ibrahimovic has already missed the 1-0 win at Lazio and will now be banned for games against Bologna and, crucially, the May 8 trip to Milan.
"This game is worth an entire season to me and the thought of having to watch it from the stands is tearing me apart," said the Swede. The Rossoneri had surprisingly come out in favour of a reduction and Coach Carlo Ancelotti stated today, “I really hope he is cleared to play so that all the controversy surrounding this issue ends.”
Fiorentina defender Dario Dainelli also saw his appeal to the CAF rejected for a similar incident on Bologna’s Stefano Torrisi.
Thuram may quit in 2006
Football Italia
Lilian Thuram is unsure of what the future holds when his present Juventus deal expires in 2006. The Frenchman is still performing at a high standard for his club but he also significantly celebrated his 33rd birthday in January.
"I still have a year left on my agreement with Juve," said the central defender. "I’ll continue if my legs can carry me. Otherwise I’ll quit."
Thuram, who retired from international football with France after Euro 2004, has been a key figure for the Bianconeri this term. And he is just five games away from lifting his second Scudetto since joining the Stadio Delle Alpi outfit from Parma.
"This is a very delicate moment of the season for us but we can’t think about the game coming up against Milan," he noted. "We face Bologna on Sunday first and we know it will be tough and that we can’t afford to make a mistake."
Milan and Juve are currently joint top of the table, but Thuram doesn’t believe an end of season play-off will be required to decide the destiny of the title. "I don’t think that will happen," he continued. "I believe that the championship will be decided without the need for such a game."
Meanwhile, Thuram is expected to hand the captain’s armband back to Alex Del Piero in Week 34. The Italian limped out of the 1-0 win over Lazio with a back problem but should be fit to face the Rossoblu at the weekend.
Jonathan Zebina, Emerson and David Trezeguet also took part in light training on Thursday and all could feature in some form against Bologna.
Cannavaro in ‘drug video’ row
Football Italia
Italy captain Fabio Cannavaro is at the centre of the latest drugs row to hit Italian football. Italian state broadcasters RAI last night showed a video, taken by Cannavaro himself, in which the Juventus stopper is seen using a drip the day before the 1999 UEFA Cup Final.
Cannavaro is viewed in a Moscow hotel room with numerous of his then Parma teammates, on the eve of their 3-0 win over Marseille, taking Neoton via a drip. The drug is normally used in cardiac surgery but is not a banned substance as Cannavaro’s lawyer, who was present in the debate show studio, was quick to point out.
"Neoton helps to regenerate muscle and it is not on the banned list," Paolo Trofino said, after Cannavaro had declined to be a part of the programme. "We were concerned about the damage it might do to his image," continued Trofino.
"If you go into a player's room the night before a big match and you see him with a drip, obviously that's going to be a shocking image. People might jump to conclusions."
The player had warned RAI on Thursday afternoon that he would assess his legal options if he was accused of anything illegal. Although Neoton is a legal substance, RAI’s decision to make public the home video will do little for the player’s image. Something that club colleague Lilian Thuram, both now and then at Parma, is well aware of.
"It creates an image of players that dope themselves up before each match," said the stopper. "We often play around with video cameras in the dressing rooms, but certain things are seen differently from the outside. Unfortunately we live in a world where people try to dirty and destroy even the little that remains clean.
"A player who has given so much to football and to the Italian national team deserves respect."
Cannavaro keeps Italy captaincy
Football Italia
Fabio Cannavaro will not be stripped of his Italian international captaincy after the drugs row video was transmitted, confirmed the FIGC. “It certainly wasn’t nice to see a player attached to a drip, but Cannavaro has always given his heart and soul for the Nazionale and will remain as captain,” explained Federation President Franco Carraro.
The Juventus defender was seen being injected with legal substance Neoton the night before Parma’s 1999 UEFA Cup Final against Olympique Marseille, as a video made by the player was anonymously handed over to State television RAI.
“I can say that international sport needs clear rules on substances and what kind of behaviour is considered acceptable,” continued Carraro.
“The fact that perfectly healthy athletes are taking medicine does make you think. We need new legislation to stop this from carrying on and a debate that will ensure there are not so many loopholes. The rules are one thing and an ethical stance is another.”
However, the majority of the sporting world in Italy is right behind Cannavaro and stuck by the Azzurri captain. “I am very disappointed by the comments I am hearing,” said former Parma boss Nevio Scala, who famously said ‘our doping was bread and salami.’
“If Cannavaro had something to hide then he wouldn’t have been filming it. I don’t understand this aggressive reaction to a perfectly normal substance that is not in any way illegal.”
Milan Coach Carlo Ancelotti also explained why healthy players continue to take medication for specific ailments. “I was a professional athlete for 20 years and I am now struggling with problems in my back and knees. People have to understand the stress that constant playing and training can put on your body.
“Cannavaro did nothing illegal and someone is trying to use this incident to make a point that has nothing to do with him,” said the former Rossoneri and Roma midfielder.
Palermo to land Meghni in Juventus deal for Barzagli
Tribal Football
Juventus are in talks with Palermo over defender Andrea Barzagli. Juve coach Fabio Capello wants to acquire a young centre-half during the summer market and Barzagli heads his shopping list.
Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini has declared publicly he is ready to speak with Juve about his Italy international and talks commenced last week over the defender's future. Zamparini wants Bologna midfielder Mourad Meghni and discussed a co-ownership offer with Juve director general Luciano Moggi for the French youngster.
Moggi will hold talks with Bologna officials this weekend about Meghni and if an agreement can be struck, the midfielder will be on his way to Palermo in the summer in part-exchange for Barzagli. Palermo may also be handed Juve midfielder Andrea Gasbarroni as part of the deal.
Betis prepare new contract for Chelsea target Joaquin
Tribal Football
Real Betis president Manuel Ruiz de Lopera is considering offering wing ace Joaquin a new contract extension. The deal would keep the Spanish international in Seville until 2013 and also bump up his buyout clause to £40 million.
Lopera has spent many hours considering the pros and cons of securing Joaquin to a new contract, knowing that he could make an instant profit of £20 million-plus if he was to cash in on him. Chelsea, Real Madrid and Barcelona are circling with virtually open chequebooks.
Joaquin has made no secret of his desire to remain with Betis, saying: "My priority is Betis and if the president wants, I know very clearly that I would continue with Betis."
Chelsea clinch £10M agreement for Mascherano
Tribal Football
Chelsea have agreed a deal with Corinthians for midfielder Javier Mascherano. The 22 year-old Argentina international wasn't scheduled to join the Brazilian giants until the summer from River Plate, but will now earn the club a massive £10 million without kicking a ball for them.
The Times says sources at Stamford Bridge revealed last night that an agreement had been reached with Corinthians over the signing of Mascherano. The deal is certain to increase suspicions about links between Roman Abramovich and Corinthians, who have spent heavily since being taken over by a London-based consortium in mysterious circumstances this season.
AC Milan add Borriello to deal for Parma's Gilardino
Tribal Football
AC Milan are ready to add Marco Borriello in their offer for Parma striker Alberto Gilardino. Milan remain favourites to land the Italy international at the end of the season, but the increased interest of Real Madrid has driven the forward's price higher than the expected £15 million Milan were set to agree on.
CSKA Moscow, which has links with Chelsea, have also expressed interest in Gilardino in the past 48 hours. To clinch the 22 year-old's signature, Milan are ready to offer striker Borriello as a readymade replacement for Gilardino and also to make up the £3 million shortfall from Parma's new valuation of £18 million.
Parma are ready to sell to the highest bidder and know with each goal Gilardino scores the price for the youngster can be raised as bigger clubs circle.
Udinese's Jankulovski aware of Chelsea interest
Tribal Football
Udinese wing-back Marek Jankulovski admits he is aware of Chelsea's interest in his transfer. "It's only a rumour," Jankulovski told Idnes. "If there had been a specific offer I would consider it. I know of Chelsea's interest only from a newspaper, that's a thing that can't make me nervous.
"That's interesting [the rumoured contract], but I really haven't pondered over it."
AC Milan remain Jankulovski's favoured destination and he added: "I hope at 90 percent it will succeed, I don't want to touch wood but it's only to sit for an hour and sign some documents."
De Rossi "99 per cent certain" of Roma stay
Tribal Football
AS Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi has pledged his future to the club. Real Madrid and Inter Milan are chasing the Italy international, but De Rossi said: "I hope to remain here. This is my home, my club, my family. I can tell everyone: I want to stay a Giallorosso.
"I say that I am 99 per cent sure I will be here next season."
Man Utd's Ronaldo demanding new deal amid Real Madrid interest
Tribal Football
Manchester United wing ace Cristiano Ronaldo wants a pay-hike to £50,000-a-week. Ronaldo is currently on £14,000 a week after taking over David Beckham's No 7 shirt two years ago when he moved to the Premiership from Sporting Lisbon for £12.4m.
His agent Jorge Mendes has been battling since last year with the United board to land the player the massive pay hike he wants. Now Real Madrid have promised Mendes they will offer Ronaldo the salary he craves if he hands in a transfer request this summer to force United into a deal.
The Spanish giants know there is no way manager Sir Alex Ferguson would sell one of his brightest prospects unless he had no choice. Real have identified the Euro 2004 star as the ideal replacement for Luis Figo and a perfect addition to boost their multi-million marketing operation.
Platini snubs Juve option
Football Italia
Juventus legend Michel Platini has ruled out the possibility of returning to the club in the future. The Frenchman says she would prefer to take a leading role with UEFA or FIFA rather than move back to Turin. "I wouldn’t be tempted to take a job in charge of Juventus," he told Al-Sport, a United Arab Emirates newspaper.
France’s record goalscorer has already announced his candidature for the UEFA presidency, but he said: "Nothing would stop me becoming FIFA President one day. I have all the qualities required."
However, Platini's chances of succeeding Lennart Johansson at UEFA seemed to take a blow when the G14 clubs announced their support for Franz Beckenbauer, the former Germany boss who is also likely to run for President.
But Platini, seemingly in bullish mood, added: "The G14 do not scare me because they don’t represent anything." Meanwhile, the former No 10 has described the current batch of youngsters in the France national team as "poor".
Les Bleus have struggled to impose themselves in the current World Cup qualifying campaign, beating only Cyrpus and the Faroe Islands so far. And Platini claims they should no longer be regarded as one of international football’s major forces.
"The problem is that we continue to think that we are the best national team in the world," said the former France captain. "Today’s generation is poor in comparison to the previous generation. Our football is facing a crisis and we are in a transition period."
