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Racism must be fought with strength, in everyday life as well as in sports. This is the message the project “Un calcio al razzismo” (A kick to racism) is forwarding, promoted in the last November by Juventus at UNESCO Centre in Torino. The initiative foresee the award of two scholarships, for year 2009/2010, to a Second Grade Institute and to a student, aged between 18 and 25, who did significant actions, always in fighting racism and in favor of integration.
And to support this project also Nicola Legrottaglie intervened, who tonight, in classroom 4 at Palazzo Nuovo, took part to a lesson of Diritto Internazionale dello Sport (Sport International Right). The meeting issue, the fight against racism in sport domain: «Racism must be fought in all environments, not only in soccer – Nicola said– It’s a fight to be supported with stubbornness». Yesterday Jonathan Zebina was the victim of racist choirs and a mean aggression: «The best thing to do in these cases is not to speak about it and do not give visibility to who committed this act –Legrottaglie went on – That person today was on all newspaper, while it would be better not to give importance at media level. Anyway, I saw Jonathan calm and serene».
Finally, the defender opened a parenthesis on the victory vs. Atalanta: «Three suffered points, very important considering the final rush that we will go through. For the future we’ll try to plan our work in order to have the necessary fuel to reach our targets»
www.juventus.com
Legrottaglie: «We must fight racism»
Team immediately back to work in Vinovo
A few hours after the return from Naples, the team immediately got back to work in Vinovo with a morning session. The players involved in the Napoli match had an unwinding session while the rest trained normally.
The team immediately began working in view of the next match, the one on Sunday afternoon against Atalanta. The preparation will continue with another session tomorrow afternoon at 16:00hrs and will be preceded by a press conference addressed by Zaccheroni at 14:45hrs which will be aired live on Juventus Channel.
www.juventus.com
Giovinco's future uncertain at Juve
Sebastian Giovinco's future at Juventus depends on the club's rebuilding plans, according to his agent Andrea D'Amico.
The 24-year-old has made just five starting appearances this season, playing just 485 minutes for the Bianconeri.
He has struggled with injury recently, but the competition for a starting place with Diego and Alessandro Del Piero has also made itself felt.
Juventus also made a conscious decision to play without any wingers in the summer after signing Diego, slimming Giovinco's chances down even further.
Speaking to Tutto Mercato Web, D'Amico said: “Giovinco is on the fringes of the team and for me this is just unbelievable.
“For the future, we should sit ourselves round a table and see what happens. Seba certainly deserves a big club.”
When asked if Giovinco would be staying in Turin, D'Amico replied: “It depends on their plans. But it's better to think about the present.”
Finally, D'Amico launched a scathing attack on Juventus' decision to lavish nearly €50m on two new players in the summer.
“Perhaps instead of spending so much the Bianconeri should have had more faith in their youngsters.”
www.juvefc.com
Second half fatal to Juve
Zaccheroni fielded a classical 4-4-2 formation with Camoranesi on the field from the start, Manninger in goal and with Amauri and Del Piero as the striking duo.
The first few minutes see the two teams battling in midfield but on the 4th minute a Maggio curler goes just wide. One minute later a Zebina longball goes straight into the arms of the keeper.
It is the 6th minute when Juve fans have reason to rejoice. There is a free-kick for Juve after a foul on Camoranesi following a brilliant move: Camo puts the ball into the area, Del Piero flicks towards Chiellini who strikes home for the opener: 0-1.
On the 9th minute, Candreva comes on for the injured Poulsen. Two minutes later, there is a free-kick for Napoli: Candreva blocks on a Maggio attempt.
The 13th minute sees a free-kick for Juve: ball into the Napoli area but Camoranesi is stopped for a foul in attack. Five minutes later there is a good save by Manninger on a powerful long distance shot by Quagliarella and two minutes later it is once again the Austrian goalkeeper who performs a brilliant save into corner on a Lavezzi missile.
Five minutes later, there is a free-kick for Napoli: the ball is luckily a bit too long for Hamsik. Napoli have a corner on the 27th minute: taken short but the ball finally goes beyond the line for a goal-kick.
On the 28th minute Cannavaro heads away a Zuniga ball and two minutes later, Maggio does not manage to control a dangerous longball into the area.
The 32nd minute sees Zebina with a great run and excellent move but his final cross goes straight out. One minute later, there is an off-side against Napoli on a dangerous initiative.
Camoranesi with a great stop heads towards Amauri who is just slightly short of the ball on the 37th minute. Two minutes later, a free-kick for Napoli is blocked by the Juve defence.
Corner for Napoli on the 42nd minutei: ball headed away by Camoranesi. The rebound sees the ball into the area but the referee signaling a foul in attack. The referee allows 3 minutes of stoppage time and on the third there is a Free-kick for Napoli: the Juve defence finally manage to clear but from the rebound the ball ends in a corner. The Juve defence heads away and the half ends on 0-1 lead for the bianconeri.
The second half immediately has a bad start for Juventus. On the second minute, the referee awards Napoli a penalty and shows Zebina a yellow card for a foul on Quagliarella: Hamsik sends the ball over the bar.
One minute later, there is a corner for Juve after a Del Piero incursion: The captain puts the ball in and Chiellini with an overhead kick sees the ball go high over the bar. Good attempt.
The fifth minute marks the turning point of the match: Quagliarella puts a cross into the Juve area and Hamsik heads home beating Manninger for the equaliser: 1-1.
Five minutes later, Manninger saves well on a Quaglairella shot. Corner for Napoli: ball into the area once again put into corner: ball put in for a cross. Five minutes later, What seemed like a dangerous initiative by Quagliarella is smothered by Candreva.
Maggio heads high from an extremely dangerous Zuniga cross on the 16th minute and one minute later, Diego comes on for a rather nervous Camoranesi.
On the 20th minute a Del Piero attempt is saved easily by the keeper and one minute later, comes on for the captain.
The 22nd minute sees a corner for Napoli after a Lavezzi cross is deviated by Zebina: the Juve defence clears. One minute later, there is a free-kick for Juve: Diego puts the ball into the area precisely but the defence somehow manages to clear. From the rebound the ball is again crossed into the area but Amauri's header is cleared.
When it rains it pours and on the 26th minute there is a ball into the Juve area and Quagliarella beats everybody and nets the ball anticipating Manninger for the 2-1. Five minutes later there is a corner for Juve: Diego's corner is cleared by the defence.
A Zuniga attempt goes high over the bar on the 33rd minute and on the 38th an Amauri header goes high over the bar. Seconds later, there is a corner for Napoli: ball headed away by Melo.
Corner for Juve after a good Juve incursion on the 39th minute: Candreva's cross is cleared but Marchisio with a great shot forces De Sanctis to a difficult save. Two minutes later a corner for Napoli is brought out by Diego.
Juve pile up the pressure but on the 43rd minute, Lavezzi collects a pass in the Juve area and fires past Manninger for the 3-1.
The referee awards 2 minutes of stoppage time and on the 2nd Amauri does not manage to head following a cross into the Napoli area.
The match ends with another defeat which materialized in the second half, once again after Juve took the lead after a few minutes. Champions League zone now at risk.
Serie A 2009/10 – 30th match day
Naples, Stadio San Paolo
Sunday 25th March, 2010
NAPOLI – JUVENTUS: 3-1
Goals: Chiellini (6th), Hamsik (51st), Quagliarella (72nd), Lavezzi (88th),
NAPOLI: De Sanctis; Grava, Paolo Cannavaro, Campagnaro; Maggio, Pazienza, Gargano, Zuniga (Rinaldo 89th); Hamsik (Cigarini 82nd), Quagliarella; Lavezzi (Denis 91st). Reserves: Iezzo, Rinaudo, Rullo, Aronica, Bogliacino, Cigarini, Denis. Coach: Mazzarri.
JUVENTUS: Manninger; Zebina, Cannavaro, Chiellini, Grosso; Camoranesi (Diego 62nd), Poulsen (Candreva 9th), Felipe Melo, Marchisio; Del Piero (Grygera 66th), Amauri. Reserves: Pinsoglio, Grygera, Marrone, Candreva, Diego, Giovinco, Trezeguet. Coach: Zaccheroni.
REFEREE: Rizzoli from Bologna
Yellow Cards: Grava (12th), Del Piero (19th), Camoranesi (24th), Zebina (46th)
www.juventus.com
Juve plan Gila and Vargas raid
As part of their plan to lure Cesare Prandelli to Turin in the summer, Juventus also hope to sign Fiorentina duo Alberto Gilardino and Juan Vargas.
The Bianconeri are planning on completely overhauling the current structure of the club this summer after one of the worst seasons on record.
Juventus were expected to not just challenge but win major honours after significant investment in the transfer market at the end of last season.
However, the project was effectively ripped up in January when the club sacked Ciro Ferrara after a dismal run in Serie A and elimination from both the Champions League and Coppa Italia.
Alberto Zaccheroni was brought in as a caretaker boss, but things haven't improved dramatically with Juventus still in sixth place in Serie A.
Tuttosport understands that Juventus will not offer him the job on a permanent basis in the summer and that the favourite for the post is Prandelli.
There were claims earlier this month that the Fiorentina Coach had already accepted an offer to move to Turin, although they were later denied.
However, the speculation refuses to go away and the Turin media believe Juventus are shaping their rebuilding process around Prandelli.
That means keeping Felipe Melo, the Brazilian midfielder who has flopped this season, but was effectively signed off the back of a very good year under Prandelli at Fiorentina.
It also implies that Juventus will sign players Prandelli trusts like Gilardino and Vargas, although the club's directors are also said to be certain of making an approach for Sampdoria striker Giampaolo Pazzini this summer.
www.juvefc.com
Bettega: 'Buffon is untouchable'
“Gianluigi Buffon is untouchable,” even if Manchester City offer £32m, says Juventus director Roberto Bettega.
There were reports in newspapers around Europe that Buffon would be sacrificed to raise funds for the transfer campaign if they fail to qualify for the Champions League.
“The squad will not let itself get distracted by this sort of thing,” assured Bettega on the official club website.
“As for what was written in the papers about an alleged Buffon sale, I want to tell the fans that Gigi is untouchable. He will remain at Juventus.”
Juve go into a pre-match training camp this evening to prepare for Thursday night’s trip to Napoli, a game you can watch LIVE on ESPN.
“I am confident that we will soon be able to prove what we had done until recently. Aside from Mohamed Sissoko, to whom we give our sincerest condolences, all the players are in the hotel and very concentrated on the game.”
Sissoko flew out to Paris this morning after news of a family bereavement and is not expected to take part in Thursday’s match.
www.juvefc.com
Mancini in Juve frame?
Roberto Mancini has met with Roberto Bettega with an eye to taking over at Juventus next season, according to English newspapers.
The Manchester City manager was in the stands for Thursday’s 4-1 Europa League defeat at Fulham.
That embarrassing exit effectively scuppered Alberto Zaccheroni’s hopes of keeping the job past the summer.
According to the Sunday Mirror, former Inter boss Mancini is the latest man to step into the frame after Fiorentina’s Cesare Prandelli and Rafa Benitez of Liverpool.
The newspaper suggests that Mancini met with director Bettega at Craven Cottage with an eye on a swift return to Serie A.
“It would be hard for Roberto to turn down the Juventus job,” a source was quoted as saying in the Sunday Mirror.
“It is seen as the biggest job in Italian football – the equivalent of being asked to manage Manchester United in England or Real Madrid in Spain.”
Mancini was sacked by Inter after three consecutive Scudetti, including one handed down by the courts in the Calciopoli scandal.
He signed for Manchester City in December on a three-and-a-half-year contract, but has an option to review his future at the end of the season.
It would be an intriguing switch for Mancini, who has already succeeded Zaccheroni on the benches of both Lazio and Inter.
However, due to his strong connection with Inter, it is likely the Juventus fans would react angrily to his appointment.
www.juvefc.com
Zac: «Let us look ahead»
On the eve of the match against Sampdoria, in Genova on Sunday at 20:45hrs, Alberto Zaccheroni spoke of the team’s current moment. Here are the highlights of the press conference.
Juve is present
Juve must be there because up to seven days ago the critics spoke of a recovering team and that certain numbers were returning and that the team was compact. Then we went through another week with the usual problems regarding match preparation with certain players while we were forced to field others who were not in their best form. Facing commitments in this manner is difficult. Sometimes things go well and sometimes not. Just because for two matches we did not give a consistency to our results, I do not want to cancel all the good we did up to now.
Looking ahead
We were eliminated from the Europa League and we are sorry about this but I cannot cancel the work we did up to now and look exclusively at the result. I look at the good we are doing and what we still have to improve. The priority is to field the players who are in the best condition not to put the players in difficulty like was the case in certain instances.
Nervous moments
I always speak to my players and tell them everything. Unfortunately there is an unwritten rule in football: when you obtain results you are a phenomenon, when you don’t all the problems emerge. As a team we must manage these moments well and control nervous moments in the best of manners. I understand both positions: on one side the feeling of being jeered as soon as you enter the field but if you want to play football you have to live with this and on the other side I understand the supporters because I know that certain protests are the result of the love for the team. However, I condemn both attitudes.
We are doing our best
We must live with the general unhappiness but we must not feed the tensions outwardly even when one is right. We already have internal problems. The important thing is that one feels that we are doing our best. I guarantee this because who is not committed does not play.
Sampdoria’s merits
Del Neri bases himself on the collective. It is a very compact team. I have respect for a coach and a team that know where they want to arrive and how to do it. It is clear that one fears the winning strike and Cassano and Pazzini are the most dangerous at this but they would not be determinant without the team’s back-up.
An important stage
Genova is an important stage but it is not decisive for qualification to the next Champions League. We are coming from a delicate match in the Europa League and we must try to field what we have done in the last month.
Faith in the group
I confide very much in this team, in the value of my men and players and now that I know them better I do this even more. Problems with Del Piero? I do not have such problems nor with him and neither with any other player.
www.juventus.com
Candreva: «We must now take one match at a time»
He played a great match, scored a magnificent goal, had a share in Del piero’s first and yet Antonio Candreva does not feel he has any reason to celebrate.
«Today things didn’t go so well. After a 3-0 lead for us we were equalized and this did not amke our Sunday a good one. Perhaps even fatigue had its share. I think that after sucha match it is difficult to comment».
The midfielder changed position between the first and second half: «In the first half I played more in the irght. In the second half with 4 players in midfield I changed to the left».
Antonio then decides to look ahead, with more important matches round the corner: « We knew it would be difficult and we shouldn’t have underestimated Siena. Unfortunately we did not play so well after the third goal and we were equalized. We must now take one match at a time starting on Thursday against Fulham and then after in Genoa against Sampdoria».
www.juventus.com
Juve miss a golden opportunity
Zaccheroni fielded a 4-3-3 formation with Candreva and Del Piero behind Trezeguet and this choice immediately proves the coach right.
Juventus have an incredible start. On the 2nd minute, there is a good incursion by Candreva who passes to Sissoko, the Mali player’s conclusion is saved by the keeper but the ball reaches Del Piero who strikes home for his 300th goal and the opener: 1-0.
Four minutes later, a Marchisio shot is deviated by a defender with the ball reaching Del Piero who with an incredible shot beats Curci for the second time in 5 minutes: 2-0.
On the 10th minute, an incredible shot by Candreva from a very long distance finds itself at the back of the net for the 3-0.
Juve relax a bit too much after the 3-strong start and on the 12th minute, Marchisio and Chimenti save what seemed to be a sure goal by Maccarone. Three minutes later, Chimenti saves easily on a Ghezzal shot.
On the 16th minute, Grygera mistakes the pass and Maccarone taking advantage makes the score 3-1. Three minutes later, a low pass into the area by Marchisio towards Trezeguet is intercepted.
The 21st minute sees first Felipe Melo and then Chimenti save two dangerous attempts within seconds. Three minutes later, Reginaldo just misses the ball from in front of Chimenti. Too many silly mistakes are being committed by the bianconeri.
It is the 25th minute, a good run by Candreva who passes to Grygera, whose cross into the area towards Trezeguet is intercepted by Curci. The next few minutes see a series of mistakes in midfield by the two teams.
On the 32nd minute, there is beautiful play by Candreva but his cross is intercepted. One minute later, a Candreva cross twoards the captain is gripped by the keeper. On the 39th minute, a great counter attack started by Candreva and Del Piero sees the latter fouled in midfield.
The 41st minute sees a free-kick for Juve after a series of fouls on a resistant Sissoko: ball into the area but Pratali clears. One minute later, there is a fee-kick for Siena: Melo clears the area.
On the 43rd minute, a Candreva cross goes wide. Two minutes later, there is a free-kick for Siena: foul in attack by Odibe. The first half ends after 1 minute of stoppage time with a 3-1 score for Juventus.
The start of the second half sees Camoranesi come on for Marchisio. Siena’s fighting spirit pays off immediately. On the 1st minute, a Maccarone shot first hits the post and then Ghezzal posts it home for the 3-2.
It is the 3rd minute when a Trezeguet lob after an exchange with Del Piero goes just high over the bar. One minute later, a Trezeguet low ball crosses the whole area with nobody to push it in.
On the 6th minute, there is a free-kick for Siena: foul in attack by Odibe. One minute later, a Del Piero header is saved by Curci following a cross by Camoranesi. Salihamidzic comes on for Legrottaglie.
The 9th minute sees a Trezeguet shot being saved by Curci. Two minutes later, there is a corner for Juve: foul in attack by Melo. Corner for Siena after a powerful shot is deviated by Cannavaro, three minutes later.
It is the 17th minute when there is a corner for Siena: Larrondo heads out from a favourable position but is also stopped for a foul in attack. One minute later, there is a free-kick for Juve: Camoranesi puts it into the area but the defence clears.
Cannavaro saves what could have been the ball of the equalizer on the 21st minute. Two minutes later, Del Piero enters the area but tries a dribbling too much and finally the defence clears. On the 24th minute, Tziolis hits the post with Chimenti beaten.
The 25th minute sees a free-kick for Juve: Candreva's cross is headed away by Ghezzal. One minute later, there is a penalty for Siena: Ghezzal beats a helpless Chimenti for the equalizer 3-3.
Diego comes on for Del Piero.on the 31st minute. Two minutes later, there is a corner for Juve: ball into the area by Diego but Cannavaro is stopped for a foul in attack.
On the 40th minute, there is a free-kick for Juve: Diego puts it into the area but action is stopped or a foul in attack. The first out of the 3 minutes of stoppage time, sees a corner for Siena: ball headed out by Larrondo. On the 47th minute, a Camoranesi header in the area goes wide.
The match ends on a 3-3 result. Juve move one point closer to Palermo but the feeling is that of a golden opportunity missed.
Serie A 2009/10 – 28th match day
Turin, Stadio Olimpico
Sunday 14th March, 2010
JUVENTUS-SIENA: 3-3
Goals: Del Piero (2nd), Del Piero (7th), Candreva (10th), Maccarone (16th), Ghezzal (46th), Ghezzal (pen. 74th),
JUVENTUS: Chimenti, Grygera, Legrottaglie (Salihamidzic 53rd) Cannavaro, De Ceglie; Sissoko, Felipe Melo, Marchisio (Camoranesi 45th); Candreva; Del Piero (Diego 76th), Trezeguet. Reserves: Pinsoglio, Grosso, Salihamidzic, Poulsen, Camoranesi, Diego, Iaquinta. Coach: Zaccheroni.
SIENA: Curci; Rosi, Cribari, Pratali (Odibe 44th), Del Grosso; Ekdal (Larrondo 16th); Reginaldo, Vergassola, Tziolis, Ghezzal; Maccarone (Codrea 85th). Reserves: Pegolo, Terzi, Odibe, Codrea, Fini, Calaiò, Larrondo. Coach: Malesani.
REFEREE: Russo from Nola.
Yellow cards: Tziolis (40th), Del Grosso (46th), Salihamidzic (64th), Sissoko (68th), Reginaldo (76th)
www.juventus.com
Moggi doubts Prandelli deal
Transfer guru Luciano Moggi believes Cesare Prandelli will not move to Juventus at the end of the current season.
The former Bianconeri director also claimed that Alberto Zaccheroni should be reconfirmed on the Turin bench.
“In my opinion Prandelli will stay in Florence,” said Moggi.
“He is a really good coach and the Viola won't let him go.
“At the same time, Zaccheroni is doing a superb job. I don't see why they should get rid of him.
“Fiorentina do not have the same appeal as Juventus, but they have a good project based on youngsters and it is not true that they are not investing on the market.
“They signed Stevan Jovetic, who is already proving to be a great player. Then they got Keirrison, who is also very talented.”
Moggi also commented on Milan following their humiliating defeat against Manchester United.
“A while ago I did say it was going to be tough for Italian clubs,” he noted.
“But Leonardo has done well, it is not his fault and he should be given the chance to continue his job.”
www.juvefc.com
RITORNO DI ANDREA AGNELLI AI VERTICI SOCIETARI DELLA JUVENTUS (BACK TO THE TOP CORPORATE ANDREA AGNELLI OF JUVENTUS)
Italian:
Noi tifosi Juventini uniti, chiediamo il RITORNO di Andrea Agnelli ai vertici della Juventus, mai come in questo momento di crisi societaria è richiesto un cambio di rotta ed un ritorno agli antichi e nobili fasti che competono alla Juventus ed a noi tifosi bianconeri.
Dal 2006 ad oggi abbiamo dovuto ingoiare tanti rospi, la Juventus è quasi sparita dal calcio Italiano ed Europeo, tutto questo causato da coloro che hanno cospirato e che ormai noi tutti sappiamo bene chi siano, quindi chiediamo all'attuale Proprietà della Juve nella persona di John Elkann, di permettere il rientro del nostro unico e degno condottiero, nonchè suo cugino .... Andrea Agnelli, allontanato ingistamente !!!
Siamo i tifosi di una delle più Gloriose società calcistiche in Italia e nel Mondo e vogliamo che l'attuale propietà ci ascolti, la nostra voce deve avere un riscontro, la Juve siamo noi !!!
Questa vuole essere una petizione pacifica e senza sommosse come lo Stile e la Classe della Famiglia Agnelli ci ha sempre insegnato, non vogliamo agire come le tifoserie di altre società con la forza bruta, quindi confidiamo nella volontà dell'attuale Proprietà di voler considerare la nostra sacrosanta richiesta.
LA JUVE SIAMO NOI !!!!!!!
English:
We Juventini fans united, demanding the return of Andrea Agnelli of Juventus at the top, never as in this time of crisis requires a corporate change of direction and a return to the ancient and noble glories that compete with Juventus Juventus fans and us.
From 2006 to now we have had to swallow a lot of frogs, Juventus has almost disappeared from the Italian and European football, all this caused by those who conspired and now we all know who they are, then we present properties of Juve in the person of John Elkann, to allow the return of our unique and worthy leader, as well as his cousin .... Andrea Agnelli, distanced ingistamente!
We are fans of one of the most glorious football clubs in Italy and around the world and we want the property now listen to us, our voice must have a match, Juve is us!
This petition is to be a peaceful and no riots like the style and class of the Agnelli family has always taught us, we do not act like fans of other companies with brute force, then we trust in the will of the properties you want to consider our sacrosanct request.
LA JUVE SIAMO NOI !!!!!!!
www.petizionionline.it/ www.juvefc.com
Dzeko for Diego ?
Juventus attacker Diego was recently linked with a swap involving Bayern Munich's Franck Ribery, but it appears there is another German outfit interested in the 25-year-old.
Wolfsburg, who are likely to offload sought-after Edin Dzeko at the end of the season, are hoping to use the Bosnian in a swap deal for the Bianconeri star according to tuttomercatoweb.
Diego's brightest period of his career was in the Bundesliga with Werder Bremen, where he spent three highly successful years before securing a transfer to Turin this summer.
The Brazilian has only recently begun to find his feet for the Italians after struggling for the past few months. However, it remains to be seen if they are willing to let go of their €24.5 million investment.
Milan recently reportedly gave up on signing Dzeko, as they thought his asking price was too high.
www.juvefc.com and www.goal.com
Juve need new signings, says Melo
Felipe Melo believes Juventus need new signings this summer if they are to catch Inter in Serie A next season.
The Brazil international has been heavily criticised following his big money move to Turin, as together with Diego, he was expected to help the Bianconeri challenge for honours in 2009-10.
Interviewed by Tuttosport, Melo said: “A team has to start with a good Coach and now a Coach with experience has arrived and he helps us a lot.
“Now, for example, we watch the videos of our games, through which Zaccheroni makes us understand the mistakes we have made.
“This doesn't mean to say that Ferrara was a bad Coach: I liked him a lot. Anyway, aside from the Coach, we need some other strong players who can make the difference, like Diego and Del Piero, because there is need of five of six players who can make the difference. And hopefully we can win.
“In any case, we will surely do better next season because we won't have the same problems understanding each other.”
Asked to explain why his recent performances have been better, Melo replied: “I had a physical problem. The leg hurt me a lot, so throughout Christmas I worked back home in Brazil with some friends from the national team.
“When I came back to Turin I did not have the pain any more and this allowed me to train more calmly, also psychologically.
“A footballer is like a machine: if there is a problem it won't go forward. And in effect I had some problems, because this summer I practically had no holiday after the Confederations Cup.
“In fact, I started the season very well, but then I ran out of energy. I needed a little time to recover,” he concluded.
www.juvefc.com
Hodgson: «It is of great satisfaction to play against Juve»
A known face and a team never seen before. Roy Hodgson’s Fulham landed in Turin. In Italy, the coach worked with Inter and Udinese. It was an arrival marked by the snow, which fell all day, obliging the English team to change their plans. Instead of the traditional training session at the Olimpico, they trained at the Juventus Center in Vinovo: «We could have asked for the cover to be removed – declared Hodgson during the press conference – but we did not want to ruin the field, and so we accepted the invitation from Juventus to use their sports center. Today the real winner was the bad weather».
In order to understand who will win the first leg of the final 16 of the Europa League we will have to wait until tomorrow. Being able to play against Juventus is already a victory for Fulham but the Londoners are far from considering themselves beaten. Hodgson confirmed: «For us it is of great satisfaction having made it to this point and being able to play against a great team like Juventus. It is the crowning of all we have done in recent years, but we do not want to stop here and want to keep improving, conscious of the fact that there is still much to be done to reach the level of clubs like Juventus, Inter, Milan, Chelsea or Liverpool ».
Finally two answers for the Italian journalists, on the duel with Zaccheroni and his previous Italian experience. «I don’t think that the fact that I am ahead of Zaccheroni counts. It depends on the teams we coached in the past. It will not be a duel between two coaches but between two teams. Here in Italy, I was happy and I like to return. Inter? Tomorrow’s match has nothing to do with my previous experience. I am only interested in Fulham now».
After having already played against Roma in the group stage, Fulham returns to Italy and does so without former giallorosso Okaka, who joined the Londoners in January but who cannot play due to regulations, and captain Murphy who is suspended. It will probably be Aaron Hughes to wear the captain’s band. The latter was also present at the Juventus Center press room: «Ever since we are children we hear people speaking of Juventus and everybody would like to play against them and this is why we are awaiting the match with great anxiousness and excitement. Juve is always Juve, even though it is not going through its best season. We know we will be playing against a European heavyweight but we will try to give our best to obtain a positive result».
www.juventus.com
Zaccheroni: «I have great respect for Fulham»
It is time for the Europa League. On Thursday night, Juve will be playing the first leg of the final 16 of the Europa League and the bianconeri will be hosting Fulham. In Vinovo, the eve of the match was characterized by the press conference. The match was presented by Alberto Zaccheroni and David Trezeguet.
The coach from Romagna underlined the difficulties the team could encounter against the English team: «We will be facing a strong , compact team that knows what it wants and how to get there. It is the classical English team, robust and which has great team spirit. I know Hodgson well. He is a well balanced coach who does not try to overdo things and against whom you must keep a close look. It will be an important match but we must remember that it is 180 minutes long».
Attention must be paid to Fulham but also to Juventus. Alberto Zaccheroni looks at his own team first and foremost, at the team’s condition which is becoming more complete everyday but which still has a number of defections. «In the last few days I managed to have back a number of players, even though on a part-time basis. The important thing is not to end up with the same 11 players for 3 consecutive matches. I hope I will soon have at least three fourths of the squad available soon, so that we can be competitive on all fronts. Sissoko should be fit, Marchisio was in bed yesterday and we will have to see how he is feeling today. Melo is suspended. Poulsen? He is not yet 90 minutes ready but he is experienced , has a great personality and knows how to manage. If I field him he will know how to use his energy , just like Camoranesi. Caceres is the player who is most in doubt. I do not want to force anyone. I will wait till tomorrow to take such decisions».
After having eliminated Ajax, Zaccheroni’s team will try to repeat itself against Fulham and also continue with the positive moment after the victory in Florence for which the team also received compliments from John Elkann. The coach wants to make further steps ahead and to explain this concept, spoke of David Trezeguet who was seated next to him during the press conference: «We appreciated John Elkann’s comments and they are a further stimulus to go on. We must still find the right equilibrium to help the strikers. I asked David to help the team out a lot, even because somebody like him is not waiting for me to teach him how to score. We must put him in the right condition to do what he knows best».
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Juve to swap Diego for Ribery?
El Mundo Deportivo understands that Juventus will offer Brazilian playmaker Diego in exchange for Bayern Munich's Franck Ribery this summer.
Ribery is expected to be the centrepiece of the next transfer window with Real Madrid and Barcelona set to battle it out for his signature.
Real Madrid are believed to have an advantage after they apparently sold Arjen Robben to the German giants last summer as a 'down payment' for Ribery.
However, that report has not been confirmed and as far as the Spanish and Italian Press are concerned Ribery is still on the market.
Juventus were interested in the 26-year-old France international last year. In fact, Claudio Ranieri, who was the club's coach at the time, apparently wanted Ribery instead of Diego.
Bayern were also in the hunt for Diego, but both Werder Bremen and the player felt Juventus came up with a better offer.
The German giants are already planning for after Ribery, such is his desire to leave the club.
They have scouted CSKA Moscow's Milos Krasic, but Diego's unhappy predicament has rekindled their interest in him.
Whether the former Santos youngster would prove a big enough bargaining chip in exchange for Ribery remains to be seen.
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Juve keep tabs on Veloso
Juventus are interested in signing Sporting Lisbon midfielder Miguel Veloso, according to reports in Portugal.
The Bianconeri have apparently sent scouts to watch the 23-year-old on several occasions this season.
Portuguese newspaper Record understands that Juventus director of sport Alessio Secco has also been in touch with Jorge Mendes, the player's agent, with whom he enjoys a good relationship.
Veloso has a minimum fee release clause worth €30m, but he was close to joining Inter and Porto in January for half that figure.
Juventus would have to sell Felipe Melo to facilitate the deal and have been encouraged by interest from Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger who still holds the Brazil international in high regard despite a rough first season in Turin.
The Bianconeri haven't had the best of luck with Portuguese players recently.
Jorge Andrade had his contract rescinded after suffering a career threatening knee injury and Tiago flopped. He is currently on loan at Atletico Madrid.
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Juve conquer Florence!
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Zaccheroni fielded a 4-3-2-1 formation with Candreva and Diego behind Trezeguet as striker.
Juventus have a fiery start and on the 2nd minute Diego enters the area after receiving from Candreva, dribbles past Frey and deposits in the back of the net: 0-1. One minute later, a Jovetic shot goes well high over the bar.
The 5th minute sees a corner for Fiorentina: ball into the area cleared by Sissoko. Two minutes later, Chiellini clears a ball from the area. It is the 8th minute when there is a free-kick for Fiorentina from a dangerous position: Trezeguet heads away. From the rebound it is Manninger who with a great save puts the ball into corner.
On the 9th minute, Manninger punches a dangerous shot away. Two minutes later, there is a free-kick for Juve following a foul on Candreva: Diego puts the ball into the area but Comotto collects the ball.
It is the 12th minute when De Ceglie anticipates Gilardino into corner following a dangerous Marchionni cross in the area. Two minutes later, there is a free-kick for Fiorentina from a dangerous position close to the semi-circle: Vargas' shot goes just wide.
On the 21st minute, Trezeguet is anticipated by Comotto at the crucial moment after great work and cross by Marchisio and three minutes later, a Diego free-kick is cleared by the defence.
It is the 28th minute when Candreva tries a heel in the area after an excellent insertion but Marchisio is caught unaware. Three minutes later, there is a free-kick for Fiorentina: Vargas' shot is cleared by the wall.
The 32nd minute sees an indecision by De Ceglie and Manninger sees Marchionni taking advantage and scoring the equalizer: 1-1. Five minutes later, there is a ball into the area towards Gilardino who is stopped for a foul in attack.
On the 39th minute, there is a corner for Fiorentina: ball into the area cleared by Sissoko and one minute later Zebina clears a dangerous ball in the area.
Notwithstanding the two minutes of stoppage time, the last significant action in the first half comes on the 42nd minute when a dangerous Marchionni cross in the Juve area luckily finds Gilardino unprepared.
Before the start of the second half, Grosso comes on for De Ceglie. The defender immediately seems determined and on the 4th minute, a dangerous Grosso cross is cleared into corner. From the flag the ball reaches Treseguet whose header is saved by Frey but the referee denies Juve the corner for an inexistent off-side.
Two minutes later, there is a free-kick for Juve: a good attempt by Diego is saved by Frey. On the 10th minute there is very fast action by Candreva whose cross sees Melo head to goal but Frey manages to save.
It is the 11th minute when a Grosso low ball into the area is intercepted by the defence. Two minutes later, Manninger grabs a high ball anticipating Gilardino.
The 16th minute sees a Marchisio cross in the area handed by Montolivo but the referee signals to play on. One minute later, Candreva puts a ball into the area for Trezeguet however the coordination is not easy and Frey parries the shot.
On the 21st minute, there is a corner for Fiorentina: ball dangerously close to the line is cleared by Legrottaglie. Two minutes later it is time to celebrate: Sissoko passes to Grosso who enters the area and shoots into the back of the net: 1-2.
The 26th minute sees the first of two happy returns: Iaquinta comes on for Trezeguet. The striker had been missing from action for 4 months. Two minutes later, a Marchionni shot goes high over the bar.
It is the 30th minute when, Manninger saves well on a Jovetic shot. Seconds later there is a free-kick for Juve: Diego's ball is headed by Chiellini but action is stopped for a foul in attack. Poulsen comes on for Sissoko.
On the 32nd minute, a Diego cross is dangerous but there is nobody to push it in. Two minutes later, Manninger saves well on Keirrison. Gilardino hands the ball in the Juve area on the 36th minute.
Chiellini is in pain but there are no more substitutions possible. On the 41st minute, a Gobbi shot goes well wide. Three minutes after, there is a cross into the Juve area but Manninger saves well.
The 4 minutes of stoppage time are all for Juve. On the 46th minute, a beautiful Marchisio attempt is parried by Frey into corner. One minute later, there is a free-kick for Juve: Grosso puts the ball into the area but the viola clear. Finally on the 48th minute, there is another free-kick for Juve for a foul on Diego: ball cleared by the defence.
Juve register an important victory on the difficult field in Florence and bring home an important three points.
Serie A 2009/10 – 27th match day
Florence, Stadio Artemio Franchi
Saturday 6th March, 2010
FIORENTINA-JUVENTUS: 1-2
Goals: Diego (2nd), Marchionni (32nd), Grosso (68th),
FIORENTINA: Frey, Comotto (De Silvestri 79th), Natali, Felipe, Gobbi, Montolivo, Zanetti (Keirrison 71st), Marchionni, Jovetic, Vargas (Bolatti 57th), Gilardino. Coach: Prandelli. Reserves: Avramov, Kroldrup, De Silvestri, Pasqual, Donadel, Bolatti, Keirrison.
JUVENTUS: Manninger, Zebina, Legrottaglie, Chiellini, De Ceglie (Grosso 45th), Marchisio, Felipe Melo, Sissoko (Poulsen 75th), Candreva, Diego, Trezeguet (Iaquinta 71st). Coach: Zaccheroni. Reserves: Pinsoglio, Cannavaro, Grosso, Poulsen, Salihamidzic, Del Piero, Iaquinta
REFEREE: Damato from Barletta.
Yellow Cards: Sissoko (41st), Zebina (56th), Marchisio (85th)
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Fine-tuning in view of Florence
Juventus will hold their last training session before departing for Florence this afternoon. The match against the viola will be played tomorrow at 18:00hrs. It will be a delicate match at the Artemio Franchi and this can be seen from the games played by Prandelli’s men at home where they collected 22 out of the 35 in total.
In Florence, the viola won 7 matches, drew 1 and lost 5. The goals scored at home are similar in number to the ones scored away (17 against 15), while they conceded less goals at home (12 against 19).
Prandelli’s team started its run with 3 consecutive victories: 1-0 against Palermo, 1-0 against Cagliari and 2-0 against Sampdoria. The first mishaps began with the 0-0 against Lazio. Fiorentina did not have any half-measures after: 0-1 against Napoli, 3-1 against Catania, 2-3 against Parma, 2-0 against Atalanta, 2-1 against Bari and 0-1 against Roma. The results show an alternation between good performances and heavy setbacks, which was confirmed in the most recent matches: 2-1 against Livorno after a comeback and 1-2 against Milan with the exact opposite pattern. The hometeam in fact scored the opener thanks to Gilardino and the rossoneri turned the result round in the last minutes thanks to the goals scored by Huntelaar and Pato.
One must say, that notwithstanding certain negative results, Fiorentina rarely gave a bad performance. The matches in which Montolivo and company suffered the opponents’ initiatives were those against Napoli (4 goal opportunities for the viola as opposed to the 7 for the guests) and against Milan ( 4 against 5).
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Goal.com Readers Comment: Should Amauri Be Called Up By Italy For The World Cup?
Amauri is eligible to play for Italy after receiving his passport, but should he go to the World Cup? Here are some vox pop opinions...what's yours?
Goal.com Italia
There are those who are ready to welcome him as “the saviour of the country”, and those, who instead, “don’t see him as an Azzurro”. Amauri’s choice to render himself eligible for a place in the Italy side that will defend the World Cup in South Africa divides the lovers of Italian football.
The responses in relation to his involvement in Italy’s expedition are so varied that there is no consensus. From the many reader comments, we have selected a few hoping to find out what you think…
“Please come Amauri. I am a Juventus fan and I can say that Amauri, if he is in peak physical condition, is devastating. And then we have attackers of quality and Amauri would be perfect. If the team played around him, and guaranteed him a certain amount of crosses per game then he would make a difference.” Marco, 21, student.
“But why are we still speaking about Amauri? I don’t doubt that he is a good player, but he is not the only striker around. We speak about Amauri for Italy, but then we forget that someone like [Mario] Balotelli, who, whenever he touches the ball, knows how to make himself noticed. In my opinion Amauri doesn’t deserve to go to South Africa. It would be like rewarding someone who has done nothing and who will go there after receiving grace [his Italian citizenship]. I would rather call [Marco] Borriello.” Stefano, 42, agent.
“I am against it, like I was against [Mauro] Camoranesi. I may be antique in my views, but the Italy team should be made up of Italians only. The ‘foreigners’ should not be allowed to play for Italy. Amauri is still a foreigner, even if he gets his Italian passport.” Virginio, 62, pensioner.
“If the coach [Marcello] Lippi calls Amauri then he cannot leave [Antonio] Cassano, and Balotelli at home. In any case, Amauri would be a better choice compared to having [Luca] Toni, and [Francesco] Totti.” Paolo, 33, civil servant.
“Amauri for life!!! A complete striker, he can do things on his own and he has plenty of ambition to win something important. Seeing that he is struggling at Juventus, he might well give everything he has with the Italy shirt.” Piero, 47, lorry driver.
“I really do not like this way of making everyone Italian [giving passports], and I will never like it. In this case, it seems, Amauri has chosen Italy because Brazil have made it clear he will have no space in their team.” Davide, 27, agent.
What do you think? Should Amauri play for Italy in South Africa ahead of other players? Is it wrong to have a non-Italian born player in the national team? Give us your opinion in the comments box below.
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Juventus To Offer Bayern Munich Diego In Return For Franck Ribery - Report
The Bianconeri will offer Diego for Ribery, according to reports...
By Salvatore Landolina
Juventus have refined plans for Franck Ribery, and they are set to offer Bayern Munich Diego as part of a swap deal, according to El Mundo Deportivo.
Ribery, who is wanted by Real Madrid, Barcelona, Chelsea and Manchester United, has attracted interest from the Turin giants, and Bayern could be swayed by Diego.
The German side were close to the Brazilian last summer when they were in talks with Werder Bremen. But Juventus came along and took him from under their noses after making a persuasive bid.
However, Bayern are still keen, and they would consider Diego as part of an offer for Ribery. Juve's trump card has now given them an advantage over the competion.
Bayern are also looking at CSKA Moscow star Milan Krasic as an alternative to Ribery if they fail to land Diego.
Reports in Italy on Tuesday claimed Juve president Jean-Claude Blanc was speaking with the German side over Ribery.
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Ranocchia coy over his future
Bari's highly rated young centre-back Andrea Ranocchia is being coy amid interest from Juventus and Inter.
The 21-year-old, who is currently on loan from Genoa, is out with a serious knee injury.
Speaking to Il Corriere del Mezzogiorno, Ranocchia said: “I feel good. I am undergoing treatment at a specialist centre in Genoa.
“The doctors say that I could return for the last two games of the season. I hope that I am able to do it. I would like to say goodbye to the Bari fans who have always supported me. Obviously already having survival in our pocket.”
Asked about his future and that of his teammate Leonardo Bonucci, he said: “For now, we are dealing with simple rumours on the transfer market.
“Instead, the reality is that I am a Genoa player and Leonardo is half a Genoa player. Who says that we can't play together in red and blue?” Ranocchia concluded.
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Juventus News Juve close to Kuranyi
Juventus are said to be very close to wrapping up a deal for Schalke striker Kevin Kuranyi, according to the Italian Press.
The Bianconeri are looking for a target man capable of replacing David Trezeguet who is expected to leave in the summer.
Kuranyi is available on a free transfer in June when his existing contract with Schalke formally expires.
The 28-year-old Germany international who was to born in Brazil has scored 12 goals in 23 appearances this season.
He rejected the opportunity to join Sunderland in the January transfer window and has also attracted interest from Liverpool and Roma.
According to Sky Sport 24, Juventus have already made an official approach. However, Kuranyi has yet to put pen to paper on a pre-contract.
La Gazzetta dello Sport understands he has set his sights on Juventus though, and will not be fielding offers from any other clubs.
Juventus are also interested in Ajax striker Luis Suarez and Benfica winger Angel Di Maria, both of whom would cost almost €20m.
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Goalless draw between Italy and Cameroon
The match between Italy and Cameroon ended in a 0-0 draw in the penultimate test before the World Cup in South Africa. In Montecarlo, against the “Lions” led by Inter striker Eto’o, Lippi fielded two bianconeri in the starting line-up: captain Cannavaro, who was substituted ten minutes from the end of the match, and Giorgio Chiellini who on the 13th minute scored after being launched by Cossu but saw the goal being disallowed for off-side. It was one of the few exciting instances of a match which saw Marchisio come onto the field for Criscito in the second half. Nicola Legrottaglie, the other bianconero called-up by Lippi was not fielded.
Italy’s next match is scheduled for the 5th of June in Geneva where the azzurri will play a friendly against Switzerland.
Cannavaro, Chiellini, Marchisio and Legrottaglie will be back to work under Zaccheroni’s orders tomorrow. The Juventus coach will be able to count on the complete squad.
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Great goal by Marrone launches Under 21
Italy’s Under 21 team got back on track at the right moment and thanks to a goal by Luca Marrone. The azzurrini gave an early birthday present to Pierluigi Casiraghi (he turns 41 tomorrow) with a victory against Hungary.
The match in Rieti ended 2-0 with a goal in each half. The opener was scored by Okaka in the first half while the second by the Juventus midfielder was a left-footed stunner from outside the area, a few minutes after coming on the field. This was Marrone’s first goal for the Under 21 squad, another great satisfaction in an already splendid season.
With these three points, Italy now has 10 points and is second followed by Hungary with 9 but with one game in hand. Wales are still the leaders of the group with 13 and with the same number of matches played as the azzurrini.
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Juventus club, the richest club in Italy, according to Deloitte
Juventus keeps on being the richest club in Italy. This is what Deloitte asserts in its usual report “Deloitte Football Money League”.
With a turnover of 203,2 millions of Euros, Juventus club came before Inter and Milan. The three most important Italian clubs are respectively at 8th, 9th and 10th place in European top list. A list once again dominated by Real Madrid (at the top for the fifth year in a row), who got over 400 millions. After Real, Barcellona, Manchester United, Bayern Monaco, Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool.
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Juventus President Jean-Claude Blanc Speaking With Bayern Munich Over Franck Ribery - Report
Juventus are getting closer to Ribery...
By Salvatore Landolina
Juventus president Jean-Claude Blanc will be using the G14 meeting in Manchester to rub shoulders with Bayern Munich chief Karl-Heinz Rummenigge and open up dialogue for Franck Ribery.
Blanc is in England with the other European powerhouses as they discuss football matters, but his aim will be to get close to Ribery through Rummenigge.
Leggo reports Blanc will present the Germans with an idea of how Juventus wish to proceed for the French ace, and he will attempt to convince them that what he will offer is better than an eventual Real Madrid move.
He faces a tough job though as Real are using Zinedine Zidane as their middle man. But last week's board meeting at Juventus saw the club's summer transfer budget approved. Thus, Juve have the money to spend on Ribery.
Also, Blanc will use Gianluigi Buffon as bait. Previous reports in Germany claimed Bayern were keen on the goalkeeper, and the Old Lady will use him to swing the pendulum in their favour.
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