Sabtu, 29 November 2008

Juve: Gio going nowhere


Juve: Gio going nowhere
Friday 28 November, 2008

Juventus have told admirers of Sebastian Giovinco to forget about landing the youngster on loan in January.

The pint-sized sensation is struggling to get first team football with the Turin giants and a number of clubs are thought to be assessing a New Year move for the starlet.

However, the Bianconeri have today insisted that the Under-21 international will not be swapping jerseys in 2009.

“We have no plans to sell anyone in January,” noted sporting director Alessio Secco. “Giovinco is staying here with us.”

However, reports in Italy on Friday are claiming that a loan move could still take place as Claudio Ranieri has shown a reluctance in using the talent.

West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola knows all about the Juventus youth product after working with him in the Azzurrini set-up and is keen to take him to London.

Serie A middle clubs Palermo and Genoa are also known to be massive admirers of the kid who many believe will become a leading light in the Italian game.

“Sebastian is a jewel of Juventus and I think it is in nobody’s interest to waste his ability,” noted agent Claudio Pasqualin. “We are making sure that won’t happen.

“Juventus say he is untouchable? We hope that this kind of faith is transferred to the fields of play.”

Giovinco rejoined the Turin giants in the summer after spending last season on loan at Empoli. So far he’s played in six Serie A games, but started just twice under Ranieri.

*chn4

Molinaro with a new contract till 2013


from juventus.com :

Molinaro with a new contract till 2013

Cristian Molinaro is certainly one of the Juventus protagonists of the moment. The defender from Salerno is going through a very great fitness period with very positive performances.

Molinaro has an ulterior reason for being satisfied. On Friday, in fact the defender signed a new contract which sees him renewing his stay at Juventus up to 2013. The news was made public by the club itself in a press release.

‹‹I am very happy with the agreement – he declared -, it means that I have won the faith of the club. Being at Juventus has fulfilled so many dreams, such as playing at high levels and in the Champions League››.

Alessio Secco also expressed his satisfaction on behalf of the club: ‹‹we wanted to evaluate the relationship with an important player in which we strongly believe. We are sure that Christian will continue being a fundamental player for the club’s future››.

* congrats Moli, Good Luck!

Buffon: No Man City bid exists


Buffon: No Man City bid exists
Saturday 29 November, 2008

Gianluigi Buffon gives updates on his fitness, Manchester City’s £65m offer, Calciopoli and the Scudetto race.

The Juventus goalkeeper has been sidelined for six weeks after a recurring thigh strain, but resumed training in recent days.

“I tried the first little run and looked like an old man. I will be back for the new year,” he smiled on La 7 television last night.

The interview was wide-ranging and touched on a number of subjects, such as the reported £65m offer to join Manchester City.

“Nobody has offered me anything and I didn’t even take the issue into consideration,” assured the 2006 World Cup winner.

Buffon was asked what his biggest mistake was in his long career and he looked back at an incident that marred his Parma days.

“I put on a shirt to charge up the players with written on it: ‘Boia chi molla’ (death to those who give up). I didn’t know it was a Fascist motto from the war, though.

“I made other mistakes, but am most ashamed of ‘buying’ a diploma, because that showed a lack of respect to those who studied hard for their qualifications.”

However, Buffon did not count the Calciopoli years as among his regrets despite seeing two Scudetti stripped and the club demoted to Serie B.

“I think Luciano Moggi had some things to feel guilty about, but so did quite a few people in different clubs.

“I got the feeling they wanted to damage Juve in particular, then tried the same trick with me and Fabio Cannavaro, too.”

The notoriously jocular goalkeeper was less serious when asked about his predictions for this season, as he burst out laughing when declaring the Scudetto and Champions League would be won by Inter.

*chn4

Ranieri: «Another test against Reggina»


Ranieri: «Another test against Reggina»

Its Saturday night fever for Juventus. After the match last Saturday against Inter, tomorrow Juventus will be playing against Reggina. Even winter arrived early this year with snow falling on Vinovo, covering the sports centre and promising to be one of the protagonists at the Olimpico.

The weather aspect however, does not worry Ranieri and the bianconeri, who just faced the cold during the encounter in St. Petersburg. «Personally I am only worried about Reggina that is playing really well – declared the coach during the press conference – Against Zenit we reacted like a team that did not accept the defeat in Milan and that confirmed a good moment. We want to show this tomorrow too».

With the top spot in the group of the Champions League practically certain, Juventus dive back into the championship. The bianconeri will be wanting to return to the winning streak interrupted with the match against Inter. The opponents, Reggina, on the other hand, managed to change course. Ranieri is well aware of the challenge his team will be facing: «It will be another test. They play good football, keeping the ball low and with rapid forward moves. The team is coming from two victories in a row and last year we lost in Reggio. It will be a difficult match but we want to win with humility and determination, aware of having to be 110% efficient to obtain the maximum».

No news with regards to the squad. Ranieri will have the same players of St. Petersburg, with Camoranesi constantly recovering but still without Zanetti: «We have to see how Cristiano develops one day at a time. He can do everything but he still feels pain when he stretches and so he cannot force himself. Soon we will have Poulsen and Tiago back and then even Buffon and Trezeguet. We don’t need to act on the transfer market»

juventus.com

Sissoko and Legrottaglie: «Three points on Saturday»



Sissoko and Legrottaglie: «Three points on Saturday»

Juventus are back into Serie A mode following the match against Zenit. Saturday will be the turn of Reggina who last season beat the bianconeri in Reggio Calabria in a match full of controversies. Juventus are urging to get back on the winning gtrack not only because of what happened last year as well as due to the importance of the 3 points in question : «The past is past – explained Nicola Legrottaglie – now we are living a different situation, so we must not think of last year but of winning the three points on Saturday, which are fundamental, seeing the number of direct encounters on the match day. For us it is important to win, in any way, and hope that the others fail».

Momo Sissoko last year was punished by means of a decisive penalty on Amoruso at the end of the match. The player from Mali was at the start of his adventure in black and white and since has become a leader on the field : «We want to win this match and will try to do so. Against Inter we played well but we didn’t manage to win, but we must now think of Reggina and of winning on Saturday, to go to Lecce hopingly. I feel well, I must continue like this. I manage to recover after each match without problems».

One of the strong points of this year’s Juventus is the solidity in the defence : «After 7 victories, in which the defence never suffered, we were less effective against Inter, against a great team and a great attack – continued Legrottaglie – On a defence level we are having a great season, but it is the whole team that is doing well, because when you concede few goals it is thanks to the work done by everyone. We must continue like this, because even if we are scoring a bit less then last year, it is still good. Our only interest is winning, even by 1-0. Many goals are not important ».

juventus.com


Report this post

20 players called up for match against Reggina

3 Chiellini
4 Mellberg
8 Amauri
9 Iaquinta
10 Del Piero
11 Nedved
12 Chimenti
13 Manninger
16 Camoranesi
19 Marchisio
20 Giovinco
21 Grygera
22 Sissoko
27 Ekdal
28 Molinaro
29 De Ceglie
32 Marchionni
33 Legrottaglie
36 Castiglia
42 Pinsoglio

juventus.com

Giornata 14 : Juventus vs Reggina (30-11.2008)


Juventus vs Reggina

* Partai kandang ini akan diselenggarakan di Stadio Olimpico Grande Turin pada Sabtu, 29 November 2008 Pukul 20.30 CET

atau

Minggu, 30 November 2008
Pukul 02.30 WIB


* partai wajib menang after minggu lalu Juventus kalah dr iler 0-1, di atas kertas Juventus jauh di unggulkan hanya kejadian saat melawan Catania lalu Pelermo bisa saja terulang jika Juventus tidak dlm permainan terbaiknya, kondisi fisik yg terkuras setelah bertarung di ajang CL juga bisa saja menjadi sebuah handicap

Zenit vs Juventus : 0-0






ZENIT ST. PETERSBURG – JUVENTUS 0-0

ZENIT: Malafeev; Križanac, Lombaerts, Pogrebynak, Anyukov; Širl, Zyryanov, Danny, Denisov, Tymoshchuk; Arshavin (Fayzulin 70th). Reserves: Contofalský; Dong Jin, Dominguez, tekke, Hubocan, Shirokov, Fayzulin. Coach : Advocaat

JUVENTUS: Manninger; Grygera, Mellberg, Chiellini, Molinaro; Camoranesi (Marchionni 79th), Sissoko, Marchisio, Nedved; Del Piero (Giovinco 75th), Iaquinta (Amauri 81st). Reserves: Chimenti, Legrottaglie, De Ceglie, Rossi, Marchionni, Giovinco; Amauri; Coach : Ranieri.

REFEREE : Bo Larsen (Denmark)

Yellow Cards : Lombaerts (8’); Iaquinta (42’); Camoranesi (44’) Tymoshchuk (73’), Sissoko (92’)

Selasa, 25 November 2008

Alex is ready to move on


Alex is ready to move on
Monday 24 November, 2008

Alessandro Del Piero is convinced that Juventus can recover from their Derby d'Italia defeat against Inter.

The Old Lady were beaten 1-0 at San Siro to bring a superb run to an end and leave the Turin side six points behind their old rivals.

Now the Bianconeri must pick themselves up for a trip to Zenit St Petersburg in the Champions League.

“Any result could have happened on Saturday,” Juve skipper Del Piero explained.

“But they were three points that won't prove vital in the outcome of the championship.

“Our objectives haven't changed. We will continue as we were and will be able to repeat the good results that we were getting.”

A magnificent Del Piero free-kick earned the three points when the two sides met in Turin.

“Those kinds of things don't always come off, but luckily it allowed us to get a fundamental win in the home game,” Alex said.

“Obviously I will try and do it again tomorrow, but we are facing good and dangerous opponents.

“Zenit may have struggled in the last part of the season, but they will be tough.”

*chn4

No Russian rest, urges Ranieri


No Russian rest, urges Ranieri
Monday 24 November, 2008


Juventus Coach Claudio Ranieri won't let his men treat tomorrow's Champions League encounter with Zenit St Petersburg as a meaningless match.

The Old Lady have already booked their place in the last 16, but are determined to bounce back after losing the Derby d'Italia to Inter last weekend.

Zenit can still qualify for the next round if they beat Juve in St Petersburg and Real Madrid fail to see off BATE Borisov.

“We know all about the difficulties that await us,” Ranieri assured journalists.

“We have just lost to Inter and fair play to them, but now we need to be positive and to look forward by trying to get back to winning ways.

“I watched Zenit's last game against Spartak Moscow and I saw a very good team in form who will push us hard to try and reach the last 16.

“We will try and adapt to the low temperature and I will have to consider whether to select certain players, such as Mauro Camoranesi.

“I'm hoping that our bad luck with injuries is over and Cristiano Zanetti and Christian Poulsen are nearly back.

“But I don't think I will change the midfield duo for tomorrow's game.”

*chn4

Senin, 24 November 2008

Juve's Legrottaglie: Zenit Will Be Tough, Serie A Still Open


Juve's Legrottaglie: Zenit Will Be Tough, Serie A Still Open

Juventus defender Nicola Legrottaglie is looking forward to the game against Zenit St Petersburg in the Champions League tomorrow evening, but is well aware that it won't be easy...

Juventus are already through to the next phase of the Champions League, so their fixture against Zenit St Petersburg has given Bianconeri coach Claudio Ranieri the chance to rest a few players.

Defender Nicola Legrottaglie will be starting against the UEFA Cup holders. The defender is still annoyed with the weekend's defeat by rivals Inter Milan, but he believes the Old Lady will bounce back in Europe.

"We have a chance to boost our morale against Zenit tomorrow night," Legrottaglie told Sky Sport Italia.

"We have to try and win but we know it will not be easy for us.

"It will be freezing out there and my legs will feel it but once we warm up it should be OK.

"They have an advantage because Zenit are used to the temperatures."

Legro turned his attentions back on Serie A and he believes the blip against the Nerazzurri will not affect their chances for the Scudetto too much.

"The results from Sunday show that we have not lost much," added the stopper.

"Inter are six points ahead of us but the league is still open and balanced.

"This year will not be like the last as they will find it difficult to move away from us.

"We are up there and we will try and make up for the gap against the small teams."

Salvatore Landolina, Goal.com

A Danish referee for the match against Zenit


A Danish referee for the match against Zenit

The match officials for the encounter between Zenit and Juventus will be of Danish nationality. The match valid for Group H of the Champions League will be played on Tuesday at 18:30CET. The referee for the match will be the well-experienced Claus Bo Larsen who already refereed Juventus in the past.

The other time Bo Larsen controlled a Juventus match has quite a few things in common with the one against Zenit. The match was in fact that away to Dinamo Kievo in 2002,, valid for the last day of the group stage. Even back then Juventus had already qualified for the next stage but still managed to win by 2-1 (goals by Salas and Zalayeta),, subsequently eliminating the Ukrainian side and permitting Newcastle to qualify. The team coached by Lippi that year reached the final in Mancherster.

Even Zenit have good memories of Bo Larsen since the Danish referee controlled the Supercup match which the Russians won against European Champions, Man United.
The referee will be assisted by Anders Norrestand and Henrik Sonderby, who were also present at the Supercup final. The fourth official will be Thomas Vejlgaard.

*juventus.com

Zenit vs Juventus


Zenit vs Juventus

* Partai tandang ini akan dilaksanakan di stadion Petrovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg, Rusia pada hari Selasa, 25 November 2008 Pukul 18.30 Central Europe Time

atau

Rabu, 26 November 2008


Del Piero, Amauri And Nedved Rested For Juventus Champions League Clash

The Tinkerman is at it again, after Juve's loss to Inter this weekend and with CL knockout status already guaranteed...

Juventus have already qualified for the Champions League knockout stages - and in style. The Bianconeri did the double over nine-time winners Real Madrid, capped by a quite unbelievable 2-0 result in the Spanish capital a fortnight ago.

They now travel to Russia to face Zenit St Petersburg, who they fortunately edged in their opening game, and the aim is to defend their first place in Group H.

However, a second string Juve side may be fielded for the early kick off, 18:30 (CET).

Tuttosport claims Alessandro Del Piero and Amauri will be rested with Vincenzo Iaquinta and Sebastian Giovinco being dragged in to form the attacking partnership up front.

Mauro Camoranesi, who was a substitute against Inter on Saturday, should get the nod tomorrow night.

Pavel Nedved will also be rested with Paolo De Ceglie starting on the left.

Gianluigi Buffon, David Trezeguet, Jonathan Zebina, Dario Knezevic, Christian Poulsen, Hasan Salihamidzic and Albin Ekdal will all stay behind.

Cristiano Zanetti is back and ready to return following injury but it's highly unlikely Ranieri will use him in a game in which there is nothing to play for.

It's a great chance for the second choice players to stake their claim.

Juve were very poor against Inter on the weekend and certain players could find it hard to get back into the team if those starting on Tuesday night take their chance.

Salvatore Landolina, Goal.com

Inter Were Better, Admits Ranieri

Inter Were Better, Admits Ranieri

Juventus coach Claudio Ranieri admits Inter had the better chances in tonight's Derby d'Italia, which was won 1-0 by to the Nerazzurri.

Following tonight's 1-0 defeat to Inter, Juventus coach Claudio Ranieri admitted his side did not deserve to win as they did not express their full potential.

"This was not Juventus," he moaned. "Of course Inter deserve a lot of credit for pressing us all over the pitch, but we made mistakes and gave the ball away too easily.

"Inter could have done better on a number of counterattacks, but we conceded the only goal on the weakest chance of all. I think [Zlatan] Ibrahimovic wanted to shoot, not pass the ball to [match-winner Sulley] Muntari.

"I must admit that Inter played better and deserved the victory. We were hoping to get back on top of the table, but it wasn't to be.

"We played below our possibilities tonight and if we had taken home a point, which would certainly have been possible, Inter would've had more to complain about."

Just a couple of minutes in, Portuguese midfielder Tiago was forced to limp off with an injury, and was replaced by Claudio Marchisio.

"Tiago suffered this sprain, we'll keep an eye on the situation. Recently he had been doing very well, setting the tempo in midfield like Cristiano Zanetti did last year," Ranieri commented on that.

"It's hard to say what we could have done with more players available, because we have a very clear and well defined system of play, but we could not execute things well today."

On the difference between Serie A and the Champions League, in which Juve are already qualified to the last 16 stage, he said: "The Champions League is always a bit of a lotter, while Serie A requires consistency.

"We wanted to beat Inter tonight to stay near the top, but we didn't do it. Our season continues. The objective is to improve on last year's third place finish."

Tonight's defeat saw Juve drop six points behind Inter, who guaranteed their permanence on top of the table with these three points.

Danilo Pochini

Cobolli Gigli Tells Juventus Not To Lose Heart

Cobolli Gigli Tells Juventus Not To Lose Heart

Juventus president Giovanni Cobolli Gigli has commented on this weekend's loss to Inter, congratulating his players on seven wins in a row.

Juventus lost by a goal to nil at the San Siro against current champions Internazionale in the derby D’Italia on Saturday night.

After a fiery first half at the San Siro it took a 72nd-minute goal from Sulley Muntari to decide the game in the home side's favour.

Jose Mourinho prevailed in the battle of two former Chelsea coaches against Claudio Ranieri and saw his side cement their place on top of the Serie A table.

The Bianconeri were unable to make their mark on the match as their seven-game winning run was ended in Milan. Inter are now six points clear of Juve.

The president said, "Before the game I said that we would win 2-1, I promise that from now on I will not dream about the games, or at least I will keep it to myself."

Cobolli Gigli added, "In the first half Inter played better than us, but in the second half we were doing better and then we conceded the goal in the strangest action. Anyway let us not lose heart.

"Our team has registered seven wins in a row and they deserve to be applauded."

Juventus take on Russian champions Zenit St Petersburg tomorrow night in the Champions League, and will need to pick themselves up after their weekend Serie A loss.

Peter Pedroncelli

Vialli: Gigi should consider City

Vialli: Gigi should consider City
Monday 24 November, 2008

Former Juventus hero Gianluca Vialli has advised Gigi Buffon to consider a move to Manchester City, but concedes he would be hard to replace.

Last week, there were reports that City's wealthy owners were preparing a £65m move for Old Lady No 1 Buffon.

Despite the Bianconeri's insistence Buffon is not for sale, the rumours continue to circulate.

“Buffon is 5/1 to join Manchester City? I'm not surprised by those odds,” Vialli told Sky Sport Italia.

“The Arab owners of the club have plenty of money and I think they want to build a very strong team.

“It could be an intelligent move and if I were Buffon I would certainly consider the deal because a £13m contract is a lot of money.

“Gigi is a fundamental player and I think Juve would find it very hard to replace him if he left because there is no player at his level available in the market,” Vialli concluded.

*chn4

Iaquinta And Giovinco Rue Juventus Defeat At Inter


Iaquinta And Giovinco Rue Juventus Defeat At Inter

The Bianconeri stikers have voiced their disappointment at the crushing reverse in Saturday’s Derby d’Italia, but hope to get back on track in the Champions League.

Bitter rivals met on Saturday night and Juventus were outclassed and outmuscled by José Mourinho’s Inter juggernaut throughout the encounter and were fortunate enough to ship just a single goal.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic squandered at least two glorious chances when one-on-one with goalkeeper Alex Manninger, but one wayward shot eventually turned into an assist for Sulley Muntari to tap into an empty net.

“We are obviously disappointed at this loss to Inter,” Iaquinta is quoted as saying in Calciomercatonews.com

“But we must give them credit, as they had far more shots on goal. Nonetheless, our objectives for the title are unchanged.

“Now we turn our attentions to the Champions League where we want to confirm our first place. However, it won’t be an easy job in Russia, because they will try to win and then face Real Madrid in a make or break tie.”

Claudio Ranieri’s men will pay visit to Zenit St Petersburg tomorrow night and the Atomic Ant is also hopeful the Old Lady can soon redeem themselves.

“We are undoubtedly unhappy at the San Siro defeat,” he noted, “but we now have this European clash to get our minds off it and we go there to claim the full points.”

“As for me, I clearly hope to play, like the rest of my teammates, but I patiently wait for my chance to shine, as I knew what it would be like coming back to Turin.”

Vince Masiello, Goal.com

Legrottaglie looks on bright side


Legrottaglie looks on bright side
Sunday 23 November, 2008

Nicola Legrottaglie can't quite believe the defensive slip-up that cost Juventus the game, but assures all is not lost.

The Bianconeri fell 1-0 to Inter last night when Sulley Ali Muntari redirected a wayward Zlatan Ibrahimovic effort, almost shinning it into the net by accident.

“It's a shame, as we didn't concede on chances when Inter really put us under pressure and yet went down to a goal that not even Muntari knows how he scored,” joked Legrottaglie.

Now Juve are six points adrift of the leaders and will need quite a comeback to challenge for the Scudetto.

“It is disappointing to lose, but it remains a football match against solid opponents,” added the centre-back.

“It seems a bit laughable for someone to suggest we are in crisis after seven straight wins and one slip-up!”

Claudio Ranieri's men had won their last seven competitive games on the trot, including back-to-back Champions League triumphs over Real Madrid.

*chn4

Tiago out for a month



Tiago out for a month
Sunday 23 November, 2008

There's more bad news for Juventus, as Tiago Mendes will be out for a month after spraining his left knee.

The midfielder collapsed just 90 seconds into last night's 1-0 defeat to Inter and was carried off the field in evident pain.

Today tests confirmed there was no ligament damage, but he has sprained his left knee and will require between 30 and 40 days on the sidelines.

The news came from the official Juventus website, a terrible blow for the player who had finally found his form after a disastrous debut season in Serie A.

It means the Bianconeri are without any creative central midfielders, as Christian Poulsen and Cristiano Zanetti are also injured.

The treatment table is crammed with David Trezeguet, Gianluigi Buffon, Jonathan Zebina, Hasan Salihamidzic and Dario Knezevic.

*chn4

Inter vs Juventus : 1-0






hayah kalah euy dgn gol yg rada nyeleneh, sialan huaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa

Inter 1 - 0 Juventus
Muntari 73 (I)

Inter: Julio Cesar; Maicon, Materazzi, Samuel, Maxwell; Muntari (Vieira 89), Cambiasso, Stankovic (Burdisso 85), Zanetti; Ibrahimovic, Adriano (Cruz 82)

Juventus: Manninger; Grygera, Legrottaglie, Chiellini, Molinaro; Marchionni (Camoranesi 70), Sissoko, Tiago (Marchisio 3), Nedved; Amauri (Iaquinta 76), Del Piero

Ref: Rizzoli

Sabtu, 22 November 2008

Ranieri : ‹‹Proud to be Juventus››


Ranieri : ‹‹Proud to be Juventus››

The presentation of the new stadium is an important moment for the future but also for the present of Juventus. For Ranieri and his men watching the projects of the club taking shape was an injection of suplementary motivation in view of the match against Inter. ‹‹I think that one of the great things about this club is the capability of making you fell a part of the project whatever it may be. You feel as though even the least sand grain you may bring is important. It is very positive to stimulate the sense of belonging and the presentation of the new stadium made us feel proud of being Juventus››.

The pride will be on the field at the San Siro, in a match different in importance for victory of the scudetto from last year, even if for Ranieri the approach is always the same: ‹‹The matches against Inter stimulate the players and the whole environment. Trying to find a difference with respect to last year is difficult. Supporters stop us and ask for the maximum. There are three points in question and we will do everything to obtain them››.

Juventus approach the match strong of seven consecutive victories: ‹‹When you play these matches you have to detach them from the championship contest, just like when we were going through the bad patch and we played against real, we didn’t bandage our heads before. We knew it could be the match to turn things round and so it was. We must confront this match in the same manner.››

Mourinho’s Inter is at the top of the table, however according to pundits the team must still get used to the new coach: ‹‹Just like it was important for me last year to get to know all the players, so it is for Mourinho now. Inter will surely grow with time. Even now in comparison to last year they have changed from certain aspects: Ibrahimovic was more static while now he moves along the whole attacking line. They changed with regards to playing without ball possession, with only Ibrahimovic ahead of the ball line, it changed with regards to attention and specific moves. Obviously they are still getting used to him, therefore it is only normal that there is less fluency with respect to last year. Mourinho has a Portuguese philosophy but he has taken a lot from Italian football. It is a compliment, just like Ferguson had complimented us when saying that he changed Manchester after watching Italian football›.›

Ranieri did not reveal the starting formation to be fielded against Inter: ‹‹I want to know how Tiago is, the sensations felt, how the trip went...An d then, Camoranesi could be part of the match, he has just recovered from an injury and I want to talk to him first. We must think of expressing our play, then it depends on the night. If it is the right one we will manage to play fluently, with the moves that the boys know by heart. The important thing is that they express themselves as they know best. An adjective to describe this Juve? We are charged and aware››.

*juventus.com

Giovinco: First Madrid, now Inter!


Giovinco: First Madrid, now Inter!
Saturday 22 November, 2008

Sebastian Giovinco is confident Juventus can do to Inter what they achieved away to Real Madrid. “We’ll win 2-0!”

The youngster is likely to watch tonight’s Scudetto grand slam from the sidelines, as Pavel Nedved and Alessandro Del Piero are both on exceptional form.

“We will win 2-0. I am counting on Del Piero’s free kicks, as he is a true master of set pieces,” Giovinco told Radio Kiss Kiss.

The Bianconeri have already achieved a shock 2-0 away victory in the Champions League against Real Madrid and hope to replicate that result at San Siro this evening.

“The wait for the game is always fantastic, as we are talking about a classic encounter of the sport.

“Juventus are coming off a splendid run of form and we want to extend that positive streak. Everyone would love to play this game, of course.

“As soon as I get my chance, I will try to take full advantage of it, because I care so much about the Juve jersey.”

Under-21 teammate Giuseppe Rossi has been promoted to the senior squad, so when does Giovinco expect to follow?

“I don’t think I will be a part of the Nazionale, at least for the next year. Marcello Lippi is preparing his squad for the World Cup and we’ll see what happens.

“I have faith Italy will do well in the European Under-21 Championship, that is my objective in an Azzurri shirt.”

*chn4

Ranieri Confirms Buffon Stay

Ranieri Confirms Buffon Stay

The Juventus boss has confirmed that his number one goal keeper Gianluigi Buffon is staying in Turin despite the interest of Manchester City.

Gigi Buffon has been on the radar of a countless number of clubs over the course of his eight year stint in Turin, and rightfully so, as he is undoubtedly one of the greatest goal keepers of all time.

The latest club to express their interest in the Italian international is Manchester City, who are reportedly set to make an offer of around €75 million, in an attempt to lure the 30-year-old to Eastlands.

According to Buffon’s boss Claudio Ranieri however, there is no chance of this transfer taking place, as Buffon is more than happy with life at Juve.

“Buffon will remain at Juventus, and I can assure you that he is happy to stay here with us,” Ranieri said.

“He wants to achieve more with the club, and he is only 30, so he still has plenty of time to do so,” he added.

Over the past few days, the sporting director of Juventus, Jean Claude Blanc, has also declared that Buffon will remain in Italy, by claiming that, “there has been no offer made by City for Buffon.

He also went on to discuss how the keeper is a priceless member of the Bianconeri, and that there is no way possible he will leave the club.

These comments will most likely not deter the big spending City however, as they continue in their quest to formulate a world class squad.

Adrian Del Monte

Juve: Buffon? Priceless

Juve: Buffon? Priceless
Friday 21 November, 2008

Juventus general manager Jean-Claude Blanc put the final word on Manchester City’s £65m bid. “Gianluigi Buffon is not for sale at any price.”

The goalkeeper had been linked with the Eastlands club already and the rumours re-emerged this week of an increased offer.

Buffon himself admitted, “I would be the first to tell the club to sell me if a really big offer was tabled, as they can rebuild the squad with that money.”

However, general manager Blanc left no room for negotiation in his message on the official Juventus website.

“Gigi is not for sale at any price. There has never been contact between the two clubs and there is no offer from Manchester City for our goalkeeper.

“There is no truth behind this rumour. I can reassure fans that we will continue to go ahead with Gigi for many years to come and that he will play in the new Bianconeri stadium in 2011-12.

“I am surprised that these stories always emerge just before a big game, but in football these things do happen.”

The reference was aimed at Saturday’s Scudetto showdown with Inter, suggesting attempts from some sections of the media to destabilise Juve and its supporters.

“It is important to look to this match with the same spirit we looked to the future yesterday [when presenting the plans for the new stadium] and take this positive energy into the challenge with Inter,” continued Blanc.

“I think the players already had their minds on Inter, but taking part in that presentation made them feel part of a fantastic history that is Juventus.

“Naturally I hope that also reaffirmed their knowledge they are part of a club that not only had a great history, but also a wonderful future.”

*chn4

Player Call vs iler

3 Chiellini
4 Mellberg
8 Amauri
9 Iaquinta
10 Del Piero
11 Nedved
12 Chimenti
13 Manninger
16 Camoranesi
19 Marchisio
20 Giovinco
21 Grygera
22 Sissoko
27 Ekdal
28 Molinaro
29 De Ceglie
30 Tiago
31 Nocchi
32 Marchionni
33 Legrottaglie

Jumat, 21 November 2008

Happy B'day Vinny


Iaquinta’s birthday : 29 today

A world champion with the humility and eagerness for victory of a newbie. He is a player who gives all, who fights for every ball as if it were the decisive one. It is also for this reason that he is loved so much : because Vincenzo Iaquinta is generous, one who never gives up. Yesterday he was complimented by the supporters during Filo Diretto on Juventus Channel and today he will receive the best wishes from all the bianconeri community : Vincenzo is 29 years old and there is no need for a vivid imagination to guess what would be the ideal birthday present. Tomorrow is the day of Inter-Juventus.

*juventus.com

buon compleanno Vinny

referee Nicola Rizzoli


Rizzoli given Inter-Juventus Friday 21 November, 2008


Respected Bologna-born referee Nicola Rizzoli will be in charge of his first Derby d'Italia tomorrow.

Italy's two best-supported sides are preparing to face off at San Siro in an epic encounter.

The pressure on the man in the middle will be intense, but Rizzoli has impeccable credentials.

A Derby d'Italia virgin, the 37-year-old was in charge of Inter's 4-0 thrashing of Roma and Juventus' stalemate with Sampdoria.

So far this season, Rizzoli has been in charge of six Serie A games, showing 18 yellow cards and two reds.

Channel 4

Giornata 13 : Inter vs Juventus (23.11.2008)


Inter vs Juventus

* sebuah partai klasik di pelataran sepakbola Italia...pertemuan kedua tim ini selalu mempertunjukkan permainan yg ketat dan bergengsi, ini salah satu partai besar di sana...gengsi, reputasi dan lain2 dipertaruhkan di sini...apalg dgn adanya kasus Calciopoli yg membuat Juve degradasi dan iler mendapatkan kado scudetto, akan semakin membuat partai ini lbh dr biasanya,

iler di untungkan krn bermain di meazza, hanya Juventus selalu bermain dgn hati jika melawan iler..."kemarahan" akan terlihat di sini, spt musim lalu dimana Juventus mampu mempermalukan iler di meazza,

harapan gw kemarahan itu akan muncul lagi besok malam...

Del Piero: "Once again Juve has proven to be the number 1"


Del Piero: "Once again Juve has proven to be the number 1"

Juventus captain Alex Del Piero kept his cool but still found it difficult to hide his emotion as he commented on the new stadium which Juventus launched today in a ceremony at the Giovanni Agnelli Auditorium in Turin’s Lingotto.

‹‹I feel emotional often. I felt emotional during the last few matches. I am feeling emotional right now before a project by which Juventus has once again proven to be the number one. ›› said the Juventus captain.

The new stadium is to be nothing but a state of the art project and Juventus the first to undertake such a huge initiative in Italy. ‹‹The project of the new stadium is unique, brave and therefore a reason to be proud for me and for all those like me who experienced what it means to play for Juventus.››

Juventus’ new home will be special not only for the supporters but also for the players who have never had the opportunity to feel so close to the fans unless playing away from home: ‹‹No more shall we envy the stadiums like those in Milan or Manchester. We will feel the supporters close to us and this will be really nice. Besides it is something to be proud of to know that the fans will not only be able to live the reality of Juventus’ home the day of the match but also during the rest of the week.››

Football is a passion and the skipper ended his comments by stating : ‹‹Everything was planned with a great passion to continue a tradition which is part and parcel with the history of Juventus of which the Agnelli family are the main pillar.››

*juventus.com

Blanc: ‹‹A stadium as a result of team work››


Blanc: ‹‹A stadium as a result of team work››

It is a historical day for all of Juventus. As from today, all the world has come to know of the new stadium that will become the home of the bianconeri as from 2011. Surely something to boast of for the history of the club and for all those who contributed in achieving it. First on the list is Jean-Claude Blanc. After 2 and a half years in his position at the club, the general manager can be proud when presenting the project to those present at the Giovanni Agnelli auditorium. Below are his words.

Great team work. ‹‹They have been important and difficult years. If we have arrived here today it is because during the whole time we worked as a team, because we have always had faith in Juventus, in its people in the strength of its history.››

So many acknowledgements. ‹‹Here are the protagonists of one of the greatest re-births in the history of sports and the actors in what has been a very fast company transformation which is still a work in progress. For this reason I want to thank all those who helped us achieve this result thanks to their work.
First of all our supporters, 14 million Italians who voiced loudly their passion; the administrators, the major share-holders, particularly John Elkann, who believed in our project; the share-holders, who answered enthusiatically to last year’s increase in capital; most of all the players, who shared our way of being and our objectives, led by captain Alessandro Del Piero; the technical staff, who accepted a new challenge; and all the club’s staff: those persons of whom nothing is ever said, but without whom Juventus would not be what it is. Without the work of all these people we wouldn’t have been able to present the new Juventus stadium.››

In union with the city of Turin. ‹‹During these years we have always worked with the city of Turin to define a project which is to be more then just a new stadium. A project that will contribute to revive a part of the city: the new Juventus stadium had to be part of the great number of initiatives that have changed the face of Turin in the last 10 years and so it will be. The cooperation with the city has always been characterised in the last two years by a spirit of partnership which was real and concrete. Thanks goes to the mayor Sergio Chiamparino and also to the councilor responsible for urban affairs Mario Viano and the councilor responsible for sport Renato Montabone who interpreted our report with great openess always seeking to find the points of contact within a logical collaboration. To these men, to the district council and all the local council we express our gratitude for having listened to and understood our needs and for having supported us, allowing us to reach today’s appointment in the least time possible and to begin construction works within a few months. My thanks also go to the city’s administration and to all the bodies of public administration as well as local institutions who are working in order to ensure that the works on the stadium are completed within the forecasted time. ››

Juventus’ new home. ‹‹The new stadium is the qualifying element in the reconstruction of one of the greatest clubs in the world, which intends to interpret the role of opener in Italy by proposing an innovative model: developing competitive football at top European level which is at the same time sustainable. An innovative choice which we believe in, and which permits us to build the future on strong foundations. Juventus always want to be at the top of European football, but also to affirm a model of solid management capable of presenting guarantees for the future. The new stadium is a fundamental asset which we shall finance without reducing the capability of investing in the team which must always be competitive and capable of winning new trophies. In order to do this we found a fundamental partner : a great company such as Sportfive which immediately believed in the strength and in our project, providing economic guarantees through a very innovative and long agreement. Obviously these financial aspects are very important, however for all of us at Juventus and for me as general manager but most of all as a Juventus supporter the most important fact is that finally Juventus shall have its home.››

*juventus.com

The new Juventus stadium is born






The new Juventus stadium is born

Thursday 20th November 2008 is a date which will become a milestone in Juventus history. By means of a presentation held at the Gianni Agnelli Auditorium at the Lingotto, the club launched the project for the new stadium which is to be constructed instead of the Delle Alpi and which shall become the new home of the bianconeri as from the 2011/2012 season.

The stadium will be entirely dedicated to football to allow the best conditions possible prior to the matches. Spectacle will be a main attraction thanks to the great visibility from all 40,200 places and top-notch safety and security. The building will be open seven days a week thanks to a commercial area.

The new stadium is born thanks to the work of a great team. Architects Hernando Suarez (Studio Shesa) and Gino Zavanella (Studio Gau) designed the stadium; engineers Francesco Ossola and Massimo Majowiecki were responsible for the structural planning, operations planning and directing the structural works.

The team also consists of architect Antonio De la Pierre (project coordination), engineer Marco Lazzerini (mechanical installations), engineer Renzo Zorzi (electrical installations), architects Eloy and Stefano Suarez (architectural planning). Project management was conducted by Al Group of Turin, under the responsibility of its president, engineer Paolo Erbetta.

A fundamental contribution was made available by two great Italian design firms : Giugiaro Design and Pininfarina Extra. Juventus in fact turned to Fabrizio Giugiaro and Paolo Pininfarina to add a stylish design to the project as a witness to Turin’s excellence in the sector.

Architect Alberto Rolla (Studio Rolla) took care of the commercial area and the urban sector.

The stadium project had been officially approved by the Juventus executive committee (CDA) on the 18th of March for a total investment of approximately 105 million Euros. Expenses of such an extent will be relying on three pillars, said Juventus general director Jean-Claude Blanc during the last share-holders meeting : the agreement with Sportfive, the commercial side and the loan with regards to which a dialogue was opened with the entity responsible for sporting credits.

*juventus.com

Kamis, 20 November 2008

Juventus Reveal New Stadium Plans

Juventus Reveal New Stadium Plans

Juventus will unveil the plans for their new stadium this evening in Turin, and it promises to be a special occasion...

The Bianconeri will invest around €100 million in order to have a stadium which will compete with the best around Europe.

The facility will be ultra-modern, secure and open seven days a week with a state of the art shopping complex; the new venue will be built on the site where the old Stadio Delle Alpi is still standing.

Delle Alpi, which was built for the 1990 World Cup, will be demolished and Juve's new arena will be built. Work will begin in spring 2009 and everything will be ready two years later for the beginning of the 2011/12 season.

Plans will be presented at 1800CET at the Gianni Agnelli Auditorium in Turin and the pitch will be just 8.5 metres away from the stands, which is a far cry from their old venue.

Delle Alpi became infamous for its poor views of the action as the stands and pitch were seperated by a useless running track. 500 guests have been invited to the event and Italian FA chief Giancarlo Abete will be present as will Lega Calcio president Antonio Matarrese.

Juve's squad will also attend to enjoy an exclusive preview of their new home. The stadium will hold 40,700 fans and there will be 120 executive boxes. A shopping area as well as parking for 5,300 vehicles.

A Juventus museum is also planned like the one Real Madrid have at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Naming rights have been snapped up by sports marketing company Sportfive and they will be responsible for coming up with a title.

Juve will continue to play at the Olimpico grande while construction work takes place.

Salvatore Landolina

Juve ready to buy Bastian

Juve ready to buy Bastian

Reports suggest that Juventus' directors have given the green light for an assault on Bayern Munich midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger.

The Old Lady are still looking for an heir to Czech legend Pavel Nedved, who will hang his boots up at the end of the season.

Despite links with a number of players, including Werder Bremen's Diego and Schalke star Ivan Rakitic, Juve seem to have found their man in Schweinsteiger.

The 24-year-old German international's contract at the Allianz Arena expires this summer and he has resisted all attempts to persuade him to extend his deal.

Schweinsteiger has admitted that he would love the chance to play for the Bianconeri and they will be free to negotiate with him from January.

According to Tuttosport, sporting director Alessio Secco has been given the go-ahead to propose a five-year deal worth around £3.5m per season.

While Juve would have to wait until the summer to complete a free transfer, there are suggestions that they may agree a deal with Bayern for a switch in January.

Such an agreement would allow the Germans to receive a fee for Schweinsteiger and would prevent the Old Lady having to wait for his services.

*chan4

Nedved's Champions League Ambition


Nedved's Champions League Ambition

Juventus veteran midfielder Pavel Nedved has commented on his hopes for the Bianconeri in the Champions League.

Juventus returned to the heights of the UEFA Champions League this season, and they have done incredibly well since rejoining the European elite, currently topping their group ahead of Real Madrid and UEFA Super Cup holders Zenit Saint Petersburg. Juve's last Champions League outing saw the Bianconeri beat the Merengues 2-0 in Madrid.

Alessandro Del Piero scored two fantastic goals to give Juventus the win away at the Santiago Bernabeu to put the Turin giants through to the Champions League knockout stage.

The positive run so far has excited one of the main protagonists of Juventus' season in Czech midfield star Pavel Nedved, and the former Lazio hero is keen for Champions League glory.

Nedved gave his opinion of the competition, saying: “The most important match will be in May and I hope to play. I am sure we can do well in the Champions League and I would be very happy about this, but we must be careful because it is a very difficult competition in which you cannot afford to make any mistakes.”

*goal.com

Trezeguet Returns For Juventus


Trezeguet Returns For Juventus

Juventus can finally breathe a sigh of relief regarding their injury woes, as David Trezeguet has been given the all-clear to return to training on Monday...

The Frenchman has been out since damaging knee ligaments during the 1-0 win over Zenit St Petersburg in the Champions League back in September.

He had to undergo a double knee operation to fix the problem and he has been going through intensive physiotherapy.

Trezeguet has been recovering in Florence but his time there is about to run out as he will return to full training on Monday, much to the delight of Juventus fans.

Trezegol has been running around lightly, and he is likely to continue with the light exercises when he returns to the club's Vinovo training centre next week.

It is great news for the Bianconeri. Initially, reports suggested he would be out until February.

However, his recovery seems to be progressing well and the Old Lady will be hoping to he is back on the pitch as soon as possible.

Salvatore Landolina

* welcome back Trez

Amauri To Show Off New Nike Boots


Amauri To Show Off New Nike Boots

Juventus striker Amauri will be trying out a new pair of Nike football boots for the crunch match with Inter on Saturday evening...

On Saturday the Derby D'Italy takes place at the San Siro, where Juventus' Brazilian striker Amauri will be hoping to leave his mark against current Serie A leaders Inter.

The former Palermo player, who dawned the pink jersey for the Sicilian club, will now be wearing a pair of pink football boots on Saturday against the Nerazzurri.

After trying out Nike's new and extremely bright pink football boots in practice at Vinovo on Wedesnday, the player has decided to use them in an official match, according to Calciomercato.

Meanwhile, the Brazilian striker is still waiting for his Italian passport, but is expecting everything to be sorted out shortly. It is expected that once his passport arrives he will be playing for the Italian national side, as he has been snubbed by Brazil coach Dunga thus far.

Amauri is expected to start the match at the San Siro alongside Alessandro Del Piero in attack. The Bianconeri are currently three points behind Inter, so a victory in Milan would put them level on 27 points.

Adam Scime

Poulsen sidelined for San Siro


Poulsen sidelined for San Siro
Wednesday 19 November, 2008

Danish midfielder Christian Poulsen is set to miss out on Juventus' trip to Inter after picking up an injury in training.

Claudio Ranieri had a depleted squad at his disposal this morning due to international commitments, but Poulsen was amongst those first-team players present.

It was to be a fateful session for the ex-Sevilla star, who limped out of a practise game against the Bianconeri's youth team after just 20 minutes.

It has been confirmed that Poulsen strained a muscle in his right thigh and he is almost certain to miss arguably the biggest game of the season so far.

The news means that Portuguese midfielder Tiago Mendes is more likely to start on Saturday just hours after he returns from playing for his nation against Brazil.

*chn4

Momo uses English experience


Momo uses English experience
Wednesday 19 November, 2008

Momo Sissoko has compared Saturday's Inter-Juventus epic to playing for Liverpool against Manchester United.

While a number of Juve's stars are away on international duty, Sissoko has been training at Vinovo ahead of the weekend's big match.

The ex-Liverpool man is yet to score for his new employers, but he is settling in and is relishing the prospect of playing in Italian football's most hotly anticipated fixture.

“It's always nice to have the support of the fans,” Sissoko told Juventus' website.

“Some of them have even asked me to make sure we beat Inter and told me to score.

“I am more excited about this game than last year because we are right up there challenging this season and it will be a special derby.

“I played for Liverpool against Manchester United and that game had a different level of importance compared to the battle against Everton.

“It's the same thing in Italy and I am more excited about playing Inter than Torino.

“We are going into the game with a positive attitude and everyone is fired up. I think we want this more and that will make a difference.”

*chn4

Molinaro positive before derby


Molinaro positive before derby
Wednesday 19 November, 2008

Juventus stopper Cristian Molinaro declares that the Old Lady are “charged and positive” ahead of Saturday's D-day clash with Inter.

The Bianconeri are just three points behind their bitter rivals at the top of the Serie A table and are on confident form.

“We are eagerly awaiting the game with positive tension,” Molinaro enthused.

“The squad is charged and we are waiting for the internationals to come back so we can prepare for the match properly.

“It has always been a prestigious clash, but this year the two teams are locked together at the top so it's worth even more.

“Inter and Juve are both proving that they know how to play at the highest level because all the players know how to make the difference in Serie A.

“We want to do as well in this fixture as we did last year and our great champions can be decisive.”

*chn4

Rabu, 19 November 2008

Sissoko :«The derby against Inter is special»


Sissoko :«The derby against Inter is special»

Its a particularly charged-up Momo Sissoko who is about to thread the field at the San Siro in the match against Inter. The midfielder was invited by the Juventus Club Doc Valsessera for an event on Tuesday together with Cristian Molinaro :«Feeling the people’s affection is nice, one can feel the love of the supporters and this makes me proud. I had already experienced it in Spain, not in England though. Everybody asked me to score against Inter and bring home the three points. I wish so, it would be great».

Momo, who has adapted perfectly to the Italian championship is looking forward in a particular manner to Saturday’s match: «This year I feel it even more because we’re there, close to the top and I am living it as a special kind of derby.. I played for Liverpool and the match against Manchester was of a different kind of importance when compared to the derby against Everton. Its the same here: I am more charged for the match against Inter rather then the one against Torino».

Momo is not the only player, however to give a special meaning to Saturday’s match. The whole team is charged-up and this is confirmed by Cristian Molinaro: «We are living the days before the match with a positive tension. The team is charged-up and now we are awaiting the return of the internationals to prepare the match in the best of manners. It has always been a prestigious encounter, but this year the teams are equal and so we are even more determined».

Ibrahimovic vs Del Piero, is it a match in a match? «The teams are showing their ability to play at high levels thanks to all the players, but it is also evident that they are making the difference. Our objective is to do well like last year and hence permit our champions to be decisive».

*juventus.com

Nedved: We Are Not Scudetto Favourites But We'll Fight


Nedved: We Are Not Scudetto Favourites But We'll Fight

Juventus veteran Pavel Nedved doesn't believe his side are amongst the favourites for the Scudetto but he admits they will fight for it...

The Bianconeri are three points behind league leaders Inter and the two teams rumble in Saturday night's showdown Derby D'Italia.

Juve's recent resurgence has seen them become Scudetto challengers but Nedved doesn't share this belief as he looks ahead to the game.

"I don't think Juve are the favourties to win the Scudetto but we can give teams a run until the end," Nedved told Tuttosport.

"If we win on Saturday then it will be a very important victory but in the end what counts is winning in May.

"It's a tough game and everyone wants to play in it and I am really happy it comes at this moment because we are in good form.

"For me scoring is not important but helping the win team is. We are going to Milan without having to prove anything.

"It's just a game worth three points like the rest of them."

Nedved had some words on Inter and, in particular, former Juve hitman Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

"I know Ibra very well and he has been making the differecne for years," added the midfielder.

"He is no longer with us but I am sure he will win important personal trophies in future.

"Camoranesi? He is a fundamental player for us and we have missed him on the pitch."

The Old Lady won this fixture 2-1 last season. The last time Inter beat Juve at San Siro was in 2004 when they won 3-2.

Salvatore Landolina

Zebina to go under the knife


Zebina to go under the knife
Tuesday 18 November, 2008

Juventus defender Jonathan Zebina will have surgery on an inflamed tendon on Thursday and will be ready to play in the New Year.

The French stopper has been suffering from severe pain in his left knee, caused by damage to the tendons.

After a lengthy course of rehabilitation and physiotherapy, Zebina has decided to go under the knife to resolve the situation once and for all.

The operation will take place on Thursday in the Tuscan city of Arezzo with respected sports doctor Giuliano Cerulli performing the procedure.

The estimated recovery time for Zebina has been set at between 70 and 90 days with a return expected at the start of 2009.

Meanwhile, Hasan Salihamidzic, Cristiano Zanetti and Christian Poulsen are making impressive progress in their battles against injury and the trio should be at Claudio Ranieri's disposal shortly.

*chn4

Giovinco: Juventus Will Beat Inter


Giovinco: Juventus Will Beat Inter

Juventus starlet Sebastian Giovinco is looking forward to the big showdown clash against Inter on Saturday night and he believes his side will prevail...

The Bianconeri travel to San Siro in great form having won seven games on the bounce and they will be hoping to emulate last season's 2-1 win in Milan.

Juve could go top of the table with a win and Giovinco is confident his side are more than capable of doing the business.

"Juve will win and I am sure of this," Giovinco told Tuttosport.
"The goalscorers? That's difficult but I will make my prediction on paper and then we can see it after the game.

"However, trust me, Juventus are going to win. I always tell the truth.
"I would like to see a game with plenty of goals but I don't think that will happen.

"Football here in Italy is different and teams are scared of conceding first.

"This attitude is annoying. In the Premier League or La Primera Division big games are always exciting. It's not like this in Serie A.

"It's not a nice advert for our football."

Giovinco seems to have been influenced by Jose Mourinho's words on Monday.

The Portuguese coach suggested the Italian league was being shunned by other top divisions because of its lack of excitement.

*goal.com

Juve show trust in Tiago


Juve show trust in Tiago


Juventus have reportedly rejected Monaco's latest approach for midfielder Tiago Mendes after his recent upturn in form.

The Portuguese international had a miserable first campaign in the Bianconeri jersey and had looked set to leave in the summer.

But after turning down possible moves to sides including Everton, Tottenham and Newcastle, Tiago has finally shown some form of late and is starting to prove his worth in Turin.

Claudio Ranieri has chosen the 27-year-old to start the last four Serie A games and he has stepped up to the mark.

According to Tuttosport, Tiago's efforts have been sufficient to convince sporting director Alessio Secco to reject the possibility of selling the ex-Chelsea man in January.

The Old Lady are expected to review the situation in the summer when they could make a move for Werder Bremen ace Diego.

*chan4

Selasa, 18 November 2008

Cobolli: «We want to beat Inter»


Cobolli: «We want to beat Inter»

«We want this victory». Just like the shouts of the supporters at the Olimpico, Giovanni Cobolli Gigli sent his support to the team in view of the big match against Inter at the Stadio Meazza in Milan scheduled for Saturday. The Juventus president commented by means of a phone call during a live programme entitled “La Politica nel Pallone” (Politics in football) on GR Parlamento, speaking of all the hot themes at the moment, with much importance given to the super-match against the nerazzurri.

Against Inter at the right time. This match came up at the right time. We have just obtained many important victories. The squad has grown more conscious of its strength. Inter is the usual aircraft carrier, but we have the right ammunition to fight at par, knowing that we can win.

Meazza, is the “Scala” of football. In case of victory it would be another step in a long series of victories and we would be even more conscious of our strength. But we would still have to start thinking immediately of the next match, that away to Zenit in St. Petersburg

At home even in Milan. I am expecting many of our supporters for the match on Saturday. They have also been there for us, even in times of difficulty and so I am sure they will back us even at San Siro.

Ibrahimovic? We have Del Piero. It is known that two years ago it was Ibrahimovic that wanted to leave Juventus. We did our best to convince him to remain and Blanc had long meetings with his agent. The break-up was what the player wanted. We all know his potential. But now, sometimes I think of this and I find consolation in the great things which Del Piero has done and continues to do, in the signing of Amauri and in the great contribution given by Trezeguet and Iaquinta. We are all proud of them.

A controversy-free encounter. Ranieri against Mourinho? They are two persons who know football and who want to win but I want to stop any controversy. We have to make football with authority and respect, we must do things well on the field and not create controversy outside it.

No confrontation with Moratti. There is no sort of defiance between us presidents. I expect to be greeted by him in his usual gentleman manner and then each of us will watch the match from his side.

We want this victory. I hope to watch a match without suffering too much, just like on Thursday against Genoa during which match I saw a well-toned team, alive during the whole 90 minutes and with the will to impose itself. This does not make me suffer but feel at ease. I repeat, we want this victory.

Come on Camoranesi. I already predicted it a couple of days ago. I think we’ll win by 2-1 and one of the goals will be scored by Camoranesi. In a match like this, he can give that something more. Besides I expect much from our central defenders to be able to stop Ibrahimovic.

The last month was great. In these last few matches, I don’t think it’s the team that changed. It simply grew stronger in spirit. The bad patch lasted only two games and then the whole squad once again found its appetite for victory in Italy and Europe.

The change after Palermo. We played the Sicilians at their best time. After that defeat I did very little but Blanc, Secco, the technical team and the team found more consciousness. I took part in a meeting prior to the departure for Naples and I saw a united group. They left hopingly and the defeat at the San Paolo came as a cold shower. But from then one everything began, starting from the victory against Real Madrid. What emerged are those attributes that only great teams have.

Two years of satisfaction. In these last two years, Juventus has returned to its level thanks to the contribution of the players. If I had to say that I expected to return to this level in such a short period I would be labelled presumptuous. But all this was part of a mission entrusted to me, Blanc, the board of directors, the coaches and the players. It was part of our duty even though it is not always possible to achieve. Up to now we managed at a 100 per cent.

Juventus like Ferrari. The duties continue, the ladder continues to grow. We must not give up. Juventus must be a great Italian brand throughout the world, first of playing a great championship. We as a brand compare ourselves to the Ferrari of our friend Montezemolo.

A championship to play for. During the weekend there were positive results for us such as those of Milan and Inter. There are teams of great potential, that is why I expect a tournament which is unsure and exciting.

More potential to express. In this last period we had to do without fundamental players such as Buffon, Trezeguet, Zanetti and Zebina. We are waiting for them to be able to achieve a great second part of the season. Their contribution will be decisive.

Objective : Champions. As a Juventus supporter I cannot but say we won very few Champions Cups when compared to other great teams, so I hope to be able to add another to our trophy cupboard as soon as possible.

Del Piero is always hungry. The events in his life in recent years, from his marriage to the birth of his child, have made more of a man of him. He is always hungry for victory and I can’t but hope, as an Italian, that he can still contribute even to the National team. He is unique and only comparable to himself. Together with Boniperti and Scirea he is the player who left his sign mostly in the history of this club. In the future, if he wants, he may become a great director, but not by my side, instead of me.

The presentation of the new stadium. This week we will have an important moment. A new stadium to guarantee great spectacle to our fans, but also to leave something which can be lasting for the city of Turin, a new temple. It will be a building only for football, 40,000 spectators with a great view. If the minimum distance from the field was 28 metres at the Delle Alpi, now this will be the maximum distance from the field and the public will be able to live the match even more intensely.

*juventus.com