Lippi says sad farewells
Football Italia - April 1999

Marcello Lippi is having a long break before he considers his options after walking out on Juventus. But he did take time out to visit his players one last time to say goodbye. The whole Juventus squad turned out to greet him including the injured Alessandro Del Piero and Filippo Inzaghi. "I salute everyone with great affection and wish you every success," said Lippi. "You all put up with me for nearly five years and they were such great times together."

New Coach Carlo Ancelotti showed great tact in leaving the players alone with Lippi to say goodbye and the two later exchanged a handshake in a brief meeting. No cameras or microphones were allowed into the training ground for what was a very private and heartfelt affair despite the tensions that appeared in recent months. Ancelotti meanwhile has outlined his plans for the future. "You only need little problems to go from a victory to a defeat," said Ancelotti, "and this season Juve have had several large problems - like Del Piero's injury. Against Piacenza we rediscovered our team spirit and were a compact squad. We must start again from here. I already feel at home at Juventus." Four wins and a draw in his first five games meant the feeling was mutual.

---

Close browser window to return to previous page