This
web site is an online diary maintained by azzurri.Friday 27 May
Tre Stelle?
Goal.com
Well, another year has come and gone. Along with the constants of change be it death or meeting the taxman, Serie A has awarded a new Scudetto winner: Juventus.
When the 04/05 season began, the critics ruled out Juventus. With Milan solidifying their ranks and Inter restructuring their squad along with acquiring a new coach, Juve seemed to be lost at sea.
Well, the critics were wrong. In the 03/04 season, Juve had an off season and there was a lot of clamour on who would replace Lippi. Many commentators were saying that the cycle of success of 96-03 was coming to an end and new blood and direction was necessary. The bow that the Juve players gave in 04 in the 2nd round when Deportivo defeated Juve was synonymous of this. The fans thanked Juve, but they knew that an era was ending. Little did anybody know that a new one would begin immediately.
Luciano Moggi, or the transfer guru as the Italian press calls him, went to work. Many coaches were linked to the job from Prandelli to Des Champs. Des Champs was poised by the media to take over La Vecchia Signora, and one of his goals was to coach the team he once played for. In the end, however, Moggi fooled us all (excluding the perceptive ones), and proved to all that he was the transfer guru. He lured Fabio Capello to Turin.
Capello is regarded as one of the, if not the best coaches around. The record speaks for itself. Everywhere he goes, he wins from: Milan, Real, Roma. Hire him and a squad is virtually guaranteed a trophy. In the end, the choice was clear. And with intense secrecy, Moggi pulled a coup de etat, by revealing to the media that Fabio will coach Juventus next year. Des Champs felt betrayed. But in football all that matters is victory. The choice: a rookie and virtually untested coach vs. one with a proven track record. For Moggi, the decision was simple: Capello. At Juve, there is no such notion as development. The objective is simple: to win no questions asked!
All in all, this is good. Juve received a new coach along with Inter as they employed the services of Mancini. Roberto is a good coach who has what it takes. Inter restructured it entire squad and for many it was Scudetto ready (how many times have we heard this?). Milan had a solid squad and with Crespo arriving on loan, there was an added dimension to the attack. Juve did not acquire a whole new squad or break the bank book (they are not known as a squad to do so), but they did purchase solid players from Cannavaro (on a free transfer form Inter; what a bad decision by them for he was a hit this year), Emerson, Appiah, Biasi, Ibrahimovic (a great addition to the squad as he proved to be a great asset) and the list goes on.
Juve started the season on fire. The squad resembled cerebral assassins as their tight defense, swift counter attack and clinical finishing earned them victory and opened the critic’s eyes. Their style of play was not fancy, but it sent a message that they were no pushovers. Juventus seemed unstoppable in all three competitions and Capello was praised in that he got a squad that was in a mess transforming then into a well oiled machine.
La Vecchia Signora till mid November, was the team to beat. However, the squad started to tire and they were showing signs of fatigue (they are human). Milan, the current champions, started to coalesce as a unit and they reached their peak. The critics now stated that they were back and the two would contest the Scudetto with the latter having the edge. But was it that clear cut and dry?
In the New Year, Juventus attained an eight point lead then uncharacteristically squandered it as they lost two games. Milan, which itself lost two games were given a life line and they took the advantage. Hence, the two squads battled it out till the 5th of May, when they met and Juve took control of the game scoring and winning 1-0. Ancelotti’s squad had their chances, but Capello’s squad resembled their old selves, being clinical and lethal when given space.
It was not all fun and games within that period. Juve had to face Real Madrid (a final in itself). Juve seemed to have the advantage, but with Madrid finding their form and Juventus faltering the pundits favoured Real Madrid. After all, they are nine time champions. After all the dust settled, Capello’s men came through and Juve won. All that Madrid could do was watch in horror as they self destructed in the end to a united and spirited Juve that was thirsty for vengeance. Madrid went home asking themselves why and kicking them-selves for the opportunities squandered. La vecchia signora was back and the next squad being Liverpool, Juventus seemed to have the edge. However, Juventus in both games forgot to show up and allowed Liverpool to win. People say that Benitez outwitted Capello. But I say that Juventus forgot to show up and allowed Liverpool to win just like they did to Borussia in 1997, (the worst enemy of Juventus is them-selves and their overconfidence).
Now again, there was talk of a crisis. Juventus’ season could very well be trophy less and Capello’s streak could end. The critic’s prediction seemed to be correct. New blood was needed. Eventually, the Juve spirit came back and the team started to play better and when they met Milan they silenced all critics to bring to Turin Scudetto #28. Nedved began to find his form again and Del Piero also showed his worth. The old Juve was back and the celebrations for the Juve tifosi the world over, could begin.
Marcello Lippi, the former Juve coach, mentioned in one interview that he would love to bring 3 stars to Juventus. 1 star represents 10 Scudetti; 2 twenty and so forth. Juve are fast approaching that number and it does not seem that Lippi will go back to his old home anytime soon unless he has a horrible World Cup in 06. Next year is tabula rasa (clean slate). The team has limited funds and they may have to sell players to achieve their objectives. So the question is can Juve achieve success in the 05/06 season? It may be more difficult, but if this year taught us anything, is that one never counts them out as La Vecchia Signora ancora non le serve un bastone (the old lady still does not need a cane). Polemics aside and there are many that one could write about Juve, congratulations to them in acquiring Scudetto 28. Like it or not, they deserved it.
There are many who hate Juventus, but there are those who hate their government’s. However, they have the legal mandate to govern (in democracies mind you). The same goes in football. In the end, the best squad won and like it or not we must live with it. The recipe to this problem: be a Juve fan or pray that your team wins. Now if Juve could only win the CL. I could live with that any day over a Scudetto. Hell, Inter could even win the Scudetto and I would accept it. I believe it is about time that Juve tifosi have a CL party for, it is long overdue. Would it not be great if they won it in 06 as the Winter Olympics are in Turin. That would make it a city of champions (pardon the pun). In conclusion, auguri alla Juve and to their tifosi. You deserved it.
Bruno Cardile
Ibra sees golden Juve future
Football Italia
Zlatan Ibrahimovic has rubbished talk of a move to Real Madrid by committing his future to Juventus.
The Swedish international has been linked with a £48m switch to Spain but the attacker has other plans. "I’m very happy here," said the summer signing from Ajax. "Only by staying here will I have the opportunity of winning the Golden Ball."
Ibra has instantly settled into the world of Italian football, scoring 16 goals as the Bianconeri won Lo Scudetto. "It was a great achievement," he continued. "I’m happy for myself and my teammates who hadn’t won the title before, especially Fabio Cannavaro."
Although the 23-year-old is delighted with the League win, their European Cup exit to eventual winners Liverpool was a disappointment. "Our objective for next season is undoubtedly the Champions’ League," concluded the international striker.
The Bianconeri have also insisted that Ibrahimovic is untransferable no matter what bids they are offered.
Buffon Reassures Juve Fans
Goal.com
The Italian international will remain with the Bianconeri. Gianluigi Buffon is celebrating the 28th Juventus Scudetto, his personal 3rd title since joining the Old Lady.
“This is the nicest Scudetto. It’s the one I enjoyed most: we won the mini-final against Milan which gave us an incredible emotion. Then we had many match-points during the year, but we were always caught back.”
Buffon denied recent press reports linking him to Real Madrid. “I’m staying with the Bianconeri and next year I want the Champions League.”
Inter or Juve for Giannichedda
Football Italia
Giuliano Giannichedda will leave Lazio in the summer but it is still unclear where he will be playing next season. The midfielder’s contract expires next month and his agent admits he’s unlikely to remain in Rome.
"I don’t know if Giannichedda waved goodbye to the fans after the home game on Sunday but we’ll have to be a bit more patient about his future," stated Franco Zagaglia. "We’ll wait until the season is over and then we’ll see what happens. I think there will be an outcome in around 10 days."
The former Udinese man, who is available on a free transfer, has been linked with Juventus and Inter. "Both Juve and the Nerazzurri do like him," confirmed Zagaglia. "The chances of him remaining with Lazio have shrunk, especially as the club have other situations to resolve."
Giannichedda was rumoured to have already agreed terms with the Bianconeri but Inter have moved to hijack the deal. Nerazzurri boss Roberto Mancini knows the player well, after their time together in Rome, and has asked his club to make a late bid.
Giannichedda, who will be 31 in September, is believed to be wanting a three-year agreement worth £1m a season. Both clubs are after new central midfielders given that Juve are likely to release Alessio Tacchinardi and Stephen Appiah, while Inter may sell Emre and Edgar Davids.
Parma push Gilardino to Juve
Football Italia
Juventus’ close links with Parma could make all the difference in the race to sign Alberto Gilardino. The striker is a target for Juve, Milan, plus Inter and the Tardini outfit have hinted that they could reach a deal with the Turin giants.
"I have a long memory and I can’t forget that Juventus have given us £100m in exchange for players over the years," administrator Luca Baraldi told Tuttosport. "We’ve used that money to settle a lot of debts and bring in promising youngsters with a great future.
"In the meantime, Juventus have won a lot by investing in men such as Gigi Buffon, Lilian Thuram and Marco Di Vaio. We have a sincere friendship with the Bianconeri."
Gilardino will be sold in the summer after another prolific season, following his 22 League goals so far. Milan were believed to be in pole position for the Italian international but Baraldi is waiting for developments.
"Gilardino will obviously join the club who offer the biggest fee," continued the Gialloblu official. "If Milan offer more than Juventus then it is clear that Alberto will be wearing the Rossoneri shirt. However, up to now we have had no concrete offers from any club so far."
FIAT supremo fancies Roma's Cassano at Juventus
Tribal Football
FIAT supremo Lapo Elkann has declared his admiration for AS Roma striker Antonio Cassano. Elkann and FIAT virtually control Juventus and he declared: "Who would not want Cassano?! I love to see the entertaining players and Cassano is one of the best ones in Italy.
"However, it is not me who decides, but it is the Juventus people. I am not responsible for hiring at the club."
Real Madrid scout Benfica fullback Miguel
Tribal Football
Real Madrid are scouting Benfica right-back Miguel ahead of the summer market.
Real had Ramon Martinez in Oporto last weekend to see Miguel in action against Boavista and he told local journalists: "He is a good player. He had one excellent season last year, but there are no talks with him nor with Benfica. Real Madrid are always interested in the world's best players."
Its been suggested Miguel is being considered by Real as an alternative to Seville defender Sergio Ramos as general manager Arrigo Sacchi seeks an understudy to first-choice right-back Michel Salgado.
Thursday 26 May
Juventus - Cagliari
Football Italia
It’s celebration time at the Stadio Delle Alpi for both Juventus and Cagliari. The Bianconeri will play in front of their own fans for the first time since being crowned champions against a Cagliari side who are now sure of their Serie A survival.
It’s unclear what side Fabio Capello will field seeing as there is nothing left to play for. He’ll want to end the season with another victory but may opt to field a few of the reserves who have struggled to feature regularly this term.
However, club captain Alessandro Del Piero is expected to play after he didn’t feature at all against Livorno last week. Capello, who has often substituted him this season, is set to allow the fan favourite to perform in front of his adoring public. We could also see Adrian Mutu appear at some stage given that his ban ended on May 24.
There could also be final appearances for the likes of Ciro Ferrara, Paolo Montero, Stephen Appiah and Olivier Kapo given that the first is set to retire, while the others are expected to be sold at the end of the campaign.
The Sardinian outfit will be hoping to go out with a bang after a surprisingly good season. Mauro Esposito will be keen to impress against a club who could make a bid for his services, while Gianfranco Zola may play his final game as a professional against the Turin giants. Suazo and Alvarez are injured.
Juventus: Buffon; Pessotto, Thuram, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Appiah, Emerson, Nedved; Del Piero, Ibrahimovic.
Cagliari: Iezzo; Lopez, Maltagliati, Bega, Agostini; Abeijon, Conti, Gobbi; Esposito, Zola, Langella
Ref: To folllow
Moggi on the offensive
Football Italia
Juventus transfer chief Luciano Moggi has again insisted that his club won’t sign Antonio Cassano or Alberto Gilardino. The Roma and Parma forwards have been associated with the Turin giants but the official has backed the outfit’s current striking options.
"We already have attackers of the highest level," he told the Radio Italia Network on Wednesday. "Then let us not forget that Adrian Mutu is now available again and he could play from the first minute."
Mutu, whose doping ban expired yesterday, now joins David Trezeguet, Marcelo Zalayeta, Alex Del Piero and Zlatan Ibrahimovic in the Juve ranks. And Moggi insists the latter two individuals will remain despite speculation suggesting otherwise.
"We have never thought about selling Alex," he added. "He is a champion and you don’t sell champions. He is a great player who has given a fundamental contribution to this season’s Scudetto success."
Ibrahimovic has also played a vital role and he’s recently been linked with a £40m move to Real Madrid. "I have an agreement with Real President Florentino Perez," added Moggi. "We won’t trouble him and he won’t trouble us."
Meanwhile, reports today claim that Moggi has struck a deal with Lecce over Marco Cassetti. The right-sided player has enjoyed a splendid campaign and may move to the Delle Alpi in a £3m deal.
Del Piero eyes seventh Scudetto
Football Italia
Alessandro Del Piero says he will remain at Juventus next season with the intention of retaining Lo Scudetto. The Italian was linked with an exit earlier this term after continually being replaced by boss Fabio Capello. But the No 10 has committed his future to the club just days after they won another League championship.
"I’ll start the new season right here and I’ll do so with the tricolore shield stitched to my shirt yet again," he told his official website.
Despite his difficulties, Del Piero has been an important member of the side in their battle with Milan for the title.
"We’ve now won 28 championships and I’ve got six of them, it is hard to describe the joy that I am feeling," he continued. "It was a tough season, hard fought, tiring and long. This Scudetto is a reward for all of us as we kept battling when it would have been easier to just give up.
"We crossed the finishing line by remaining at the top of the table from start to finish. It may seem as if it was easy but it wasn’t. To remain first for 37 weeks requires a great deal of concentration, determination, belief and a great squad spirit."
The Azzurri international also revealed that defeat to Liverpool in Europe threatened to destroy their season.
"A really difficult time for us was after our Champions’ League exit," he continued. "We risked a lot there as we then went into the crucial Milan game level on points after previously having an eight point advantage. We were also playing away from home and then had only three games of the season remaining after that.
"It was a thrilling finale which gave us great satisfaction. The 1-0 win at Milan was one of the most beautiful and emotional games I’ve ever played in."
Juventus to unleash Mutu
Football Italia
Adrian Mutu could make his debut for Juventus on Sunday after serving his seven-month drug ban. The Romanian’s suspension expired yesterday and he is expected to appear against Cagliari at the weekend. "I think that there will be a little space for him in the last game of the season," stated boss Fabio Capello.
The new Italian champions signed Mutu in January, with the help of Livorno, after he was sacked for using cocaine by Chelsea last year. He’s been training with the Turin giants ever since and is set to start on the bench at the Delle Alpi in Week 38.
Mutu also recently won a recall to the Romanian national squad for their forthcoming World Cup qualification games against Holland and Armenia.
However, there are reports that Sunday’s match could be Mutu’s first and last for the Old Lady of Italian football. Whispers suggest that Juve will use him as a pawn on the transfer market, possibly set to offer Roma his services in return for Antonio Cassano.
Juventus on verge of deal for Lecce's Cassetti
Tribal Football
Juventus are on the verge of signing Lecce winger Marco Cassetti. Juve director general Luciano Moggi has upped their original £2 million bid to £2.5 million and is also believed to be offering a season-long loan for defender Nicola Legrottaglie.
Lecce had been holding out for £3 million, with AC Milan also keen on the experienced attacker. Cassetti admitted recently: "For sure, I'm ready for a big move. If Juve or AC Milan are interested, then I am very flattered. They are both clubs very important to Italian football."
Juventus to name Lazio's Giannichedda in Japan squad
Tribal Football
Juventus are ready to go against the wishes of Lazio president Claudio Lotito by announcing the signing of midfielder Giuliano Giannichedda before the end of the week. Juve intend to confirm Giannichedda's transfer as they announce their squad for the money-spinning end-of-season tour of Japan.
Lotito doesn't want to consider losing Giannichedda until his contract actually expires on June 30, but may have to accept the inevitable as Juve prepare their squad for their Far East jaunt.
Real Madrid's Helguera reveals Juventus approach
Tribal Football
Real Madrid defender Ivan Helguera has confirmed he's been contacted by Juventus about next season. The Spanish international first came through at Real under Juve coach Fabio Capello and was the subject of an inquiry from the club's director general, Luciano Moggi, last week.
"I am very happy here," Helguera explained. "I would have accepted the offers that arrived from Italy if I wasn't. I am negotiating to renew my contract with Real and this is my priority." Helguera's current deal expires at the end of next season.
Messina ready to sell D'Agostino to Man Utd
Tribal Football
Messina are on the verge of signing on-loan midfielder Gaetano D'Agostino permanently from AS Roma. The 22 year-old's registration is currently co-owned by the two clubs, but Messina are set to clinch his total rights in a £500,000 deal.
D'Agostino's agent revealed last week the interest of Manchester United and its been suggested Messina are signing him outright now before selling him onto the Premiership giants for a healthy profit.
Wednesday 25 May
Cannavaro has Napoli dream
Football Italia
Juventus defender Fabio Cannavaro has dreams of ending his stunning career at hometown club Napoli. The Italian international captain started his playing days with the Azzurri before moving on to Parma, Inter and now the new Italian champions.
"It is the objective of all Napoletani to wear the Napoli shirt in their career," he told Napolimagazine.com. "Unfortunately I found myself with the club at the wrong time, just as things started to go badly. I hope that the club can pick themselves up quickly. We’ll see what happens and I could go back there in a couple of years."
Cannavaro started his career with the Azzurri, making his Serie A debut in March 1993 in a 4-3 defeat at Juventus. The now 31-year-old was sold by the San Paolo outfit in 1995 in an attempt to help solve their financial problems.
Napoli are currently in Serie C but may still be promoted to the Second Division this term via the play-offs.
Juventus coach wants deal for Inter Milan's Vieri
Tribal Football
Juventus coach Fabio Capello wants to bring Inter Milan centre-forward Christian Vieri back to Turin. Capello isn't confident over the long-term fitness of striker David Trezeguet and has hopes of pairing Zlatan Ibrahimovic with Vieri next season.
Inter have already been in talks with Atletico Madrid about sending Vieri back to Spain, but Juve could step in to offer the 32 year-old a dream return to Turin if he agrees to take a substantial pay-cut to his current wages.
Ajax's Heitinga on Juventus shopping list
Tribal Football
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi wants to sign a top class young defender over the summer market. In his sights are three talented youngsters, Andrea Barzagli of Palermo, Ajax defender Johnny Heitinga and Atletico Madrid's exciting stopper Pablo Ibanez.
Barzagli is the most likely of the trio to be prised away by Moggi, who is working with a restricted transfer budget. Meanwhile, in the coming days Juve are expected to announce the Bosman signings of Bayern Munich defender Robert Kovac and Lazio midfielder Guiliano Giannichedda.
Ibra ‘offer’ was fake, say Real
Football Italia
Real Madrid have dismissed claims that they made a £50m bid for Juventus ace Zlatan Ibrahimovic. The Swede’s agent suggested over the weekend that the Spanish giants were prepared to dig deep in order to net the striker over the summer.
But the El Santiago Bernabeu outfit have officially denied the story, insisting they haven’t approached the player, his agent or Juventus.
"Real Madrid denies the information that has been published in different mass media in which there is reference to a supposed offer of 70m Euros for the Swedish forward Ibrahimovic, who currently plays for Juventus," read a statement on the club's official website.
"The club wants to put on record that nobody, neither directly nor indirectly, has established negotiations of any type with the representative, the Italian club or the player."
Ibrahimovic has caught the eye this term after instantly settling since his move from Ajax at the start of the campaign. He’s netted 16 League goals so far which have been vital towards the Old Lady’s 28th League title.
Ibrahimovic looks set to remain in Italy though after Juventus yesterday confirmed that he was untransferable. The Bianconeri also insisted that Emerson, who is supposedly of interest to Real Madrid too, will remain in Turin.
Meanwhile, Middlesbrough have again admitted that they are interested in signing Juve’s Stephen Appiah.
Tuesday 24 May
Moggi rules out Cassano bid
Football Italia
Juventus have cast doubt on reports which suggest that they will sign Antonio Cassano from Roma in the summer. The starlet performed brilliantly under then boss Fabio Capello in the capital and there was talk of a reunion in Turin.
But transfer guru Luciano Moggi insists that the player, whose Roma deal expires in 2006, is not a target.
"Cassano is one of the best attacking players in circulation but he won’t come here for two reasons," Moggi told Gr Rai Parlamento. "The first is that I am absolutely convinced that he will not leave Roma at the end of the season.
"The second is that I don’t see how he can fit into our side given the champions we already have in our squad. I can’t see what you can improve on when you already have the best at your disposal."
Meanwhile, Universidad de Chile are interested in signing Juventus striker Marcelo Salas. The Chilean international has spent the last two seasons on loan with Argentine giants River Plate.
Capello smells more success
Football Italia
Juventus boss Fabio Capello is already looking to the future just days after his side lifted Lo Scudetto. The Bianconeri won their 28th title on Friday night, thus edging closer to their third star, but the tactician seems to be already plotting his next triumph.
"We’ve won the title but we must now look to the future because our objectives are clear," he told Radio Anch'io Lo Sport on Monday. "Will I be here next season? I still have two years left on my current contract."
Capello has undoubtedly been a key figure in the championship win but he’s keen to share out the praise. "It was a group victory," he outlined. "I also want to applaud those men with ‘smaller names’ who always gave their contribution."
The tactician was making reference to the likes of Marcelo Zalayeta and Ruben Oliveira, yet he also praised Alex Del Piero – an individual he regularly replaced during the campaign. "He was a decisive player for us but there are times when a Coach must have the courage to make certain decisions," he added.
The Old Lady of Italian football were particularly strong defensively, a factor that the former Milan and Roma boss wanted to highlight.
"I had evaluated the problems that the defence encountered last term before I arrived," he continued. "That’s why I asked the club for reinforcements. I think reforming the Parma trio of Buffon, Thuram and Cannavaro was the correct decision."
Juventus, who led the standings from the first day of the season, basically clinched the title with victory at Milan but Don Fabio rates another game as decisive.
"The win in Rome against Lazio was key," he added. "Milan had caught up with us but we didn’t give up. I’m also proud of what the club have done, especially with the signing of Zlatan Ibrahimovic. There will be no important departures in the summer either and that includes David Trezeguet."
Juventus coach tells Lyon to forget Trezeguet
Tribal Football
Juventus coach Fabio Capello has ruled out the sale of star striker David Trezeguet.
Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas confirmed over the weekend their interest in the French international, but Capello insisted last night: "We will reinforce our squad in several positions. The most important players will remain at Juve.
"Trezeguet is very important, his season has been shot by the injuries, but he is one that always can score for you."
Ibra & Emo staying, insist Juve
Football Italia
Italian champions Juventus have warned Real Madrid to forget about making bids for Emerson and Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Both players have been linked with moves to the Spanish giants but the Bianconeri insist they will not be sacrificed at any price.
"Turin is not a good place to come and try to strengthen your team," transfer guru Luciano Moggi stated. "There are no problems with Zlatan or Emerson. They have no desire to leave and they will stay with us."
Real apparently made a £48m bid for the Swede last week, while the Spanish media are convinced that the Brazilian wants a move to La Liga.
"I couldn’t care less about Real," responded Emerson. "I am a Juventus player and I will stay here. There really isn’t anything more that I can say," added the summer signing from Roma. "I have a contract with this club and I intend to respect it."
Moggi has also rubbished rumours suggesting that boss Fabio Capello could leave the Delle Alpi after just one year in charge. "Capello will definitely remain," he stated after the club won their 28th Italian championship. "We wanted him to take us into the future and that is what will occur."
However, the Bianconeri official did confirm that the club would be making squad changes even if no drastic amendments.
"We’ll see but I don’t think we have that many problems to resolve," he stated. "After all, we have the best defensive record in the League and one of the best attacks. The average age of our squad is a relatively good one right now and we already have a number of champions on our books."
Fed up Del Piero admits Juventus frustration
Tribal Football
Alessandro del Piero has spelt out his frustration this season at Juventus under coach Fabio Capello. Del Piero, who has been linked with Arsenal and Yokohama Marinos this season, told Tuttosport: "The time to clear the air between me and Capello will very soon arrive.
"For now, it does not seem the moment, it does not seem to be the time to enter into the heart of such arguments. It is serious and at this moment I do not want to make my blood boil.
"I compare myself with the situations of teammates like Ferrara, Montero and Tacchinardi, people that have given all to the club and have almost been forgotten, I am lucky compared with how they have been treated."
Ferrara makes Maradona call
Football Italia
Ciro Ferrara is hopeful that Diego Armando Maradona will be a part of his retirement celebrations next month.
The Juventus veteran will quit football at the end of this season but not before a testimonial game on June 9. The match will take place at Napoli’s San Paolo stadium between two teams made up of his former colleagues during spells at both clubs.
"I don’t want people to think that I am saying that Diego will come in an effort to boost the attendance at the game," said the 36-year-old. "I spoke with Diego in the week and he’s happy to take part. However, I can’t say for certain that he will be there.
"I just hope that Maradona can make it so that he can return to the arena to salute what is still his public."
Ferrara and Maradona were teammates during the club’s two Scudetto wins in 1987 and 1990. The veteran defender has gone on to win six more League titles following his 1994 move to the Old Lady.
Parma lower Gilardino fee
Football Italia
Parma have suggested that they are ready to lower their £35m asking price for star striker Alberto Gilardino. Tardini chief Luca Baraldi installed the massive price tag last month but may now be ready to reconsider it after Milan bulked at that figure.
"The best players can make the difference and it is right that clubs should gain an economical advantage for them," he told Sky Italia. "(Milan chief Adriano) Galliani said he would pull out at that price? I didn’t set a price, I just gave my opinion by comparing him to Adriano."
The Brazilian joined Inter from Parma for a similar fee in January 2004 and Gilardino is set to be the next big name player to quit the Emilia outfit.
"We’ll consider figures at the end of the season," added Baraldi. "Only once serious negotiations start will we get a clear picture of the situation. Galliani is a great football official and it is only right that he is saying what he is right now."
The Italian international striker, 22 goals so far this term, is a target for a number of clubs across Italy and Europe. Milan, Inter and Juventus have been associated in the peninsula, while Chelsea and Real Madrid have also been linked.
Monday 23 May
Livorno 2-2 Juventus: FT Report
ESPN Soccernet
Newly-crowned Serie A Juventus were unable to celebrate their Scudetto success with a victory as they were held at Livorno on Sunday. The Bianconeri were crowned champions on Friday after closest-challengers AC Milan were held to a 3-3 draw by Palermo.
And with the title in the bag, Juve were able to play in a more cavalier fashion than normal against a Livorno side for whom the point means they are guaranteed a place amongst the elite next season.
Pavel Nedved gave Juve a 10th-minute lead only for Livorno to turn the game around thanks to goals from Igor Protti and the prolific Cristiano Lucarelli. Juve were not about to succumb to their fifth league defeat of the season, however, and David Trezeguet's 65th-minute strike secured them a share of the spoils.
Livorno started well and Andrea Giallombardo's ninth-minute cross was almost converted by Protti - Gianluigi Buffon making a fine save. But the near-miss only served to wake Juve up and they moved in front from their first serious attack of the game.
Olivier Kapo played in Nedved and the Czech Republic star made no mistake with a crisp finish past home keeper Gianmatteo Mareggini. Mareggini was able to keep out Zlatan Ibrahimovic's long-range shot nine minutes later while Gianluca Zambrotta fired over shortly afterwards.
Livorno improved as the game approached half-time. Protti burst through but shot inches over the bar while the same player then turned provider by laying on a chance for Lucarelli which required a smart intervention from Buffon.
Livorno maintained their momentum after the break and got the goal their pressure deserved after 48 minutes. Giallombardo centred for Protti, who headed past Buffon to make it 1-1.
Juve were wobbling and Livorno took full advantage to move ahead seven minutes later. The impressive Protti crossed for Lucarelli to slide the ball home from close range. It was his 23rd Serie A goal of the season and edges him ahead of Parma's Alberto Gilardino in the race to become the `capocannoniere' (top scorer in Italy).
It couldn't last though as Juve upped the tempo in order to avoid defeat. Marcelo Zalayeta, on as a half-time substitute for Ibrahimovic, picked out Trezeguet on the edge of the Livorno penalty area and the French international turned beautifully before firing into the bottom right-hand corner.
Both sides had chances to win it as the carnival atmosphere continued but a point apiece seemed to satisfy each team. Livorno are four points above the drop zone and coach Roberto Donadoni has performed miracles in preserving their top flight status in their first season in Serie A since 1949.
Campioni: Alex thanks Capello
Football Italia
The Press blackout is over with Fabio Capello and Alessandro Del Piero commenting on the Scudetto and Juve’s future plans.
“This team has proved it has remarkable humility, determination and the desire to go all the way,” said the Coach after winning his seventh League title with four different clubs. “Milan never gave in and played a great Championship.”
“It was very difficult to maintain our focus when Milan wiped out the gap not once, but twice. However, I maintain the most important moment in the Scudetto race was our victory at Lazio. We were decimated by injuries and suspensions, so to win there was even more decisive than beating Milan at the San Siro.”
Pavel Nedved’s late strike sealed that victory at the Stadio Olimpico in Week 33, ensuring Juve stayed on top of the table from start to finish this season. Capello’s decisions were not always popular, as his treatment of captain Alessandro Del Piero infuriated sections of the fanbase.
“I treat everyone the same way out of respect for the squad,” insisted the tactician. “Sometimes I’m right and in other occasions I make a mistake. There were times in which Del Piero needed to be substituted and I did that. When he was on fine form, I left him out there for 90 minutes. A Coach has to make tough choices that can be unpopular, but he will never intentionally try to pick on a player.”
Del Piero himself also admitted that the lack of certainty in his campaign pushed him to improve his performance.
“The last few years have been difficult for me with injuries, so in actual fact I played more this season than I did in 2004,” said the captain. “I thank Capello, because he made the right choices and took Juve to the title. It was a victory against those who said I was finished, but above all I dedicate the Scudetto to the people who always supported me.”
Their attention now turns to the future, with reports of a £48m Real Madrid offer for Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Barcelona and Arsenal’s interest in David Trezeguet.
“We were fortunate to sign all the players we had our sights on in the summer and they proved to be good buys,” noted Capello. “I can guarantee that the most important players won’t leave Juve, not even Trezeguet.”
Director General Luciano Moggi also commented on the transfer policy that had been criticised in the close season, especially after the departure of Fabrizio Miccoli, Enzo Maresca, Mark Iuliano, Nicola Legrottaglie, Igor Tudor and Giorgio Chiellini.
“Everyone kept pointing out we had a small squad, but they didn’t mention the injuries that ruled out Nedved, Trezeguet, Del Piero and Jonathan Zebina for long periods,” said the transfer guru.
“We played well all the way through, which wasn’t easy for a side that started out with the Champions’ League preliminary round in August. We proved Juve are the best on the pitch and I’m happy to have won it after a fascinating head to head battle with Milan.”
Director Antonio Giraudo had a special dedication to make at the end of this Press blackout. “It has been a tough year for Juventus with the death of President Umberto Agnelli. He had always been a key figure for us and we dedicate the title to him.”
Juventus tell Real Madrid £15M for Emerson
Tribal Football
Juventus have told Real Madrid it will cost them £15 million to sign midfielder Emerson. Real asked Juve to name their price for the Brazil international last week and were informed that nothing less than £15 million would be considered.
Juve president Franza Grande Stevens has admitted the new Serie A champions must sell before they buy during the summer market, which means all players will have a price. It's understood Real were told Emerson's price after making their bid for Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Real general manager Arrigo Sacchi and coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo want to bring Emerson to Madrid, but will not go higher than £7 million for the midfielder. Apart from Emerson, Real have alternatives, including Osasuna's Pablo Garcia and Olympique Marseille midfielder Benoit Pedretti.
Sunday 22 May
Juventus 28: The title trail
Football Italia
Palermo’s draw at Milan was enough to hand Juventus the Italian championship. Football Italia looks back at how they lifted their latest Scudetto.
It’s mission accomplished for Juventus who return to winning ways after the disappointment of finishing last season empty-handed. The European giants are once more Campioni d’Italia after pipping Milan to the Scudetto, in one of the most thrilling and tight title races the calcio viewing public has ever seen.
The Old Lady of Italian football was forced to have a little facelift in the summer. She was looking decidedly tired after the wonder years of Marcello Lippi’s reign. New blood was needed and that duly arrived in the shape of boss Fabio Capello and numerous players in what some dubbed a risky transfer campaign.
There were no doubts about Capello’s ability but question marks remained about director general Luciano Moggi’s summer dealings. Emerson, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Fabio Cannavaro, Jonathan Zebina and Manuele Blasi were brought in but they sacrificed the likes of Enzo Maresca, Marco Di Vaio and Fabrizio Miccoli in return.
There were also critics who claimed that Ibrahimovic would take too long to settle and that Cannavaro, after a nightmare spell at Inter, was past his best. Yet all five of the major signings settled in almost instantly, with Cannavaro, Emerson and Ibra – also thanks to David Trezeguet’s injury – quickly establishing themselves as the new spine of the side.
The Turin giants started the season early due to their Champions’ League commitments but that seemed to favour their plans. The re-union of former Parma teammates Cannavaro, Lilian Thuram and goalkeeper Gigi Buffon gave Juventus a defensive security that was so badly lacking last term.
Juventus flew out of the blocks after winning eight and drawing one of their first nine League games. They surprisingly tasted defeat at Reggina but some questionable refereeing decisions, this time against Juve rather than in their favour, contributed to the shock reverse. That was only a minor set-back though, as was Trezeguet’s three-month lay-off given that Marcelo Zalayeta expertly replaced him when called upon.
It was all becoming too easy for Juventus, who by now had a six-point advantage over Milan, until they got a rather rude wake-up call at Inter. Leading 2-0 at the San Siro, they "admired themselves in the mirror" as Capello stated, when the Nerazzurri scored twice in the last 10 minutes to grab a dramatic point.
That was the start of a mini-crisis in form for the Bianconeri as the first signs of tiredness were setting in, with Capello rarely opting to rotate his squad as Milan and Inter had. Yet Juve still had a four-point lead over the Rossoneri, thanks to a narrow and lucky 1-0 win at Bologna, when Milan arrived at the Delle Alpi. The away side dominated the game but Juve were more than happy to pick up a draw and a 0-0 followed.
Despite a lack of quality alternatives for Capello, the outfit used the January transfer window to remove a few more of the ‘Old Guard’. Igor Tudor joined Siena, Bologna signed Nicola Legrottaglie and Mark Iuliano headed for Majorca.
By January 30, the title race was seemingly over. Juventus had stretched their lead over Milan to eight points and the fun and games were up. The San Siro outfit had basically ripped the tricolore shields off their shirts in surrender. They started to stitch them back on just four games later as Juve lost 1-0 to Sampdoria and Palermo, while drawing at Messina. It was all level again.
La Vecchia Signora was struggling badly by now. Trezeguet had returned from his shoulder lay-off but his campaign would continue to be hampered by a virus and then an ankle problem. To make matters worse, Pavel Nedved was also struck down by a knee injury and then concussion which kept him out for some time too. Yet when the going gets tough, Juventus get going. Capello decided that the only way to cope without Nedved was to attack and he switched to a 4-3-3 system that awoke the side.
Testimony of that came in victories over Real Madrid in the Champions’ League but also in the 2-1 win at Roma. The March 5 tie was one of the most eagerly awaited of the campaign after the summer exits of Capello, Emerson and Zebina. The Bianconeri won, even if in controversial circumstances, to underline that they still believed in the title.
Juventus and Milan continued to exchange almost identical blows, with the 1-0 loss to Inter in Turin bringing the teams once more level on points. They went into the San Siro clash in early May all square at the top of the table knowing that whoever won the showdown would probably go on to lift the title.
The then 27-time champions arrived at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza in silence.
The three-match ban on Zlatan Ibrahimovic, plus the broadcast of the Cannavaro
‘doping’ video, hadn’t gone down too well with club officials.
If the media blackout was enforced to unite and focus the squad then it
worked as Trezeguet returned to the starting line-up to basically head home
the title winner. A victory against Parma, plus Milan’s inability
to beat Lecce and Palermo with the Champions' League Final on their minds,
made mathematically sure of a championship that was richly deserved.
Words: Antonio Labbate
Campioni: Juve celebrate in silence
Football Italia
Milan's failure to beat Palermo has automatically crowned Juve Campioni d’Italia, but the Scudetto celebrations have been strangely quiet. The club is continuing its controversial Press blackout and refusing to comment on clinching the Serie A title, while there has so far been no get-together to mark the victory.
It is very unusual for an Italian side to win the Scudetto without actually having to play, but Milan’s game with Palermo was brought forward to Friday evening in order to help them prepare for the Champions’ League Final against Liverpool.
The Bianconeri players were all spread around Turin and celebrated in separate parties at each others’ houses. It’s reported that Zlatan Ibrahimovic spent the evening with Stephen Appiah to watch the game before driving around Turin to soak up the atmosphere.
It is traditional for fans to rush to the centre of the city to mark the occasion, but last night there were only a handful of supporters rushing to the Piazza Castello meeting point. That is partly due to the fact that the usual setting of Piazza San Carlo is sealed off for repairs, but above all as Juventus did not have to set foot on to the pitch in order to be crowned Champions for the 28th time.
It is not yet clear whether or not Juventus will lift their Press silence after Sunday’s trip to Livorno, a game in which neither side has anything to play for.
Real "offered £48m for Ibra"
Football Italia
Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s agent has announced that Real Madrid put forward a sensational £48m bid for the Juve star this week. Swedish newspaper Goteborgs-Posten run quotes from representative Mino Raiola in which he confirms that Real placed an official bid for the striker a few days ago.
"Ibrahimovic is one of the best strikers in the world right now and I can confirm Real Madrid contacted me because they are interested in signing him," said Raiola. "Juventus don't want to sell and rejected the £48m offer. Zlatan wishes to honour his contract, but nobody knows what will happen in the future."
However, he also noted that Juventus rejected the offer out of hand, as they wish to build their side on his shoulders. Ibrahimovic has taken to Serie A like a duck to water, already scoring 16 goals and proving a decisive figure in winning their 28th Scudetto.
The Swedish international was signed from Ajax on the final day of the transfer window for £11.5m, though Fabio Capello had been tracking his progress for at least three years and had tried to capture him during his time at Roma.
Over the last 12 months he has gone from strength to strength, taking a starring role for Sweden in the Euro 2004 finals before leading Juve to the Serie A title. It is this performance – and his clear progress under Capello’s tutelage – that has earned him a remarkable price-tag. Real Madrid paid £48m for another Bianconeri star, Zinedine Zidane, in 2001.
Ibrahimovic is still only 23 years old and has real room for improvement, especially in his disciplinary record, as he was handed a three-match ban for an off the ball incident with Inter’s Ivan Cordoba.
Zeman gives Juve credit
Football Italia
Zdenek Zeman has spent the last five years attacking the Bianconeri, but his was one of a chorus of voices praising the new Champions of Italy. “This Scudetto win was deserved,” stated the Lecce boss. “The team showed great character and a remarkable mental strength.”
Zeman has long fuelled controversy regarding the biggest club in the Peninsula, commenting on anything from their tactics to use of drugs and transfer policy. He had also repeatedly claimed this season that Milan played the best football in Italy and couldn’t resist another sly dig at Fabio Capello’s men.
“I still cannot understand why the most important game of the season between Juve and Milan could not be postponed by a few hours, seeing as the Rossoneri were exhausted from the Champions’ League semi-final only a couple of days earlier,” added Zeman.
“Yet a pointless encounter with Palermo was brought forward to the Friday evening so they could better prepare for the European Final. It makes no sense”
That San Siro showdown was won 1-0 by Juve thanks to a goal from David Trezeguet and all but decided the title race.
“The credit for this victory goes to the club for having the strength to support its members through difficult times and for Fabio Capello, who is the only Coach in Italy who can truly make the difference,” said former Juve hero Franco Causio.
“Capello knows how to read the game and makes his changes accordingly. He can also impose his personality on the team, which is why he has won titles at four different clubs. His record speaks for itself.”
Many balked when Capello joined Juventus from Roma in May 2004, but he has now won the League title with Milan, Real Madrid, the Giallorossi and Turin giants. Some of his decisions caused controversy, most notably the treatment of captain Alessandro Del Piero, who became one of the most substituted players in Serie A this season.
“In the important moments, Del Piero was always ready to deliver despite all the pressure that was put upon his shoulders,” said another ex-Juve man, Marco Tardelli. “I believe Juventus absolutely deserved this Scudetto victory. Capello is a Coach who can win wherever he goes and his ability to control the squad is remarkable.”
Saturday 21 May
Comment: The Don and only
Football Italia
Fabio Capello has delivered the Serie A title at his first attempt with Juventus. Football Italia pays tribute to the master tactician.
Juventus have now been crowned champions of Italy for the 28th time but a number of people had already assigned them the title on May 28, 2004. It was on that day that the football world awoke to the astonishing, simply unbelievable news, that Fabio Capello was the new Bianconeri boss.
It was widely expected that Monaco’s Didier Deschamps had pipped Cesare Prandelli for the Turin hotseat, following the departure of five-time Scudetto winner Marcello Lippi. Yet it was the man who once claimed he "would never join Juve" who was asked to return the Old Lady to her former greatness.
Don Fabio certainly had the pedigree to take on such a role. After all, he won the championship at his first attempt with Milan, before collecting three more with the Rossoneri, and Real Madrid. He later even won a Scudetto at Roma, a club who have incidentally gone through four tacticians since his departure less than a year ago.
There is no doubt that Capello has been the most important factor in the outfit’s rejuvenation after last season’s disappointing campaign. He came in with clear ideas and the club expertly met his transfer needs by signing Emerson, who was a key player under him in Rome, plus Fabio Cannavaro and Zlatan Ibrahimovic – two men he’d tried to net for some years while in the capital. The title, despite Milan’s efforts, duly followed.
Yet don’t expect the Juve faithful to be singing his name in the streets of the northern city too loudly. He may have again installed their club as champions of Italy but a certain amount of hostility remains. The fans have forgiven Emerson and Jonathan Zebina for their Roman past, but Capello is still tainted with numerous anti-Juve outbursts and his treatment of crowd favourite Alex Del Piero hasn’t helped either.
It’s something that Capello, a former Juve player, seemingly doesn’t have a problem with though. He’s been able to retain his professionalism and simply get on with the job he was hired for, with grit and determination that now characterises his side.
"My footballing philosophy is linked to that of (Juve legend) Gianpiero Boniperti," said Capello in pre-season. "I once asked him whether the result is the most important thing, he replied by informing me that it isn’t the most important thing but it is the only thing that matters. I think you can only enjoy football if you win, therefore I ask the fans to judge me on my results."
The Juventini may not be ready to offer their love to the tactician but they will have to admit he’s done well with what he’s had to work with. Nobody is suggesting that the club don’t have world class players but their squad is weaker than Milan’s options and possibly even those of Inter. Fortunately Capello’s brain was enough to nullify Milan’s beauty.
"He deserves great merit, especially as I think Milan and Inter do have better squads," former Torino boss Giancarlo Camolese recently stated. "Yet Capello has been able to get the best out of his players."
Ex-Juventus defender Sergio Brio has also paid tribute to Capello. "This Scudetto belongs to him," he suggested. "Perhaps no other Coach has made such an impact on a Juventus title. He’s perfectly looked after the changing room, even if a few people have criticised him for being too tough, especially with Del Piero. But the results say it all and let us not forget that Juve have been top of the table from start to finish."
Although undone by Rafael Benitez’s ‘catenaccio’ in the Champions’ League this season, Capello’s latest success has underlined his status as one of Europe’s master tacticians. Replacing Lippi was never going to be easy for the Italian giants but they may well have substituted the ‘best’ with someone even better. This, ominously for their rivals, may not be Capello’s first and last League title in Turin.
Words: Antonio Labbate
Emerson set for Real switch?
Football Italia
Spanish giants Real Madrid have refused to rule out a summer swoop for Juventus midfielder Emerson. The Brazilian is again being linked with the Liga outfit and the club’s technical director, Arrigo Sacchi, hasn’t exactly rubbished the claim.
"Emerson? I like all players who are good players," Sacchi told Sky Italia. "But I can’t and I won’t say anything more."
The 28-year-old rejected a move to Real last summer when he opted to leave Roma for the Turin outfit instead. However, reports over the last few weeks are claiming that the South American is on the verge of another transfer.
"Real not only need to win but also convince," added the former Italian national boss. "We are all working hard to make Real Madrid even stronger than they are now."
Sacchi was also asked to comment on whispers that he would like Carlo Ancelotti, his former pupil, to Coach Real. "I don’t think that Carlo will opt for a change of surroundings," he added. "Ancelotti is happy at Milan."
Meanwhile, Roma stopper Cristian Chivu – another reported Real target – looks like he will be staying in the capital. "He represents an essential component of the first team squad," read an official Giallorossi statement. The Romanian, who can play at left-back or as centre-half, has also been associated with Inter and Juventus.
Lippi hails new ‘champions’
Football Italia
Marcello Lippi has crowned Juventus as Italian champions even if they are still not mathematically sure of the title.
The Bianconeri need just two points from two games to secure their 28th title, a success that Lippi insists is well deserved.
"Milan paid the price in the title race because of their Champions’ League commitments," the tactician told La Repubblica. "But you can’t take anything away from Juventus given that they have been at the top of the League all season."
Lippi also paid tribute to Fabio Capello, the man who replaced him on the Delle Alpi bench last summer.
"Capello is a great Coach even if the merit should be shared by everyone," continued the Italy boss. "The secret behind Juve’s success? I would say the performances of Emerson, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Alex Del Piero. The Brazilian brought quality to the side, the Swede immediately settled which wasn’t easy and Alex has been a model professional."
Lippi also reiterated that he intends to return to club football once his Azzurri stint comes to an end. "I’m submerged in what I am doing right now," he added. "But I will one day take charge of a club again, even if not a leading one. I’ll either move abroad or choose a club such as Napoli, Sampdoria and Palermo."
