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web site is an online diary maintained by azzurri.Friday 16 September
Juve: Why sell Trezeguet?
Football Italia
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi has dismissed reports that he considered selling David Trezeguet this summer. The Frenchman was rumoured to be on his way out of the Delle Alpi, but remained to net his 100th goal for the club against Brugge last night.
"This achievement illustrates why I laughed when I heard that we were going to sell him," the transfer guru stated. "I read that we needed to sacrifice a striker like him in order to raise funds to bring in another one. But David has goals in his foot and his blood, he is a champion and we have him in our squad. I see absolutely no reason why we needed to sell him. In fact, we didn’t even go to the trouble of denying the story at the time."
One forward who was sold this summer was Fabrizio Miccoli following his return from Fiorentina. The Italian international was also on target in the Champions League last night, as he netted the winner for Benfica against Lille.
"I’m happy for him," continued Moggi. "We knew Miccoli was a champion and that he would be able to make his mark. But let us remember that he is still on loan. So if he returns to us then it’ll be as a star and if he stays with Benfica then it’ll be for more than we originally paid."
Vieira support for Rooney
Planet Football
Patrick Vieira has urged Wayne Rooney not to cool his fiery temper, despite the Manchester United player's sending off against Villarreal.
Rooney was dismissed during Wednesday's UEFA Champions League tie in Spain after sarcastically applauding Kim Milton Nielsen's decision to book him for a foul. Though it was only Rooney's second red card of his career, the teenage forward has previously been involved in several heated altercations with opposition players.
But Juventus midfielder Vieira believes Rooney's tempestuous character is a key facet behind him becoming England's best young player of his generation. Vieira does not feel it is necessary for the United ace to change dramatically and expects Rooney will eventually learn to control the wilder side of his nature.
"I think the potential and talent is there," Vieira told Sky Sports News. "There's no doubt about it, he's a fantastic player. He is a terrific player who has just started and everybody looks after him but, after all, you need that temperament and anger as it's part of his game.
"I hope he's not going to change it. That's how he is and, if he is who he is right now, it's because he's a strong player. He just needs to learn a little bit about it but I'm not worried about it. He will sort himself out."
Former Arsenal captain Vieira was also sent off on Wednesday as Juventus earned a 2-1 victory at Club Brugge, with the Frenchman unhappy with his dismissal. He added: "It was really harsh and difficult to accept. After all it is the decision of the referee and I have to accept it but what is important is to win and take three points."
Vieira's ex-Arsenal team-mate Robin van Persie was another player to see red on Wednesday after a high challenge on FC Thun defender Alen Orman. Van Persie has endured a troubled past couple of months but Vieira has backed the Dutch international to come good for The Gunners.
"The potential, of course, is there for Robin," continued Vieira. "He has a fantastic left foot and is a terrific player. He will need to play a little bit more to get confidence. It's all about confidence with him at the moment. The more he gets on the pitch, the more confidence he will have."
Juventus ahead of Inter Milan for Ajax's Maxwell
Tribal Football
The future of Ajax midfielder Maxwell appears to be destined for Italy. Juve are aiming to secure Maxwell to a pre-contract in January, as Inter Milan have also made contact in recent weeks. Inter coach Roberto Mancini is convinced Maxwell is the man to solve his left-side problems in midfield after failing to prise Cesar away from Lazio.
Thursday 15 September
Capello demands winning start
Football Italia
Fabio Capello has told his Juventus side that it is fundamental to start their Champions League campaign with a win at Brugge. The Bianconeri begin their European Cup assault in Belgium on Wednesday and Capello is immediately eyeing the three points.
"The first game in any competition is always full of difficulties," commented the former Roma boss. "It is vital that we start the tournament well as it would already be a big step forward if we win."
The Italian side will begin as favourites this evening but the tactician has respect for their opponents.
"They are an organised team like all Belgian sides," he underlined. "They will be tough to play against. We need to be very focused and alert. Brugge are very powerful in the air because they have some tall players and men with good technique. We need to step on to the pitch with humility."
The Juventus defence will also come up against a familiar face in the form of former Fiorentina striker Javier Portillo. "He was dangerous and very able in the penalty area when he was at Real Madrid," noted Capello.
Juventus are without Gigi Buffon, Lilian Thuram, Jonathan Zebina and also Gianluca Pessotto. So who will play at right-back? "Federico Balzaretti or even Manuele Blasi could be put there," he explained. "We do have a number of injury problems but my squad this season is complete and able to cope with diverse absences."
Brugges (probable): Stijnen; De Cock, Spilar, Maertens, Valgaeren; Vermant, Englebert, Serebrennikov, Blondel; Portillo, Balaban.
Juventus (probable): Abbiati; Balzaretti, Kovac, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Vieira, Emerson, Nedved; Trezeguet, Ibrahimovic.
Ref: Cantalejo (Spa)
Club Brugge 1 - 2 Juventus
Football Italia
Juve struggled to victory in Bruges despite laying siege to the Belgian side and seeing Patrick Vieira sent off.
Juventus began their Champions League challenge in Belgium, but were forced to do without a host of top stars. Long-term absentees Gigi Buffon and Alessandro Birindelli were joined on the sidelines by Lilian Thuram, Jonathan Zebina and Gianluca Pessotto, while Alessandro Del Piero recovered from a muscular problem but could only start from the bench.
This forced Fabio Capello into a tactical gamble, fielding midfielder Manuele Blasi in the right-back role instead of expected starter Federico Balzaretti in a totally renovated defence. Club Brugge won the Belgian title last season and could now count on former Real Madrid and Fiorentina hitman Javier Portillo in their attack.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic had the first real chance after 90 seconds, his angled drive going wide of the far post. The Swede was unlucky to see his move stopped by the referee when he was one-on-one with the goalkeeper, as his challenge on Valgaeren was harshly considered to be a foul.
Brugge could barely leave their own half in the opening minutes, as Pavel Nedved blazed over and on eight minutes the Czech brought a fantastic reaction save out of the goalkeeper by volleying an Ibrahimovic cross. The move continued and moments later David Trezeguet fired straight at the 'keeper after springing the offside trap from eight yards.
Even Gianluca Zambrotta had a go from 20 metres, forcing Stinjen to dive to his right and palm the shot wide with one hand. The Brugge shot-stopper was under siege and pushed a Nedved cross-cum-shot out from the near post.
A free kick was deflected into the path of Patrick Vieira and his finish cleared off the line by a defender, as for once Stijnen was beaten. Christian Abbiati barely touched the ball, especially as on a Brugge corner he completely missed the sphere and only recaptured it after Fabio Cannavaro's intervention.
On 32 minutes, Nedved sidefooted an Ibrahimovic cutback and placed it just past the near post from six yards, as it became increasingly incredible that Brugge were holding on to their clean sheet. The goalkeeper was again left stranded when Trezeguet met Blasi's cross, somehow sending it on to the frame of the goal and saving the Belgians.
Patrick Vieira earned the first yellow card of the night for a late challenge in midfield, but on the stroke of half-time Stijnen was called into two fantastic flying saves on Trezeguet. The first was on his volley, the second on a looping header from the resulting corner kick.
Juventus went into the break with the scoreline still 0-0 despite creating at least a dozen chances. The second half started along similar lines, as Ibrahimovic disposessed a defender only to fire over the bar from a tight angle. Brugge gained in confidence and Vermant drove well wide from distance.
The seemingly endless pressure finally paid off on 66 minutes, when Pavel Nedved thumped in a perfect free kick. The Czech bent the ball round the defensive wall and it was struck with such power that the 'keeper couldn't reach it.
Stijnen proved he hadn't lost his magic touch yet, parrying an Ibrahimovic daisy-cutter with an outstretched foot to further frustrate Juventus. The Swede was brought down in an identical position to that of Nedved's set-piece, but this time Ibrahimovic took it and saw his shot accidentally charged down by teammate Trezeguet.
Trezeguet made up for the error soon after, as he scored Juve's second of the match to ensure the points were safe. The Frenchman latched on to Mauro Camoranesi's assist with the outside of his foot, sending the finish looping over a helpless Stijnen. It was an important moment for Trezeguet, who scored the 100th official goal of his Juventus career.
It should've been 3-0 when Zambrotta fought his way past three challenges, but Ibrahimovic miscalculated the flight of the cross and scuffed his shot. Moments later, the Swede had dribbled round the goalkeeper and a defender, but hesitated and allowed Stijnen to save the shot at the near post, Trezeguet also missing the loose ball on the rebound.
Brugge did threaten when Victor Yulu Matondo skipped over a challenge, but Blasi got back in time to pluck it off his foot as he prepared to pull the trigger. Emerson was left stunned when he was struck in the face by a fierce Balaban free kick and was able to continue after treatment.
Brugge made it a tense finale, as they grabbed a late goal to give them hope. A wayward shot from a corner kick was redirected into the goal by 19-year-old Yulu Matondo on his Champions League debut, but Abbiati had to take some of the blame, as he was way off his line and saw the header loop over him.
There was panic moments later, as Blondel's header at the far post was only kept out by Blasi's leg, although the Brugge substitute was flagged offside.
To make matters worse, Vieira was shown his second yellow card for a late challenge, sealing his first Juventus dismissal after 10 for Arsenal. Nonetheless, the Bianconeri held on for the victory at the end of a far more difficult match than they had anticipated.
Club Brugge: Stijnen; De Cock, Spilar, Maertens, Valgaeren (Victor 73), Vanaudenaerde; Vermant (Leko 83), Englebert, Yulu Matondo; Portillo (Blondel 52), Balaban
Juventus: Abbiati; Blasi, Kovac, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi (Giannichedda 88), Emerson, Vieira, Nedved; Trezeguet (Zalayeta 88), Ibrahimovic
Ref: Cantalejo (Spa)
Sent off: Vieira 89 (J)
Capello admires Juve fireworks
Football Italia
Fabio Capello admits he thought the Bruges game was going to turn against Juventus despite aiming 23 shots on goal.
“This is football and we should have won by a mile,” said the Juve Coach after the 2-1 victory. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many scoring opportunities in a single Champions League game and we played fantastically well against a very determined side that will always cause you problems at home, but we were up to the task.”
Pavel Nedved’s free kick and a Trezeguet lob eventually earned the win, although Brugge goalkeeper Stijnen performed a series of extraordinary saves and a late goal set up a tense finale.
“Trezeguet had several chances in the first half and was kept out by a ‘keeper who was performing miracles, but the 100th goal eventually arrived. It became trickier after Patrick Vieira’s red card, which I think was harsh.”
Capello was without a host of star players, especially in defence, and experimented with Manuele Blasi at right-back instead of the expected Federico Balzaretti.
“Balzaretti became a father today and did not sleep well last night because his wife was in labour. He was very stressed, so it was best to leave him in the stands today. Blasi has been tested in that position a few times in training and it could be a good future role for him, or for other players. I won’t say more than that.”
As expected, Bayern Munich also won their match 1-0 away to Rapid Vienna, so the German giants and Juve lead Group A with three points each. It has been a promising start for the Serie A sides, who all won their opening games.
“This is the beginning of the tournament and there’s a long road to go, but the team is on form. I am glad that all four Italian clubs started with a win, as it’s great for our football.”
There was another good representation of Calcio in the Champions League this evening, as former Juventus star Fabrizio Miccoli scored a wonder goal to ensure Benfica beat Lille in the final minute of their game. The Portuguese side now leads Group D ahead of Manchester United and Villarreal.
“We knew Miccoli was a champion and that he would be able to make his mark,” noted director general Luciano Moggi. “He is still on loan, so if he returns to us then it’ll be as a star and if he stays with Benfica then it’ll be for more than we originally paid.”
Trez celebrates Juve Century
Football Italia
David Trezeguet scored the 100th official goal of his Juventus career and had a very special dedication to make.
“I must thank all my teammates over these six years at Juventus and those who stuck by me during my injuries, as everyone contributed to my 100 goals. Federico Balzaretti became a father today and we will all dedicate this victory to his new born daughter.”
The ex-Torino defender was left in the stands after the emotional stress of the event left him with a sleepless night, but the Bianconeri still won their opening Champions League game in Belgium thanks to Trezeguet’s goal. “I am very happy with the overall team performance,” he said after the 2-1 win away to Club Brugge. “Our first half was extraordinary and the second a bit more difficult.”
Trezeguet was expected to leave Turin in the summer, but remained to become the 13th most prolific Juve player of all time and is now setting his sights on another record. “Now I have achieved my Century, the next target is to beat Michel Platini’s record of 104 goals and become a piece of this great club’s history.”
The former Monaco man then picked out his favourite moments from this historic hundred for the Bianconeri. “For what it represents, the most important goal was the one that essentially won the Scudetto against Milan last season. The most unforgettable was my goal against Real Madrid in the 2003 Champions League semi-final, especially as I was coming back from a long injury.”
Pavel Nedved scored the other goal in Belgium and praised his teammate for achieving this record. “We created plenty of opportunities, especially in the first half, and I really liked the performance. It was important to start well and it wasn’t easy, as I have always had problems in Belgium. Trezeguet is the kind of forward who only needs half a chance to score, so I’m sure he’ll hit another Century for Juventus.”
Juventus - Ascoli
Football Italia
Juventus will be looking to maintain their 100 per cent record when they take on one of the Serie A new boys. On paper this should not even be a contest, but this is Serie A and anything can happen. Despite hammering another of the newcomers Empoli in Week 2, the Old Lady’s next opponents should offer more of a test. Just ask Milan if Ascoli are the non-entity that most predicted they would be.
Much of the pre-match talk for the Turin-based Bianconeri has focused on their problems at the back. They might not have conceded a goal in their opening two matches, but that could be about to change. They are woefully short of numbers, with Lilian Thuram, Alessandro Birindelli and Gianluca Pessotto all likely to be missing. The injury to Thuram was particularly hard to stomach for Coach Fabio Capello, as it came about on international duty. Alex Del Piero may have shaken off a thigh injury but the club captain is likely to settle for a place on the bench once again.
Meanwhile, the Stadio Del Duca outfit have had a promising start to the campaign with consecutive draws against Milan and Lecce. Coach Marco Giampaolo is taking to Serie A like a duck to water – literally, in the case of the game against the Rossoneri – and is unlikely to make any unnecessary changes to his team. However, he is forced to make one switch. Vittorio Tosto was dismissed last weekend, so he will be replaced in defence by Gianluca Comotto, who makes his debut after signing from Torino.
Juventus (probable): Abbiati; Zebina, Kovac, F Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Emerson, Del Vieira, Nedved; Trezeguet, Ibrahimovic
Ascoli (probable): Coppola; Carbone, Cudini, Domizzi, Comotto; Foggia, Cristiano, Parola, Fini; Quagliarella, Ferrante
Ref: To folllow
Juventus tracking Marseille superkid Nasri
Tribal Football
Juventus are keeping tabs on Olympique Marseille whizkid Samir Nasri. The 18 year-old midfielder has been likened to Zinedine Zidane and Marseille chiefs fought tooth-and-nail to secure him to a pro contract last season amid offers flooding in from around Europe.
Juve chiefs have a detailed dossier on Nasri and are keeping tabs on the youngster's progress this season. Some in the technical department are already convinced of his potential and a debate is on between directors about attempting to secure a first option agreement with L'OM for Nasri.
2 Serie A offers for Barcelona's Messi
Tribal Football
Europe's biggest clubs are monitoring the latest episode in Lionel Messi's on-off senior career at Barcelona. The Argentine whizkid has been cleared by UEFA to play in the Champions League this season, but a contract cock-up by Barca chiefs has left him on the outer for the club's domestic campaign.
Arsenal, Manchester United, Juventus and AC Milan are all keeping tabs on the situation as Messi can be signed for a paltry £250,000 as his former contract holds while he remains without a Spanish passport.
Messi's Dad, Jorge, blew up at Barca sports director Txiki Begiristain on Tuesday during a tense half-hour meeting. It's understood Messi Snr is most upset in the way he can get more information on his son's situation from the press than Begiristain.
Sources close to the player's camp have told AS that two offers from Serie A clubs have already arrived ahead of a shock move away from the Nou Camp in December when the Spanish winter market opens.
Azzurri still 13th in rankings
Football Italia
Italy are on the verge of World Cup qualification but they have remained 13th in the FIFA World Rankings. The Azzurri drew 1-1 with Scotland and beat Belarus 4-1 earlier this month, but they have failed to improve on their relatively low position.
Brazil still top the chart, but Holland now lie second having leapfrogged South American giants Argentina. France are the big movers as they climb up to sixth place, while England drop down to 11th and Sweden re-enter the top 10 after an absence of nine years.
World Cup hosts Germany continue to struggle without any competitive games to play, having fallen from 11th to 15th.
Top 10
1. Brazil
2. Holland
3. Argentina
4. Czech Republic
5. Mexico
6. France
7. USA
8. Spain
9. Portugal
10. Sweden
13. Italy
Wednesday 14 September
Trezeguet targets Platini tally
Football Italia
David Trezeguet has warned the legendary Michel Platini that he will overtake his scoring record for Juventus. Bianconeri hero Platini scored 104 goals for the Turin giants in the 1980s, but Trezeguet is closing in on that tally after his brace on Sunday saw him move on to 99.
"I’m happy with my two goals at Empoli," Trezeguet told the club’s official website. "They allowed me to get closer to a figure that means a lot for me. I want to score my 100th goal as soon as possible. That will then allow me to chase my next objective of equalling and overtaking Michel Platini.
"That would be a great achievement for me, seeing what he represented for Juventus and France."
Trezeguet has scored three goals so far this term in Juventus’ two wins against Chievo and Empoli. "It is pleasing to see that the side is expressing itself at such a good level," continued the French international. "We have got the campaign off on the right foot and we are hungry to demonstrate our worth."
Juve have significantly strengthened over the summer and Trez is more than happy with the transfer arrivals. "The new players have settled in well, thanks to the work and the games we played in pre-season," he explained. "That allowed us to quickly get to know each other."
Trezeguet is expected to start in the Champions League tie at Brugge on Wednesday in a competition he believes his side can win. "We are better than we were last season and more expert," he noted. "We have everything needed to lift this trophy."
Nedved is no Euro sceptic
Football Italia
Pavel Nedved is confident that he will one day win the Champions League – even if he admits time is running out. Juventus start their latest European Cup campaign in Brugge on Wednesday, with the Czech ace as eager as ever to lift the prestigious trophy.
"I want the Champions League and we will do everything in our power to win it," stated the former European Footballer of the Year. "This is one of my last chances to do so."
Nedved was robbed of European glory in 2003 when he was suspended for the defeat to Milan, after playing such an instrumental role in reaching the Old Trafford Final. Now he’s ready for another crack at the competition, starting with tomorrow night’s trip to Brugge.
"It is always tough to win in Belgium but Juventus should not fear anyone," the midfielder warned. "Last season we were defeated by the winners as Liverpool were better than us. Nevertheless, we only messed up 20 minutes in the Champions League last term."
Juventus are one of the favourites to lift the Cup but Nedved has conceded that they will have to beat some top class sides.
"Who are my favourites? Chelsea, Milan, Barcelona, Real Madrid and Manchester United, even if we will also be there," he added. "We are prepared to start again in the knowledge that we are a better side than last year, much stronger and more competitive."
Wednesday’s game could also see French international David Trezeguet net his 100th goal for the Bianconeri. "I’m sure he’ll score 100 more," concluded Nedved.
Juventus Relaunch Club Vs. Country Row
Goal.com
Two of the most important figures of the Juventus hierarchy, Fabio Capello and Roberto Bettega, criticized the current system that sees clubs suffer the consequences of players getting injured when on national team duties.
After losing France midfielder Thuram for two weeks due to an injury suffered against Far Oer, Capello had this to say yesterday: “It would be fair if clubs were reimbursed economically. The clubs pay the salaries, but if a player gets injured during national team duties, the club is damaged both economically and technically,” he said.
Vicepresident Roberto Bettaga added fire to the already hot issue today.
These episodes are the proof that the G-14 conducts right battles. Clubs shouldn’t be penalized by national sides that sometimes could give-up on some of their important players in the easier games. If a player like Thuram decided to quit France, but the coach, together with the federation decides to call him back, he can’t refuse. Our defender could have rested against Far Oer. More good-sense is needed,” he said.
This club vs. country row is set to take center stage after German World Cup.
Inter Milan GM role for Juventus chief Moggi
Tribal Football
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi is being linked with a move to Inter Milan next season. Moggi is believed to being pushed out of Juve by coach Fabio Capello, who prefers to work as an English style manager by both coaching the players and also being in charge of transfers.
Moggi's contract at Juve expires in June 2006 and he is being linked with a general manager's job at Inter. Recently he revealed: "I'm a good friend of Moratti. There was a time in which I could have transferred to Milan. But the wedding has not been concluded. Until 2006, however, I am tied to Juve. In life all is possible, but in Turin I find myself very happy: they have put in place the conditions for working that appeals to me."
Appiah reveals Juve U-turn
Football Italia
Fenerbache midfielder Stephen Appiah has revealed that he never expected to leave Juventus in the summer. The Ghanaian ace was initially told that he would not be released but was then surprisingly sold to the Turkish giants.
"A week before I left Juventus, they told me that they would never sell me," stated the former Brescia player. "I had just come back from Ghana and I was told to stay calm. Then they signed Giuliano Giannichedda and Patrick Vieira.
"I was subsequently called into the club headquarters and informed that an offer had been made from Turkey. I didn’t feel unloaded but I was unhappy and sad because I thought I would be continuing to play my football in Turin."
The £4m summer signing returns to Italy this evening when his new club face Milan in the Champions League.
Tuesday 13 September
Del Piero back for Brugge
Football Italia
Alessandro Del Piero has recovered from injury to be included in the Juventus squad for their Champions League clash against Brugge. The captain was a major doubt for the game but has fought back from a thigh problem to be included in the trip.
Del Piero, who suffered a small strain on international duty last week, could now make his season debut in Belgium on Wednesday. The Italian ace didn’t feature in the Week 1 win over Chievo, while he was unavailable for Sunday’s 4-0 destruction of Empoli.
Capello, who today insisted that all his strikers would play a part in his plans this term, has named a 20-man squad for the game. Goalkeeper Gigi Buffon, following shoulder surgery, and defender Gianluca Pessotto are the only significant absentees.
Squad: Abbiati, Chimenti; Gladstone, Cannavaro, Balzaretti, Zambrotta, Chiellini, Kovac; Blasi, Giannichedda, Olivera, Camoranesi, Vieira, Emerson, Nedved, Ibrahimovic, Del Piero, Trezeguet, Mutu, Zalayeta.
Capello on the offensive
Football Italia
Juventus boss Fabio Capello has insisted that his numerous strikers will all have a role to play this season. The tactician again started with his preferred attacking duo of David Trezeguet and Zlatan Ibrahimovic in the 4-0 win over Empoli. But Capello maintains that the likes of Alessandro Del Piero, Adrian Mutu and Marcelo Zalayeta will feature at some stage.
"There will be room for everyone, including Del Piero," the Coach told Radio Anch`io Sport on Monday. "However, the physical presence of the Swede and the Frenchman is hard to match, especially when playing against a team intent on defending."
Trezeguet has scored three goals in Juventus’ two League wins so far, while Ibrahimovic has impressed with his form.
"It’s useless to underline that we are in good shape right now," added Capello following his side’s collection of six points from a possible six. This squad has spirit and determination which are two very important aspects of a side. The ‘old’ players have already transmitted the characteristics of the DNA which this club has acquired over the years to the new players."
One new face who left his mark at the Stadio Castellani yesterday was Patrick Vieira, who scored his first Serie A goal.
"With regards to Vieira, we evaluated his possible capture during the summer when we needed a player who was technically strong, someone with character," added Capello. "The new players have arrived to increase our class. Our transfer campaign was a well thought out one and I thank the club for what they have done."
Juventus will hope to net another win on Wednesday when they face Brugge in the Champions League.
Del Piero Will Have His Chances-Capello
Goal.com
The day after Juve’s impressive 4-0 whipping of Empoli in which the striking duo composed by Ibrahimovic and Trezeguet displayed their massive potential, Fabio Capello made it clear that Alessandro Del Piero will still have his chances to shine.
“There will be space for everyone, including Del Piero, even if the Swede and the Frenchman’s physical strength is difficult to equal in some instances, especially when you play with teams that are very defensive,” said Don Fabio.
Capello also offered his view on who will win the World Cup. “The team with the most on-form players, and under this point of view, many players will be tired after a long club season,” he said.
Thuram U-turn still angers Capello
Football Italia
Juventus Coach Fabio Capello has once again expressed his displeasure with Lilian Thuram's decision to come out of international retirement. The France defender is currently out of action with the thigh injury he picked up against the Faroe Islands, just a few weeks after angering Capello by collecting a knock against the Ivory Coast.
"I'm a good prophet. I knew something was going to happen," said Capello. "Actually, I'm a bad prophet because I predicted something which has brought bad luck."
The 33-year-old former Monaco star missed the Bianconeri's 4-0 win over Empoli at the weekend, and his club boss admits he doesn't know when he'll be back. "His injury is worse than it was at the start of last week," explained Capello. "The fact that he then played against Ireland really didn't help. It's worse than we thought and I have no idea when he'll be fit again."
The former Roma tactician has said all along that Thuram would be putting himself at risk of injury by returning to the international scene. And he also added a veiled criticism of France boss Raymond Domenech for selecting a reluctant Thuram in the first place.
"There are some Coaches who respect a player's wishes," he stated. "But if a Coach calls him up in the interests of the national side, then the player has to accept it."
Juventus coach heaps praise on Vieira
Tribal Football
Juventus coach Fabio Capello has singled out Patrick Vieira after a successful start to the season. "The players who have arrived have increased our class in all positions," said Capello. "On Vieira, the appraisal we have made over the course of the summer showed us we were getting a player of quality, both technically and in character."
Vieira believes in Euro glory
Football Italia
Patrick Vieira has conceded that his move to Juventus will finally offer him a realistic shot at Champions League glory. The Frenchman had failed to make a serious European challenge while at Arsenal before his £14m summer switch to Turin. Now the international, who will appear against Brugge on Wednesday, believes that could all change following his decision to return to Serie A.
"I think I have a better chance of winning the Champions League with Juventus, at least on paper," said Vieira following his goal against Empoli. "Our squad is very strong. Very often there are two internationals competing for each place in the team."
The former Milan flop added that he believes he is in the right surroundings to get his hands on much more silverware in his already glittering career. "There's a pressure to win here, a determination in the air and in the environment that I hadn't felt in a long time at Arsenal," he continued.
Vieira is starting to settle at the Stadio Delle Alpi and he admits his switch has given him renewed focus. "I needed a new challenge," he explained. "I wasn't at my best over the last two years. However, each time my form has dipped I've been capable of pulling myself back up again."
Italy move for Juventus chief Moggi
Tribal Football
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi is being linked with a role with Italy's national team. The opportunity to work again with former Juve coach Marcello Lippi is being mooted for Moggi after he met with AC Milan patron Silvio Berlusconi last Thursday. It's been suggested Berlusconi discussed the possibility of taking on the Azzurri team manager's job with Moggi, whose contract at Juve expires in 2006.
Juventus invite Arsenal bid for Del Piero
Tribal Football
Juventus will invite Arsenal to bid for Alessandro del Piero in January. Juve plan to offer £5 million plus Adrian Mutu and Giorgio Chiellini to AS Roma for striker Antonio Cassano when the winter market opens over Christmas. With Cassano's arrival, Juve director general Luciano Moggi will seek a buyer for Del Piero, who is already unsettled in Turin. The Italy international favours a move to London and Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has been a long-term admirer, who sees Del Piero as a natural successor to Dennis Bergkamp.
Monday 12 September
Empoli 0 - 4 Juventus
Football Italia
There was only ever one team in it, as Juventus swept Empoli aside with consummate ease. The last time Empoli were in Serie A during the 2003-04 season they shocked the peninsula by holding Juventus to a thrilling 3-3 draw at the Stadio Castellani.
The Bianconeri were decimated by injuries to Lilian Thuram, Jonathan Zebina, Alessandro Del Piero, Gigi Buffon and Alessandro Birindelli, while Zlatan Ibrahimovic was struggling with a stomach bug. Empoli handed former Fiorentina hitman Christian Rigano' his debut upfront, supported by Igli Vannucchi, Lodi and Francesco Tavano.
Juventus broke the deadlock after 10 minutes with David Trezeguet - his second goal in as many games. It was a fine team move and Ibrahimovic flicked the ball up between defenders for the Frenchman's finish.
Just as Empoli started to fight back, the Bianconeri made it 2-0. Pavel Nedved's corner kick found Patrick Vieira for a splendid glancing header that he redirected into the far top corner. It was the former Arsenal man's first Serie A goal.
There was barely time to catch breath before Juve had scored their third in curious circumstances. Mauro German Camoranesi slipped as he fired from distance, which took a deflection off Coda and went looping into the top corner.
Empoli threatened a goal with Vannucchi blasting over and a diving Rigano' header that skimmed the woodwork. Ex-Torino defender Federico Balzaretti received his Juve debut in the second half. Within five minutes, Lodi had been called into a goalline clearance on an Ibrahimovic header from a corner kick.
Trezeguet made the scoreline 4-0 thanks to a terrible error from goalkeeper Berti, who rushed off his line and allowed the Frenchman to lob into an empty net.
Trezeguet was prevented from getting his hat-trick by a tough Berti save, as there was only one team in this match. The veteran goalkeeper palmed away an effort from substitute Marcelo Zalayeta, but Christian Abbiati's first intervention of the afternoon came at the 76th minute on Gasparetto. Camoranesi's first touch let him down with only the 'keeper to beat, then Adrian Mutu and Nedved drilled wide.
Empoli: Berti; Busce, Coda, Pratali, Bonetto; Ficini, Almiron; Lodi (Serafini 57), Vannucchi (Moro 81), Tavano; Rigano' (Gasparetto 64)
Juventus: Abbiati; Pessotto (Balzaretti 46), Kovac, Cannavaro, Zambrotta, Camoranesi, Emerson, Vieira, Nedved; Trezeguet (Zalayeta 70), Ibrahimovic (Mutu 59)
Ref: Dattilo
Post-Match Comments
Fabio Capello: “I hope that this is a good sign for the tour de force that awaits us this month. We proved that the team does not sit back and relax on a slender lead. We did well not to lose focus. David Trezeguet and Zlatan Ibrahimovic were excellent, but we have five great strikers and all of them will play their part.”
A Fantastic Group Of Players-Capello
Goal.com
Juventus boss Fabio Capello applauded his players following the impressive 4-0 win they notched at Empoli. “What a great group I have at my disposal. The players returned from their national team duties with the same desire to win as they had when they left. This is a great satisfaction for a coach,” said Capello.
“How the team played with huge determination even after the 3-0 is also a good sign. And Kovac played great, I knew what a good player he was after I saw him mark Ibrahimovic last season,” he added.
Juventus coach dismisses AC Milan talk for Del Piero
Tribal Football
Juventus coach Fabio Capello insists striker Alessandro del Piero isn't moving to AC Milan. Juve director general Luciano Moggi met with AC Milan patron Silvio Berlusconi on Thursday, fueling speculation that talks were held over Del Piero's future. "They never spoke about Alessandro del Piro," insisted Capello. "They did not even talk politics."
Juventus furious over Thuram injury
Tribal Football
Juventus coach Fabio Capello is furious after defender Lilian Thuram returned from international duty with a thigh injury. "Thuram played in Ireland with France and has re-injured his thigh," said Capello. "a more serious injury than his last one. "I cannot say when he will be available again. We're all disappointed. If a national coach calls, then the player is obligated to go. But we are suffering because of it."
Vieira delight at goal
Planet Football
Patrick Vieira has expressed his delight at getting off the mark for Juventus in a 4-0 win against Empoli. The former Arsenal man has slotted into his trademark midfield battler role with aplomb since arriving at Turin and Juve have won both of their opening fixtures in Serie A.
The France international's work-rate has impressed above all - but he was pleased to have grabbed a rare goal so early in the campaign.
"I am obviously very happy with my goal," said Vieira - who completed a £13.5 million move from The Premiership in the summer. "But the most important thing is that Juve won in such impressive style. Am I never tired? No. I work very hard, I do a lot of training and this is my job."
Sunday 11 September
Capello loses French pair
Football Italia
Fabio Capello faces a defensive conundrum against Empoli, as Lilian Thuram and Jonathan Zebina are out of action. “Thuram’s injury is more serious than we had originally thought,” revealed the Juventus Coach ahead of the trip to Empoli. “He has a bruise on the thigh muscle that is not being absorbed as quickly as expected.”
This is set to cause further controversy for the Bianconeri, as Capello had already complained about Thuram’s decision to come out of international retirement. Since returning to the France squad, the former Parma defender has already picked up two injuries and was played against the Republic of Ireland on Wednesday night despite suffering from the thigh problem.
“Zebina is also not going to be fit for the Empoli game,” explained the tactician. “He could potentially have played, but I would prefer to rest him so that he can be on form to face Club Brugge on Wednesday.”
The club vs. country row has already flared up between Inter and Brazil over Adriano, but Capello was at least thankful to have two stars at his disposal this week.
“I’m glad that David Trezeguet and Pavel Nedved did not go off on international duty. They were able to train and improve their overall fitness levels, which you’ll be able to see in their performance this weekend.”
Alessandro Del Piero is also sidelined with a muscular injury that ruled him out of Italy’s 4-1 win over Belarus and the Juve doctors have already stated he won’t be ready for the Champions League opener, while Zlatan Ibrahimovic is a major doubt with a stomach problem.
Gianluigi Buffon and Alessandro Birindelli are long-term absentees, so Capello must reshuffle his squad at the Stadio Castellani.
Mutu determined to make Juventus breakthrough
Tribal Football
Adrian Mutu is determined to establish himself at Juventus, starting with today's clash against Empoli. Mutu scored both goals in Romania's 2-0 win over the Czech Republic in the World Cup qualifier last weekend, but is yet to appear for his new club.
The Romanian scoring sensation appears to have left his troubles behind after serving a lengthy suspension for failing a drugs test while a Chelsea player.
"I think I have sent a positive message to Capello," said Mutu. "I am in good form and I hope I can be ready when my turn comes to be in the starting line-up. I have now understood that in order to be a champion you have to think of what is best for the team."
Mutu believes that the Bianconeri, who won with minimum effort against Chievo Verona in their opening Serie A game, will not be short of motivation despite being strong favourites on paper against newly promoted Empoli.
"It doesn't matter if our rivals are Empoli or Milan," said Mutu. "We will be ready to give everything in order to win. We have always respected our rivals, playing with plenty of determination and I think this is our strength."
Argie star Tevez loves Man Utd
Tribal Football
Manchester United are monitoring with interest the storm Carlos Tevez has created with his Brazilian club Corinthians this week. Tevez appeared at a media conference wearing a United shirt and cheekily said: "I'm thinking of leaving Corinthians."
When asked whether he was disrespecting the Brazilian club by wearing the shirt, he scowled: "What I get from Nike [the United shirt] I use, I do not see any problem." United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is a big fan of the 21 year-old and considered a move for the Argentina international last year while he was still at Boca Juniors.
Saturday 10 September
Ibra to sit out Empoli tie
Football Italia
Juventus boss Fabio Capello is being tipped to rest Zlatan Ibrahimovic for Sunday’s trip to Empoli. Although the Swede is in great form, following his two goals on international duty in the past week, there are concerns over his health.
The former Ajax player complained of severe stomach pains, which subsequently hampered his breathing, after Sweden’s win over Hungary in midweek. Ibrahimovic insisted that he was fine following his superb injury time strike, but Capello may opt to rest him anyway. The tactician is expected to start the striking sensation on the bench despite his importance to the side.
Given that Alessandro Del Piero is currently injured, Capello will probably select David Trezeguet and Adrian Mutu in attack. The Romanian is in good form himself after he returned to training this week following his two goals for his national side. Ibrahimovic should be recalled to the starting line-up for Wednesday’s Champions League tie at Club Brugge.
Moggi denies Berlusconi talks
Football Italia
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi has dismissed reports that he met Milan owner Silvio Berlusconi on Thursday. The transfer guru was spotted at the Palazzo Grazioli, the headquarters of Berlusconi’s Forza Italia political party, which fuelled mass speculation regarding the reason for his visit.
Whispers suggested that the two men discussed footballing matters but Moggi says he didn’t even see the Italian Prime Minister. "I went there to see a friend," stated the Bianconeri official. "Berlusconi is not the only person in that building. If there were any footballing matters to discuss, then why would I go to Palazzo Grazioli for talks?"
There were also reports that Moggi left the Roman building with a book in his hand, entitled: ‘I hate Berlusconi’. But Moggi has also denied that suggestion. "What book? I had two Rome-based newspapers in my hand," he concluded.
Milan rule out Del Piero capture
Football Italia
Milan have again dismissed speculation linking them with a sensational swoop for Juventus symbol Alessandro Del Piero. The club captain was already associated with a switch last month and rumours re-surfaced yesterday, following Luciano Moggi’s meeting with Rossoneri owner Silvio Berlusconi.
Vice-president Adriano Galliani confirmed that the two officials met, but denied whispers that Del Piero was the subject of the meeting. "There is no truth in claims that they spoke about transfers," Galliani told the Italian media on Friday. "Del Piero? Milan have no need for second strikers like him, that’s because we are already well covered in that role."
Del Piero’s future at the Stadio Delle Alpi is in doubt given that he is not guaranteed a starting shirt under boss Fabio Capello in Turin. Juve director general Moggi had initially denied meeting the Italian Prime Minister, but Galliani has confirmed they did see each other.
"I have spoken to Berlusconi and he told me that Moggi wanted to thank him for the loan of Christian Abbiati," he revealed. Milan handed Abbiati to Juve as a form of ‘reimbursement’ for Gianluigi Buffon’s injury, sustained in the Trofeo Berlusconi tie as a result of an involuntary clash with Kaka.
Juve, new strategies: in the view-finder Ballack and Messi enter
Yahoo! Italia Sport
The Juve is thrown to capofitto on Lionel Puttinges . Lost Cassano, to a step from I renew with the Rome , the bianconero club has moved its attentions on the Argentine young person portento of Barcelona. Baby a phenomenon that has stregato po' all, comprised Fabio Hat.
Accomplice the legal flaw on the contract that alloy Puttinges to the Catalan club, Luciano Moggi gia' has moved its pawns in order to make sure it. Other bianconero objective, Michael Ballack . The 29enne centrocampista svincolera' to the end of the next season and all one lets to think that not rinnovera' the contract with the Bayern Monaco.
