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web site is an online diary maintained by azzurri.Friday 26 August
Juventus win Barca friendly
Football Italia
Juventus beat Barcelona at the Nou Camp on Wednesday in their last friendly before the start of the Serie A season. The Italian champions defeated the home side on penalties after the Gamper Trophy game ended 2-2 in normal time.
Captain Alex Del Piero gave his team the lead after just 12 minutes from the spot, as a result of Oleguer’s foul on Patrick Vieira. Barca hit back in the space of three second half minutes as Iniesta and Van Bronckhorst, thanks to a 30-yard beauty, beat Christian Abbiati in the Bianconeri goal.
With just 13 minutes of the tie remaining, Juventus were awarded another penalty when Adrian Mutu was brought down. David Trezeguet slotted home to level things up. Eto’o and Marquez made the decisive errors in the shoot-out for the Spanish champions, while Mutu, Ruben Olivera, Vieira and Trezeguet made no mistake under pressure.
Juve boss Fabio Capello will be pretty satisfied with his side’s performance, especially as he was without key men Emerson and Pavel Nedved in midfield. Abbiati’s debut went reasonably well which is a major positive seeing as first choice goalkeeper Gigi Buffon will be out until November. Defender Federico Balzaretti, signed on a free from city rivals Torino, also made his debut for his new club.
Del Piero started the game alongside Zlatan Ibrahimovic in attack, but the Italian wasn’t a major protagonist even if he did find the target. Juventus start their title defence on Sunday when they play host to Chievo at the Stadio Delle Alpi.
Capello: Barcelona kid Messi best I've seen
Tribal Football
Juventus coach Fabio Capello was amazed at the ability of Barcelona whizkid Lionel Messi in Wednesday night's Joan Gamper trophy clash. "I have never seen a player like him, with so much quality and audacity at his age, in a so important a stadium and with that shirt," gushed Capello. "He has everything." The former Real Madrid coach added: "He has an extraordinary future - I'd love to bring him to Juve!"
Champions League: Italians net ‘kind’ draw
Football Italia
Italy’s four Champions League participants – including new boys Udinese – will be confident of qualification following today’s draw. The draw for the group stages was finally completed after a lengthy ceremony in Monaco, with the balls falling kindly for the Serie A quartet.
Champions Juventus will face German giants Bayern Munich for the second consecutive season, but both should progress after Brugge and Rapid Vienna were also placed in Group A. Milan, last term’s losing finalists, have been placed in Group E with Schalke, Fenerbache and PSV Eindhoven – the team they beat at the semi-final stage last time around.
City rivals Inter will be reasonably happy given that they will combat against Porto, Rangers and minnows Artmedia Bratislava. Udinese faced the potential threat of being included in a 'Group of Death' as they were only in the fourth pot of seeds.
But the draw has been kind. They admittedly will play one of the favourites in Barcelona, but should give both Panathinaikos and Werder Bremen good games. Holders Liverpool have been included in Group G – alongside Premiership rivals Chelsea, Anderlecht and Real Betis.
Group A
Bayern Munich
Juventus
Brugge
Rapid Vienna
Group B
Arsenal
Ajax
Sparta Prague
FC Thun
Group C
Barcelona
Panathinaikos
Werder Bremen
Udinese
Group D
Man Utd
Villarreal
Lille
Benfica
Group E
Milan
PSV Eindhoven
Schalke
Fenerbache
Group F
Real Madrid
Lyon
Olympiakos
Rosenborg
Group G
Liverpool
Chelsea
Anderlecht
Real Betis
Group H
Inter
Porto
Rangers
Artmedia Bratislava
Cautious Capello calls for calm
Football Italia
Juventus boss Fabio Capello is failing to dismiss the strength of any of his club’s Champions League group phase rivals. The Bianconeri are looking good to qualify in the top two spots after being drawn in Group A with Bayern Munich, Club Brugge and Rapid Vienna.
"It will be a group in which we must work hard and be very alert," Capello cautiously commented. "We know Bayern very well as we already faced them last year. Brugge will be a hostile and well-organised opponent. We are a little less informed on Rapid but they are undoubtedly a side of quality as they have just knocked out Lokomotiv Moscow."
However, Vice-president Roberto Bettega believes top spot will go to either his own club or Bayern. "Both of us need to collect maximum points against Rapid and Brugge, because it certainly won’t be easy to beat the Germans," said the club legend. "We faced them last year and only won in Bavaria thanks to some great saves from Gigi Buffon."
Bettega then admitted that triumphing in Europe was his side’s main priority this season. "We are aiming to win it as always," he stated. "I would say that 90 per cent of our fans want this trophy and we hope to fulfil their request. It will be tough however, as we saw last year when making a mess of just one half of a game can prove decisive."
Meanwhile, Juventus will be without Alessandro Birindelli for the next six months because of injury. The right-back underwent knee ligament surgery today following the damage he sustained against Benfica on August 6.
Birindelli goes under knife
Planet Football
Juventus' Alessandro Birindelli has undergone surgery on his knee injury. The defender has undergone a complicated knee operation that has repaired both his cruciate ligament and his meniscus in his right leg. Birindelli picked up the injury in a friendly against Benfica in Lisbon. Juve expect the player to be out of action for around six months.
Juve agree Cassano move - report
Football Italia
Roma’s fans made it clear Antonio Cassano’s days at the club are numbered and it’s reported Juve reached an agreement for the player today. There are claims that Bianconeri director general Luciano Moggi met with his opposite number Daniele Prade’ in Rome this morning and agreed to exchange Cassano for Adrian Mutu, Giorgio Chiellini and a cash sum. It’s suggested that an official announcement will be made on Friday.
The former Bari starlet has rejected terms for a contract extension with the Olimpico outfit and his current deal expires at the end of the season. To prevent him leaving on a free transfer, the Giallorossi hope to sell him off now and at least make back £13m of the £20m they paid for him in 2001.
Roma have threatened to leave Cassano on the bench for the entire campaign if he doesn’t “confirm his status as a member of the squad by signing a new contract,” but the final straw came last night.
During the team presentation at the Stadio Olimpico, Cassano was roundly insulted by the crowd and only came on for the second half in the 2-0 friendly victory over Arab side Al Ain, with goals from Vincenzo Montella and Rodrigo Taddei.
The fans also hurled abuse at the Italian international when he attended teammate Francesco Totti’s wedding earlier this summer and the rapport with the notoriously fiery Roma supporters is at breaking point.
Cassano dispute continues
Planet Football
Antonio Cassano and Roma's supporters continue to share an uncomfortable relationship as the former stalls over a new contract offer. The diminutive striker's current deal expires in 2006 and in a situation that somewhat mirrors Rio Ferdinand's at Manchester United - before he signed - Cassano is refusing to put pen-to-paper.
Roma have offered Cassano a five-year deal that would net the player €16 million but, as yet, the fiery forward is refusing to budge on his demands for a €20 million contract. The capital club's supporters have not been slow to voice their frustrations and whistled their former idol at an open day at the Stadio Olimpico.
With Roma reluctant to risk losing the player at the close of next year, talk of a switch to Juventus is again resurfacing. The Old Lady are known to be firm admirers of Cassano and despite a lack of finances, it has been suggested that a deal could be struck before the transfer deadline. It is believed that Juventus would be willing to use Adrian Mutu, Fabrizio Miccoli or Giorgio Chiellini as makeweights in any deal.
Juventus keeper Abbiati has dig at AC Milan patron Berlusconi
Tribal Football
Juventus loan signing Christian Abbiati has taken a swipe at AC Milan patron Silvio Berlusconi. Asked why he wanted to leave Milan this summer, Abbiati declared: "After seven years I wanted to leave; I felt myself going backwards. The past year I had suffered a lot. I did not feel the support of Berlusconi. Here (at Juve) I have found people that support me and the job I am doing."
Nedved boosts Czechs
Planet Football
Pavel Nedved believes he will be fit for Czech Republic's World Cup qualifier against Romania. The iconic Juventus man has a knee injury, but believes that he is fit enough to feature for his country.
"The knee hurts still but I can put up with it," Nedved told Pravo. "My health will not suffer and the main thing is I can play on it. I endured 120 minutes at the weekend's Italian Supercup match against Inter. I will see how I feel after the weekend of course - anything can happen."
No Czech return for Nedved
Football Italia
Pavel Nedved won’t follow the example of Juventus teammate Lilian Thuram by returning to international football. Both players retired after Euro 2004, but the defender opted to make himself available again to the French national side earlier this month. The Czech Republic were hoping to tempt Nedved to do the same, but the midfielder has no desire to add to his previous 83 caps.
"Pavel hasn't changed his decision. Pavel will not play international games due to his fitness concerns," Czech boss Karel Bruckner told CTK. "I spoke with him on Wednesday. He confirmed to me his previous statement that he has given up playing for his country."
The former Golden Ball winner’s agent has also confirmed that Nedved will not appear for his country again – even with the 2006 World Cup Finals on the horizon. "Pavel considered a return," stated Zdenek Nehoda. "But his decision is final and he hopes that there will be no more speculation on the matter."
Thursday 25 August
Juve Beat Barça In Gamper Match
Goal.com
Juventus beat Barcelona on penalties in the invitational Joan Gamper Trophy match in Camp Nou after the two giants drew 2-2. Neither side started the match with full-strength sides, but there was still plenty of quality on display in their friendly encounter that came only days before the start of both the Spanish and Italian league seasons.
Leo Messi was outstanding throughout and deservedly won the player of the match award as he once again proved why he is so highly regarded with a range of mazy runs and silky passes. Juve took the lead after 11 minutes through Alessandro Del Piero and it was not until midway through the second period when the home side drew level through Andrés Iniesta.
Barcelona then took the lead when Gio Van Bronkhorst stole forward to net, but the Serie A sisde equalised in the 79th minute when David Trezeguet scored from the penalty spot. The match then went to penalties to find a victor and Juve came out 4-2 winners after Samuel Eto'o and rafa Márquez failed to convert from 12 yards.
Barcelona: Valdés (Jorquera 46), Gabri (Belletti 75), Puyol, Oleguer (Edmílson 46), Van Bronckhorst, Márquez, Van Bommel, Iniesta (Eto’o 68), Leo Messi (Giuly 90), Ronaldinho (Deco 46), Larsson (Maxi López 86)
Juventus: Abbiati, Zebina (Balzaretti 46), Kovac, Cannavaro, Pessotto (Zalayeta 87), Camoranesi (Olivera 80), Vieira, Giannichedda, Chiellini (Blasi 46), Del Piero (Mutu 46), Ibrahimovic (Trezeguet 46)
Juventus - Chievo
Football Italia
On August 28, Chievo travel to the Stadio Delle Alpi for Juventus' first title defence of the season. The Old Lady will be pitted against a team in transition, who narrowly escaped the relegation play-offs by one point. The Bianconeri will be looking for a convincing victory to illustrate to their title rivals that it is inevitable that the illusive third Scudetto star will soon appear on their jersey.
Last season, Juventus won both home and away, by 3-0 and 1-0 respectively. In fact, Juve have won all of their Serie A meetings since Chievo’s promotion. It was this consistent form, the grinding out of wins away from home, that meant the Bianconeri finished the season in first.
The Flying Donkeys lost many first-team players during the summer, and the jury is still out to whether new Coach Beppe Pillon has brought in players of sufficient enough quality. The responsibility will be handed to proven journeymen such as ex-Juventus midfielder Matteo Brighi to retain their Serie A status.
The champions have spent wisely during the summer on Patrick Vieira (Arsenal) among others, but it is the bolstering of the often fragile squad that has been Juve’s priority. Chievo will not only have to battle a fantastic starting 11, but the Gialloblu will also have to contend with substitutes such as Alessandro Del Piero, Giuliano Giannichedda and the enigmatic Adrian Mutu. Christian Abbiati will start in goal until Gigi Buffon returns in November.
Juventus (probable): Abbiati; Zebina, Thuram, F. Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Vieira, Emerson, Nedved; Trezeguet, Ibrahimovic
Chievo (probable): Fontana; Moro, Mandelli, D’Anna, Lanna; Semioli, Zanchetta, Brighi, Franceschini; Cossato, Pellissier
Ref: To folllow
Novellino in Del Piero call
Football Italia
Sampdoria boss Walter Novellino has invited Juventus enigma Alessandro Del Piero to join him in Genoa. The Bianconeri captain is seemingly no longer assured of a first team shirt at Juve, leading to stories of a possible departure. Milan Coach Carlo Ancelotti stated at the weekend that he wouldn’t turn down the chance to sign him and Novellino shares the same view.
"They can give him to me," the tactician told the Turin-based Tuttosport newspaper on Wednesday. "If Juventus want to be free of him, even if I think that is unlikely, then I would be delighted to have him in my side."
Novellino, one of Italy’s most promising tacticians, rates Del Piero’s current club highly and insists they will retain Lo Scudetto.
"They are even stronger than last season," he added. "Patrick Vieira is their best buy, while Emerson is a frightening leader. Zlatan Ibrahimovic? He is worthy of the Golden Ball. Milan are more spectacular than Juventus but they are less concrete at times."
Sampdoria finished fifth last term and Novellino is optimistic they can enjoy a similarly successful campaign this time around. "The battle for fourth will be tough," he stated. "I respect all of our opponents but I would bet on Samp."
Real Madrid offer Salgado to Juventus
Tribal Football
Juventus have been offered Real Madrid fullback Michel Salgado. After securing first option on Sao Paulo right-back Cicinho on Monday, it emerged yesterday that Real Madrid had approached Juve about taking over Salgado's contract. Juve rejected the initial proposal, with their transfer budget tied up with other targets.
However, director general Luciano Moggi remains interested in the offer with coach Fabio Capello seeking to strengthen the right-side of his midfield, despite the return of Giorgio Chiellini from Fiorentina this summer.
Lazio chief reveals Juventus contact for Oddo
Tribal Football
Lazio sporting director Carlo Osti has opened the door to the sale of fullback Massimo Oddo. "We turned down an offer from Milan for Oddo about six weeks ago," he said. "The bid was deemed unacceptable. It is a bit more complicated when it comes to Juventus. They haven't made a proper offer but have been in contact with his agent. Oddo is an important player but if a substantial offer arrives then we could let him go, even if we need to find a replacement first."
Trotters close on Tudor
Planet Football
Juventus are expecting Igor Tudor to belatedly join Bolton Wanderers on a season-long loan deal. Bolton boss Sam Allardyce has been a long-term admirer of the Croatia international and has spent the bulk of the summer chasing Tudor.
In early July, Allardyce feared a move for the defender was doomed to failure as he could not meet Tudor's demands. But the interest has been resurrected and a loan deal has now been arranged by The Trotters, who face competition from Villarreal for the 27-year-old.
Juventus have confirmed the offers from both clubs and, while Tudor appears to prefer a move to Spain, the Italian champions believe he will head to The Reebok Stadium.
"For Tudor I have an agreement with the English club Bolton Wanderers," said Juve general manager Luciano Moggi. "But the player prefers the offer he has from Villarreal. Personally, I believe he will eventually join Bolton."
Tudor, who can also play in midfield, has been waiting to leave Juventus after learning he does not figure in Fabio Capello's plans for the new season. He spent six months on loan at Siena last term and, with a contract running until 2007, was initially valued at €5 million (£3.4 million) by Juve.
But with Tudor's suitors reluctant to shell out that sum, Juve are now prepared to loan him out, with a move to Italian rivals Lazio mooted only last week. It now appears to be a straight fight between Villarreal and Bolton, with Juve believing Tudor will finally move to The Premiership, having been linked with Middlesbrough and West Bromwich Albion in the past.
Agent blasts Juventus over Miccoli deadlock
Tribal Football
The agent of Fabrizio Miccoli has slammed Juventus for not doing more to find the attacker a new club. Francesco Caliandro rapped: "Of course we want this situation to be unblocked before the end of August. Fabrizio is in shape, does not have any physical problem, but to me it seems clear that Juve have closed all doors to his departure.
"I don't want it to happen, but he may have to sit out on holiday until January before he can play again for another team. It is incredible to think that a player who scored so many goals for Fiorentina is forced into inactivity like this."
Wednesday 24 August
Moggi proud of Vieira swoop
Football Italia
Juventus transfer guru Luciano Moggi rates the summer capture of Patrick Vieira as one of his toughest. Moggi has signed the likes of Zinedine Zidane, Gigi Buffon and Emerson in the past, but is particularly proud of the former Milan man’s arrival.
"The capture of the Frenchman was one of the most delicate of my career," Moggi told Tuttosport. "A lot of clubs wanted him."
Vieira surprisingly signed for the Turin giants after Juventus had a £14m bid accepted by Arsenal. He was also a reported target for Real Madrid but the player himself states he’s happy with his decision to move back to Serie A.
"I have arrived at the right club," stated Vieira. "This is an exceptional environment, where there is a great amount of enthusiasm and desire to work hard. I have also settled in well because my teammates – especially Lilian Thuram – have helped me to fit in."
Meanwhile, Moggi has revealed that Igor Tudor could soon be playing in the English Premiership. The versatile Croatian defender has been linked with numerous clubs and a switch to the Reebok Stadium is on the horizon.
"I have an agreement with Bolton even if the player is waiting for a response from Villarreal (of Spain)," continued Moggi. "I’ll wait for a little while longer before finalising terms with the English club."
Inter Deserved To Win? Don't Make Me Laugh-Moggi
Goal.com
Juventus general manager Luciano Moggi scoffed at the idea that Inter deserved to win the Italian Super Cup against the Bianconeri. "It makes me laugh to think that Inter deserved to win the Super Cup," Moggi told Tutto Sport.
"They look to me as a solid team. So solid, that they could have lost by three goals," he added. Moggi also had his say on Inter’s Scudetto chances. "Inter worry me this season. They could actually come in second for once...," he said with a smile on his face.
Juve warn Miccoli suitors
Planet Football
Benfica have been warned that Fabrizio Miccoli's move is not certain despite Aston Villa's likely withdrawal from the race to sign the Juventus striker. The two clubs were competing to snap up the striker, who has slipped away from first team contention and was loaned to Fiorentina last season.
However, with Aston Villa set to land Milan Baros, Juve have told Benfica that they will not compromise on their price tag. "I have no hurry about Miccoli," said general manager Luciano Moggi. "When other clubs will need a player with his characteristics you will see they will ask us for him and we will sell him at the best price. I don't exclude he will stay at Juve until January and that he might play too."
It is believed that Benfica want to pay €500,000 for a year's loan with an option to pay €4.5 million for a permanent deal next summer. Juve want considerably more for the striker, and will be disappointed that Villa have found themselves another player.
Juventus chief Moggi: Villa, Spurs in for Miccoli
Tribal Football
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi has revealed Tottenham have joined Aston Villa in their interest for Fabrizio Miccoli. Moggi confirmed last week that Aston Villa had made an offer for Miccoli, who is keen to leave Juve after upsetting fans with disparaging comments while on-loan at Fiorentina last season.
Last night, Moggi said: "There are two or three teams involved in the Champions League, plus teams like Tottenham and Benfica that want to sign him. If we can find a solution to the satisfaction of all parties he will leave. Otherwise we will have to wait until January."
Vieira happy with choice
Planet Football
Patrick Vieira is convinced he has made the right career move by leaving Arsenal for Juventus. The midfield powerhouse ended his nine-year association with The Gunners this summer when sealing a £13.5 million move to the Serie A champions.
Vieira secured every domestic honour while with Arsenal, but has yet to taste glory in Europe's flagship competition and is looking to change that fact by leading the Old Lady to UEFA Champions League glory. The Frenchman claims everything is in place in Turin to lift silverware and he claims he has adapted seamlessly to life in Italy.
"I have arrived at the right team," Vieira told Gazzetta dello Sport. "There is a fantastic environment here, a huge desire to work and the club have massive ambitions."
Vieira was greeted by a familiar face at Juve in the guise of France international team-mate Lilian Thuram, and the former Arsenal man claims he has been made to feel welcome by Fabio Capello's squad. "I immediately felt in a good way," he added. "All my new team-mates, Thuram overall, have helped me."
Abbiati To Make Juve Debut Against Barca
Goal.com
Juventus boss Fabio Capello announced Gigi Buffon’s replacement Cristian Abbiati will play against Liga giants Barcelona, when the two European powerhouses face-off in the Camp Nou on Wednesday.
"Abbiati will surely start tomorrow night, and in the future as well. He’s a great player, and this shouldn’t come as a surprise as he has played both with Milan and La Nazionale," said the Juventus boss before looking ahead to the Nou Camp clash.
"It won’t be easy, many of our players are injured. But I am happy with how we have been playing lately. We are in a good condition. However the most important thing is to bag results, something we’ve had problems achieving of late," he observed.
Last Saturday, Juventus lost the Italian Super Cup to Inter; just a few days before they were defeated by AC Milan.
Lazio And Villarreal Tracking Juve's Tudor
Goal.com
Igor Tudor is being contented by both Lazio and Real, according to Italian newspaper reports. Juve’s Croatian defender, who played on loan at Siena for most of last season, isn’t part of Capello’s plans, and for this reason needs to find a club by August 31st.
While Lazio only want the player on loan, Villarreal might be ready to gain full ownership over the Bianconero. The Spanish outfit are even a better solution for Tudor, as they play in the Champions League.
Tuesday 23 August
Del Piero eager to defend title
Football Italia
Alessandro Del Piero is optimistic for the new season despite Juventus’ defeat to Inter in the Italian Super Cup. The champions lost 1-0 at home to the Italian Cup winners on Saturday but the Bianconeri captain is remaining upbeat.
"I can’t wait to start the campaign, especially as we have our League title to defend," he told his personal website.
"Despite playing well during the 120 minutes against Inter, the trophy went to the Nerazzurri," he added. "But there were many positives for us with regard to our play, our physical condition and the amount of chances we created.
"I congratulate Inter for being more concrete than us which allowed them and not us to score the goal. However, we were left with the conviction that we put in another good performance."
However, Del Piero didn’t start the game as boss Fabio Capello opted for a 4-4-2 consisting of David Trezeguet and Zlatan Ibrahimovic in attack. The Italian endured a tough campaign under Capello last term, after he was continually replaced during games and even being dropped from the side altogether.
Juventus behind deals for Molinaro, Mantovani
Tribal Football
Apart from their influence on Siena's deal for Cristian Molinaro on Sunday, Juventus are also said to be behind Chievo Verona's signing of Torino defender Andrea Mantovani. Like Molinaro, Juve see 21 year-old stopper Mantovani as a future Italy international and a player who can fit into the Turin club's system.
While Siena will have wing-back Molinaro and Chievo Mantovani for the coming season, Juve are believed to have an informal agreement of first refusal on both players thanks to their good relationship with the two clubs.
AC Milan in talks with Juventus star Del Piero
Tribal Football
AC Milan are in talks with Juventus ace Alessandro del Piero. Corriere dello Sport says Milan have already opened negotiations with Del Piero's representatives following coach Carlo Ancelotti's revelation on the weekend that he has drawn up plans to accommodate the Italy international in his team structure.
Del Piero has endured a frosty relationship with Juve coach Fabio Capello since his arrival last summer and his future in Turin remains in doubt, particularly with the club's interest in AS Roma striker Antonio Cassano.
Juve in no rush to dump Miccoli
Football Italia
Juventus are ready to keep Fabrizio Miccoli until January in order to net as big a transfer fee as possible for the player. The attacking sensation has been available for sale as a result of the club’s numerous attacking options. A summer move was expected but the champions have so far failed to find a buyer willing to match their asking price. But Juventus transfer guru Luciano Moggi is in no hurry to get rid of the Italian international forward.
"I won’t exclude the possibility that Miccoli will not only stay with us until January but also play in that time too," said the director general. "We are in no rush when it comes to Miccoli. When clubs realise they need a scorer, they will contact us and we will sell at the best price."
Miccoli is not needed by boss Fabio Capello who can already count on the services of Alex Del Piero, Adrian Mutu, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, David Trezeguet and Marcelo Zalayeta. The former Perugia and Fiorentina player has been linked with numerous clubs over the last few months. Roma, Inter and Palermo were hotly associated in Italy, while Aston Villa and Portuguese giants Benfica are allegedly keen on him.
Goal.com Exclusive: Miccoli-Benfica? Close, But Problems Exist-Agent
Goal.com
The agent of out-favour Juventus forward Fabrizio Miccoli, Francesco Caliandro, admitted that Benfica are tracking his star player. Miccoli has also been linked to Roma as part of the deal that would bring Antonio Cassano to Juventus.
"Yes, there are talks between Juventus and Benfica, but we are no where close to an agreement," he said. "It’s clear that we like the Benfica destination. However, there are some problems related to the agreement between Juve and Benfica. However I confirm we have great interest in the deal," he added.
Viola make new Blasi bid
Football Italia
Fiorentina have reportedly increased their offer to Juventus for combative midfielder Manuele Blasi. The Viola have spent all summer looking for a new central midfielder and Blasi has been linked for some time.
Whispers suggest that the Tuscan side have made a £3.5m offer after Juventus rejected an earlier bid of £2.8m. A deal could now be done before the end of the week even if the Turin giants value the Italian at around £4.5m.
The former Perugia youngster has been specifically requested by new Fiorentina boss Cesare Prandelli. The latter worked with Blasi at Parma two seasons ago, before both left the Stadio Tardini in the summer of 2004. Should Juventus sell Blasi, they are likely to make a move for Inter’s Cristiano Zanetti as a replacement.
Opinion: Why Alex should leave Juve…
Football Italia
Another season begins and Alessandro Del Piero remains an enigma who divides fans and critics alike. Football Italia asks whether this summer would have been the perfect time to leave Juventus.
In 1998, Pinturicchio was the Golden Boy of Italian football and seemingly could do no wrong, pushing Roberto Baggio out of Turin so that he could take on his mantle. A few months later a devastating knee injury snapped several ligaments and to this day he has never fully recovered - at least, not psychologically.
Confidence is all-important in the modern game and too often we have seen players of great talent suddenly lose the ability to complete even the simplest tasks. All it takes sometimes is a goal or a lucky break to bring it all back, but Del Piero seems to be in a vicious circle from which he cannot escape.
For so many years now, the moment he begins to rediscover his confidence and form, a minor injury forces him on the sidelines and he must start the draining process all over again. Yet he has now run into another major stumbling block in the shape of Fabio Capello. The Coach did the unimaginable last season and repeatedly left the club captain, the very symbol of the Bianconeri, on the bench.
Almost worst still than watching from the wings was to walk off the pitch early, made perfectly aware that he was a tactical risk for a team that wanted success. Del Piero made that walk of shame 20 times and every single one showed in the heartbreak etched on his features. This was not a man being helped to regain his confidence. This was a once great player being ritually humiliated.
With Zlatan Ibrahimovic taking on a deeper role and Adrian Mutu able to play out wide, it’s inevitable that the most likely pairing Capello will stick by is that of the Swede and target man David Trezeguet. It’s no secret that Antonio Cassano is on his way to Turin sooner or later, so why should the captain wait around for another annus horribilis?
The moment Del Piero’s name was left out of the team sheet handed in for the Italian Super Cup against Inter, his fate was sealed. If he doesn’t move on now, he can give up any hope of getting into the World Cup squad for Germany 2006.
The Rossoneri side of the San Siro is shining like a light at the end of the tunnel and Carlo Ancelotti’s call could push him to take that first step. It would be a traumatic decision to tear himself away from the club after 12 years as its representative, but Alessandro Nesta has already shown that you can start again at Milan and find a new identity.
"There are many players I have trained and would gladly work with again. Del Piero is one of them because he is a consummate professional and it’s always a pleasure for a Coach to deal with that kind of person," said Carlo Ancelotti recently. "The doors to the Milanello training ground are always open for him."
The Rossoneri have become something of a safe haven for those who feel hard done by in their club lives. Marcos Cafu was all set for a free transfer to Japan when the call came. Clarence Seedorf and Andrea Pirlo were declared flops by Inter and released without a second thought. On the strength of his pre-season performances, Christian Vieri is ready to prove his doubters wrong with a hard-working and committed campaign.
Could Del Piero benefit from the same change of scenery? Would his creativity suddenly be released by a team less obsessed with defensive structure? Is all that’s lacking simply the knowledge that his Coach and teammates believe in him? There’s only one way to find out and, about to turn 31 years of age in November, it’s the right time for Del Piero to take the plunge.
Words: Susy Campanale
Monday 22 August
Capello: We deserved to win
Football Italia
Fabio Capello and Juventus feel hard done by after their Supercup defeat and insist they are the moral victors. “Juve deserved to win this trophy,” said the Coach after a 1-0 extra time loss to Inter last night. “We had several scoring opportunities and even hit the back of the net. That was disallowed, though it looked a good move to me.”
Television replays did indeed show that David Trezeguet’s goal on the stroke of half-time was not in an offside position, so the Bianconeri have reason to complain. Patrick Vieira also hit the woodwork with a header and Adriano’s goal line clearance prevented Alessandro Del Piero from equalising in extra time, but it was Juan Sebastian Veron’s strike that decided the encounter.
“Inter scored with only their second shot on goal in the entire match,” continued Capello. “They did well to make the most of the only chance we allowed them. If there’s a team that dominated play and took the initiative, then that was Juventus. Now we hope that the Serie A Championship won’t go along similar lines.”
The Scudetto race is already starting with a psychological battle between Capello and Inter boss Roberto Mancini – a rivalry that goes back a very long way.
“With all due respect to Inter, the only thing they had over us was luck,” added Jonathan Zebina. “We even scored a goal that was incorrectly disallowed, while they had one shot on target and go home with the trophy. Well done to Inter, but we leave this Final with our heads held high.”
Juventus push for Cassano back on
Tribal Football
Juventus' push for AS Roma striker Antonio Cassano is back in the headlines courtesy of comments made by AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti over the weekend.
Ancelotti admitted he'd love to sign Juve ace Alessandro Del Piero to work as a second striker behind Andrei Shevchenko and Christian Vieri: "Del Piero cannot play in the position Juve and (Italy coach) Lippi are demanding of him. But I can exploit his strengths. The Milanello doors will always be open to Del Piero."
Ancelotti's words have fueled talk that Juve will offload Del Piero and use the cash raised to buy Cassano as a direct replacement. Juve already have an offer on the table for Cassano - cash plus Giorgio Chiellini and Fabrizio Miccoli. The deal involving Milan would solve a major problem also for Juve coach Fabio Capello.
Capello has a frosty relationship with Del Piero and many at Juve believe it would be best for all concerned if they were to sell the Italy international and sign Cassano, a Capello protégé, in his place.
Juventus behind Siena capture of Molinaro
Tribal Football
Juventus are behind Siena's capture of Salernitana wing-back Cristian Molinaro. After a week of difficult negotiations, Molinaro accepted terms from Siena last Friday, despite receiving attractive rival offers from Reggina and Udinese. While he will play this season with Siena, it's understood Molinaro's long-term future will be with Juve courtesy of an informal agreement.
Juventus chief waiting for Fiorentina over Blasi
Tribal Football
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi says they're still waiting for a bid from Fiorentina for midfielder Manuel Blasi. Blasi is the prime target for Fiorentina coach Cesare Prandelli and even fellow midfielder Christian Brocchi has urged the club to sign the Juve player.
But Moggi insisted over the weekend: "I have not heard anything lately from the Della Valles. I do not know if they need something from Juventus. Blasi? No comment. In any case, you should ask Della Valle."
Sunday 21 August
Capello craves the Supercup
Football Italia
Juventus may be battling a series of injuries, but Fabio Capello insists they are determined to win Italy’s version of the Charity Shield tonight.
“We want to win the Italian Supercup – the need for victory is in our DNA,” said one of his country’s most successful Coaches. “It will be a real game against Inter and we can start our season on the right track by beating a side that has massively improved with its transfer campaign.”
The Scudetto winners will welcome Coppa Italia holders Inter at the Stadio Delle Alpi this evening and there is anticipation for what could be Luis Figo’s first real test in the Peninsula.
“Figo is a great player who will do very well even at this stage of his career,” noted the former Real Madrid boss. “As for us, we don’t need to sign anyone else. With Federico Balzaretti our defence is complete.”
Yet Juve are going to struggle to put together a squad for this match, as Lilian Thuram, Mauro Camoranesi, Gianluigi Buffon and Alessandro Birindelli are sidelined, while Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Pavel Nedved are nursing knocks. There is good news from Alessandro Del Piero, who played a key role in Italy’s 2-1 win over the Republic of Ireland midweek.
“I had no doubts that Del Piero was on fine form,” said the Coach who often left his captain on the bench last season. “He played in an unusual role for Italy, as he tends to feel he’s more of a support striker. A position is like a suit, you can wear a different one every day, but you only really feel good in one.”
There could be tension in tonight’s encounter, as Ibrahimovic already had a fiery coming together with Inter’s Marco Materazzi in the Trofeo Moretti earlier this summer.
“Zlatan has understood that he has to control himself on the pitch and not react to fouls. Being such a big, strong and technically gifted player, it’s often difficult for opponents to stop him legally.”
Ancelotti opens door to Del Piero
Football Italia
Carlo Ancelotti’s comments have opened the door to a sensational transfer deal – Alessandro Del Piero could join Milan. “There are many players I have trained and would gladly work with again. Del Piero is one of them because he is a consummate professional and it’s always a pleasure for a Coach to deal with that kind of person,” said the Rossoneri boss in today’s Press Conference.
Ancelotti’s time at Juventus coincided with Del Piero’s serious knee injury, but he always gave him the benefit of the doubt and played him even when he was off form. Now the Bianconeri captain is finding life tough in Turin and often benched by Coach Fabio Capello.
This has led to reports that Juve will hand Del Piero over to Milan in order to make way for Roma’s rebellious Antonio Cassano – and Ancelotti has done nothing to deny those rumours. “I have already said it in the past and I repeat it now, the doors to the Milanello training ground are always open for Del Piero. I have an excellent rapport with him.”
The ex-Juve boss has even gone so far as to work out a tactical solution to put him alongside the current crop of stars at the San Siro. “Del Piero is a forward, just like Kaka, Manuel Rui Costa or Christian Vieri, albeit with different characteristics to all of them. He’d be a different solution for Milan.”
With Juve’s interest in Cassano no secret and Del Piero’s fine form for the Italy squad midweek – in which he played in a trident attack with Rossoneri duo Vieri and Alberto Gilardino – this could be more than a mere summer rumour.
After all, Milan have shown they are capable of reviving the careers of those who feel let down by their clubs. Marcos Cafu, Andrea Pirlo, Clarence Seedorf and now Vieri have all found a new lease of life at the San Siro, so Del Piero may think he could benefit from the same treatment in the year leading up to the World Cup.
Supercup: Veron hands Inter trophy
Football Italia
Juan Sebastian Veron's extra time strike handed Inter their first Italian Supercup since 1989, but Juve feel hard done by after a controversial encounter.
The Italian version of the Charity Shield saw Scudetto winners Juventus welcome Coppa Italia holders Inter to the Stadio Delle Alpi. The Bianconeri were without the injured Gianluigi Buffon, Alessandro Birindelli and Lilian Thuram, but Mauro Camoranesi recovered from a muscular problem to start.
Alessandro Del Piero – at the centre of rumours he is to join Milan – was left on the bench alongside ex-Rossoneri goalkeeper Christian Abbiati.
Inter fielded Adriano and Obafemi Martins, but the much-anticipated Luis Figo was in the stands due to his lack of match fitness. There was heavy rainfall in Turin and this made play somewhat difficult.
Nonetheless, Juve had an aggressive start and within the first two minutes Patrick Vieira’s header had skimmed the crossbar and Emerson ballooned over. Inter fought back with two Adriano efforts charged down by his former teammate Fabio Cannavaro, then Martins’ shot was blocked by Jonathan Zebina.
Francesco Toldo spilled a Zlatan Ibrahimovic shot and Marco Materazzi had to hurriedly clear for a corner kick. The Swedish international could’ve set up David Trezeguet in a one-on-one situation with Toldo just before the break, but Ibrahimovic’s first touch let him down.
There was controversy in stoppages, as Trezeguet hit the back of the net only to see his goal disallowed for a very debatable offside position. Ibrahimovic had another great chance in the second half, his finish shaving the far post, then five minutes later he skipped through three opponents and brought a tough save out of Toldo.
The best scoring opportunity of the game so far fell to Vieira on 57 minutes, as his header thumped the upright with the goalkeeper beaten.
Inter only really went close with Adriano individual efforts and he tested Antonio Chimenti soon after. The Brazilian combined brilliantly with Martins to leave the ‘keeper stranded, but Gianluca Zambrotta managed to get back for a goal line clearance.
Del Piero was introduced for the final 20 minutes and almost immediately had the opportunity to take advantage of a Walter Samuel error, but the Italian international somehow managed to miss an open goal. Samuel replaced the injured Materazzi, but Ibrahimovic continued to torture the Inter defence with his tricks and turns, setting up a Trezeguet header and Pavel Nedved long-range attempt.
Hopeful Juan Sebastian Veron and Martins efforts failed to trouble Chimenti, so the game went into extra time.
Del Piero’s shot was deflected off target by teammate Emerson and it was Inter who broke the deadlock against the run of play six minutes into extra time. It was a counter-attack sparked by Juan Sebastian Veron, then Adriano did well to roll the ball across for the unmarked Argentine to thump home from the edge of the box.
Toldo completely misjudged Del Piero’s free kick and it was Adriano who proved decisive with a goal line clearance to rescue his ‘keeper. The shot-stopper was more confident on a glancing Emerson header and Adrian Mutu was thrown on for the final siege, but this just gave Adriano more room and he wasted a good chance to double Inter’s lead after dribbling past Robert Kovac.
Nonetheless, the Nerazzurri held on to earn their second Supercoppa – the first was grabbed by Giovanni Trapattoni in their record-breaking 1989 campaign – but Juve’s fans will feel hard done by after Trezeguet’s valid first half goal was disallowed.
Juventus 0-1 Inter (aet)
Scorer: Veron 96 (I)
Juventus: Chimenti; Zebina (Mutu 110), Cannavaro, Kovac, Zambrotta; Camoranesi (Del Piero 71), Vieira, Emerson, Nedved; Trezeguet (Zalayeta 103), Ibrahimovic
Inter: Toldo; J Zanetti, Cordoba, Materazzi (Samuel 63), Favalli; Stankovic, Veron, Cambiasso, Ze Maria (Pizarro 59); Adriano, Martins (Recoba 100)
Ref: De Santis
Coppa: Viola set up Juve clash
Football Italia
For the second round running, Fiorentina have squeezed through with a last-gasp goal and set up a tasty tie with rivals Juventus. The Viola waited until the last seconds of extra time before ruining Rimini’s Coppa Italia chances, but in the Third Round they were able to ensure qualification at the expense of home side Cesena at the 94th minute.
Giampaolo Pazzini netted the decider with a right-foot strike after Luca Toni had held up the ball in the final seconds of the match. Cesena had defender Dario Bova harshly sent off after 70 minutes for a challenge on Pazzini.
“We played better than against Rimini, keeping the ball on the ground and giving glimpses of our potential,” said Coach Cesare Prandelli. “We faced a team that gave us a lot of problems and were lucky with the red card, as that allowed us to win.”
Cesena boss Massimo Gadda was philosophical and noted, “We must accept the result and are happy to have given such a challenge to a team like Fiorentina. We think we’re ready for the Serie B Championship and matched a great side at every turn today.”
Fiorentina will now face arch rivals Juventus in what is sure to be a heated Fourth Round tie. From this stage onwards, the Coppa Italia reverts to the classic two-legged format.
Agent confirms West Brom talks for Juventus defender Tudor
Tribal Football
The agent of Juventus defender Igor Tudor has confirmed the Croatian is willing to listen to West Brom again about a move to the Hawthorns.
Talks between the two clubs in the last few days have been revived to discuss a proposal where the Turin giants would subsidise a small percentage of his salary allowing Albion, who have already set aside funds for such a scenario, to pay the rest.
Tudor's representative Craig Hutchinson recently said: "Igor didn't want to join West Brom last season because he didn't feel it was the right time. I believe a move to the Premiership would be a good move for him but at the moment it looks like he'll be going somewhere else."
Saturday 20 August
Serie A: 2005-06 at a glance
Football Italia
The new Serie A season is on the horizon. Football Italia rounds up what each team is aiming for and what they can realistically expect to achieve.
Ascoli
Confirmed as a Serie A side just 12 days before the start of the new term.
Lack of preparation and having inexperienced boss Marco Giampaolo suggests
it will be a tough season. Should things start badly, their campaign is
unlikely to get any better.
Aim: Survival
Prediction: To fail in their aim
Cagliari
One of Serie A’s most entertaining sides last term whose success was
based on their impressive home form. The loss of Gianfranco Zola is a major
blow but the attacking trident of Antonio Langella, David Suazo and Mauro
Esposito remain.
Aim: Survival
Prediction: Should have enough quality to stay up
Chievo
Only just survived the drop last season and will start the new campaign
with the same intention. They are no longer the Flying Donkeys of the past
but should have enough to stay alive – only because there seem to
be weaker sides than them in the Division.
Aim: Survival
Prediction: They’ll struggle but will just stave off relegation
Empoli
The weakest of the four Tuscan sides in the championship, Empoli are something
of a yo-yo club. Boss Mario Somma will basically be working with a large
chunk of the squad who gained promotion. He will need star striker Francesco
Tavano to keep netting consistently.
Aim: Survival
Prediction: Have a fighting chance of maintaining their top-flight status
Fiorentina
After almost being relegated last term, Fiorentina should make a dramatic
improvement this time around. Arrivals of Sebastien Frey, Stefano Fiore
and Luca Toni has made them into a real force. However, their Champions
League hopes may be undone by a questionable defence.
Aim: Champions League qualification
Prediction: A top four contender alongside Roma and Palermo
Inter
Optimism is high that the Nerazzurri can finally win their first Scudetto
since 1989. The arrival of Walter Samuel has given them a true world class
defender, while Brazilian international striker Adriano is arguably the
best on the planet. They have the players and the desire.
Aim: Scudetto
Prediction: They have all the pieces necessary, now just set to put the
jigsaw together
Juventus
Reigning champions Juventus have become even more solid this term following
the arrival of Patrick Vieira. Boss Fabio Capello has some stunning attacking
options, but will there be room for them in his preferred 4-4-2 system?
Expect them to win something this year – their squad is just too good
not to.
Aim: Scudetto
Prediction: Operation Champions League may see them lose their Scudetto
grip
Lazio
No longer the force they were following their well publicised financial
problems. Owner Claudio Lotito has given new boss Delio Rossi a decent starting
XI, but their competitiveness will drop should injuries strike. Comfortably
surviving and winning the Rome derby will be primary targets.
Aim: Mid-table finish
Prediction: Expect them to be consistently inconsistent but should sneak
into top half of the table
Lecce
The loss of boss Zdenek Zeman will have negatives and positives. Angelo
Gregucci’s side is unlikely to entertain as much as last term’s
version, but his more cautious nature means survival should be wrapped up
sooner rather than later. Striker Mirko Vucinic will be their danger man.
Aim: Survival
Prediction: The Via Del Mare will still be a Serie A stadium in 2006-07
Livorno
Undoubtedly one of the revelations of last season, can they repeat the trick
this time around? Cristiano Lucarelli will again spearhead their attack
after finishing as the Serie A top scorer with 24 goals in May. Youngster
Raffaele Palladino has the potential to impress.
Aim: Survival
Prediction: They’ll go through good and bad spells but should have
enough to survive
Messina
Messina’s fight to register for Serie A this summer has affected their
preparations of remaining a top-flight club. The squad basically remains
the same as the last one, which should be good enough for boss Bortolo Mutti’s
tactics.
Aim: Survival
Prediction: Will succeed in avoiding the drop for the second occasion this
season – this time on the pitch
Milan
One of the strongest clubs on the planet and set to be major players at
home and abroad. They have a galaxy of stars available, their squad now
includes Christian Vieri and Alberto Gilardino. After winning nothing last
year, they’re eager to put that right.
Aim: Scudetto
Prediction: Their fascination with the Champions League may leave the door
open for Juve or Inter
Palermo
Have decided to sell prolific striker Luca Toni to Fiorentina but the Caracciolo-Makinwa
partnership promises goals. New boss Gigi Del Neri’s 4-4-2 system
could make for some exciting times in Sicily, with the side set to improve
on last year’s impressive campaign.
Aim: Champions League qualification
Prediction: UEFA Cup football this season, Champions League football could
be next…
Parma
Parma have already won their first battle with Lorenzo Sanz’s take-over
set to be completed in late September. His fresh injection of cash could
lead to some fresh new faces in January. For now, Bernardo Corradi has replaced
Alberto Gilardino, but ‘keeper Seb Frey will also be tough to replace.
Aim: Survival
Prediction: After last season’s struggles, who knows?
Reggina
Have embarked on a risky transfer campaign following the sales of Santos
Mozart, Emiliano Bonazzoli and Shunsuke Nakamura. Nevertheless, the enthusiastic
Granillo crowd will make it tough for visiting teams to pick up the points.
Watch out for U-21 international striker Rolando Bianchi and goalkeeper
Ivan Pelizzoli – players hoping to prove a point.
Aim: Survival
Prediction: Will scrap it out until safety is secured
Roma
No longer realistic Scudetto contenders, Roma amazingly flirted with relegation
last season. They still have some top players at the club but not enough
strength in depth to challenge the leaders. Qualifying for Europe will be
boss Luciano Spalletti’s primary aim.
Aim: Champions League qualification
Prediction: Could finish fourth if Spalletti can handle the unique capital
environment
Sampdoria
Doria were superb last season, ending the campaign just one point shy of
qualifying for the Champions League. They’ve strengthened over the
summer but possibly not enough to finish as high as fifth again. Nevertheless,
nobody will find them easy to overcome.
Aim: UEFA Cup qualification
Prediction: Walter Novellino’s men won’t let him down - they
should challenge for a top six finish
Siena
Avoided the drop last term following the arrival of Gigi De Canio as boss
midway through the campaign. Likely to again be tough to beat, they have
improved defensively with the arrivals of Nicola Legrottaglie and Paolo
Negro. The capture of Tomas Locatelli will give them a creative edge but
Enrico Chiesa needs more support in attack.
Aim: Survival
Prediction: Not as good as two of the Bianconeri in the Division –
Juve & Udinese – but better than Ascoli
Treviso
Another late addition to the Serie A calendar, Treviso will find it difficult
to adapt to their first ever top-flight campaign. Yet boss Ezio Rossi is
a competent tactician, while the arrivals of the Filippini twins and fantasy
player Andre Pinga will aid their campaign.
Aim: Survival
Prediction: Could just spring a surprise and stay up
Udinese
Still a competitive outfit but the losses of Marek Jankulovski and crucially
David Pizarro will be felt. New boss Serse Cosmi will find it tough to replicate
Luciano’s Spalletti’s fourth place finish, but the Friuli outfit
do seem capable of beating the odd Italian giant.
Aim: UEFA Cup qualification
Prediction: Unlikely to repeat last season’s heroics but will still
enjoy a good term
Words: Antonio Labbate
Preview: Inter at long last?
Football Italia
If success breeds success then Inter fans may finally be able to swap their tears of despair for those of joy come next May. After years of living in the shadow of Juventus, Milan and even the Roman clubs for a time, the Nerazzurri could realistically finally end the campaign as Campioni d’Italia.
Of course, followers of Italian football have heard this all before. The San Siro giants have begun almost each of the last 16 seasons as title contenders but either failed to deliver or simply lost on the last day of the season at Lazio.
So what’s changed this year? One of the most important aspects of this Nerazzurri side is that they finally seem to have got into the winning habit. Before Roberto Mancini’s arrival last summer, the so-called giants had won just one UEFA Cup during Massimo Moratti’s stint as owner. However, they ended the last campaign with the Coppa Italia and started this one with success in the Italian Super Cup against Juventus.
Inter, who have incredibly only won three League titles since 1970, are finally giving the impression of a well-balanced side based on team spirit rather than egos. Often accused of trying to buy Lo Scudetto with Moratti’s millions in the past, this title challenge is based on their progress in the second half of last season and a reasonably well thought out transfer campaign.
If the likes of Walter Samuel, David Pizarro, Luis Figo and Santiago Solari deliver the goods hoped for, then they could make the Scudetto chase a three-horse race instead of two.
Pizarro is a deep playmaker they have been after for some time, even if he is unlikely to play alongside Juan Veron, seeing as Esteban Cambiasso is just too important to be dropped in Mancio’s 4-4-2.
Doubts do remain over the goalkeeping ability of Francesco Toldo and Julio Cesar, but this is a side who are proving that they can suffer under pressure in games, a far cry from the psychological fragile team who were addicted to draws at the start of last term.
Inter finally seem to believe that they can really pose Juventus and Milan problems but will also be aware that both of those clubs have improved themselves over the summer. The champions have brought in Patrick Vieira and the useful Robert Kovac, while their attacking options are unbelievable with David Trezeguet ready to put his injury problems of 2004-05 well behind him.
The worries in Turin revolve around injured goalkeeper Gigi Buffon who won’t be ready for action until November. How long will it take Christian Abbiati to find his form after spending so much time in the stands over the last 24 months? There is also the Alex Del Piero situation which is again likely to blow up as soon as he starts to be omitted from the first team.
Milan also have some fantastic attacking solutions following the arrivals of £17m Alberto Gilardino and Christian Vieri – who can both play alongside each other or Andriy Shevchenko. Their swoop for Marek Jankulovski will also prove a success but will their Istanbul nightmare at the end of last term come back to haunt them?
The Rossoneri, who finished last season empty-handed, may use a variety of formations in the new campaign in a bid to aid their quest for glory. Labelled as predictable by some in the past, under-fire boss Carlo Ancelotti has tested out a three-man defence this summer, allowing Marcos Cafu and Jankulovski, or Serginho, to become attacking wingbacks.
Barring any major surprises, Inter, Juventus and Milan should end the campaign in the top-three. All that needs to be resolved now is in what order they cross the finish line. Let the fun and games begin…
Words: Antonio Labbate
Injury Crisis At Juve Ahead Of Inter Battle
Goal.com
Juventus might be without a handful of their stars when they face Inter in the Italian Super Cup final tomorrow night. Besides Buffon, Nedved, and Camoranesi, who all suffered injuries in the Trofeo Berlusconi (Buffon will only return to action in 2006), the Bianconeri have to also deal with the ones incurred by Thuram and Vieira.
The two French stars returned from their team’s romp of the Ivory Coast with the same minor injury, a small pull in the muscle of their right thigh. Both of them will surely not play tomorrow evening, while Capello still nurtures some hope that Nedved and Camoranesi will be able to shake off their ailments in time to play against the Bianconeri’s arch-rivals.
Thuram skips Supercup
Football Italia
Juve’s injury list is growing with Lilian Thuram also missing out on Saturday’s clash with Inter, while the Bianconeri miss out on signing Luis Miguel. The Turin giants have been struck by a series of setbacks in pre-season, including serious injuries to Gianluigi Buffon and Alessandro Birindelli.
Now Thuram has also been ruled out of tomorrow’s Italian Supercup encounter after picking up a muscular problem during international duty with France. It was his return to Les Bleus following his decision to come out of retirement.
“There are players who gave up representing their country for a very good reason, such as Paolo Maldini,” noted an irritated Fabio Capello. “He could easily have continued to captain the Azzurri, but chose to give his best at club level and extend his career. Once you reach a certain age, the strains of a long season begin to take their toll.”
However, tests have confirmed the injury is not serious, although it will keep him sidelined for the next 10 days. There was another piece of bad news for the Bianconeri this evening, as Valencia have signed Luis Miguel Brito Garcia Monteiro. The Portuguese defender was one of the main transfer targets for the club and negotiations with Benfica were reportedly going well, but the Spanish outfit has captured him on a five-year contract.
Cannavaro respects super Inter
Football Italia
Fabio Cannavaro expects a battle when Juventus take on Inter for the Italian Super Cup on Saturday night. The Italian champions entertain the Italian Cup winners at the Delle Alpi tomorrow night in the annual season opener.
"Inter are a solid squad who already found a certain shape last term," said the former Nerazzurri stopper. "They have already started to prove themselves again this summer. It won’t be a simple game for us at all."
The Bianconeri have had a difficult start to the new campaign given the numerous injuries suffered. But the Azzurri captain is optimistic that the club’s summer acquisitions will allow them to cope with star absentees.
"Juventus were already a well formed side but we are even stronger now with Patrick Vieira," he continued. "I’m happy that (goalkeeper) Christian Abbiati has come in as I know him from the national squad. We are all happy about the arrival of Federico Balzaretti too, even if his capture was a surprise seeing as he was at Torino."
Juventus will be without Gigi Buffon, Alessandro Birindelli and Giorgio Chiellini tomorrow night. There are also doubts over the fitness of Lilian Thuram, Pavel Nedved, Mauro Camoranesi and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
We Will Beat Inter-Cannavaro
Goal.com
Italy captain and Juve defender Fabio Cannavaro believes Juventus will claim the Super Cup trophy on Saturday night.
"Inter are a good team, but we are favorites as we have found a game-plan before them. We are probably more experienced than they are," said the former Parma and Napoli defender, who also played at Inter for two seasons before joining Juventus.
Cannavaro also spoke about Juve’s two new signings, Abbiati and Balzaretti. "Abbiati is still young, and I think he will demonstrate his qualities. We are all very happy of his arrival. Balzaretti’s arrival has surprised me, as he played for Torino, but in today’s football this stuff happens," he said.
Juventus close in on Roma's Mancini
Tribal Football
Juventus must wait for an answer from AS Roma coach Luciano Spalletti over their bid for wing-back Mancini. Juve coach Fabio Capello and director general Luciano Moggi have been chasing the Brazilian since the end of last season and their pursuit has intensified since the injury suffered to Alessandro Birindelli this week and Valencia's capture of Miguel from Benfica.
Spalletti is reluctant to lose Mancini, but the Brazilian refused to sign a new contract and has told close friends he wants to move to Turin. Negotiations could accelerate this weekend after Roma's capture of Edgar Alvarez from Cagliari yesterday.
Valencia clinch £6M Benfica ace Miguel
Tribal Football
Valencia have trumped Juventus and AC Milan for Benfica fullback Miguel in a £6 million deal. The Portugal international agreed terms with Valencia yesterday over a five-year contract worth £800,000-a-season. Negotiations were difficult as Miguel was in a contract dispute with Benfica and had been training in England with Fulham while his case was being heard.
However, Valencia sports chief Javier Subirats cut through the mess with their £6 million offer and barring a late change of heart, Miguel is expected at the Mestalla today to be presented to local fans and media.
AS Roma seek £12M buyout agreement with Cassano
Tribal Football
AS Roma are set to offer striker Antonio Cassano a new deal this week in a last attempt to hold onto the player this season. Roma president Franco Sensi and his fellow directors have all but given up on trying to secure the Italy international to a new deal, but are determined not to lose him for nothing next year.
Instead, they intend to offer Cassano a new contract on improved terms which will include a 'Spanish style' buyout clause - set at £12 million. Roma hope the striker will accept the conditions, which would mean they could not block the 22 year-old from leaving the club if an offer of £12 million or higher is made.
Tudor set for Lazio
Planet Football
Juventus defender Igor Tudor seems set to end speculation about his future by completing a move to Lazio. The experienced Croatian has attracted interest from The Premiership in the past few seasons but has always failed to concur on a move to England.
With the transfer deadline looming on the horizon, Lazio appear to have struck a deal with both the player and his paymasters. Tudor spent much of last season on loan at Siena and now looks to be his way out of the Turin giants on a permanent basis.
Meanwhile, reports have suggested Lazio are also considering a move for Sotirios Kyrgiakos - the Panathinaikos defender who has been linked with a move to Rangers, where he spent much of last season on loan, Portsmouth and Schalke.
It is expected that the capital outfit could make a bid for the Greece international, who is in dispute with his club, in the next few weeks having heard encouraging noises from the player.
Deportivo La Coruna revive interest for Wolfsburg's D'Alessandro
Tribal Football
Deportivo La Coruna are reviving their interest in Wolfsburg midfield dazzler Andres D'Alessandro. Depor president Augusto Cesar Lendoiro sees the Argentina international as a natural replacement for Newcastle-bound Albert Luque.
D'Alessandro's agents have been hawking the midfielder around Europe this summer as he does not want to play another season in the Bundesliga. Indeed, one of his agents said recently: "D'Alessandro would love to play in Spain - and particularly in La Corunna."
Atletico Madrid have loan deal for Corinthians ace Mascherano
Tribal Football
Atletico Madrid have reached an agreement with the owners of Corinthians, MSI, over a deal for midfielder Javier Mascherano. The Argentina international could be in Spain this coming week if Atletico coach Carlos Bianchi gives the agreement his approval.
Atletico sports chief Toni Munoz has struck an agreement with MSI which will see Mascherano play on-loan in Madrid this season with the view to a permanent deal next summer. The only stumbling block to the deal being closed is whether Atletico pay Mascherano's entire salary, or Corinthians cover a percentage.
Bianchi is happy with the signing, but will use this weekend's triangular tournament in Santander to give the likes of Peter Luccin a final chance to stake their claim for a midfield place.
