JUVENTINI ONLY

Felipe melo swap with marchioni

2009-07-07T17:22:00.000-07:00

Fiorentina have reached an agreement with Juventus for the joint ownership of midfielder

Marco Marchionni. Marchionni will now play for the Viola next season, provided he can agree personal terms, after the two clubs struck an accord.

Reports in Italy suggest that Juve could now open negotiations with their Serie A rivals in a bid to bring Felipe Melo in the opposite direction.

The Brazil international, who has also been linked with a switch to Arsenal, insists he is happy at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.Meanwhile, Fiorentina have also confirmed the signing of defender Cesare Natali from Torino.

Grosso ready move to juventus

2009-06-26T16:26:00.000-07:00

News in France are claiming that Fabio Grosso will leave Lyon for a return to Italian football with Juventus.

The defender has been strongly associated with the Old Lady in recent weeks after it became clear that a new left-back was a transfer objective for the club.

A two-horse race developed between Grosso and fellow Azzurri international Andrea Dossena and it looks like the 2006 World Cup winner has pipped the Liverpool man at the post.Sources in France claim that the move is inevitable, even if they don’t confirm Italian whispers that Mauro Camoranesi could be part of the deal.

The Argentine-born winger has been a long-term target of Lyon and his Juve future is in doubt after a couple of disappointing campaigns affected by injury.

Diego want to make lots of goals

2009-06-11T16:38:00.000-07:00

New Player of Juve Diego Ribas has revealed he will be officially unveiled as a Juventus player in July and intends to score lots of goals next season. The 24-year-old former Santos youngster left Werder Bremen last month and put pen to paper on five-year deal with the Bianconeri.

“Soon I will speak Italian and I will repay everyone with goals and victories,” Diego explained.

“I did my job at Werder and I will continue to do it at Juventus. I will prepare myself as best as I can to grow from a tactical point of view.

“The objectives are to win and score lots of goals. In this way I can get back into the national team.

“My last game with Brazil was a 0-0 draw against Bolivia on September 10, 2008 at the Maracana. In a recent friendly against Portugal I didn't get on the pitch.”

When asked about his time in Germany, Diego said: “They were three wonderful years. I learned a lot. I put maturity together with titles.

“I received the affection of the Werder fans, whom I showed good football. I left them with the German Cup, a happy moment.”

Diego then went on to describe how Juventus went about trying to buy him.

“It was a long courtship. We made contact on various occasions, so everything was well defined. Things happen at the right moment,” he insisted.

“I am happy and excited. To have said goodbye to Germany with a trophy was positive. Now I am confident I will be able to show my football in a competitive championship like Serie A.

“I know that at the beginning I will have to adapt, but I have also received the support of the club. I will overcome any obstacles and repay Juventus in goals and victories for the trust they have given me.

“I have dual nationality, but I still do not speak Italian. I understand almost everything, but I am still not ready to speak in public. I will learn it soon.

“From Portuguese, Italian is easier to learn with respect to German. The club will officially unveil me at the beginning of July,” he concluded.

Diego is widely regarded as one of the most talented players in Europe. He managed to score 38 goals in 84 appearances for Werder.

U21: Juve youngster bring Four-star Azzurrini to the top

2009-06-09T17:37:00.000-07:00

Pierluigi Casiraghi’s Azzurrini got ready for the European Championships by thumping Denmark 4-0 in a friendly.The Italy Under-21 squad made short work of their Danish hosts in Farum, which bodes well for Tuesday’s tournament opener against Serbia. The team includes three bianconeri: Giovinco, Marchisio and De Ceglie who after the tournament will end their adventure with the Under 21 squad.Mario Balotelli took just 13 minutes to break the deadlock with one of the Inter hitman’s trademark fierce free kicks.Denmark had only one real scoring opportunity neutralised by Atalanta goalkeeper Andrea Consigli.

The trident attack of Balotelli, Robert Acquafresca and Sebastian Giovinco had only been tested once before this game, but already seems to be gelling.
Cagliari striker Acquafresca was quick to react when Balotelli’s shot was parried by the Danish ‘keeper and double Italy’s lead.
Casiraghi switched to a 4-4-2 system for the second half and made numerous substitutions, but they also proved effective.Daniele Dessena had been on the field for only two minutes when he ran on to Giovinco’s through ball and cheekily chipped the goalkeeper.

Bari man Andrea Ranocchia, who helped his club to promotion this season, scored the fourth in this rout late on.The Danish ‘keeper fumbled a corner kick and Ranocchia was ready to tap in the loose ball from six yards.

JUVENTUS PERFORMANCE 2008 - 2009

2009-06-08T16:45:00.000-07:00

This is statistics from beginning serie A 2008 / 2009, from the summary attendance until the sequence rapidly.

Performance
Highest Gate	25000 Genoa
Lowest Gate	10500 Atalanta
Average Attendance	21329
Aggregate Attendance	383930
Biggest Home Win	4-0 Reggina
Biggest Away Win	AS Roma 1-4, Siena 0-3
Heaviest Home Defeat	1-2 Palermo, 2-3 Cagliari
Heaviest Away Defeat	Napoli 2-1, Internazionale 1-0, Udinese 2-1, Genoa 3-2
Highest Aggregate Score	4-2 AC Milan, 3-3 Chievo Verona

Current Win Sequence	2 games: at Siena, Lazio
Current Unbeaten Sequence	7 games: Internazionale, at Reggina, Lecce, at AC Milan, Atalanta, at Siena, Lazio
Longest Win Sequence	5 games: at Palermo, Napoli, at Torino, Bologna, at AS Roma
Longest Unbeaten Sequence	8 games: at Catania, Sampdoria, at Palermo, Napoli, at Torino, Bologna, at AS Roma, Chievo Verona
Current Losing Sequence	0 games
Current Winless Sequence	0 games
Longest Losing Sequence	2 games: at Udinese, Cagliari
Longest Winless Sequence	7 games: Chievo Verona, at Genoa, Internazionale, at Reggina, Lecce, at AC Milan, Atalanta

Juventus Search diffense player

2009-06-05T17:39:00.000-07:00

1. Marcell JansenThe Bianconeri are short in that left back area, as Cristian Molinaro is out until October and Paolo De Ceglie lacks experience.Now Juventus are scouting Hamburg defender Marcell Jansen, who could solve their problems at left-back, according to Il Corriere dello Sport.
Jansen has impressed this season, helping Hamburg to the UEFA semi-finals and a fifth place finish in the Bundesliga. He joined Hamburg last April after just one-year at Bayern Munich where some said he couldn't stand the pressure. “Marcell feels good in Hamburg, but in football anything can happen,” his agent, Gerd Vom Bruck, said.
2. Christian Zapata

Beside that juve interest with Udinese defender Cristian Zapata. The 22-year-old Colombia international finished the season strongly after missing the first half of the campaign through injury. “I repeat I have a contract until 2013, but if Udinese receive a good offer they will sell me,” Zapata told calciomercato.com.
“Udinese have no need to sell me quickly. I am 22 and I have become a guarantee. We will see what happens in the future,” he concluded.

3. Andrea Dossena

Dossena endured a difficult inaugural season with the Reds, only making 16 appearances in the Premier League in 2008-09 and failing to make an impact under coach Rafa Benitez.The former Udinese man has spoken about his desire to return to Serie A throughout the course of the campaign. And juventus interest swap deal with De ceglie

FERRARA OFFICIALLY BE JUVENTUS CARETAKER

2009-06-05T16:55:00.000-07:00

Ciro Ferrara has officially signed a two-year contract as the new Coach of Juventus, extending his caretaker role.
The Bianconeri announced the decision at 18.00 UK time Yesterday evening and Ferrara was spotted driving in to the club headquarters.
His contract expires on June 30 2011 and he will hold a Press conference later this evening.
“Ferrara, who is by now a founding column at Juventus, has the confidence of the directors and made himself available for this new and exciting challenge,” read a statement.
“He will be the Coach of a team where he won everything as a player and remained faithful, leading the club’s youth sector for the last three years.”
The former defender and youth sector co-ordinator had been brought in for the final two weeks of the season after Claudio Ranieri’s dismissal.
He won both games against Siena and Lazio, qualifying for second place, but was only given the job permanently after Antonio Conte and Luciano Spalletti opted to remain with Bari and Roma respectively.
Ferrara drove to Turin by leaving the Italy get-together at Coverciano, where he had been working as Marcello Lippi’s assistant manager.

Good Bye Nedved you will be Always in Our Hearts

2009-06-04T09:03:00.000-07:00

It has been such a longtime that a Juventus legend has bid farewell to the crowd, I didn’t remember how hard it would be. I won’t lie to you all, when the Olimpico rose to its’ feet to applaud him, I teared a bit. When the Gladiator music was playing during his lap of honor, they were free-flowing.

We all know his hard work and dedication; the stories of him as a child, running after practice when the lights were turned off are well known. Naturally left-footed, you would have never known because as a kid he practiced so much to make them both equally brilliant. This is the player who runs everyday, regardless whether there is training or not.

When Pavel was first signed from Lazio to replace Zidane, there were a lot of eyebrows raised. Could this man ever replace the legendary Zizou? (yes) But at age 29, people questioned the decision to spill out €41 million on the Lazio midfielder. After 8 seasons, 4 scudetti, a Ballon d’Or, a Serie B title, and 357 games played with 65 goals and countless assists…money damn well spent.

His long-range efforts for which he is famous for was not a secret. When we first signed him, Moggi said “we bought him solely to stop him from scoring goals against us.” We all know the story of his legendary 2002-2003 season, where he singlehandedly carried us to the final only to be cruelly denied a place in it because of a yellow-card suspension. His goals against Barcelona at Camp Nou, against Real Madrid in Turin, it is not a stretch to say had he been in the final, a different outcome was very likely.

Pavel always wanted to win that trophy, so when Juve was demoted to Serie B, you might forgive the Czech Fury for considering his position at Juventus, given his 33 years. But there was none of it. Pavel was one of the first to come out and unequivocably say that he was staying. There was no wavering, no attempts to get out, no complaints. Few expected Juve to return to the Champion’s League so quickly, and Pavel’s exit will long live in my memory. Playing with a broken rib, Pavel kept trying to soldier on but after a collision with Anelka, he could do it no more. The chorus rang out the first time he went down to the ground…and the 2nd. As he lied on the ground in pain, the stadium was drowned out by deafening chants of “PAVEL PAVEL NEDVED! NEDVED.” Ranieri asked Pavel to wait a few minutes to give Salihamidzic time to warm up, and as Pavel gingerly walked around the pitch, the chants continued. He left the Champion’s League pitch for the last time, to a round of applause and continued songs from the Drughi.

In an interview after the game, Pavel said he would stay in Turin with his family. He said he enjoyed life in Turin, and he wanted his children to grow up watching Juventus first-hand. I always found Pavel’s devotion to his family and his wife refreshing from all the stories of WAGs. You see, Pavel married Ivana when he was 21, back when he was still living in Prague and a footballing unknown. The two met when Pavel was 15 and Ivana was 13. He’s said he would give up everything, including his beloved golf rounds with Alex and Mauro to win the Champion’s League, but never his family, who are the primary motivation for his retirement.
His children are named Pavel and Ivana as well, as he has said, it is so when he and his wife die, there will still be a Pavel and Ivana who love each other. A great man on and off the pitch.

Juve interested in Lovren

2009-06-04T08:14:00.000-07:00

Defender

Personal information
Date of birth	July 5, 1989 (1989-07-05) (age 19)
Place of birth	Zenica, SFR Yugoslavia
Height	1.88 m (6 ft 2 in)
Playing position
Club information
Current club	NK Dinamo Zagreb
Number	6
Youth career
NK. Karvolac
Senior career¹
Years	Club	App (Gls)*
2005- 2006-2008	Dinamo Zagreb → NK Inter Zaprešić (loan)	14 (1) 50 (1)
National team

The possible new reinforcement for the Defense of Juventus comes from Croatia. He is 20 years old, plays in Dinamo Zagreb and is part of the national Under-21.

Dejan Lovren was seen constantly this year by observers from Manchester United, Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, Juventus and Milan. Lovren can play in the center of the defence and on the right, and despite his young age, already has three seasons experience at the highest level.

One of the Italian scouts who has seen him in action told calciomercato.com, "Lovren is the new Vedran Corluka, he plays in the same way but has greater physical power".

Dejan Lovren, estimated at about two million euro, has a contract until 2011.

Gaetano D'Agostino be juve player end of this week

2009-06-02T17:45:00.000-07:00

Juventus are expected to sign Udinese midfielder Gaetano D'Agostino by the end of this week, according to the Italian Press.

The 26-year-old former Roma youngster has been a revelation this season, scoring 11 Serie A goals in 36 appearances for the Zebrette. Juventus are believed to have offered £15m for D'Agostino, who was called up to the Italy squad in November 2008.

Udinese President Giampaolo Pozzo confirmed Juventus' interest in the player during an interview yesterday evening. “I hope that someone doesn't come and unsettle him, but Juventus are interested,” Pozzo revealed.

Juventus have already been active in the transfer market, signing Fabio Cannavaro from Real Madrid and Diego from Werder Bremen. The Bianconeri finished second in Serie A this year and are looking to close the gap between themselves and Italian champions Inter.

Transfer target of Juve

2009-06-01T17:39:00.000-07:00

IN

Gaetano D’Agostino : The Udinese player would be ideal to partner Momo Sissoko in midfield, as well as newly signing Diego, but the Friulani have set a high price.

Goran Pandev : could also move to Turin this summer although Lazio President Claudio Lotito won’t let go of him easily.“Goran has already expressed his wish to go and Juve would be a good option for him,” mused Pallavicino.

Eduardo Salvio : he 19-year-old Argentine has been linked to the Old Lady in the past and has made himself known following the South-American U-20 Championship played in Venezuela.

“Salvio is a great player with a fantastic future ahead of him,” noted his agent Augustin Jimenez.

“Juventus seem very interested but they will have to beat the competition of many other Italian clubs who are just waiting for the right moment to make an offer.”

OUT

Paolo De Ceglie : Juve’s left-back could be heading out the door after it was revealed that Liverpool have cast their eyes over the Italian youngster.

“Liverpool are seriously interested,” explained De Ceglie’s agent Carlo Pallavicino. “It all depends on Andrea Dossena and whether they will sell him. If they do then they would like to replace him with De Ceglie.”

JUVENTUS VS LAZIO 2 - 0

2009-05-31T16:29:00.000-07:00

Juventus: Buffon; Zebina, Legrottaglie, Chiellini, Salihamidzic; Camoranesi, Marchisio, Zanetti (Amauri 55), Nedved (Tiago 84); Iaquinta (Giovinco 72), Del Piero

Lazio: Carrizo; Lichtsteiner, Siviglia (Tuia 78), Rozehnal, De Silvestri; Brocchi, Dabo (Meghni 64), Ledesma, Foggia; Kozac, Del Nero (Mendicino 52)

Ref: Peruzzo

Vincenzo Iaquinta's brace secured second place for Juventus, but the day was dedicated to Pavel Nedved. Both teams went into this fixture knowing they had achieved their aims of European qualification. Ciro Ferrara won on his debut as caretaker manager and admitted his chances of staying on next season were only 33 per cent.

He missed Momo Sissoko, Paolo De Ceglie, Christian Molinaro, Zdenek Grygera and Dario Knezevic. Lazio had Goran Pandev suspended plus Tommaso Rocchi, Mauro Zarate and Stefan Radu, so fielded an impromptu front line. Pavel Nedved announced this weekend he was quitting Juve, but not necessarily retiring from football, so this was his farewell to the Turin fans and he wore the captain's armband. It took three minutes for Juve to open the scoring, as Claudio Marchisio threaded through with the outside of his foot for Vincenzo Iaquinta to run between the central defenders and place an angled drive through the legs of the on-rushing Juan Pablo Carrizo.

Alessandro Del Piero had a goal ruled offside, probably incorrectly, while Kozac threatened an equaliser for Lazio when clear on goal and placing his lob just too high. Gigi Buffon needed two touches to deny Pasquale Foggia's effort, but just before half-time Del Piero's spectacular overhead kick skimmed the bar. Nicola Legrottaglie had to come sliding in to take a dangerous cross off Simone Del Nero's foot from six yards. Iaquinta completed his brace with an assist from Nedved, who spun round between two defenders to immediately thread through for his teammate.

Carrizo plucked a Del Piero lob out of the air, while Libor Kozac's glancing header skimmed the far post with the aid of a deflection off Legrottaglie. Nedved was substituted seven minutes from time so he could receive a standing ovation from the entire stadium. Kozak took advantage of a Chiellini hesitation to get between his legs and hit the post from point-blank range.

PREVIEW JUVE VS LAZIO

2009-05-30T20:06:00.000-07:00

"We have already sobered up from the win against Siena and we're already thinking about our next encounter, against Lazio on Sunday,'' Ferrera said.

Juventus need to find a new coach for next season and have already begun rebuilding their squad, but this year's campaign is not yet over as they look to snatch second place against Lazio tomorrow.Ciro Ferrara will again be in charge of the team following Claudio Ranieri's sacking, but the rumour mill is in full swing trying to identify the likely long-term successor.

The likes of Laurent Blanc and Antonio Conte are reportedly being considered alongside Ferrara.The incumbent did himself no harm last week with the way Juventus went about beating Siena 3-0 to stay in contention for second place.However, he is keen to put that to one side now and focus only on tomorrow."We have already sobered up from the win against Siena and we're already thinking about our next encounter, against Lazio on Sunday,'' Ferrera said.

The future of the coach is not the only thing likely to be decided in the coming days, with Vicente Iaquinta claiming he is on the verge of a new deal, while there are reports that Pavel Nedved is also set for a further extension to his career.Another win will be enough for Juve to finish second courtesy of their superior head-to-head record against Milan.Juventus will hope to get it against a Lazio side that have nothing left to play for but pride.

A Europa League place was secured through the Coppa Italia, but Delio Rossi will want to see some fight from his players against a side they have already beaten twice this season.One of the players who has been key to Lazio's best performances this season has been Goran Pandev, a reported target of Juventus who will miss the chance to impress his prospective new employees due to a suspension.Club president Claudio Lotito, for his part, is insisting that the 25-year-old forward is not for sale."Why would we want to let go of such a great player, whose contract expires in June 2010?'' Lotito asked in Corriere dello Sport."I'm happy that there is interest in our player from big clubs, however before attempting to speak with the player, Juve should pay us some respect and speak with me."I have never received any interest on the part of Juve, or any other team for that fact, about Pandev.''Rossi is missing Mauro Zarate, Cribari and Christian Manfredini through injury.

Simone Inzaghi is also out after shoulder surgery and Rossi may give several youth players their chance.For Juventus, Mohamed Sissoko has returned to training, but this game has come too soon.Mauro Camoranesi sustained a knock in training on Wednesday, but he is likely to be fit for action.However, Dario Knezevic, Albin Ekdal, Cristian Molinaro and Zdenek Grygera are all out.

Official: The relationship between Juventus and Pavel Nedved is about to come to an end.

2009-05-30T18:21:00.000-07:00

“I won four Scudetti and the Ballon d’Or in Turin. I particularly want to thank my wife Ivana and our children, who have accompanied me during this extraordinary journey. From Monday onwards, I will think about my future.

Pavel Nedved has announced he is leaving Juventus, but not necessarily retiring from football. “It’s time to say goodbye.”
The Juventus midfielder turns 37 in August and the club had tried to change his mind the same way they did a year ago, when he had threatened to retire.
A new contract was offered, but meetings at the headquarters last night and again this morning failed to reach a consensus.
“After eight years at Juventus the time has come to say goodbye and thank all the fans, teammates and the club for all the support I have received in this time.
“I won four Scudetti and the Ballon d’Or in Turin. I particularly want to thank my wife Ivana and our children, who have accompanied me during this extraordinary journey. From Monday onwards, I will think about my future.
“I will continue to feel close to Juventus and I’m particularly grateful to the Agnelli family for giving me the opportunity to play for this great club. I can assure you economic reasons had nothing to do with this decision.”
It is curious that the Czech is leaving Juve, but not necessarily hanging up his boots for good, as confirmed by his agent.
“For now we say goodbye to Juve, a decision that was already very difficult,” noted Mino Raiola on Sky Italia.
“From Monday we will think about the future. Sunday will be his last game in the Bianconeri shirt.
“I have already received many requests from Italy and abroad. We never asked Juventus for guarantees on tactics, players or a future as a director.”
Nedved began his career at Sparta Prague in 1992, moving on to Lazio in 1996 and then Juventus in 2001.

Pavel Nedved will continue running in one season

2009-05-30T04:30:00.000-07:00

Juventus veteran Pavel Nedved had met the club's directors today to resolve his future.Earlier in the season, the Czech international declared his intention to hang up his boots at the end of the current campaign.

But recently his agent Mino Raiola stressed that he expected Nedved to play on for another year.Reports suggest that the 36-year-old had met club President Giovanni Cobolli Gigli later today to make a final decision.

After that meeting According to juventusnews.tk, it has been reported that Juventus midfielder Pavel Nedved will continue running on the playing fields for another season following a meeting with his club, who managed to convince him not to retire and instead accept a one-year deal extension.

Nedved is expected to receive around €1.7 million, including bonuses tied to the number of appearances he will make next term.

The 36-year-old had announced that he would retire at the end of this campaign and in fact, following the elimination from the Champions League, he had stated that one of his biggest regrets was that he never won the trophy with the big ears.

However, now he will have another shot at glory as he will have the opportunity to fight another season in Europe's most prestigious competition and maybe finally make his dream come true.

Nedved has been at Juventus since 2001 following his move from Lazio, and has made 246 league appearances for the club, scoring 51 goals in the process.

Italy: Lippi call all italian defender of juve

2009-05-29T15:50:00.000-07:00

Marcello Lippi has called 21 players for the friendly that Italy will play against Northern Ireland in Pisa on Saturday June 6 (20.50). Eight new faces: the goalkeeper of Cagliari Marchetti, the defenders of Lecce Esposito, del Palermo Cassani and of Inter Santon, the midfielders Biagianti (Catania), Galloppa (Siena), the attackers Mascara (Catania) and Pellissier (Chievo). The coach has also announced the names of 13 of the 23 players who will participate in the Confederations Cup: the list will be completed by Thursday June 4th.

Here is the list of those summoned for the friendly in Pisa
Goalkeepers: De Sanctis (Galatasaray), Marchetti (Cagliari), Defenders: Cassani (Palermo), Dossena (Liverpool), Gamberini (Fiorentina), Grosso (Olympique Lyon), Esposito (Lecce), Legrottaglie (Juventus), Santon (Inter) ; Midfielders: Biagianti (Catania), Brighi (Rome), D'Agostino (Udinese), Galloppa (Siena), Gattuso (Milan), Montolivo (Fiorentina), Palombo (Sampdoria), Forwards: Foggia (Lazio), Mascara (Catania ), Pazzini (Sampdoria), Pellissier (Chievo), Rossi Giuseppe (Villarreal).

Here is the list of 13 players already invited to the Confederations Cup
Goalkeepers: Buffon (Juventus), Amelia (Palermo) Defenders: Cannavaro (Real Madrid), Chiellini (Juventus), Zambrotta (Milan) Midfielders: Camoranesi (Juventus), De Rossi (Roma), Pepe (Udinese), Pirlo ( Milan) Forwards: Gilardino (Fiorentina), Iaquinta (Juventus), Quagliarella (Udinese), Toni (Bayern Monaco).

2009-05-28T17:06:00.000-07:00

Juventus are planning to raid the Bundesliga again and close a deal for highly rated Stuttgart defender Serdar Tasci.

The 22-year-old German of Turkish origin has made 29 appearances for Stuttgart this season, scoring a single goal.Tasci has been a regular for Stuttgart for three years and played a part in their title winning side in 2007.

He made the first of seven appearances for Germany in a 2-0 victory over Belgium on August 20, 2008.Juventus believe Tasci can provide Fabio Cannavaro with some much need competition at centre-back.

He has a contract with Stuttgart until 2010 and, rather than waiting for it to expire, the Bianconeri want to open negotiations now.Juventus are looking to gradually overhaul their ageing squad and rejuvenate it with promising young players.

Diego is officially a Juventus player

2009-05-26T16:53:00.000-07:00

WELCOME DIEGO RIBAS
THIS IS OUR NEW PLAYMAKER

Diego Ribas Da Cunha - For more funny videos, click here

“I chose Juve because they are one of the best teams in the world and we have been discussing this move for two and a half years now,” said the man who took Werder Bremen to the UEFA Cup Final.

Interview with ferrara after siena match

2009-05-24T17:07:00.000-07:00

“Siena had a very strong start and created a few problems for us, but for the rest of the time I think Juve played with a real spirit of sacrifice from all its men" Said Ferrara after match

He made his debut with a few but very significant words: "Everything worked perfectly. I couldn’t ask for better". “It was a wonderful day, but above all I am happy with the reaction and performance of the squad,” said the new Coach who replaced Claudio Ranieri this week. Then he went on: "It was a very intense week during which I experienced various feelings. Happiness on one side, worry on the other. Then I came to the stadium, before the match and I felt better. Thanks to the 3-0 victory away to Siena, Fiorentina's 1-1 at Lecce and Milan's 3-2 home defeat to Roma, Juve are guaranteed a top three finish".

The Juventus seen on the field today gave the results which all had hoped for: "I thank the boys for the commitment shown during the week. I spoke clearly to them as fro the first day: it is difficult to work on the tactical aspect two weeks from the end of the championship and so I tried to work on motivation, on self-appreciation and on the intensity during the training sessions and they responded well"

One cannot miss out on a comment about the performance of the captain who scored twice and passed the ball of the other goal notwithstanding the injury suffered during the week: "I chose to field him- concluded Ferrara – because during the week he trained well and only slowed down a bit because of that blow during training. However, even during the fine-tuning session he played the mini-match and took the free-kicks. I had to choose who to field alongside Iaquinta and I chose him and I did well: great play, goals, passes and perhaps he could have been even more incisive when it came to scoring but he reacted like a captain"
He also commented about siena performance “Siena had a very strong start and created a few problems for us, but for the rest of the time I think Juve played with a real spirit of sacrifice from all its men.

“I believe that when there is a change of management, there is always going to be a shake-up in terms of motivation. Even if it wasn't me on the bench, the players would've felt responsible and realised exactly what it is we're gambling with here".

“We had to go and get the direct Champions League qualification and perhaps something a little more.” Ferrara has said he wanted to make it a permanent job on the Bianconeri bench, but faces competition from Bari boss Antonio Conte.

“Conte sent me a message wishing me luck.”

SIENA VS JUVENTUS 0 - 3

2009-05-24T08:05:00.000-07:00

Ciro Ferrara had the perfect debut as Alessandro Del Piero and Claudio Marchisio sent Juventus into second place! On Monday Claudio Ranieri became the first Juventus Coach in 40 years to be sacked mid-season, so legend Ferrara was promoted from chief co-ordinator of the youth sector for his Serie A bow.

Time was of the essence, as they were only one point clear of Fiorentina and finishing fourth would be disastrous by forcing them into the Champions League preliminary round. The Bianconeri were without a win in seven and missed Momo Sissoko, Zdenek Grygera, Christian Molinaro, Albin Ekdal and Dario Knezevic. Alessandro Del Piero recovered from a bruised thigh to start. Siena had nothing to play for but pride and the only real injury loss was Houssine Kharja. He had scored the only goal here last season, which interrupted Juve's 100 per cent record in Siena in three visits.

After 40 seconds Gigi Buffon had to grab a Jarolim free kick, but Iaquinta should've opened the scoring on 15 minutes. He sprung the offside trap and was totally clear on goal, but hesitated and hit a weak effort straight at goalkeeper Gianluca Curci. Del Piero scored the first goal of the Ferrara era for Juventus, as he curled a trademark free kick into the near top corner from just over 20 metres, more distant than Il Capitano is accustomed to. It was a particularly special moment for Alex, who had been repeatedly dropped by Ranieri. Del Piero volleyed over from a promising position, but Juve doubled their lead just before the break.

Del Piero was the provider this time as he went on the counter and placed a slide-rule pass between defenders for Claudio Marchisio to score with the outside of his right foot. Curci was at full stretch to keep out another Del Piero free kick and a central snapshot from the captain. The second half was significantly quieter for all concerned, as the heat and tiredness took its toll. Del Piero completed his brace by waltzing round the goalkeeper in the final minute after springing the offside trap.

PREVIEW SIENA VS JUVENTUS

2009-05-23T17:04:00.000-07:00

"The players need to understand that it only takes a little to change this negative period. This is a big occasion for me and the best response will be to get the results by winning. Ferrara

Juve have not won since March 21, a run of seven consecutive games which has left the club just one point clear of fourth-placed Fiorentina with two games left.

Fans have protested and there have been disagreements in the dressing-room, all of which led to the club sacking their coach for the first time in 40 years.

John Elkann, president of Juve's parent company, hopes Ferrara gets off to a winning start to boost the mood in the Bianconeri camp.

"What's important is to return to winning,'' he said. "I believe that Ferrara is a person who is capable, very convincing and who has all the cards to stimulate the squad and start again on a route to victory which we need.

"We are very close to the squad and to Ferrara and I hope that Juve return to winning: we believe a lot in the capacity of the coach and the players.

"Now we will play well the two remaining games.''

Alessandro Del Piero is facing a race against time to be fit for the clash against Siena after picking up a knock in training, while Cristian Molinaro, Mohamed Sissoko, Dario Knezevic, Albin Ekdal and Zdenek Grygera are definitely out.

Siena have nothing to play for but pride in their last home game of the season as Marco Giampaolo's side have already assured themselves Serie A football next season having collected 43 points in 36 games.

However, they will want to put on a good performance to erase memories of last week's 3-0 loss at Inter Milan.

Siena midfielder Daniele Galloppa is wary of a Juve backlash and hopes his team are up to the challenge.

"Our aim was safety and we hoped for a season as calm as this,'' he said. "We have always been outside the relegation zone and that has given us a lot of calm and serenity.

"Now we are up against a team with so much motivation and that could spur us on, regardless of the heat and tiredness accumulated in these past few months, to give a great performance.

"Personally I am happy to be able to play against Juventus at this moment, it will be another important test and we have to give a great performance.''

Giampaolo has an almost full-strength squad to choose from apart from the injured Mirko Guadalupi and goalkeeper Dimitrios Eleftheropoulos.

A day of training with special jerseys sporting

2009-05-22T17:21:00.000-07:00

Juventus' Mauro Camoranesi, left, and Amauri of Brazil sport team jerseys with their names written in Chinese, to celebrate 20 years of Serie A soccer broadcasting by CCTV5 in China, during a training session at the Vinovo center, near Turin, Italy, Friday, May 22, 2009.

The Chinese television troupe which has been in Italy for the last 15 days filmed the principle football towns in Italy that is Turin, Milan and Genova and interviewed the protagonists of the Italian championship. The special programme will speak of the historical relationship which unites Fiat, the report’s sponsor, and Juventus through an interview with John Elkann.

Ferrara : I want to make different juve

2009-05-22T16:58:00.000-07:00

"At this moment we really need the supporters to reach a difficult objective that is the direct qualification to the Champions League and therefore we have to work together".

Ferrara has been given a chance to impress after replacing Claudio Ranieri for the last two games of the season.After working as youth team boss and an assistant to Marcello Lippi for the national side, Ferrara has promising credentials.

“What is important is that we get back to winning,” Elkann told Juve's website.
“I think that Ferrara is capable and very convincing. He has what it takes to motivate this squad and get us the wins we need.

“We believe completely in the players and the Coach we have and for now it's just important to focus on the two remaining games.”

Ferrara makes his debut against Siena this weekend before a final-day test against Lazio.
He had little time to think about his decision and yet he accepted the challenge without blinking an eyelid: "I was very direct with Jean-Claude Blanc. I would like to thank all those who beleievd that I could be useful at this moment. Perhaps it is partially due to my recent past with this jersey. I did not ask questions or make any requests but I made myself available for the club. I have been part of this club since 1994 and after retiring in 2005 I was given a managerial role and therefore I feel I should make myself available. For me it is a great honour. I told Blanc and Secco to feel completely free with regards to the next coach were it to be me or somebody else. If I am not the coach next season I will return to my post as director of the youth sector without any problems. The club should not feel obliged to confirm me for next year. I am proud to have been chosen for these two day at least. When it comes to the future we’ll see but the club should do what it thinks is best".

The team’s performances have been rather bleak recently, to say the least, with no victories in the last 2 months and therefore a drastic change is necessary: "My intention is to see a different Juve. I know I have little time and that I must intervene but i can’t change a team completely in these two weeks. Hopefully by the end of the week I will be more precise with regards to details. Apart from the technical, tactical and physical aspect of the role i think I will have to work on other things. I think I will have to show the players the difficult time the club is going through. Sometimes little details are necessary to make big changes. I think the problem is not the scarce physical condition but that the players must find the right motivation for these two matches".

Ciro, as he is amicably known, may boast of a great past as a player and a great present as the director of the youth sector and now as from tomorrow his future is that of Juventus coach: "It is clear that it is difficult to judge me technically since I have two weeks to work. I will try to work well and try to bring out the players’ capabilities even because I know them. Since I took on the managerial post I have put my footballer days behind me. I want to be judged on the work that I will do as coach from now on. I felt obliged to give my contribution and do not fear risking in this strange moment".

The new Juventus coach played with a few of the current members of the squad and now finds himself as their boss: "I don’t think I will need to spend much time speaking to the boys. I will use the right words but most of all get on the field and work intensely. We have 10 training sessions left in these two weeks and these 10 sessions must be intense so as to achieve the right results. I am sure to find players who are intelligent and who understand my position and the final objective. They are all fundamental to me. At this point I am the coach and even though I am friends with some of the players we must be able to distinguish a friendly relationship and a work relationship. When Ancelotti was our coach even though I knew him well from the national side I always tried to understand his choices. I don’t care if they call me Mister or simply Ciro, what interests me is working well".

Finally a word about the supporters: "At this moment we really need the supporters to reach a difficult objective that is the direct qualification to the Champions League and therefore we have to work together".

Edin dzeko want to play with juventus

2009-05-21T17:34:00.000-07:00

"I know Chelsea want me and they have already spoken to my agent," "But my dream is to play in Italy, with Juventus."

Wolfsburg striker Edin Dzeko has claimed Chelsea have spoken to his agent over a possible transfer.

The highly-rated Bosnian has been linked with a summer move away from Volkswagen Arena, with a number of sides credited with an interest in his services.

Dzeko, who has netted 25 Bundesliga goals this season, has suggested Chelsea have enquired about his services, although he would favour a move to Serie A.

"I know Chelsea want me and they have already spoken to my agent," said Dzeko in the Daily Mirror.

"But my dream is to play in Italy, with Juventus."

The 23-year-old Dzeko is under contract at Wolfsburg until the summer of 2011.

Juve prepare Fabio transfer

2009-05-20T17:29:00.000-07:00

Juventus have stepped up their interest for Udinese ace Fabio Quagliarella as Inter threaten to move first.

The Old Lady will be looking to strengthen their striking line this summer with French international David Trezeguet expected to leave.

Azzurri marksman Quagliarella continues to impress at the Stadio Friuli and he has been widely tipped to join one of the peninsula's giants.

Juve have been watching Quagliarella for months, but Inter boss Jose Mourinho is also an admirer of the talented hitman and the champions are said to be preparing a bid.

Stunned into action, Juve sporting director Alessio Secco met with Udinese counterpart Pietro Leonardi yesterday and they reportedly began formal negotiations for a transfer.

Reports suggest that Quagliarella would fetch around £14m and Udinese could demand full rights to rising star Michele Paolucci.

FIRST DAY TRAINING WITH FERRARA

2009-05-19T16:44:00.000-07:00

After the words come the facts. The day after the announcement and the official presentation of Ciro Ferrara came the time to begin work on the field.

The adventure has begun, for him as coach but also for all the members of his technical staff. At the start of the afternoon session all the team got to know those collaborating with him. The faces are known to all since they are those of professionals coming directly from the youth sector.

The deputy-coach is Massimiliano Maddaloni. Michelangelo Rampulla will get back to coaching the goalkeepers while Dodo Sormani is the new technical assistant. Only Andrea Scanavino has been confirmed as trainer and is a sign of continuity from the Ranieri period.

Here are the presentation details of the four collaborators of Ciro Ferrara:

Ciro Ferrara

First of all a first class player who was capable of winning 6 scudetti on the field. He is also a valid manager capable of leading the youth sector in one of the most important times in its history. He is now also the coach of the first team. Since 1994, when he joined Juventus, Ciro Ferrara has made of the relationship a stronger one each day.

Born in Naples on the 11th of February 1967, as a player he played 500 matches in the Serie A, 247 of which with the Napoli jersey and 253 for Juventus, the team which he played for between 1994 and 2005. Besides 8 scudetti (one of which was revoked), he won 2 Coppa Italia, 5 Italian Supercups, a UEFA Cup, a Champions League and an Intercontinental Cup.

He formed part of the technical staff of the Italian national team who went on to win the 2006 World Championships as an assistant to Marcello Lippi. Since 2006 he is the personal responsible of the Juventus youth sector. In 2008, with the return of Lippi as Italian national coach he was once again appointed as assistant to the national coach.

On the 18th of May he replaced Claudio Ranieri as coach of the first team.

Michelangelo Rampulla

Two years later, Michelangelo Rampulla returns to coaching the goalkeepers of the first team after having been part of Didier Deschamps’ technical staff.

This is another experience for one of the most loved persons by the Juventus supporters. Born in Patti (Messina) on the 10th of August in 1962, his name is linked to Juventus since 1992. For 10 years, as a goalkeeper, he was part of one of the most successful periods in the history of the club.

After having shelved his gloves, he remained with Juventus undertaking various roles within the youth sector (Primavera goalkeepers’ coach, goalkeeper coaches’ coordinator and coaches’ organization coordinator) but also as the person responsible of the Juventus Club Doc Coordination Centre. This, apart from that of goalkeepers’ coach during the Deschamps period in the 2006/07 season.

Massimiliano Maddaloni

As deputy-coach, Ferrara re-embraces an old companion who formed part of his adventure since the times of the Napoli youth sector. Massimiliano Maddaloni will be undertaking the role simultaneously with that of Primavera coach.

Having joined Juventus at the beginning of the 2007/08 season as coach of the Allievi Nazionali, he has been successful since the beginning of the season as Primavera coach. Having won the Viareggio Cup in February and gone close to triumph in the Coppa Italia, the bianconeri under his direction are currently busy with the final phase of the championship after having dominated the elimination phase.

Born in Napoli on the 22nd of June 1966, his sports curriculum includes a long parentesis as professional footballer in Serie C and D between 1985 and 2000. As coach, before his arrival in Turin, he coached Tuscan teams (Viareggio, Forte dei Marmi, Versilia and Cecina) in Eccellenza category, Serie D and Serie C.

Adolfo Sormani

A historical name for Italian football is now part of the staff. Son of Angelo Benedicto, Adolfo “Dodo” Sormani, is the new technical assistant to Ciro Ferrara, with whom he has already been collaborating for two years within the youth sector.

Born in Genova on the 11th of August 1965, he is close to the end of his second season with Juventus as technical instructor within the youth sector. This is the latest stage in a career which saw him first as a player (for a number of important team such as Parma, Napoli, Avellino and Sambenedettese) and then as coach of Serie D teams like Portosummaga, Conegliano, Chioggia and Cattolica.

Andrea Scanavino

Andrea Scanavino represents continuity in the technical staff. He will keep the role of athletic coach. His collaboration with Juventus will continue after he joined in 1999, the year in which he was enrolled as the person responsible for the recovery of injured players.

In these years he collaborated actively with all the professionals who came along: from Giampiero Ventrone (during the two periods of Marcello Lippi and with Carlo Ancelotti) up to Riccardo Capanna, and through the times with Massimo Neri during the Fabio Capello era and Antonio Pintus during the time of Didier Deschamps.

PRO - CONTRA AFTER RANIERI SACKED

2009-05-19T09:07:00.000-07:00

This statement from many figures and newspaper headline after Ranieri Fired

Gazzetta dello Sport
Ranieri pays - Ciro Ferrara replaces Claudio on the bench to try and protect Juve's third place
The former Juve boss: I am calm because I did my duty

Corriere dello Sport
Juve sensation: Ranieri is sacked! The team are immediately placed under Ciro Ferrara and Conte will arrive in June
Blanc: It's the right time for a shock

Tuttosport
Juve are released, Ranieri is finished: sacked!
Ferrara: Now it's time to rise again
Blanc: There needed to be a shock to save the Champions League place

Dailymail
Former Chelsea boss Ranieri booted out by Juventus after failing to peg back Mourinho
Claudio Ranieri could consider a return to England after being sacked by Juventus.

Moggi (former Juventus director)
“Juventus aren't accustomed to sackings in the final few weeks of the season - that's why the news is even more sensational,” Moggi said on R101.
“However, it has become common practice in football. If things don't go well then the Coach pays first then the directors.
“However, I don't think that Ranieri did so badly at Juve and he wasn't the wrong choice as Coach.”

Carlo Mazzone (Veteran Coach Serie A)
“Despite the final stumble I think Ranieri did well. He had to put up with a whole host of injuries and has mixed youngsters with experienced players.
“I would like to see what would happen if you give the same squad to any other highly rated Coach from the start of the season.”

Jean-Claude Blanc (President directur of juve).
“We want to thank Ranieri, but after the recent results and with Fiorentina just a point behind we have opted to put Ferrara in charge,”
“Ciro said that he was available yesterday and this morning we decided to give him the job. We will see what happens after the two remaining games of the season.
“We wanted to shake up the players and now it is up to them to show us a reaction.”

Ciro Ferrara (Coach of Juventus)
“The important thing is to get the players showing pride again - not much needs to be done to turn things around,”
“It only takes a few small things to get into or out of a crisis. I don't think the physical side is the problem.
“I want to be judged on what I do and my own abilities. I am not scared of putting myself out there, but it's clear that I need time to do things on a tactical and technical level.
“As for the national side, rest assured I will be available to Lippi from June 2. For now I am in charge of Juve for 15 days and then we will see.”

CANNAVARO IS BACK

2009-05-19T08:33:00.000-07:00

“Juventus have deposited the contract of Cannavaro that will be effective from July 1, 2009 to June 30, 2010,” a club statement reads.

It has been confirmed that Juventus have signed Azzurri skipper Fabio Cannavaro.

The 35-year-old left the Bianconeri to sign for Real Madrid after the Calciopoli scandal in 2006.

But Canna's contract at the Bernabeu expires this summer and he has been called back to Turin.

“Juventus have deposited the contract of Cannavaro that will be effective from July 1, 2009 to June 30, 2010,” a club statement reads.

The Neapolitan stopper won two Scudetti with Juve in 2004-05 and 2005-06 after signing from Inter in June 2004.

Cannavaro was a hero in the World Cup 2006 triumph and won the Ballon d'Or that year, but his performances have been questionable at times this season and his return has been opposed by angry fans who feel the centre-back deserted them three years ago.

“I am happy to return to Turin and to have the chance to wear the Juve shirt again,” Canna said yesterday.

“I'm disappointed that some fans have some bitter feelings after the glorious seasons we enjoyed together.

“However, I am convinced that I can win them over with professionalism and passion in this new adventure.”

FINALLY, RANIERI SACKED

2009-05-19T08:07:00.000-07:00

Like my prediction its just matter of time

“Juventus would like to thank Ranieri for the work he has done over the last two years,” a statement from the club reads.

Juventus have sacked Claudio Ranieri with just two games of the season left and made Ciro Ferrara caretaker Coach.

It has been a disappointing campaign for the Bianconeri, who have failed to secure any trophies and are in danger of sliding into fourth place.

After last weekend's 2-2 draw with Atalanta, the Juve directors held a crisis meeting with President Giovanni Cobolli Gigli this morning and they have decided to end the Ranieri era early.

“Juventus would like to thank Ranieri for the work he has done over the last two years,” a statement from the club reads.

“We wish the new boss Ferrara immediate success in his new position.”

Ferrara will be presented to the Press at 5.15pm and will take charge of training today.

JUVE VS ATALANTA 2 - 2

2009-05-17T19:34:00.000-07:00

PLAYER STATISTICS
JUVENTUS

Buffon- 6.5: Nothing he could do on either goal and he was visibly frustrated with the slow reactions of his defenders. The Italian international made some smart stops from Doni and Cerci.

Grygera- 5.0: He was not very involved in any capacity, being pinned back in his own half by Atalanta's attack.

Mellberg- 5.5: He is never up to the standard of Chiellini and struggled to deal with any burst of pace, being turned on a few occasions. He did well dealing with aerial threats.

Legrottaglie- 6.0: Unluckily, a deflection off the former Siena player took the ball past Buffon for the opening goal. He nearly made up for it when his header hit the woodwork.

De Ceglie- 7.0: the best of the Juventus backline, he was always well positioned in attack and defence and made plenty of runs forward on the left side.

Camoranesi- 6.0: He made many incisive movements forward in the first half, but the end product was constantly lacking from the winger.

Zanetti- 6.5: He added some poise to the Bianconeri midfield and scored an absolutely stunning goal with a volley from outside the area!

Poulsen- 4.5: Overall, a sloppy match, he was constantly nervous in possession and lost the ball on too many occasions. He nearly gifted Atalanta the winner with a weak header back to Buffon. He also missed a header from point-blank range at the other end.

Nedved- 7.5: The Czech veteran struggled to get into the match at first, but his influence grew as the match went on. He assisted Iaquinta's goal and set up many more chances for his team-mates.

Amauri- 6.5: A frustrating match for the ex-Palermo hitman, who held the ball up well and also saw a header cannon back off the woodwork.

Iaquinta- 7.0: He never stopped running and was rewarded with another goal for his efforts, his tenth in Serie A this season.

Substitutes

Del Piero- 6.0, Trezeguet - 6.0, Zebina - N/A

ATALANTA

Consigli- 8.0: The Italy Under-21 shot-stopper made a number of fine saves, including a fantastic one from Del Piero in the late stages to keep the scores level at 2-2.

Garics- 6.5: Put in a good display before being subbed due to injury in the 41st minute.

Capelli- 6.0: He was unable to effectively deal with Juventus' build-up play on their first goal, but otherwise turned in a commendable performance.

Manfredini- 7.0: The central-defender made few mistakes and was solid at the back for the entire match.

Bellini- 6.5: The left-back has been a bright spot for the team this season and continued that trend by doing plenty of chasing and blocking crosses.

Defendi- 6.5: He missed a great chance to score at the end of the first-half, when he turned the ball over the net from close range, but he worked hard.

Parravacini- 5.0: He lacks the intensity of the suspended Guarente and was not much of a force in the midfield for the Orobici.

Cigarini- 7.5: His deflected strike opened the scoring and he almost had another when his long range effort smashed against the post. He was one of the top performers in this match with a number of impressive passes.

Cerci- 5.0: The Roma-owned winger has simply been unable to perform in Serie A and misplaced a number of passed throughout the match.

Doni- 7.0: The veteran keeps on ticking, he helped to set up the first goal and was always involved in attack for the visitors.

Plasmati- 7.0: He worked hard to keep Mellberg and Legrottaglie busy and was unfortunate to hit the crossbar, not once, but twice, in the second-half.

Substitutes

Pellegrino- 6.5, Peluso - 6.0, Girasole - N/A

JUVENTUS VS ATALANTA

2009-05-15T17:15:00.001-07:00

Optimistic Juventus fans will talk to you about the team’s four-game unbeaten run. Their pessimistic counterparts will simply give you a stat – five points from the last 18 available.

This game will be played behind closed doors, as Juve lost their appeal against a one-match ban for racist chanting at Mario Balotelli during the Derby d'Italia.

Some may think the Bianconeri’s season is over. What with Inter a win away from the Scudetto and Milan four points in the distance, there is certainly cause to think so. However, the last three games of the season will be crucial in deciding Italy’s final two entrants in next year’s Champions League.

Juventus still have chance of finishing second, but with fourth placed Fiorentina just three points behind them, victory over Atalanta becomes all the more important. The momentum is certainly with the Viola, who have won six of their last seven games, scoring 13 goals and keeping clean sheets in each of their previous two outings.

Staving off Fiorentina is very important in two respects. If Juventus slip to fourth they will be awarded a lot less prize money. That, in turn, will restrict their ability to rebuild the team in the summer transfer window and possibly collapse the Diego deal.

What’s more, by finishing fourth instead of third, Juventus will have to start the season almost a month earlier and take part in the preliminary stages of the Champions League.

Luckily for the Bianconeri, Atalanta are the team travelling to Turin this weekend, carrying with them a bout of inconsistency. The Orobici have only won two of their last 10 games and are safely ensconced in mid-table with barely anything to play for this season.

Over 10 points clear of both the relegation dogfight and the last Europa League places, Atalanta are already on the beach.

Gigi Del Neri looks set to leave the club in the summer and a lot of the appetite the team showed earlier this season appears to have evaporated. However, Juventus will be wary of the fact Atalanta beat Inter and Roma this season and deserved a victory over Milan.

Keep an eye on: Vincenzo Iaquinta (Juventus) – The 29-year-old striker is quite a conundrum. He has scored nine goals in just 15 starts this season, most of which have come over the last two months, begging the question: Why did Ranieri not play him earlier in the campaign? However, his form has coincided with the Bianconeri’s worst spell of the season, giving one the impression that the team isn’t as good as a whole with Iaquinta in it.

Last season: Juventus 1-0 Atalanta

Form guide: Juventus (L D D D D) Atalanta (D L W L D)

Arsenal very interest with Chiellini

2009-05-13T16:56:00.000-07:00

"Giorgio signed a renewal in July with Juventus and, even though I am not his agent, I can tell you that there is a difference between talking about a deal and actually doing one," Claudio Chiellini said."I think that a departure is just pure fantasy."

Arsenal are looking for defensive cover and they are looking to sign Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini.

The Gunners defence has not been physically tough enough to withstand physically imposing strikers like Chelsea's Didier Drogba.

Chelsea thumped Arsenal 4-1 with Drogba playing a key role in that defeat.

Arsene Wenger's side have now conceded 36 goals in the Premier League, which is already five more than last season and ten more than they surrendered when they last won the league in 2003/04.

Reports at the weekend suggest the Londoners have targeted a move for 24-year-old Chiellini to bolster their ranks, but the Italian international won't come cheap.

Indeed, it is somewhat unlikely that Juventus will even consider selling the former Fiorentina star, but in the event they are prepared to listen to offers, they would want at least £15million.

But the Chiellini's brother Claudio Chiellini denies all link , "Giorgio signed a renewal in July with Juventus and, even though I am not his agent, I can tell you that there is a difference between talking about a deal and actually doing one," Claudio Chiellini said.

"I think that a departure is just pure fantasy."

Juve-Ranieri, all over now Time to choose his successor

2009-05-12T17:27:00.000-07:00

The relationship between Claudio Ranieri and Juventus is over. Reuters

one declaration from president Cobolli Gigli. It was succinct: “I am in total agreement with Blanc and am more than ever a fan of Juventus. I am disappointed, but I still believe that we can finish second.”

The Bianconeri have decided to divorce their coach at the end of the season,For next season Spalletti would really like Prandelli, but some of the club’s administrators would like Gasperini. Conte, Giampaolo and Ballardini are the outsiders.
The piece of paper is now redundant. This is the first irony: a contract, black on white, ties Claudio Ranieri to Juventus. It expires in June 2010. However, despite that, the only certainty is that Ranieri’s time as Juventus coach is over. He will leave in a month at the most. The feeble performance against Lecce has accelerated everything. The club’s directors are also on the counterattack. The board of directors meets on Wednesday 13 May. No urgent decision will be taken before then. Ranieri will only be coach for the next three games. Ferrara is ready to step in, but only if a heavy defeat in three matches moves everything forward. During this (confused) wait the club’s directors are keeping quiet. There has been just one declaration from president Cobolli Gigli. It was succinct: “I am in total agreement with Blanc and am more than ever a fan of Juventus. I am disappointed, but I still believe that we can finish second.”

FAVOURITE

The president said nothing else, there being no need. They want solutions and they want them fast. Many ideas are flying around. There is a possibility of Spalletti. Negotiations (albeit informal ones) have already begun, but no agreement has been reached. The club made this clear immediately after the defeat to Lazio. There is no agreement, but an idea that they are exploring and that the club’s owners are particularly keen on. Downsides? Spalletti is now ready to leave Roma, but he earns the grand sum of 2 million euros net per season. Then he would also bring his six person staff to Turin, costing another 1 million euros net per season. Spalletti is a man of experience, a coach capable of challenging Inter’s leadership. They prefer him to Prandelli, who anyway does not want to leave Florence.

STUFF AND NONSENSE

There are a number of ideas in the air, including one pushed by some club directors who would prefer an emerging coach . They would prefer Gianpiero Gasperini, the Genoa coach, the miracle maker. “Stuff and nonsense,” replied Enrico Preziosi, Genoa’s president. A joke, but also (primarily) a response to Juventus, which yesterday initiated contacts with Genoa with the aim of convincing the club to let go of its trainer, who is under contract until 2012. It will be discussed again in a few days. Gasperini gained his early coaching experience with the Juventus youth team and will not simply dismiss the idea of returning to Turin. However Gasperini is (above all) a loyal man, with close ties to the Genoa fans and president Preziosi. But, their mutual esteem also means that they cannot close down to any possibility. Preziosi will not stop his trainer from accepting an unrefusable offer from Juventus. Aside from Gasperini there are two other new interesting possibilities, coaches with clear ideas and personalities: Giampaolo from Siena and Ballardini from Palermo. Two new names and a name mostly on the fans' minds probably:: Antonio Conte. But real decisions need to be made, and quickly. Then comes the contract. However that is just a detail.

Criscito back to juve

2009-05-12T17:13:00.000-07:00

Juventus-owned defender Domenico Criscito will return to Turin from Genoa at the end of the season, according to his representative.

The former Azzurrini star has been on loan at Marassi where he has impressed in an overachieving side.

Genoa could try to sign Criscito permanently, but his agent expects him to return to the Stadio Olimpico.

“The clubs are yet to sort out his future, but I don't think Genoa will sign him,” Sandro Gedda said in Tuttosport.

“They will be meeting soon. However, if they fail to reach an agreement then he will return to Juve.

“Nothing has been decided yet though and his future is in Genoa's hands.”

The future of Criscito may be linked to that of striker Raffaele Palladino, who is co-owned by Juventus and Genoa.

MILAN VS JUVENTUS 1 - 1

2009-05-10T17:20:00.000-07:00

“We reactivated ourselves. Unfortunately the break for international duty had seen us lose our way, but tonight we saw the Juventus side that was concentrated, united and knew what had to be done,” insisted the Coach Mr. Ranieri.

Vincenzo Iaquinta replied to Clarence Seedorf's opener as a 1-1 draw leaves Milan seven points adrift of Inter. This means next week a victory over Siena will crown the Nerazzurri champions. This was practically a play-off for second place and the two sides could not be on more different form.

The Rossoneri had won seven out of eight games, while Juve were without a victory in 50 days and conceded 11 goals in their last five Serie A games. The Bianconeri were unbeaten at San Siro since a 3-1 result on October 29 2005, but had Pavel Nedved and Olof Mellberg suspended along with the injured Momo Sissoko, Christian Molinaro, Hasan Salihamidzic, Albin Ekdal, Dario Knezevic, Claudio Marchisio and Zdenek Grygera. Captain Alessandro Del Piero was sensationally dropped in favour of Amauri and Vincenzo Iaquinta for what would've been his 600th game for the club.

Milan welcomed Gennaro Gattuso back to the bench a full month ahead of schedule following knee ligament surgery in December. Marco Borriello, Alessandro Nesta, Kakha Kaladze, Christian Abbiati and Luca Antonini were still sidelined, while David Beckham struggled with an ankle problem, but Nelson Dida did not recover in time. Beckham was the first player booked after three minutes for a late sliding tackle on Marco Marchionni. Juve had the first chance with Iaquinta knocking down a cross for Mauro Camoranesi to volley over from eight yards.

Kaka threaded through for Pippo Inzaghi, but Gigi Buffon rushed off his line to smother. Juve threatened again as Marchionni was sent clear on goal, but Mathieu Flamini came flying in with a decisive tackle. Moments later Iaquinta went on a run from midfield, but again Flamini helped Paolo Maldini dispossess him when lining up the shot from eight yards. Inzaghi bundled his way past Giorgio Chiellini to volley Clarence Seedorf's chipped pass over the bar.

Iaquinta wanted a penalty, but he seemed to be tussling 50-50 with Flamini. Kaka slalomed his way through a series of players to go one-on-one with Buffon, who used his feet to clear. Iaquinta's volley tested Kalac and Buffon risked fumbling a Kaka snapshot. Inzaghi could not get his foot to the end of a Kaka cross as he tried to acrobatically hit the volley. Christian Poulsen was allowed to cut in through the middle undisturbed as the strikers drew the centre-backs away, but his low drive was off target. Inzaghi's volley flashed across the face of goal from a very tight angle as he got on the end of Andrea Pirlo's pass. After the restart Inzaghi nodded a Beckham corner wide from six yards. Juve went even closer as Iaquinta sprung the offside trap and his shot cannoned off Kalac's chest, but Flamini anticipated Amauri to the loose ball. Another Cristiano Zanetti long ball released Iaquinta and this time Kalac came flying out to hoof it clear. Seedorf went on a counter only to balloon well over from the edge of the box, earning jeers from the San Siro crowd.

Milan broke the deadlock with a classic counter-attack. Iaquinta's free kick in the final third was charged down and a counter was sparked sending Inzaghi clear from his own half - so the offside trap did not apply. He cut back for Ambrosini's scuffed shot which turned into an assist for Seedorf to tap in from a yard. Iaquinta equalised a few minutes later with a diving header at the back post from Camoranesi's sweeping cross. He held off Flamini with great strength to beat Kalac from nine yards. Flamini blasted wide from distance and Poulsen was booked for blatantly hauling back Kaka on another counter. There was tension between Maldini and Giorgio Chiellini as a corner was floated in and both were yellow carded. Alexandre Pato replaced the not 100 per cent fit Beckham, while De Ceglie fell on to his ribs (which he fractured earlier this season) and made way for Jonathan Zebina. Buffon fumbled a Kaka angled drive and another Brazilian effort was deflected out for a corner off Nicola Legrottaglie. Inzaghi's fierce volley whistled inches over the bar in his last kick of the game, as he was replaced by Ronaldinho. Del Piero came on for Amauri and marked his 600th appearance in a Juventus jersey. The captain immediately had a great chance, but slipped on the surface as he pulled the trigger. Zebina charged down Dinho's shot, but Camoranesi selfishly wasted a counter by going for an unlikely lob when Del Piero would've gone clear on goal nine minutes from time. Pato wanted a penalty, but the referee judged Legrottaglie's risky tackle from behind to be fair. Moments later Favalli went through the back of Del Piero for a second yellow card, leaving Milan with 10 men for the final five minutes. Pato's accurate shot was charged down and Kaka also slipped when trying to get the rebound.

Ronaldinho also wanted a spot-kick for a coming-together with Chiellini, but again the referee waved play on and this time there was no doubt on the replays he got the ball.
Milan failed to take advantage of Zebina's howler, while Dinho failed to get his head on to Pirlo's free kick by a matter of inches from six yards. Kalac smothered a Legrottaglie snapshot, but 10-man Milan kept pouring forward and were unable to find a winner.

THIS IS PLAYER RATINGS :

Milan

Kalac- 6.5: Called into question on numerous occasions. Despite having to parry more than once, he could do little on the goal which was muscled goal-bound from close range.

Flamini- 6.0: Played a great game until the Juve goal, hence the lower rating. Whilst he is still adapting to the full-back role, he clearly wasn’t strong enough when dealing with a determined Iaquinta inside the box.

Favalli- 5.0: The former Lazio man started well but was often out-muscled by the physical play of the Juve forwards. Given his experience he could have avoided a second bookable offence.

Maldini- 6.5 : A competent display from the veteran, he showed Chiellini he isn’t going soft in his old age when taking the Juve stopper by the scruff of the neck.

Zambrotta- 5.5: The former Juve man was positive going forward but a little suspect at the back. Like Flamini he made heavy work of containing Iaquinta who imposed his strength on every attack.

Pirlo- 7.0: The Italian put some great balls over the top for Inzaghi and had Pippo been on target he could well have been on the assist sheet.

Beckham- 7.0: Becks left to a round of applause from the Giuseppe Meazza. Despite his age, he is still more than capable of displaying a professional performance at the highest level and his crossing regular proved dangerous.

Ambrosini- 6.5: He may look to claim for the assist but his say in the Milan goal was simply a scuffed shot that fell in the path of Seedorf. Nevertheless the ageing midfielder kept on going and did well to help out going forward.

Kaka- 7.0: Mr €100m put in his regular elegant performance creating numerous chances for Inzaghi. With a little more protection from Orsato, he could have proven decisive as he looked to run at Juve.

Seedorf- 7.0: The Dutchman left the field once again to a pocket of whistles from the home crowd. Despite the strange objection from his home support, he combined well with Kaka to give De Ceglie a headache throughout.

Inzaghi- 7.5: SuperPippo continues to roll back the years with impressive performances at the highest level. Always a constant threat, the former Juve man created one and could have had a couple himself had he been on target following some ambitious volleying.

Substitutes

Pato – 6.0, Ronaldinho- 5.5, Senderos- N/A

Juventus

Buffon- 6.5: There was little he could do on the goal. With most of Milan’s close chances being sprayed wide, the Italian No. 1 wasn’t called upon too frequently.

Grygera- 6.5: The fullback made several good runs forward and limited Milan's influence down his side of the pitch. Had a penalty shout waved away in the first half.

Legrottaglie- 7.0: The former Siena man stepped in when called to and made a decisive challenge on Ronaldinho that sparked cries for a penalty from the Rossoneri.

Chiellini- 8.0: He put in a very concrete performance to step in on numerous occasions and deny the Rossoneri the chance to run at the Juve goal. Buffon wasn’t called upon too often thanks to Giorgio’s expert reading of the game.

De Ceglie- 5.5: He was given a hard time by Kaka and Seedorf for large spells, as they continuously switched roles. The youngster was caught napping as Milan broke to take the lead.

Camoranesi- 7.5: The Italo-Argentinean finally put in the performance he is paid for. Staying out of trouble and whipping constant crosses in for the big-man in the box, he was the spark behind much of the Juve forward play.

Poulsen- 4.5: Yet again the Dane looked out of his depth and could only contain the opposition with rash last ditch challenges. Had Orsato been a little stricter, Poulsen could well have finished early for a second bookable offence.

Zanetti- 7.0: He put in a professional performance at the heart of midfield and is an example to Poulsen on how to stay out of trouble whilst still keeping the opposition at bay.

Marchionni- 5.5: The zippy winger got himself into good forward positions at times, but he wasted a golden chance to put his side ahead in the first period when he was fed through on goal by Amauri

Amauri- 7.0: The Brazilian put in a real shift tonight. Testament to this was his request to be substituted with a quarter of an hour to go; His legs simply couldn’t give any more.

Iaquinta- 8.5: The stocky forward was a handful throughout and showed his power to beat Flamini to the ball inside the box. With performances like tonight’s it is a wonder why Ranieri hasn’t given Vincenzo more faith over the course of the season.

Substitutes

Del Piero- 6.5, Zebina- N/A

PREVIEW Milan VS JUVENTUS

2009-05-08T18:40:00.000-07:00

It’s practically a play-off for second place and therefore the ability to say this season has not been a total failure.

Both sides will end the campaign empty-handed – as Inter boss Jose Mourinho has been at pains to point out – as it’s very unlikely Milan will be able to close the seven-point gap at the top in four rounds. Juventus were the principle challengers for the Scudetto until a sensational collapse that has seen them go seven games without victory amid in-fighting, transfer gossip and even talk of a caretaker Coach to replace Claudio Ranieri should this fixture end in an embarrassing defeat.

“We simply cannot do without Kaka,” confessed Carlo Ancelotti after the Brazilian’s recent return to full fitness coincided with a run of seven wins from eight games. “You can see how important he is to the side.” The Ballon d’Or winner has scored four goals in his last three matches and inspired many more.

Yet he is not the real form player for Milan right now, as that title belongs to SuperPippo Inzaghi with an astounding 11 goals from eight rounds. It is always a special occasion for him to face his former club and with the team in this form, it’s no wonder Ronaldinho has been left on the bench for the last month.

Alexander Pato is still recovering from injury, but his pace could be a very useful asset against the decimated Juve defence. Carlo Ancelotti could stick with the Christmas Tree formation and Clarence Seedorf, who has an excellent record against the Bianconeri.

These teams have been beset by injuries this season and the list still includes Gennaro Gattuso, Marco Borriello, Alessandro Nesta, Kakha Kaladze, Christian Abbiati and Luca Antonini on one side, Momo Sissoko, Hasan Salihamidzic, Albin Ekdal, Dario Knezevic, Claudio Marchisio and Zdenek Grygera on the other.

Juventus have two other problems to contend with, as Pavel Nedved and Olof Mellberg are suspended for this tie after picking up yellow cards. Nicola Legrottaglie and Giorgio Chiellini hope to recover from their niggles in time to take the centre-back slots and Jonathan Zebina could be the choice to fill out the defence.

Ranieri is hanging by a thread and this week general manager Jean-Claude Blanc would only back his tactician by urging “unity for the next four games, then we’ll see.” The Coach is regularly insulted by fans and there was a reported locker-room row with Mauro Camoranesi at half-time against Lecce. Gianluigi Buffon stormed out after just three minutes and spent the break wandering by himself around the pitch, spotted muttering the phrase “I can’t take this any more.”

There are rumours Buffon will request a transfer in the summer with Milan first in line to snap him up, having come so close to getting the goalkeeper in 2006. He certainly can’t be happy at conceding 11 goals in the last five Serie A games, as Juve haven’t kept a clean sheet since the Turin derby on March 7 and have shown an alarming tendency to let in stoppage-time efforts.

If the Camoranesi report is true, then he could be shelved for this big game in favour of Marco Marchionni with Sebastian Giovinco possibly taken out of storage to replace Nedved on the left. Alessandro Del Piero was also substituted at half-time and has had a distracting week with the birth of daughter Dorotea on Tuesday, but Il Capitano will partner either Amauri or Vincenzo Iaquinta. It looks as if David Trezeguet’s agent calling for “respect” from the Coach will be in vain.

Recent years have been very even at San Siro with all three results in the editions preceding this one. Last term it may have ended goalless, but the goalkeepers performed heroics to keep it that way. Juve’s happiest memory of this stadium is on May 8 2005, when David Trezeguet’s header secured the Scudetto in a 1-0 victory. There is another more burning result as they conquered the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza 6-1 in April 1997.

Keep an eye on: Pippo Inzaghi (Milan) – The former Juventus striker has a better scoring rate than players a decade his junior and hopes to continue that streak of 11 goals in eight games against his old teammates and an already nervous Bianconeri defence.

INJURED & SUSPENDED
The Bianconeri too have many injured players, as Claudio Marchisio, Albin Ekdal, Momo Sissoko, Hasan Salihamidzic, Dario Knezevic and Christian Molinaro are unfit to participate. However, it appears that Nicola Legrottaglie and Giorgio Chiellini will both be fit to play in central defence.

Olof Mellberg and Pavel Nedved are sure to miss out with suspensions, while Amauri, Chiellini, Tiago and Zdenek Grygera are all one booking from a ban.

PLAYERS TO WATCH
Amauri will receive most of the defensive attention from Milan, and for good reason. He has scored just twelve goals this term and has created many more for his team-mates. While it is not entirely his fault, goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has allowed eleven goals in the last five matches. As recently as earlier this season he was called the best goalkeeper in the world, so he needs to start conceding less goals.

Last season: Milan 0-0 Juventus

Form guide: Milan (W W W W W) Juventus (D L D D D)

Diego+Juventus a done deal Cobolli confirms Buffon is staying

2009-05-08T17:36:00.000-07:00

"Buffon is right to want to win, he's totally right and we want that too. Even the fact that we are going after a huge star like Diego and others, means that we want to make sure we are in the right shape to be even more competitive". Cobolli

MILAN, 7 May 2009 - It's a done deal. After the visit of the Werder legal team yesterday to Turin to discuss the release to Juventus of Brazil playmaker Diego, the club chairman Jean-Claude Blanc and sports director Alessio Secco took a private flight to Bremen last night and reached an agreement with Werder Bremen to buy the player. A few remaining loose ends need to be tied up before it becomes official, although the agreement which leapfrogged Bayern Munich (the main rival in the operation), is a done deal.

Werder get €25 million and the player a fee of €3.5 million for five years. Bayern had made a last-minute bid but Werder remained faithful to agreements made with Juventus and the price was not altered.

Buffon staying put In the meantime, Juventus chairman Giovanni Cobolli Gigli ruled out any transfer of Buffon. "Even the value of inestimable assets like skyscrapers or monuments (I don't know what to compare Buffon to) can dip at such difficult economic times as these. Nevertheless, Buffon is invaluble to us, he's a true champion and as far as we're concerned, he's staying here" he commented on the issue of swapping goalies with Milan who would give Abbiati in order to get the Italian national goalkeeper.

"Buffon", added Cobolli, "is right to want to win, he's totally right and we want that too. Even the fact that we are going after a huge star like Diego and others, means that we want to make sure we are in the right shape to be even more competitive".

In the other side The player’s father and agent, Djair da Cunha, is confirm that “Is it a done deal ? Yes, you can say so,” he enthused in an interview with the Corriere dello Sport.So we'll have a new trequartista , Welcome diego .

Buffon-Abbiati swap deal

2009-05-07T17:13:00.000-07:00

“I also don't think that Juventus will sell Buffon. I think people are exaggerating his loss of form. The Old Lady are having a tough time, but they want to make a competitive team so they need champions like Gigi.” said Vincenzo Morabito

Milan are rekindling their interest in Juventus goalkeeper Gigi Buffon and reportedly believe he can be exchanged for Christian Abbiati plus cash.

The Rossoneri have long been admirers of Buffon and tried to sign him when the Bianconeri were relegated to Serie B in 2006.

The Italy No 1 is frustrated at life in Turin and appears open to either a move abroad or to the club of his grandfather's cousin, Milan.

Juventus are said to want £40m for Buffon, but Silvano Martina, the player's agent, believes he is worth half that figure.

Manchester City apparently made a bid of £70m for the 31-year-old in January only to sign Shay Given later that month.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Abbiati has been inserted into the potential transfer to offer Juve a replacement and to bring the cash deal down.

Abbiati spent a season on loan with Juventus three years ago after Buffon was injured against Milan in the Luigi Berlusconi Trophy Final.

He made 19 appearances for the Bianconeri before Milan sent him on loan to Torino and then Atlético Madrid.

Abbiati returned to the Rossoneri this summer and established himself as their No 1 until a knee ligament injury ended his season.

The 31-year-old will be out for six months at the very least and his physical condition will have to be factored into any deal for Buffon.

Comment of Abbiati's Agent

The other place milan goalkeeper Christian Abbiati has no intention of leaving the Rossoneri in an exchange deal with Gigi Buffon, according to his representative.

There have been whispers that the unsettled Buffon will be exchanged for Abbiati and a significant cash sum.

But Vincenzo Morabito, who protects Abbiati's interests, doesn't think the transfer is likely.

“This is strange talk because Abbiati is recovering from a serious injury and may not even be available before August,” he told Tuttojuve.

“Besides, Christian is happy at Milan and not even thinking about any other options for his future.

“He had numerous options last season, but he made his choice and I think he will stay with the Diavolo.

“I also don't think that Juventus will sell Buffon. I think people are exaggerating his loss of form. The Old Lady are having a tough time, but they want to make a competitive team so they need champions like Gigi.”

Blanc give chances to Ranieri

2009-05-06T17:16:00.000-07:00

“We will concentrate on the remaining four games and on doing as well as we can. We have the quality and mentality to emerge from this situation. I've asked for unity in these four games, then we will see.”

General manager Jean-Claude Blanc backs Claudio Ranieri, but asked for “unity in these four games, then we'll see.”
A few weeks ago the Bianconeri chief had given his Coach unconditional support, but he confessed to television cameras that things have changed.

“The figures in a club are tied to the results on the field. Today's message is we are all on the same boat. As directors we are capable of making decisions and right now the decision is to all work together on our path for the final weeks of the season.”
Today he called Ranieri to the club headquarters for an emergency meeting and then held the squad in the locker room for 90 minutes to discuss the seven-match winless streak.

“What is happening to Juve? It's a difficult moment in sport and the fact we have not won in 45 days is weighing on us,” Blanc told Sky Sport Italia.
“It was right to talk to the whole team and the staff, sharing what needs to be done an the objectives we must achieve. We came together and are united.

“In October we went through a similar period, so we will take the same steps and try to emerge from this crisis the way we did back then.”
Ranieri hinted he felt abandoned by the club hierarchy in recent weeks, so Blanc and director of sport Alessio Secco have pledged to change that situation.

“It was right we talk to Ranieri and we have taken the decision to spend more time together. We are checking the details more carefully in an important week that leads up to Milan-Juve.”
This coming weekend there is a head-to-head for second place at San Siro and there are reports another embarrassing setback could see the Coach sacked or resign.
“[Patron John] Elkann was right when he said a season can only be evaluated at the end,” continued Blanc.

“We will concentrate on the remaining four games and on doing as well as we can. We have the quality and mentality to emerge from this situation. I've asked for unity in these four games, then we will see.”
It is hardly a glowing recommendation and also hints that talk of a furious row within the Juventus locker-room has truth to it, specifically that Mauro Camoranesi was livid at half-time against Lecce when he was substituted.

Blanc moved to silence newspaper reports that Ciro Ferrara will be put in place as the caretaker Coach if Juventus lose to Milan.
“It is not true that we will put Ferrara on the bench. We will keep going with this staff until the end of the season.
“The club is on Ranieri's side. This is a difficult moment. But enough of the criticism, I demand respect for the work done by our staff.

“With the work Juve is doing, they do not deserve such strong criticism. A little respect would also help on an international level, so people could see Italian football doesn't just destroy everything with this criticism.”

Hard work at Vinovo

In the other place, Juventus had training with something different this afternoon.

The programme was different for some of the bianconeri compared to the one in the morning: Claudio Marchisio, after having worked in the gym at the start of the day, took part in the warm-up with his team mates and then proceeded to work with coach Riccardo Capanna. Legrottaglie first had an athletic session and then returned to the gym while Zdenek Grygera who in the morning trained in a separate session with the other defender joined the group in technical exercises. After, Grygera worked in the gym with Del Piero, Chiellini and Iaquinta while the other players moved to the field adjacent to the main one for some intense athletic training.

Mellberg and Knezevic also worked in the gym, while Hasan Salihamidzic and Momo Sissoko were busy with a light jog during which they returned to working with the ball. Cristian Molinaro who is once again suffering of abdominal pain is still resting.

BABY BOOM AT JUVENTUS

2009-05-05T17:51:00.000-07:00

“Sonia and I have become parents again,” announced the happy captain on his official website.

There is a baby boom at Juventus, as after Gigi Buffon’s partner fell pregnant, Alessandro Del Piero welcomed a daughter this morning.

“Sonia and I have become parents again,” announced the happy captain on his official website.

“Dorotea is born and we are very happy to share this wonderful event. Mother and child are doing well.

“We thank you for the numerous messages of affection. Alessandro.”
Del Piero and his wife Sonia already have a son, Tobias, who was born on October 22 2007.

The news comes on the same day that it was rumoured Buffon’s partner Alena Seredova is expecting a second child.

BUFFON FRUSTATION WITH JUVE CONDITION

2009-05-04T16:44:00.000-07:00

Buffon : "We are playing like s***, we are a disgrace. Do you realise? Yes or no?" he asked his team-mates according to Il Corriere Dello Sport.

Juventus star Gianluigi Buffon admits he has become frustrated at the club this season.

The Italian No.1 has been criticised at times this season, even though Juve are still in third in Serie A and pushing AC Milan for second.This has led Buffon to consider his future, despite the fact he has four years left on his current deal.

"I have been criticised for the past six months," Buffon told French daily L'Equipe. "It is like I am not allowed to concede any goals. But it is part of the game."I am 31 and I understand when I make a mistake or not. But what I know for sure is that I feel good.

Just watch my games."Nobody can say that Juve have lost a game because of me this season. That is the reality. My contract runs until 2013, a lot of time is left until then."We have to know what team will be formed next year, and I hope it will be an even more competitive one.

What I want to do is sit back and assess what is going on at the club."At the end of the day, I will make a decision".

And after embarrassing 2-2 home draw to Lecce, which left the team four points adrift of Milan.

It is claimed the squad was kept in the locker room for half an hour after the game in a crisis meeting with President Giovanni Cobolli Gigli, general manager Jean-Claude Blanc and director of sport Alessio Secco.

There was further controversy when Buffon walked out during the half-time break, at which point Juve were trailing 1-0.

The goalkeeper spent only three minutes in the locker room and waited for the rest of the break in and around the pitch, where he was seen pacing and muttering angrily to himself.

“Buffon was angry and he was right to be,” explained teammate Vincenzo Iaquinta.

“We should all be angry, because it is not possible to throw away a season like this. We have to understand the causes and not lose our cool.

“The fans have every right to protest, but this climate is certainly not ideal to get the best out of us.

“We still have a chance of reaching our objectives, although we can make no more mistakes.”

Ranieri admitted his future depended on “whether the club continues to have faith in its Coach.”

He could get the answer sooner rather than later, as it is reported an emergency Board of Directors meeting has been arranged for the next few days.

JUVENTUS VS LECCE 2 - 2

2009-05-03T16:20:00.000-07:00

WHAT IS YOUR REASON NOW RANIERI?

Claudio Ranieri admits he doesn't know why Juventus are faltering so badly and will only continue “if the club has faith in the Coach.”

The Bianconeri were held to a 2-2 draw by Lecce and are now without a win in five games, dropping four points off Milan in second place.

“We were visibly more tired than Lecce and we'll talk over the reasons in the week. They train hard and run with great enthusiasm, so I don't know what could've happened.”

The Stadio Olimpico crowd was furious and aimed numerous chants against the players, tacticians and club directors.

“It isn't pleasing to see those protests, but sometimes they can act as a motivating force,” noted Ranieri.

“We may run more, but we're not really going anywhere because we are tactically not as united and organised. In effect it tires us out.

“I already said 10 days ago that we have to stay quiet and do our best. As with every business, at the end of the season we'll see if the objectives have been reached and our plans for the future.

“If the club still has faith in its Coach then we can carry on. It has been a terrible month, so we have to roll our sleeves up and dig ourselves out of this hole.

“I only see one Juventus and we are all working together to achieve our objectives. We try to win the games, but recently have struggled to do so and we know that more than anyone.”

Once again Juve conceded on counter-attacks and were caught out in stoppages against Lecce.

“I am not accusing the defence specifically, as we score and concede all together, but we have been leaking goals repeatedly for a month.

“The fans are right to be disappointed and so are we. We wanted to end the season on a high and are not managing it. In football what you do today counts, not the day before, so we must get ourselves back on track.”

This afternoon Fabio Cannavaro flew in to Italy for his medical in Perugia, ready to complete a free transfer from Real Madrid.

“There is no meeting with Cannavaro on the agenda,” commented Ranieri.

This is the player rating from Goal.com

Buffon- 7.0: Little he could do on either goal and he made a world class save on Tiribocchi late on in the proceedings.

Grygera- 5.5: Dealt well with the threat of Ariatti, but offered little else on the evening.

Mellberg- 6.5: In the first half he struggled with the pace of Konan, but the Swede was a threat in the air on set pieces.

Legrottaglie- 6.5: Kept Tiribocchi quiet for large portions of the match and can be relatively proud of his performance.

De Ceglie- 5.0: The player has been unable to have an impact since returning from injury and today was no different for the left-back.

Camoranesi- 5.5: An ineffective showing from the Italo-Argentine and he was removed at ahlf-time because of it.

Zanetti- 5.0: He was far better against Reggina last week. Against the Salentini, he made far too many wayward passes.

Nedved- 7.5: A constant threat down the left and played in plenty of crosses. His brace was the right rewards for his efforts on the day.

Iaquinta- 6.5: Full of running down the right side and always offered an option up front. However, he missed a sitter in the first-half.

Amauri- 7.5: An excellent return to the starting XI for the Brazilian, who held up the ball well and caused plenty of problems for Lecce, even assisting the first goal.

Del Piero- 6.0: Had a few tricks up his sleeve, but besides hitting the post was largely anonymous and removed at half-time.

Substitutes

Poulsen - 6.0, Marchionni- 6.5, Zebina- N/A

LECCE

Benussi- 6.0: Made a few good interceptions and parries, but he could have done better to prevent Nedved's second strike.

Polenghi- 4.5: Nedved was able to constantly beat him to the ball, overall a poor performance.

Fabiano- 7.0: Led the back-line with plenty of composure and even came close to scoring a late goal with a fizzing strike off a corner.

Esposito- 6.5: Certainly has a bright future ahead of him, Amauri always needed something special to get past the young defender.

Giuliatto- 5.5: Iaquinta often found space down his side, leaving Fabiano and Esposito with plenty of work to do for the entirety of the match.

Giacomazzi- 6.5: Played a nice through pass for the opening goal and was the creative force in midfield for the Giallorossi.

Edinho- 6.5: The Brazilian was active in midfield and helped his side back into the match by making excellent decisions with the ball at his feet.

Vives- 4.0: Did very little before being removed on 72 minutes as coach De Canio threw on a striker in search of an equalizer.

Ariatti- 5.0: The veteran midfield did very little playmaking and was not a factor for his side offensively or defensively.

Konan- 6.5: His pace caused plenty of difficulties for Juventus in the first half and he scored a fine goal, even if possibly offside. Nonetheless, he disappeared in the second half.

Tiribocchi- 6.5: The Roman was often isolated, but made some key plays at the end of the match leading to Lecce's late equalizer.

Substitutes

Papadopoulos- 6.5, Castillo- 7.0, Basta - N/A

Juventus stadium ban temporarily lifted

2009-05-02T15:27:00.000-07:00

Juventus win Balotelli challenge

Fans will be allowed to watch Juventus host Lecce in Serie A this weekend after an appeal court decided on Thursday to suspend a decision to ban supporters.

Juve were ordered to play Sunday's game behind closed doors by the Italian league after fans racially abused Inter Milan striker Mario Balotelli in a 1-1 draw in Turin earlier this month.

The club lost a first appeal at the Italian soccer federation on Tuesday but decided to appeal again to the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI).

CONI said in a statement the ban would be temporarily lifted pending a further hearing to examine the evidence on May 14.

Juve have slipped to third in Serie A having been knocked out of the Italian Cup semi-finals and the Champions League last 16.

PREVIEW JUVE VS LECCE

2009-05-01T15:56:00.000-07:00

It’s crisis time at Juventus and they come up against a Lecce side gambling with its last chances of survival.

Claudio Ranieri is facing calls to resign and a very public hunt for his successor in the media following the failure to capture any of their targets this season. The Bianconeri are out of the Champions League, Coppa Italia, Scudetto hunt and have now fallen two points adrift of Milan, so even the consolation of second place is at risk.

The dissection of the squad has already begun with inquests in the papers to find what is Juve’s ‘problem’. It is hardly the right atmosphere to go into the final five games, especially when they haven’t won a single match since the 4-1 triumph at Roma in Week 29. It might almost be a blessing that they will play this tie behind closed doors, as punishment for the racist abuse targeted at Inter’s Mario Balotelli.

Ranieri infuriated fans when he left Sebastian Giovinco in the stands last week in the 2-2 draw at bottom of the table Reggina, especially as captain Alessandro Del Piero was also substituted. Alex has made it clear he is not happy with the way the season is going and it will be interesting to see what front line the Coach picks this time. Vincenzo Iaquinta is on fine form, while Amauri and David Trezeguet have now recovered from injury.

Still out of action are Momo Sissoko, Hasan Salihamidzic, Albin Ekdal, Giorgio Chiellini, Dario Knezevic, Christian Molinaro, Claudio Marchisio and possibly Nicola Legrottaglie. This means youth team defender Lorenzo Ariaudo again looks set to start at centre-back with Olof Mellberg. Mauro Camoranesi and Tiago Mendes will feature after recent bans and Cristiano Zanetti, who scored his first Serie A goal in five years against Reggina, may be ready to start after a three-month lay-off.

Lecce, on the other hand, are riding on the enthusiasm of their first victory under Coach Gigi De Canio. The 2-1 over Catania last week was their first on home turf since September 28 and ended a 14-round winless streak. Curiously, the Salentini seem to raise their game in the toughest environments, as the last win before that was 2-1 away to Fiorentina and they gave Roma a real scare a fortnight ago with their 3-2 loss at the Olimpico.

Luca Ariatti returns from suspension, though the injury list still includes Daniele Cacia, Antunes, Angelo, Fabio Caserta and Ndiaye Papa Waigo. Considering the difficulty of this match, De Canio could opt for a very defensive formation with Guillermo Giacomazzi supporting lone striker Simone Tiribocchi rather than Javier Castillo, Axel Konan or Dimitrios Papadopoulos. Konan would be a good choice, though, as he was the star of the show when Lecce won 4-3 in Turin on April 25, 2004, scoring two goals.

Juventus had trouble with Lecce earlier this season, scraping a 2-1 result in stoppages thanks to Amauri’s header. Giovinco had also scored in that game and will be eager to get the chance to face them again. The Salentini have not beaten Juve in any of their last seven meetings – home or away – and conceded 20 goals when scoring six.

Keep an eye on: Mauro Camoranesi (Juventus) – Camo has often been the joy and despair of Juve this season, capable of creating goals out of nowhere and of picking up two consecutive red cards. Which version will turn up this weekend?

HAMSIK FOR JUVE ?

2009-04-28T18:09:00.000-07:00

Napoli ace Marek Hamsik has long been a target for clubs on the peninsula, but the Slovak’s agent has revealed there is also interest from abroad.

The former Brescia midfielder has been impressive for the Azzurri in the past two seasons and although the Partenopei do not wish to sell him, the situation could be very different if it was the player himself who asked for a transfer.

“There are so many clubs after him,” said agent Jurelaj Venglos.

“Still I cannot say the names of the teams interested. Juventus may be one of them but I cannot say anything.”

According to reports the Bianconeri have already offered Napoli £13m as well as Vincenzo Iaquinta in a part-exchange deal.

In Turin, ‘Marekiaro’ – as they call him at the San Paolo – would be the perfect replacement for Pavel Nedved, who is on the verge of retirement.

“Next month I will go to Italy to see him. We will talk about the future but I haven’t arranged a meeting with President Dino De Laurentiis yet,” added the agent.

“I honestly don’t know whether he will stay or go but in football everything is possible.”

According to Tuttomercatoweb, the Bianconeri are also following Atletico Madrid ace Maxi Rodriguez for next season. Like for Hamsik, the price range would exceed £15m.

Conte link with juve

2009-04-27T16:28:00.000-07:00

The 39-year-old, who played for the Bianconeri between 1992 and 2004, amassing 295 appearances, has guided Bari to a six-point lead at the top of Serie B.

Antonio Conte believes God will ultimately decide whether he ends up becoming the next trainer of former club Juventus.

If Claudio Ranieri were to get the sack at the end of the season, Conte is reportedly the hot favourite to replace him.

Juventus drew against bottom placed Reggina on Sunday and fell to third in Serie A, annoying the club's fans, who adore Conte.

When asked about rumours linking him with the Bianconeri bench, Conte replied: “There are still three games left until the end of the season.

“I am thinking about the present and here, in Bari, the present is a dream. The rumours make me happy and fill me with pride, but I know that Bari is Conte's current present.

“As for the future,” the former Italy international concluded. “I am a Christian and therefore feel that God sees and provides.”

The Italian Press believe a deal for Conte is very much in the works and that Bari want Ciro Ferrara as his replacement.

Regina vs Juventus 2 - 2

2009-04-26T08:22:00.000-07:00

NIGHTMARE EPISODE STILL CONTINUE !

Reggina (3-5-1-1): Puggioni; Cirillo, Valdez, Santos; Adejo, Vigiani (72’ Cascione), Carmona, Hallfredsson, Barillá (83’ Corradi); Brienza; Ceravolo (58’ Cozza). Coach: Orlandi.

Juventus (4-4-2): Buffon; Grygera, Mellberg, Ariaudo, Molinaro; Camoranesi, Marchisio (36’ Poulsen), Zanetti, Nedved; Iaquinta, Del Piero (75’ Amauri). Coach: Ranieri.

Goals: 27’ Barillá (R), 48’ Del Piero pen. (J), 69’ Hallfredsson (R), 73’ Zanetti (J)

Booked: Puggioni (R); Mellberg, Marchisio (J)

“Juve saved face in a way, but we should have won. We tried, but gifted half-an-hour to Reggina, who took advantage by creating several chances,” shrugged the Coach.

“Then we got out of our shells and proved we wanted to win a match that had seemed to be lost. We only saved face to a degree.”
This was the latest in a long line of poor Bianconeri performances and the pressure is on to deliver.
“When we play with intensity, we have shown what we can achieve,” continued Ranieri.
“At this moment in time our limitations are becoming apparent, those that were not seen when we beat Real Madrid and Milan.
“It is true that we lack the quality that other sides have in midfield and when we are not 100 per cent fit, we struggle to disguise those limitations.
“Was it a dip in form or motivation? Probably both, but we are starting to get important figures back.”
Amauri made his return after six weeks, but was only a substitute in the final stages for Alessandro Del Piero."

JUVENTUS

Buffon- 6.5: Still not peak performance , Perhaps he could have done a little better on the first goal, but the defence are to blame for not marking Barilla. Had absolutely no chance with the second.

Grygera- 7.0: The pick of the Juventus defence. He was able to get down the right very well and play in crosses and also kept Vigiani relatively quiet.

Mellberg- 6.5: On the ground, he was a bit susceptible, but in the air he was fantastic. Overall, a decent outing for the Swede.

Ariaudo- 6.0: The youngster had big shoes to fill, covering for Chiellini. At times, he was muscled out of the play by Reggina's attackers. However, he made a few key tackles in the first half.

Molinaro- 5.5: He simply should not be starting at a prestigious club like Juventus.

Camoranesi- 6.0: The Italian international added some creativity and was involved in the second goal. However, he disappeared from the match for long spells.

Zanetti- 6.5: Scored a goal on his return to the line-up. At first, he did not seem up to dealing with Reggina's speed, but he adapted and was one of the best players of the match.

Marchisio- 5.0: Given a chance to shine, the central midfielder did not impress and was subbed off due to injury after 37 minutes.

Nedved- 7.0: Rolled back the years with an excellent performance. He was full of running and constantly involved in the attacking play, carving out some promising opportunities.

Del Piero- 5.5: Despite rolling in a penalty, the captain confirmed his poor form with a disappointing outing.

Iaquinta- 7.0: His finishing was wayward. However, he earned a penalty for his side and assisted Zanetti's goal. He was always an outlet in the offensive end.

Substitutes

Poulsen 6.0, Amauri 6.0

REGGINA

Puggioni- 6.5: Perhaps lucky not to receive a red after plling down Del Piero. The shot stopper made an excellent finger tip save from Iaquinta in the second half to help his side to a draw.

Cirillo- 7.5: He marshalled the defence extremely well and made some decisive clearances. A very accomplished performance from the captain.

Valdez- 6.0: The centre-back was a bit slow dealing with through balls, but otherwise was solid at the back.

Santos- 6.0: He made few mistakes during the match, but at times struggled to contain Camoranesi and Nedved in one-on-one situations.

Adejo- 6.5: He bombed upa nd down the right side all afternoon. His assist for the opening goal was excellent, even if he did needlessly give away a penalty.

Carmona- 5.5: Playing in front of the defence, he perhaps allowed a bit too much room for Zanetti and Poulsen in the second half.

Hallfredsson- 7.5: A wonder goal from the Icelandic player that made the crowd go wild. His strike gave Buffon absolutely no chance!

Barilla- 6.5: He took his header well and hassled the Juventus players to regain possession on a number of occasions.

Vigiani- 5.5: He started out well, but was completely anonymous after the first 15 minutes at the Granillo.

Ceravolo- 6.0: He had a great solo run for half the length of the pitch in the closing stages of the first-half, but other than that his lack of experience was evident.

Brienza- 7.0: The skilful player shined and caused plenty of problems with his dribbling, including when he set up the Amaranto's second goal.

Substitutes

Cozza 6.5, Cascione 6.0, Corradi N/A

PREVIEW REGINA VS JUVENTUS

2009-04-24T17:02:00.000-07:00

Juventus

The players who performed against Lazio took part in light running exercises the day after the match. Gianluigi Buffon trained in the gym while Giorgio Chiellini and Nicola Legrottaglie were rested. Sissoko, Salihamidzic, Zanetti, Ekdal, and Manninger are all in the treatment room. Tiago is suspended following his red card against Inter last week.

Probable Starting XI 4-4-2: Buffon, Grygera, Legrottaglie, Mellberg, Molinaro, Camoranesi, Poulsen, Marchisio. Nedved, Iaquinta, Del Piero.

Reggina will still be reeling from the aftershock of their victory at Atalanta last week. Giovanni Ceravolo’s goal ensured the Amaranto picked up three points for the first time since November, and ended a run of 18 matches without a win. Nevio Orlandi’s side are still requiring a miracle if they are going to avoid relegation, but the 1-0 triumph at the Stadio Atleti Azzurri d’Italia has instilled a sense of hope.

Four points separate Reggina and Torino, who sit above the relegation trapdoor, but beyond Turin’s sleeping giants the gap to Chievo is 11 points. Consequently, the Calabrian outfit need to keep themselves as close to Toro as possible in the run-in – and that will mean taking a home win against the Granata’s city rivals this weekend.

Goals are the problem for Orlandi though. Reggina have only scored in half of their 32 matches in Serie A this term, and in the 16 they did ripple the onion bag there have only been six matches where they have managed more than a single goal. In fact, the only game they managed to score more than twice was the first match against Atalanta – meaning the Orobici suffer the indignity of a pair of defeats to the bottom club.

Juventus have slipped down to third place after their draw with Inter last weekend and their pride would be dented by falling further behind Milan in the final Serie A standings. This weekend offers them the chance to sneak back ahead of them – as the Rossoneri face a tough test against Europe chasing Palermo.

Their form in recent weeks has faltered. After five consecutive wins their surprise draw against Chievo was followed up by a loss to Genoa and the tie last week with Inter. A return to their winning ways is vital if they are to secure second place, and keep up their slim chance of reeling in the 10-point lead the Nerazzurri have built.

Last season Juve were left fuming when Reggina defeated them with a last-minute penalty. The match was heading towards a 1-1 draw when a Momo Sissoko attempt at clearing saw his overhead kick hit Nicola Amoruso – who infamously won and converted a controversial late penalty for the Bianconeri against Celtic in the Champions League back in 2001-02 – and the veteran striker converted the resultant spot-kick to give the Oreste Granillo side a shock win.

Earlier this term Juve cantered to a 4-0 win. Mauro Camoranesi, Amauri, Giorgio Chiellini and Alessandro Del Piero were all on the scoresheet back in November. Ale’s goal was his 250th in a black and white jersey.

Historically there is a curious pattern to results in this fixture. For the last six years the scoreline has alternated between a 2-1 win to Reggina and a 2-0 win to Juventus. According to the run this season’s match should end with a two-goal win for La Vecchia Signora – although of course such quirky facts as this don’t actually have any real effect on the action this weekend.

Reggina have worries both on the injury front and disciplinary. Strikers Bernardo Corradi and Daniel Adejo, goalkeeper Andrea Campagnolo and midfielder Carlos Carmona are all unfit to play. Meanwhile, centrocampista Edgar Barreto and defenders Maurizio Lanzaro and Andrea Costa are all serving suspensions. However, there is a glimmer of hope that Nigerian attacker Adejo may make the bench.

Juve have their own injury concerns. Their midfield options have been decimated by the fitness troubles of Sissoko, Hasan Salihamidzic, Cristiano Zanetti and Albin Ekdal. The problems are worsened by Portuguese midfielder Tiago being unavailable through suspension. Goalkeeper Alex Manninger is also out so veteran custodian Antonio Chimenti acts as back-up for world No 1 Gigi Buffon.

Keep an eye on: Vincenzo Iaquinta (Juventus) – Four goals in four games have seen the under-rated striker become Claudio Ranieri’s first choice partner for Alessandro Del Piero.

Last season: Reggina 2-1 Juventus

INTERVIEW WITH RANIERI ABOUT THIS SEASON AND CANNAVARO

2009-04-23T17:09:00.000-07:00

The Juventus coach: "We too asked ourselves about Fabio's age, but we couldn't pass up the opportunity of getting a national team player who could partner Chiellini in the Azzurri at no cost to us. Lippi? Conte? There's no truth to it, I will continue with the work I've started"

VINOVO (Turin), 23 April 2009 - The clouds on the horizon look ominous. But Claudio Ranieri does not want to think about the future, he would rather focus on the one remaining objective for the season: the Coppa Italia. Later on there will be time to think about what will happen at the end of next season. The Bianconeri's manager endorses Cannavaro and thinks he would go well partnered with Chiellini, but mention the name Marcello Lippi and he reacts.

FUTURE - "Some people think that the club has already planned what will happen in the coming months, but that's not the case. There are those who hope to see Lippi return to the bench, but I'm not concerned about the prospect of him coming back, my only concern is to do my job well. After the meeting between Blanc and Lippi, if I was a reporter I would have written the same thing you did. But I'm not going to worry about it: I'm rebuilding this team, and if Lippi arrives at the end of 2010, or Conti, or someone else it means that the club is not satisfied with my work. It's like giving your case to a lawyer and then changing lawyer. I have tried to make progress toward my goals. Often the coach is the last one to know about some things, but what we do is more important than what we think. That's why I hope the lads give it 100% right to the end."

CANNAVARO - "We got the opportunity to assess this player - he's 36 years old. The club's strategy is to focus on young players, on champions and on free transfers. Cannavaro would come at no cost and together with Chiellini and Buffon he should be the core of the defence that goes to the World Cup. We said to ourselves: why not take advantage of the desire to do well at the next World Cup? I gave the ok, now it's up to the club to have discussions. I haven't spoken with the player yet. Two years ago it would have cost a lot to get him off Real. Diego? I like him, I've said so right from the start."

INJURY REPORT - "I left Amauri at home - he still has work to do. Trezeguet has come down with a touch of sinusitis. He trained today and I'll talk to him tomorrow, and assess his availability as late as I can. Marchisio is fit, Nedved had a problem with his knee but today he took a full part in training. I'll have to assess everyone and everything."

STADIUM BAN - "I don't think it's a fair penalty. For fans to be barred from a stadium there should have been repeated issues, but here it only happened in the match against Inter. I'm close to Balotelli, and I'm very sorry. It was right to appeal and I agree that those of us on the pitch must lead by example. The next time if I hear any racist chants I will ask the captain to go over to the terraces and convince the fans to stop it."

Quaglia 'agrees' Juve deal

2009-04-23T06:53:00.000-07:00

Fabio Quagliarella has already told Juventus he will sign for them this summer, according to Turin based daily newspaper Tuttosport. The 26-year-old Udinese attacker has been lined up as a replacement for David Trezeguet,

who is expected to leave the Bianconeri at the end of the season. Quagliarella was reportedly in Milan on Monday where he had lunch with his father, Juventus director of sport Alessio Secco and the club's chief scout Renzo Castagnini. The meeting allegedly took place at the Hotel Principe di Savoia and Tuttosport's sources say everyone was smiling at the end of the meal. Quagliarella has been one of the best players in Serie A over the last three years. He has scored 17 goals in 41 appearances for Udinese this season.

JUVE VS LAZIO 1 - 2

2009-04-22T16:17:00.000-07:00

Lazio are in the Coppa Italia Final after a 2-1 victory away to Juventus inspired by Mauro Zarate's stunner, 4-2 on aggregate.

The Biancocelesti had won the first leg 2-1 by fighting back from Marco Marchionni's opener and reiterated their dominance in Turin. Having fallen 10 points behind Inter, the pressure was on Juve to win the Coppa or end the season empty-handed, so it was no surprise when the Olimpico crowd jeered its squad, Coach Claudio Ranieri and club officials in the final stages.

Goran Pandev and Mobido Diakhite' were out injured, while the home side missed Giorgio Chiellini, Amauri, Hasan Salihamidzic, Momo Sissoko and Albin Ekdal. Alessandro Del Piero, Pavel Nedved, Nicola Legrottaglie and Christian Molinaro were rested in favour of David Trezeguet, Sebastian Giovinco, Lorenzo Ariaudo and Paolo De Ceglie.

Before kick-off Juve fans responded to accusations of racism against Mario Balotelli by unveiling a banner: 'Davids, Seedorf, Sissoko - real champions, real idols.'

Player Ratings

Juventus

Buffon -5.5: He was the busiest of the two goalkeepers on the night as Foggia and Zarate kept him on his toes. The Italian tried but failed to save Zarate's unstoppable drive from distance, it wasn't his fault as the finish was worthy of beating any goalkeeper. He was also unlucky on the second.

Grygera -5.0: The Czech defender made a number of good clearances, but, perhaps, he should have done better to close down Matuzalem for the pass which led to Zarate scoring. He was also unfortunate for Lazio's second goal.

Mellberg -5.5: The former Aston Villa man was always solid in the middle and worked hard on the night. He made some vital blocks and his aerial prowess ensured most crosses into the danger areas were well dealt with when they were fizzed in.

Ariaudo -5.0: The youngster was up against it as he tried to stop Mauro Zarate and he did a good job to frustrate the hit man as he kept a tight lid on his man. However, he was unable to block the striker's super goal. Still a lot to learn.

De Ceglie -4.5: The most troubled of the defenders. He prodded along. Perhaps he should have helped his side on the wings when going forward. He struggled against Foggia's silky runs and always looked second best to the Lazio ace.

Marchionni -5.0: A less than perfect game from the midfielder. His poor clearance early on almost allowed Rocchi to score. Got better as the game went on, but his crossing from the right was less than perfect. Subbed at half time for being ineffective.

Tiago -6.0: The Portuguese was the better of the Juventus players. Only just though. Some nice passing and distribution early on. He was solid in the middle and he helped win back plenty of loose balls. His defending was top-class when under pressure.

Marchisio -5.5: He controlled the midfield well with Tiago, but found it hard to penetrate. He let frustration get to him and earned himself a yellow card for an avoidable foul on Zarate. Not one of his best performances, but he worked well nevertheless.

Giovinco -5.0: The little Italian would have been given a higher rating had his game continued beyond the first half. Showed the odd touch of magic. His crossing and passing into the final third was of exceptional quality. He was always at the centre of the action as he played behind the front two, but this position seemed to make him less effective than when he plays wide on the left wing.

Iaquinta -4.5: He struggled to get into the danger areas and he was marked out of the game by Rozenhal. His partnership with Trezeguet never really gelled on a forgettable night for the hitman.

Trezeguet -6.0: The Frenchman was captain for the night and he led by example. Trezeguet did well to help when his side were on the back foot and he made some vital headers from corners. Good movement off the ball as he found space to shoot, but he was denied a goal by Muslera. Always dangerous.

Subs

Nedved -6.0: Great attacking play and he was unlucky to see his well placed header come back off the post.

Camoranesi -4.0: The Italian was in fine form on the night. He should have started the game such was his second half impact. But he spoiled his game by getting sent off for dissent.

Del Piero -6.5: Made plenty of difference when he came on and scored a magnificent goal using all his skill and prowess. The traditional Del Piero never let his side down.

Lazio

Muslera -6.5: The Lazio custodian was a spectator for most of the game as his side pressed Juve down the other end. However, he did make a good save low to his right from a Trezeguet strike when called upon. He also made a fantastic save in second half on Trezeguet header and he was always alert in Turin.

Lichtsteiner -6.0: The defender got up and down the right wing like a train. He was solid and showed great heart and lungs as he never stopped playing until the final whistle.

Siviglia -6.5: The Italian was clean, calm and composed at all times. He hardly made a mistake in defence as he showed a commanding presence. Siviglia made several vitals blocks and clearances.

Rozenhal -6.0: The former Newcastle man stayed close to Iaquinta and made life hard for the Italian. He used some underhand tactics which went unnoticed by the referee on several occasions, but it did the job for his side.

Kolarov -7.0: The defender was one of the best players on the night for his side. He dealt well with Marchionni on the left. He got down the wing with plenty of freedom to and he provided the assist for Zarate to smash his side into the lead. Scored a great second goal for his side, but he was lucky too as the ball took a deflection which helped beat Buffon on its way in.

Brocchi -5.5: The former Milan man played with plenty of energy and hunger. He was all over the place positively and effectively. He worked hard and was rock solid as he held control of Lazio's midfield but he was replaced early in the second half which explains he lower rating.

Ledesma -6.0: The midfielder was always alert. His high-powered runs and pinpoint free kick delivery were always dangerous. A good performance overall as he helped his side into the final.

Matuzalem -5.5: The Brazilian started the match following his good showing against Catania last week but he blew the chance to impress and he earned a yellow card for foul on Giovinco. As a result, he will not play in the final.

Foggia -6.0: The Italian was the danger man for his side on the night. All of the play came through him and he was the thorn in Juve's side on the left wing. He created several chances with his accurate passing and quick thinking.

Rocchi -6.5: The striker was alert and ready to pounce every time the ball came close to the final third, but, unlike the first leg, he failed to get his name on the score sheet despite his good play. He did the simple things right and he runs distracted the Juve defence.

Zarate 8.5: Zarate should have scored when he was fed by Foggia. Ariaudo failed to pick up his run and the Argentine fired a missile on goal, but it fizzed wide. He made up for that though with a contender for goal of the season. The hitman made Buffon look average with a sublime right-foot strike from outside the box which hit the top corner like a guided missile. Man of the match, he was simply unstoppable as he tore Juventus to pieces.

Juventus hit with Juventini ban

2009-04-20T16:32:00.000-07:00

Juventus have paid a heavy price for racist chants directed at Mario Balotelli during the Derby d'Italia.

Balotelli was jeered by large sections of the Stadio Olimpico crowd during Saturday evening's 1-1 draw.

However, a small number of fans took things further and hurled racial abuse at the Italy Under-21 international.

Sporting judge Gianpaolo Tosel has taken a hard line as Italy continues to try and tackle racism and has imposed a game behind closed doors for Juve.

The game in question will be the fixture with relegation strugglers Lecce on May 3.

While the decision will be applauded by many as a measure against racism in calcio, it may prove controversial.

Balotelli has reported racist abuse from several sets of fans this season but the clubs in question have only received fines.

BUFFON : WELCOME BACK CANNA

2009-04-19T16:12:00.000-07:00

Gianluigi Buffon for one would welcome the “very useful” addition of Fabio Cannavaro to the Juventus squad.

There are reports in Spain and Italy today that the 36-year-old Real Madrid defender has agreed a return to the club he represented from 2004 to 2006, winning two Scudetti that were revoked in the Calciopoli scandal.

His contract expires at the end of the season, so the Italy captain and 2006 Ballon d'Or winner would be a free agent.

“Someone with his experience would be very useful for any team,” Buffon told Sky Italia when asked about the possibility of Cannavaro's move.

“Clearly he cannot be part of the long-term plan considering his age, but in the short-term he can be very important.

“Of course I am biased, as we've been friends for decades!”

Buffon played alongside Cannavaro for Italy, Juventus and before that Parma.

Unlike the defender, Buffon opted to remain at Juve after the Calciopoli scandal and the demotion to Serie B.

It is because of this decision to walk away that some fans are not entirely content with the idea of a comeback.
Cannavaro 'agrees Juve return'

There are shock reports that Fabio Cannavaro is set to return to Juventus at the end of the season.

The Real Madrid defender's contract is up in June and he is unlikely to renew it in La Liga, while he has shown some interest in a Premier League experience.

According to Sky Sport Italia, Cannavaro has already agreed a transfer to Turin, where he played from 2004 to 2006.

He left in the wake of the Calciopoli scandal and 2006 World Cup victory, winning the Ballon d'Or later that year.

The 36-year-old has had a mixed time at Real Madrid, but will be a free agent come the end of the season.

However, the news has not exactly generated enthusiasm among the Juventus faithful, as several forums are full of comments regarding his age, form and decision to leave.

Many have not forgiven Canna for walking out when the club was demoted to Serie B and have urged “an apology” before he returns.

Other World Cup winners such as Gigi Buffon and Alessandro Del Piero opted to remain in Turin.

INTERVIEW WITH RANIERI AFTER INTER MATCH

2009-04-18T17:44:00.000-07:00

RANIERI "STILL" SHAKE HAND WITH MOURINHO

Claudio Ranieri admits Inter deserve the Scudetto this season, although Juventus “never lose our pride.”

The 10-point gap remains intact after Zdenek Grygera's stoppage-time header cancelled out a Mario Balotelli counter-attack despite Tiago Mendes' red card.

“With 10 men and we recovered from 1-0 down, I'm satisfied,” he said of the 1-1 draw.

“In the first half we caused them a lot of problems down the flanks, then fell apart a little bit in the second and it's not right to let ourselves get surprised on the counter.

“It's true that perhaps there was a foul on [Giorgio] Chiellini to start the move, but we should have been set out better to avoid this type of counter-attack.

“Inter have the best defence in Serie A and so it's tough to create chances against them. We know the type of team [Jose] Mourinho constructs.”

The Scudetto was already lost before going into this head-to-head, as Juve dropped precious points in the preceding weeks.

“Thankfully we never lose our pride and character! Honestly against Chievo and Genoa we had taken our foot off the gas a little bit, but Juve must always play at the height of their passion, determination and enthusiasm.

“I think that at the end of the season, the table doesn't lie. When Inter don't play well, they still win 1-0 or draw with an own goal, but that's no coincidence. They work for that luck and find a way through.

“If we look at a few of our good performances when we were unlucky to drop points, but if we don't get those results and Inter do then it suggests we don't have the same qualities.”

Ranieri also put talk of a feud between him and Mourinho behind them, at least for one night.

“We shook hands before and after the match. Why wouldn't we? There are eye-witnesses if you don't believe me!”

The Bianconeri have now given up on the title, although they risk being caught by Milan in second place tomorrow evening.

“The Coppa Italia is our first concern, obviously, as Lazio have rediscovered their form. After that we need to pick up as many points as possible and we want to end the season in second place. We've been here most of the campaign and feel we deserve that spot.”

Juve must fight back from 2-1 down in the Coppa Italia semi-final against Lazio on Wednesday.

JUVENTUS VS INTER ( 1 - 1 )

2009-04-18T14:36:00.000-07:00

nter were in cruise control before Grygera’s late header gave ten-man Juventus a share of the spoils. Goal.com rates the players on show…

JUVENTUS

Buffon: 7.5- Gigi had conceded six goals in the previous two matches but bounced back to keep his team in the game by making great saves from Stankovic and Cruz before Grygera’s equaliser.

Grygera: 7.0- He had a great chance in the 30th minute but more that made up for that miss with a bullet header to salvage the draw

Chiellini: 7.0- Seems to relish his personal battles with Ibrahimovic and tonight it was no different as he banged and bruised the lanky Swede.

Legrottaglie: 6.0- He was rendered ineffective after picking up a yellow card in the 35th minute and is lucky not to have conceded a penalty for a challenge on Ibrahimovic just before Grygera’s goal.

Molinaro: 6.0- Fought hard with Balotelli down the left flank and gave a pretty good account of himself before he was substituted in the second half.

Marchionni: 6.0- The occasion seemed to have got the better of him as he had two glorious chances to chip the ball over Julio Cesar but failed.

Tiago: 5.0- Saved a sure goal with a great goal-line clearance in the 10th minute but foolishly lashed out at Balotelli in the 75th minute and was sent off.

Poulsen: 6.0- He held his own against Muntari and Cambiasso in the midfield and provided the steel necessary in the middle of the park that Juve needed against the Nerazzurri.

Nedved: 5.0- The Czech legend showed his age tonight and failed to make an impact in what was his last Derby d’Italia.

Iaquinta: 5.0- The red-hot Italian striker was virtually non-existent for long stretches of the match and could not handle Samuel’s physical nature.

Del Piero: 5.5- The captain was a bit disappointing tonight by his own lofty standards, and was substituted with the match still hanging in the balance.
SUBS: De Ceglie (62”) 6.0, Trezeguet (74”) 6.0, Giovinco (80”) 6.5

INTER

Julio Cesar: 7.0- Back between the sticks after a one-game absence and made two brave saves grom Marchionni.

Zanetti: 6.0- The influential captain assumed a right-back role and uncharacteristically gave possession away a few too many times

Samuel: 7.0- The ‘Wall’ patrolled the back line with a General’s expertise and made a countless number of vital blocks.

Cordoba: 7.0- Is sometimes guilty of conceding free-kicks in dangerous positions against Juve but did not put a foot wrong all evening long.

Chivu: 6.5- The versatile Romanian can play any position in defence and midfield and was solid for most of the match but will be disappointed with the marking for Grygera’s equaliser.

Figo: 7.0- The old Portuguese warhorse made his 100th appearance in Serie A tonight and showed he still has some gas left in the tank. Showed his class with a marvellous through ball to Muntari in the 71st minute.

Cambiasso: 6.5- Was given the job of protecting the back-four tonight and did it well without any fuss or bother. His positioning is always first rate and tonight was no exception.

Muntari: 7.5- The Ghanaian international sent a picture-perfect cross that found Balotelli to give Inter the lead and had a wonderful second half overall.

Stankovic: 6.0- The Serbian star was absolutely robbed by Buffon in the 79th minute in what looked to be a sure goal and then failed to pick up Grygera’s run for Juve’s equaliser.

Balotelli: 7.0- ‘Super Mario’ had a glorious chance to open the scoring in the 10th minute but atoned for that miss with a cool finish in the 63rd. Has an extremely bright future ahead of him.

Ibrahimovic: 7.0- The former Juve man was given the rough-house treatment by Chiellini and Legrottaglie but dealt the pair a blow as he started the attack that set up Balotelli’s goal. Had a late penalty shout turned down moments before Grygera’s equaliser.

SUBS: Vieira (76”) 6.0, Burdisso (77”) 6.0, Cruz ( 80”) 6.5

JUVE VS INTER (FINAL MATCH SERIE A)

2009-04-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

Juventus president Giovanni Cobolli Gigli has urged his team to be ready for defending champions Inter Milan on Saturday.

With seven games left to play in Serie A and Inter 10 points clear of Juve, the encounter in Turin is likely to decide the destination of the title.

"Juventus have the duty to beat Inter," said Cobolli Gigli. "It's a question of honour.

"Ten points is a big difference but we cannot give up."

Claudio Ranieri's Juve lost 3-2 at Genoa in the last round and will be under pressure to come out on top knowing a defeat would not only signal an end to their title ambitions but could also see them fall to third in the standings.

The Bianconeri are two points clear of in-form AC Milan, who entertain relegation-threatened Torino looking to pass Juve in the standings.

"We believe it is possible to overtake Juve and climb to second," said AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti.

"Juve will have to be careful because they have to play against Inter and for us this is a big motivation in order to leapfrog them in the standings."

Team News

Juventus

Albin Ekdal and Alex Manninger trained aside from the rest of the squad on Wednesday. Amauri has returned to train with the rest of the players. Mohamed Sissoko still hasn't recovered from his foot operation while Hasan Salihamdzic is looking doubtful. Both Mauro Camoranesi and Claudio Marchisio are suspended for this game. Claudio Ranieri is likely to draft Christian Poulsen and Tiago in midfield to replace the Italian duo. Reports in the Italian media have suggested the coach will also leave Alessandro Del Piero on the bench.

Probable Starting XI 4-4-2: Buffon, Grygera, Legrottaglie, Chiellini, Molinaro, Marchionni, Poulsen, Tiago, Nedved, Iaquinta, Trezeguet.

Inter

Amantino Mancini has returned to training three weeks after suffering a muscular strain against Reggina. Luis Jimenez, Victor Obinna and Maicon are all injured. Walter Samuel is looking doubtful, while troubled striker Adriano is still in Brazil. Julio Cesar has recovered and is in contention for a starting place against the Bianconeri. Mario Balotelli is likely to keep his place up front alongside Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Probable Starting XI 4-3-1-2: Cesar, Santon, Cordoba, Chivu, Maxwell, Zanetti, Cambiasso, Muntari, Stankovic, Balotelli, Ibrahimovic.

JUVENTUS, No fan support for Ranieri ? Who Should Replace Claudio Ranieri As Juventus Coach?

2009-04-16T09:37:00.000-07:00

The pressure is building on the hapless Claudio Ranieri, and there have been calls for the Juventus boss to be sacked. Carlo Garganese asks who should replace ‘The Tinkerman’ should he leave this summer…? Who Should Replace Claudio Ranieri ? Give your vote...?

Tuttojuve.com's Stefano Discreti reports that several Juventus fans' unofficial websites have published the results of an online poll concerning coach Claudio Ranieri. The results show that 90% of Juventus fans want Ranieri out at the end of the season. Ranieri is being blamed for the team's Champions League elimination and for losing "easy" Serie A games, for choosing not to sign Spanish playmaker Xabi Alonso last summer (due to tactical reasons), for apparently not showing enough ambition when he talks to the press, for not "giving the team a more daring style" and for allegedly not getting along with the team's main stars (Buffon, Del Piero, Nedved, Camoranesi and Trezeguet, obviously the most popular figures among Juve fans....) . The fans who voted also indicated who they want to replace Ranieri. The wishlist strictly contains former Juventus players and they are : current AS Bari coach Antonio Conte, Genoa's Gian Piero Gasperini (who is also a former Juventus youth team coach), former Italian Under 21 head coach Claudio Gentile and Fiorentina's Cesare Prandelli.

Gian Piero Gasperini

Gasperini is Juventus through and through, having spent 11 years in Turin as a youth player, and another nine as a youth coach, before moving on to senior duties at Crotone and then Genoa. With the Grifoni he has been an absolute revelation, leading the side to promotion to Serie A in 2007 and, in just his second season in Serie A this term, taking the modest outfit to the brink of Champions League qualification. Gasperini’s sides play attractive, attacking football, and his transfer history is also scarily impressive - he would be a popular choice with the Bianconeri faithful.

Luciano Spalletti

Like Gasperini, Spalletti is well known for advocating an entertaining brand of Calcio, and his favoured 4-2-3-1 has been copied by the Premier League big boys, most noticeably Manchester United. Spalletti has been a success at Roma since arriving there in 2005, transforming a club that had been in turmoil after the departure of Fabio Capello. He came ever so close to winning the Scudetto last season, but this term he and his team have struggled. There are also doubts over whether, like Ranieri, Spalletti has a winning mentality.

Frank Rijkaard

Due to Rijkaard’s history with Milan, this would be a complicated coup. Nevertheless, the Dutchman arrived at Barcelona in 2003 at a time when bitter rivals Real Madrid were dominant – a similar situation to what Juventus find themselves in now with

regards to Inter. Rijkaard helped build a world-beating team, with stars like Ronaldinho, Eto’o, Deco, Xavi and Messi, the kind of players that Juve fans dream of. Barca soon dominated at home and abroad – could he do the same for the Bianconeri?

Marcello Lippi

One of the greatest coaches the game has ever seen, it is only a matter of time until Lippi returns to Juventus in some capacity. The 61-year-old is a born winner, and the difficulties he has faced since taking over Italy again may mean that he is open to offers this summer. It is unlikely he will leave until after the World Cup in 2010, but who knows what could happen should the Azzurri have a disastrous Confederations Cup in June. Lippi has had two trophy-laden spells with Juve already – why not a third?

Ciro Ferrara

A legend at Juve as a player, and a hero among tifosi, Ferrara is now building a reputation as a superb youth developer. As well as assisting Lippi for the Italy national team, Ferrara is also youth academy director at Juventus, and he has overseen a host of brilliant youngsters come through the system, including Sebastian Giovinco, Claudio Marchisio, Domenico Criscito and Paolo De Ceglie. These players are the future of Juventus, and there is no one who knows them better than Ferrara. Could he become the Pep Guardiola of Turin?

Other options

Cesare Prandelli (Fiorentina), Manuel Pellegrini (Villarreal), Massimiliano Allegri (Cagliari), Davide Ballardini (Palermo), Walter Mazzarri (Sampdoria), Pasquale Marino (Udinese), Antonio Conte (Bari)

Who should replace Claudio Ranieri as Juventus coach? Juventainment.com wants to know what Majority Juve think...

AMAURI : "LETS FACE INTER WITH PRIDE"

2009-04-16T09:11:00.000-07:00

Juventus striker Amauri is pointing the fingers of blame towards himself and his team-mates for not being able to pose a stronger challenge to Inter.

The Bianconeri are ten points behind the league leaders heading into this Saturday's Derby d'Italia. The Brazilian striker is unlikely to feature in that match, but he believes the reasons behind this season's failures are entirely self-inflicted.

"Not enough personality and bad luck," Amauri complained to La Stampa. “We are behind Inter and it's our own fault.

"We didn't make the step up in quality. We began to relax when we should have taken advantage of Inter's blip. When we have played like a group we have shown that we can beat any team."

Although Amauri feels it will be mission impossible to overhaul the Nerazzurri, he is well aware that they are less than perfect.

"The gap between us is so big,” he bemoaned. “They only won 1-0 against us [earlier this campaign], and they have also played badly in some games this season."

Secco: Referee penalized Juventus

2009-04-13T21:16:00.001-07:00

Juventus’s Scudetto hopes suffered a potentially fatal blow in the last match, as Genoa edged Claudio Ranieri’s men 3-2 in a thrilling and ill-tempered affair.

“I have spoken with the referee, he explained a few things and that was it,” Secco is quoted as saying in Tuttosport.“Genoa had a good game, but I think we can’t help but talk about the episodes this time around. With the result still poised at 0-0, the assistant incorrectly flagged for offside on a clear-cut chance for us.

“And things got worse soon after: we stopped upon hearing the whistle before Thiago Motta’s goal. That truly penalized us and clearly affected the match.

“Moreover, we should have been awarded a penalty for a foul on [Mauro] Camoranesi, who was then harshly sent off. Rocchi just had a bad day, we don’t usually complain but Juve were extremely penalized,” .

"Now we just need to keep calm and united, as only through hard work can we get out of this situation," continued Secco.

"We will continue to battle to finish second, then there is the Coppa Italia, which now becomes our primary objective."

The Bianconeri trail 2-1 to Lazio in the semi-final.

GENOA VS JUVE 3 - 2

2009-04-11T14:40:00.000-07:00

Claudio Ranieri make a horror tragedy in Genoa stadium and I think Ranieri is lack of winning mentality.

Genoa : Rubinho, Ferrari, Boccheti, Biava, Motta, Juric, Mesto (Rossi 43'), Mesto, Jankovic (Oliveira 80'), Palladino, Sculli (Papastathopoulo 79').

Juventus : Buffon, Chiellini, Legrottaglie (Marchionni 74'), Molinaro, Zebina (Grygera 74'), Poulsen, Marchisio, Nedved, Camoranesi, Del Piero, Iaquinta. ( din / din )

GENOA

Rubinho: 6.0- He had no chance on either goal as Del Piero beat him from the penalty spot while Iaquinta expertly chipped the ball over him.

Biava: 6.0- His wayward pass directly led to Del Piero’s penalty but he atoned for his mistake by clearing Nedved's shot off the line in the 57th minute.

Ferrari: 6.0- He was extremely unlucky to concede a penalty as it looked as he got the whole ball on his sliding tackle.

Bocchetti: 6.0- His solid performances have earned him a call-up to La Nazionale but will be disappointed he let Iaquinta sneak behind him for Juve's second goal of the game.

Mesto: 7.0- It was his powerful run that set up his team’s first goal of the match and he was enjoying a great game before Nedved’s elbow prematurely ended his evening.

Juric: 6.5- The tough-tackling Croatian midfielder battled Poulsen and Marchiso all night long and came out on top more often than not.

Motta: 8.0- The Brazilian midfielder took the bull by its horns with a first-half brace and cut an inspiring figure on the pitch tonight.

Criscito: 6.5- He looked calm and composed on the left hand side and will be very proud of his performance this evening.

Sculli: 7.0- The Calabrese hitman is enjoying one of his best season in the Serie A but missed a golden opportunity in the 68th minute and then was absolutely robbed by Buffon just moments later.

Jankovic: 7.0- The Serbian striker showed off his vast arsenal of tricks and flicks and was unlucky not to have found the back of the net with a well placed header in the 72nd minute.

Palladino: 7.5- Almost opened the scoring in the 6th minute as he beat Buffon but his shot was cleared off the line by Legrottaglie. He was a real nuisance all evening long and fully deserved a goal.

SUBS: Rossi (42”) 7.5, Papastathopolous (79") 6.0, Olivera (79") 7.0

JUVENTUS

Buffon: 6.0- He has not looked like the same goalkeeper as he did before his injury and, dare one say it, Juve may want to sell him while his stock is still fairly high.

Zebina: 5.0- The temperamental Frenchman was a liability at the back tonight and he was completely to blame for Motta's second goal just before the half-time whistle.

Legrottaglie: 6.0- The Juve defence have been leaking goals in his absence and he saved a sure goal in the 6th minute but could not stop the Genoa onslaught.

Chiellini: 6.0- He is the first name on Ranieri’s lineup card for every match but he was not his usual indestructible self this evening

Molinaro: 5.0- The much-maligned full-back seemed to hurt his back in the first half and then his neck in the second and never really looked comfortable after that.

Camoranesi: 4.0- The usual architect of the Juve attack was out of sorts tonight and did his team no favours when he was sent his marching orders for a nasty tackle on Sculli.

Marchisio: 6.0- The midfield prospect was anonymous for large portions of the match and picked up a yellow card that means he will miss the Derby d'Italia next week.

Poulsen: 6.0- The former Valencia hardman gave away possession far too often and will give the Bianconeri fans who think he does not deserve to wear the Juve shirt that much more ammunition.

Nedved: 7.5- The Czech legend was fortunate the referee did not spot his elbow which split Mesto’s head open in the first half. He played like a man possessed in the second 45 minutes and was unlucky not to score in the 47th minute

Del Piero: 7.0- Won his side a penalty and then coolly slotted the ball past Rubinho but will be disappointed that Juve did not make up any ground on Inter today.

Iaquinta: 7.0- He continued his red-hot form with a delicate chip over Rubinho that looked like it was enough to salvage the draw.

GENOA VS JUVE

2009-04-11T03:27:00.001-07:00

Derby of 31st round is a very important match for both rivals, though Juventus dropped on nine points behind Inter after drawing with Chievo and hardly anyone believes that bianconeri can challenge the title. They gambled away the chances, lost many points against weaker teams and it is clear now that Juve don’t have the quality to compete with Inter. They travel to Genoa to fight inspired hosts that held on to the fourth place after a minimum triumph in Calabria. Genoa have the historical opportunity to get hold of the Champions league, but it won’t be easy as Fiorentina and even Roma are lurking from behind. We believe, judging from what Gasperini’s team showed this season that they deserve to achieve the biggest success in club history. Juve will host Inter next week, and the will try to win at Marassi in order to keep at least some hope, but the situation in the club is not so good after the clash between del Piero and Ranieri. We are yet to see if legendary captain will be in the starting line-up after staying in the locker room after the break against Chievo.

Genoa ended the negative spell away

This autumn they had problems away, as they couldn't show full potential outside of Marassi. However things changed in 2009, they won even four away matches and they haven't conceded a single goal. Since “Il Principe” Milito is injured, another South American, Tiago Motta will be in charge, Brazilian arrived from Spain as a worn-out player at least that's how the press welcomed him. Now the same press call him “professor". And he is really teaching lessons week after week. In spite of his injury he played an excellent second half in Reggio Calabria and managed to score a winner. If Genoa make it to the Champions league, Motta will be the most responsible. Gasperini still can't get over the convincing defeat to Juventus in the first part of the season and he will do anything to get back at the former club. Milito is out but even four former bianconeri players will be in the squad, Olivera, Sculli, Palladino and Criscito. Some of them are expected to get back in Juve after the season is over.

Ranieri’s post is shaky

The clashes with best players compromised his position in the squad. First he argued with Trezeguet and then with Del Piero who didn't even appear on the first meeting coach asked for after the draw with Chievo. Another proof of the situation in Juventus is Camoranesi's statement that this is not real Juve. Brutally honest Argentinean said that Chievo used to come to Torino hoping not to concede too many goals, today they come to win. Juventus conceded three goals against Veronesi and even though Pellissier scored the third goals in the final seconds of the match, Juve didn’t deserve to win. Buffon and defense are out of form, they miss injured Sissoko, the coach himself is confused and inconsistent with the line-up and formations. Juventus are waiting for the returning leg against Lazio in Cup semifinals but it is hard to believe that the fans will settle for a title in the cup. For club such as Juventus it is an insignificant trophy. Ranieri won’t be making any major changed, Grygera and Salihamidzic are injured, Nedved is rested and he will be back in the team. It remains to be seen if Del Piero will start the game.

CHELLINI THE FUTURE OF JUVENTUS

2009-04-09T21:35:00.000-07:00

Giorgio Chiellini

1 Senior club appearances and goals
counted for the domestic league only and
correct as of April 5, 2009.
2 National team caps and goals correct
as of April 1, 2009.
* Appearances (Goals)

Personal information
Giorgio Chiellini

Giorgio Chiellini
Date of birth	August 14, 1984 (1984-08-14) (age 24)
Place of birth	Pisa, Italy
Height	1.86 m (6 ft 1 in)
Playing position	Centre back
Club information
Current club	Juventus
Number	3
Youth career
	Livorno
Senior career¹
Years	Club	App (Gls)*
2000–2004 2004–2005 2005–	Livorno Fiorentina Juventus	055 0(4) 037 0(3) 101 (10)
National team²
2004–2007 2004–	Italy U-21 Italy	026 0(6) 018 0(1)
¹ Senior club appearances and goals counted for the domestic league only and correct as of April 5, 2009. ² National team caps and goals correct as of April 1, 2009. * Appearances (Goals)

Early years

Giorgio's parents are called Fabio and Lucia, he is one of four siblings, his twin brother Claudio and a brother & sister Giulio and Silvia. He started playing at 6 years of age for Livorno and at first was used as a central midfielder. As he grew up, he was switched on the wing and finally he found his position as a lateral defender. These days, thanks to his flexibility, he can be employed as a central defender too. Juventus He was signed by Juventus in summer 2004, for €6.5 million, but immediately sold on co-ownership deal to Fiorentina for €3.5 million, where he played for 2004–05 season. After an excellent first season in Serie A, Chiellini was recalled by Juventus for the 2005–06 season, where Juventus paid €4.3 million for full-ownership. He has been a regular fixture in the Bianconeri backline in their return to Serie A and was named "Man of the Match" in a game against Internazionale when he won a physical and heated duel with ex-Juve teammate Zlatan Ibrahimović, allowing the in-form hitman no goals. Chiellini extended his original contract from until 2009 to 2011 on October 12, 2006.[1] After the Calciopoli scandal, Chiellini was a starter for Juventus in Serie B.

After their triumphant return to Serie A, Giorgio Chiellini was converted by coach Claudio Ranieri into a center-back, having played left back in his career until this point. Chiellini had a tremendous season, named by many as the best center-back in all of Serie A. Alongside his reborn center-defense partner Nicola Legrottaglie, the duo led Juventus to the 2nd-least conceded goals for the season, despite many penalties awarded against Juventus controversially. The surprising aspect of this is that neither were considered remotely close to pinning down a center-back position in the summer before the season, with Domenico Criscito and Jorge Andrade preferred as the starting duo. On 27 April 2008, Chiellini scored twice for Juventus in 5-2 win over Lazio that confirms Bianconeri's place in Serie A top four.[2] On 26 June 2008, Chiellini extended his contract with Juventus to the year 2013.

On 13 August 2008, Chiellini scored his first European goal of his career as Juve beat Artmedia Petržalka 4-0 in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round tie.[4] On 17 August 2008, Giorgio injured his left knee again during the Trofeo Luigi Berlusconi against Milan and missed the start of the Serie A season. The extent of the damage is yet to be determined, but he will be unable to play for at least six weeks, possibly even six months. However, he returned marvelously fast to duty, after only a month out.[5] In September, Chiellini made a quick recovery from his injury to start each of Juve's first three UEFA Champions League group games. Despite this, many Juventus supporters believe he is not fully healed as he has made two uncharacteristic mistakes that led to goals in recent weeks. After a few shaky games, Chiellini has regained the form that has seen him nominated by the Oscar del Calcio as the Best Defender in Serie A. On 14 December 2008, he scored the 2–1 goal against Milan in Serie A with a well placed header from an Alessandro Del Piero corner kick. Juventus went on to win the match 4–2. As of 19 February 2009, Chiellini is currently injured and is set to be back for the crucial UEFA Champions League match with Chelsea on 25 February. On 10 March 2009, Chiellini was controversially sent off against Chelsea in a thrilling game. Despite a 2-2 draw, Juventus were knocked out of the champions league.

BUFFON THE SUPERMAN (its not easy)

2009-04-07T17:18:00.000-07:00

Buffon The Superman (It's Not Easy) - Click here for more home videos

BUFFON ME AND ALL OF JUVENTINI FANS WANT YOU STAY TO REACH GREAT ACHIEVEMENT NEXT YEAR !

PROFILE OF BUFFON

Gianluigi Buffon

Personal information

Full name	Gianluigi Buffon
Date of birth	January 28, 1978 (1978-01-28) (age 31)
Place of birth	Carrara, Italy
Height	1.91 m (6 ft 3 in)
Playing position	Goalkeeper
Club information
Current club	Juventus
Number	1
Youth career
1995–2001	Parma
Senior career¹
Years	Club	App (Gls)*
1995–2001 2001–	Parma Juventus	0168 0(0) 0238 0(0)
National team²
1997–	Italy	0092 0(0)

¹ Senior club appearances and goals
counted for the domestic league only and
correct as of March 21, 2009.
² National team caps and goals correct
as of April 1, 2009.

Early life and family

Gianluigi Buffon was born into a sporting family. His mother, Maria Stella, was a discus thrower, his father, Adriano, a weightlifter, his two sisters Veronica and Guendalina played volleyball and his uncle,

Angelo Masocco, played basketball. He is also a nephew of goalkeeping legend Lorenzo Buffon (a cousin of Gianluigi's grandfather). Buffon is married to Czech model Alena Šeredová. Šeredová gave birth to son Louis Thomas on December 28, 2007.Early career At the age of just 17, Buffon made his Serie A debut for Parma in a 0-0 home draw against Milan on 19 November 1995. In his fourth season with the club, he won the UEFA Cup. He transferred from Parma to Juventus in 2001, for a world-record goalkeeper's fee of €52 million. Buffon nearly signed with Roma in 2001 following his departure from Parma, but team president Franco Sensi instead opted for Atalanta keeper Ivan Pelizzoli, who averaged less than fifteen appearances in five seasons with Roma. Buffon also claimed that he wouldn't have signed with Roma had he left Juventus in 2006. "That was never a possibility really... I don’t think that Roma had the finances to make an investment of such a nature."

Juventus

In 2003, he received the UEFA Most Valuable Player and Best Goalkeeper awards, and was named by Pelé as one of the top 125 greatest living footballers in March 2004. During the annual Luigi Berlusconi Trophy match against Milan in August 2005, Buffon collided with Milan midfielder Kaká while chasing a loose ball, and suffered a dislocated shoulder that required surgery. His operation was successful and he returned to the pitch in November, but played only once as another injury returned him to the sidelines until January. He recovered in time to help lead Juventus to their second consecutive Scudetto and his fourth overall with the club. On 12 May 2006, Buffon, along with former Juventus goalkeeper Antonio Chimenti and many other players, were implicated as participants in illegal betting on Serie A matches while with Parma. The following day, he voluntarily allowed himself to be questioned by Turin magistrates in an attempt to clear his name. While admitting that he did bet on sports (until regulations went into effect in late 2005, banning players from doing so), he vehemently denied placing wagers on Italian football matches. Fears arose that he had jeopardized his chance of playing in the 2006 FIFA World Cup, but he was officially named Italy's starting goalkeeper on May 15. The players were cleared of all charges by the FIGC on June 27, 2007. [4] Following Juventus' punishment in the Calciopoli scandal, rumors spread that Juventus were shopping Buffon on the transfer market as a cost-cutting measure, and many teams became interested in his services.[5] However, no deals ever materialized as Buffon elected to remain with Juventus; his agent said: "Serie B is a division he has never won and he wants to try to do this." Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani stated in April 2007 that Buffon's decision to stay proved a catalyst in re-signing incumbent Dida,[6] though Buffon later denied having ever been contacted by Milan. Widely regarded as one of the worlds greatest goalkeepers, Buffon has kept clean sheets against many top strikers. After Juventus won the Cadetti and were promoted back into the top flight, Buffon signed a contract extension that will keep him at the club until 2012.

International career

Buffon was awarded his first cap for Italy at the age of nineteen, as an injury replacement for Gianluca Pagliuca during a qualifer for 1998 FIFA World Cup play-off against Russia. He was called up for the 1998 World Cup finals, but did not play a single game as Pagliuca remained first choice. He was a member of the Italy squad at the 1992 Summer Olympics, the 2002 World Cup and Euro 2004. He was also the first choice goalkeeper for Italy at the Euro 2000, but broke his hand in a friendly match against Norway just eight days before the tournament started, and had his starting place taken by Francesco Toldo. He kept five clean sheets in addition to a 453-minute scoreless streak during the 2006 World Cup finals; the only goals conceded were an own goal from teammate Cristian Zaccardo against the United States, and a Zinédine Zidane penalty in the final against France, which ended 1-1 in extra time and led to a penalty shootout in which neither Buffon nor Fabien Barthez could make a save. The lone miss was David Trezeguet's effort that clanged off the bottom of the crossbar and failed to cross the line, which enabled Italy's Fabio Grosso to seal the victory for the Italians. Buffon received the Yashin Award for his accomplishments throughout the competition. Buffon was named Italy captain for Euro 2008 after incumbent Fabio Cannavaro was ruled out of the tournament due to injury. In the second game of the group stage against Romania on June 13, he saved a penalty from Adrian Mutu in the 1st minute as the match ended 1-1. Italy were eliminated in the quarterfinals nine days later after a 0-0 penalty shootout loss to Spain in which Buffon made one save.

JUVENTUS VS CHIEVO 3 - 3

2009-04-05T09:32:00.000-07:00

I CANT SAY ANYMORE
CHIELLINI PLAY SO BAD
MELLBERG IS THE WORST JUVENTUS PLAYER IN THIS MATCH
BUT WE MUST TAKE THE LESSON FROM THIS MATCH
FOR NEXT MATCH

THIS IS THE RATINGS :

Buffon -5.5: Not to blame on any of Chievo's goals, but was perhaps a little slow getting down for Pellissier's second.

Grygera -5.0: A little off the pace this afternoon. Did not seem to have the energy to get up and down the pitch, and was substituted at half time.

Mellberg -3.0: A horror show. Caught sleeping for Pellissier's second goal, while an act of stupidity in injury time gifted Chievo the ball, and resulted in Pellissier's hat-trick. That goal has ended any hope of the Scudetto.

Chiellini -5.5: Indecisive on Pellissier's opener, and also caught off-guard for the second. However, he did score a fantastic volley, and headed just wide in the second half.

Molinaro -6.0: The best of a bad Juventus backline. Caused a few problems by Luciano and caught out of position. Did provide the cross prior to Juve's second equaliser.

Salihamidzic -6.0: Started the game well, and provided a great pass for Del Piero's early chance. Then picked up an injury and was forced off on 23 minutes.

Marchisio -7.0: Was doing two men's work in the first half. Completely took charge in the middle-of-the-park after the break, and continued his development.

Tiago -6.0: Awful in the first 45 minutes, Tiago did improve after the break with some sweet passes. Created a headed chance for Chiellini.

Giovinco -7.0: Juve's only bright spark in the first half, Giovinco was prominent down the left and forced Sardo's substitution. Went close with a free kick.

Del Piero -5.5: Missed two fine chances in the first half, and failed to really get a grip on the game. Juventus improved markedly when he was substituted at half time.

Iaquinta -7.5: Anonymous before the break, Iaquinta was like a man possessed after it. Scored the goal that everyone thought had saved Juve, and went close on a couple of other occasions.

Subs

Camoranesi 9.0: Despite being no more than 50 per cent fit, Camoranesi again proved his worth by setting up all three of Juve's goals. His backheel for Chiellini's strike was pure genius.

Trezeguet -7.0: Gave Juve a penalty-box presence, firing just wide and forcing a brilliant save out of Sorrentino.

Zebina -7.0: Excelled down the right flank. Good energy and link-up play with Camoranesi.

CHIEVO

Sorrentino -8.0: May have conceded three goals, but two top-class saves from Trezeguet and Iaquinta proved decisive in earning Chievo a priceless point.

Sardo -5.5: Did well in the first half, and stuck to his task. However, he had real problems after the break against Giovinco and Molinaro, and was substituted midway through the half.

Morero -6.0: Comfortably marked Del Piero in the first half, but struggled against the movement of Trezeguet when the Frenchman replaced the Italian.

Yepes -5.0: Has had a fine season, but Iaquinta's pace caused him all kinds of problems as the game wore on.

Mantovani -4.5: Unlucky to turn the ball into his own net, Mantovani was led a merrydance by Juve substitute Camoranesi. So much of the damage was done down his side.

Luciano -7.0: One of the best players on the pitch in the first half, Luciano created Pellissier's second goal. The Brazilian tired though.

Rigoni -6.0: An honest performance by Rigoni, who could have scored just moments before Pellissier silenced the Olimpico in injury time.

Marcolini -6.0: Was involved in some good moments for his side in the first half, but disappeared and was over-run in the second period.

Pinzi -6.0: Full of running, the quality did not match Pinzi's quantity. Was once rated as one of Italy's most promising youngsters, it has never really happened for the ex-Udinese midfielder.

Pellissier -9.5: What can you say? A stunning performance by Pellissier, who completed a clinical hat-trick to dash Juventus' Scudetto hopes. A thorn all afternoon with his pace.

Bogdani -6.5: Held the ball up well, and linked up with Pellissier. Was unsurprisingly overshadowed by his strike-partner though.

DIEGO : "MY SON WANT JUVENTUS"

2009-04-05T09:19:00.000-07:00

The Brazilian ace’s father has revealed that his son has only eyes for the Old Lady…

Juventus have apparently made Werder Bremen attacking midfielder Diego their top transfer target for next season and his father and agent Djair Ribas da Cunha has confirmed in an interview with Tuttosport that the Bianconeri’s interest is serious.

“I sense that this is it,” he enthused.

“They are very keen on Diego. I don’t think that Werder and Juve have discussed it yet, but I know that they will do it over the next few days. At least that’s what I was told.”

The German club are expected to hold out for at least €20 million to rubber stamp the transfer, but Juve chief Giovanni Cobolli Gigli has made it known that they have the resources to complete the coup.

“As I have said, my son dreams of playing for a club that can aim to win the Champions League,” stressed Djair.

“Juve clearly fall into this category and Diego wants to play there next season. I am working with a few other people to make this happen.”

JUVENTUS VS CHIEVO REVIEW

2009-04-03T17:04:00.000-07:00

Mr Paolo Mazzoleni from the Bergamo will be the referee in this match

Probable First Squad 4-4-2: Buffon, Grygera, Mellberg, Chiellini, Molinaro, Marchionni, Tiago, Marchisio, Nedved, Iaquinta, Del Piero.

Following the international break, Serie A action resumes this weekend and Juventus will welcome what should be a straightforward game against Chievo. The Bianconeri have won five of their last six games heading into Sunday afternoon's battle, and so they should harbour enough confidence to get past the Gialloblu.

Claudio Ranieri will be hoping his side continue to keep up the heat on Inter. Juve are still seven points behind the Nerazzurri who face a potential banana skin away to Udinese. La Vecchia Signora have scored eight goals in their last two games and so they will fancy their chances against a Chievo side who are fighting for Serie A survival down at the wrong end of the table. The Bianconeri can take comfort from the fact that they have never lost to Chievo in any of the last six matches between them. The Veronese side held Juve to a 1-1 draw back in 2006 at the Bentegodi. That was the closest they have come to beating them.

Ranieri's men won 2-0 in the reverse fixture this season. Many will remember Alessandro Del Piero's stunning 30-yard free kick in the first half, before Vincenzo Iaquinta grabbed a second later. Iaquinta has been in fine form for both club and country. The Italian has been putting in the extra effort and it has been rewarded. The former Udinese man scored against Ireland in Bari for La Nazionale during the World Cup qualifier on Wednesday and he will be looking to continue his great form back in Turin. The hitman grabbed a brace of the highest quality against Roma last time out in Serie A, and he will be hoping for more of the same against the Flying Donkeys on Sunday.

The Bianconeri have been working hard in training this week as Ranieri devises a plan to scupper any hopes Chievo have of a survival point. Juve should fancy their chances as the away side have never scored in Turin in any of their last three visits there. In addition, the Old Lady has one of the league's best defences at home. The business end of the season is in full swing, and Juve will need to ensure they do not fall victim to the points-hungry relegation battlers. There is no room for error as anything less than a win could see the Scudetto move closer to San Siro.

Chievo Fighting For Survival

Domenico Di Carlo has been guiding the Mussi Volanti towards survival ever since he took over from Giuseppe Iachini back in November. After having won promotion back to the top-flight last year, Chievo are looking to avoid the drop at all costs. The season's stresses and upheaval seem behind the Bentegodi-based side as they bring stability back to the team and continue their bid for survival with a good run of form towards the end of term.

The first task for the visitors this Sunday will be to stop Juve's relentless attacks. Chievo will be aware that the Turin-based outfit have scored 28 goals at home in Serie A this season, while Di Carlo's men have conceded 18 and scored just 13 on the road. The statistics make for some worrying reading, but on the positive side, the Gialloblu have lost just once in their last six games. That was a 2-1 loss away to Fiorentina back in February. In those six matches, Chievo have won three, drawn two and lost once. Di Carlo's men came up with a shock win against Palermo last time out, and they beat Lazio 3-0 in Rome the week before, thus confidence should be high when the team bus pulls into the Olimpico this weekend.

Sergio Pellissier is the club's leading scorer with six to his name so far this term. The captain will be hoping to lead by example in an attempt to carry his side towards some precious points. The Italian striker has been through plenty of rough and tumble relegation scraps in his nine years at the club, and he has the experience of knowing how to plan an upset. Chievo are on course for survival, but with nine games left nothing is certain just yet. Di Carlo's men are six points above the drop zone; a shock win on Sunday could propel them even further to securing their Serie A stat

Yang Yun the asian promising player trial out for juve

2009-04-02T17:02:00.000-07:00

Last May the dream began to come true and today it has finally become a reality. The dream is that of Yang Yun, a young promising player of Shangai Shenhua, one of the teams Juventus met during the Asia Pacific Tour at the end of last season.

The youngster, 20 years old and a central defender is 1.83 meters tall and weighs 66 kilos. He was selected last May by the Juventus technical staff who had seen a number of videos of him playing during the Fiat Cup and will now join the Primavera for a trial period.

In the past few days Yang Yun arrived in Turin, underwent the medical tests, saw the Juventus Center and today wore the jersey and shoes getting on the field for his first training session with the bianconeri. It was a baptism of fire.

Today’s session consisted of a friendly match between the Primavera and the first team and Yang Yun played for the whole of the first half immediately having to face Del Piero and friends. The youngster did well winning a number of balls and earning the compliments of Massimiliano Maddaloni.

Yang Yun will remain in Turin until the 10th of April and will have the chance to live an extraordinary experience, training with the fresh Viareggio champions and in close contact with the Juventus stars.

JUVENTUS PLAYERS ON SCORE SHEET IN QUALIFICATION

2009-04-01T17:36:00.000-07:00

WOW ALMOST ALL JUVENTUS PLAYERS BE A STAR IN EACH COUNTRY .
THIS IS THE LIST OF COUNTRY :

1. ITALY (ITALY VS IRLANDIA 1 - 1)

IAQUNITA Was left all by himself for 88 minutes, and ran his heart out for the team. Scored Italy's goal, and his brilliant run created a chance for Dossena late on.

BUFFON Made two brilliant saves from Hunt in the first half, and Kilbane in the second, but was totally helpless on Keane's late equaliser.

2. DENMARK (DENMARK VS ALBANIA 3-0 )

CHRISTIAN POULSEN Make beautiful goal in minute 80th and make denmark glad after albania press them in last minute of the match.

3. CEKO ( CEKO VS SLOAKIA 1 - 2 )

GRYGERA - Ceko was lost because sloavakia make early goal but Equalished by grygera. but final score was 2-1 for slovakia with beatiful open play.

Sebastian Giovinco be a Star in Italy Under-21s

2009-03-31T16:53:00.000-07:00

Sebastian Giovinco was on the scoresheet as Italy Under-21s continued their preparations for this summer’s European Championships with 1-1 friendly draw with Holland Under-21s in Kerkrade.

The Azzurrini were almost back to full strength after a younger outfit had drawn 2-2 with Austria last week. Sebastian Giovinco, Mario Balotelli and Robert Acquafresca forged a fearsome-looking trident, while Inter wonderkid Davide Santon made his Under-21 debut.

First Half

There was a rather uneventful start to the game, and it took until midway through the half for either side to register a shot on goal. Incredibly this resulted in a goal, as Holland right back Gianni Zuiverloon’s cross from the left was headed home by Siem De Jong, with goalkeeper Andrea Consigli left in no-man’s land.

It could have been 2-0 five minutes later as Urby Emanuelson slipped through Roy Beerens, but his first touch was heavy, allowing Consigli to come out and gather. Beerens wasted another opening soon after, as he blazed horribly over, following a lightning counter attack.

It took until the 35th minute for Italy to conjure up an effort, as Giovinco left his man for dead down the left, cut inside before unleashing a rocket that was brilliantly turned around the post by Piet Velthuizen.

There was controversy minutes later, as Giovinco cut past two men in the box, before going down under the challenge of Zuiverloon, but the referee turned away the penalty appeals.

Italy finally found the equaliser bang on half time. Balotelli’s free kick was charged down, and Giovinco’s snap-shot from the edge of the box nestled into the bottom corner of the net.

Second Half

Giovinco was the first to threaten in the second half, but he was unable to get a decisive touch at the neat post from Dessena's cross.

The Dutch made a whole host of substitutions, and one of those introduced, Kees Luijckx, whipped a free kick over the bar. Giovinco did the same down the other end.

Holland started to press more, with Luijckx, and another replacement Diego Biseswar, firing over.

Italy missed a golden chance to take the lead on 75 minutes, as Wisgerhof's poor header released Acquafresca through on goal, but the Cagliari hitman's finish was very disappointing.

Santon had impressed on his debut, and his vicious half-volley flashed wide. Giovinco then embarked on a mesmerising solo run, beating three players before being stopped by the last defender.

The game finished 1-1, in what probably proved to be a fair result. The standout players on the pitch were Emanuelson, Beerens, Marchisio and Giovinco.

Teams

Holland U-21: Velthuizen (Vermeer 46); Zuiverloon (Verhagen 66), Wielaert, Wisgerhof, Pieters; De Jong (Fer 46), Meeuwis, Emanuelson (Luijckx 59); Beerens (Biseswar 46), Van Wolfswinkel (Poepon 79); Elia (Amrabat 46)

Italy U-21: Consigli; Santon, Santacroce, Marzorati, Criscito; Dessena (De Silvestri 63), Cigarini (Candreva 44), Marchisio (Morosini 88); Giovinco (Di Gennaro 88), Balotelli (Poli 75), Acquafresca.

Goals

De Jong 21 (H)
Giovinco 45 (I)

Chelsea Make €8m Bid For David Trezeguet

2009-03-31T16:46:00.000-07:00

Press rumours in the peninsula suggest that the Blues want to take ‘Trezegol’ to London. Juve will turn to Fabio Quagliarella.

Turin-based daily Tuttosport today claims that Premier League giants Chelsea are ready to make a formal offer in the region of €8 million to secure the services of Juventus striking star David Trezeguet.

It is suggested that the Old Lady want to get more money out of the deal, however, they are prepared to start negotiations with the London side.

Juve shelled out €28m to capture the 31-year-old Frenchman from Ligue 1 outfit Monaco in 2000. He has made over 200 appearances for the Turin powerhouse and has a contract until 2011, with wages of €4.8 per season.

Should the Corso Galileo Ferraris directors agree to let Trezeguet leave for England, Juve are likely to replace him with Udinese and Italy star Fabio Quagliarella.

The Neapolitan hitman has long been a target for the Old Lady, who are prepared to offer money and the services of striker Michele Paolucci. The 23-year-old is currently on loan at Catania but is co-owned by Juve and Udinese.

Oh No Don't Go Trezeguet

THE NEW THEATRE OF JUVENTUS

2009-03-28T18:09:00.000-07:00

BIGGER STADIUM , EXCLUSIVE STADIUM , HIGH TECH STADIUM, CROWD STADIUM , ALL IN ONE IN THIS STADION

The stadium can host 40.200 onlookers and it’s been drawn up bearing maximum safety standards. The access, with no architectural barriers, will be through four entrances on corners, with wide ramps following the profile of the green hills on which the plant rises, leading to a ring turning around the stadium.
The ring will be a safe place, where entrance tickets can be easily checked out and where service and emergency transport means can stay. Access to steps and to stands will be through the 16 gangways distributed over the various sectors, hanging on spaces that once made the old stadium. At the end of events, for emergency cases, the plant can be emptied in less than 4 minutes.

The project expects to recover the whole Delle Alpi underground part, including the pitch zone. Below the steps there will be the stadium’s service areas and those for the team. The players’ needs, in particular, have been put at first place by planners: accesses to the plant, dressing rooms, relax areas, entrance to the pitch have been thought in minimum details.

In the upper part, with a profile of great lightness and essentiality – peculiar to the stylistic rigour that has always marked the club – will rise the stadium, with steps and boxes: all this put in a unique semicircle profile and without elements detaching from continuity line. The covering of glacis, projected in the Wind Tunnel, will be realized inspiring to airplanes wings: a structure with great lightness, realized with a partly transparent and partly matt membrane, to allow the best view of the pitch, during the day as well as during the night, while guaranteeing sufficient light passing through, to let the grass grow on the pitch. The covering has been projected also to keep the audience sounds inside the plant, making the supporters feel, if possible, and even more closer to the players.

The area dedicated to commercial area is of 34.000 square meters, on which will rise a shops gallery, a shopping center and DIY store. We foresee also 30.000 square meters of public parks, flowerbeds, squares and parking for 4.000 cars.

I would love for the new stadium to be named Stadio Degli Agnelli, but Juventus have already announced it will be named for a sponsor, for about 80million euros over 12 years. The closest seats are 24 feet from the pitch. 24 feet!! And the farthest seats are already closer to the pitch than the closest seats of the Delle Alpi, for comparison. A very intimate atmosphere.

According to Channel4, “behind the stands there will be eight restaurants, 24 bars, 459 Press seats and a ring of green space.” There are rumors they will be developing a hotel either onsite or nearby as well. NO running track, thank god, which supposedly the Italian councils demand in the new stadiums so they can be versatile. But instead of paying millions of euros per year to rent out the Olimpico, we will actually be in a stadium earning US money.

We are the only Serie A club in Italy to own our on stadium, and I’m thrilled to see the project come to fruition. The capacity will be about 42,000, obviously smaller than the Delle Alpi but as anti-Juventini love to point out, it was rarely full anyways (partially due to its awfulness, if you’ve ever been there particularly during the winter you’d know what I mean) and the new stadium’s seats will be much, much closer. Looks terrific. Pictures after the jump.

The project

Juventus’ new stadium was born from a deep team work.
Architects Hernando Suarez (Shesa Office) and Gino Zavanella (Gau office) are the plant planners; Engineers Francesco Ossola and Massimo Majowiecki, are responsible of structural planning, of operating planning and of work direction for structural part.
The team is composed also by Architect Antonio De la Pierre (planning coordination), by Engineer Marco Lazzerini (mechanical plants), by Engineer Renzo Zorzi (electric plants), and by Architects Eloy and Stefano Suarez (architectural planning). Project management is followed by AI Group of Turin, responsible of which is the President, Engineer Paolo Erbetta.
A basic contribution has been given by two very important names of Italian style, collaborating for the first time for giving life to an architectural project: Giugiaro Design and Pininfarina Extra. Juventus addressed to Fabrizio Giugiaro and to Paolo Pininfarina to add to his stadium a strong sign of design, to testify a Turinese excellence recognized all over the world, representing Italian creativity at its best.
Architect Alberto Rolla (Rolla Office) took care of commercial area and of town-planning insertion.

Technical Characteristics

Capacity:40.200 seats
Parking: 4.000 parkings for cars
Total surface: 355.000 square metres
Internal stadium surface: 45.000 square metres
Services areas: 150.000 square metres
Commercial areas: 34.000 square metres
Green areas and squares: 30.000 square metres

Distances of the onlooker from lateral line of the pitch and comparison between the new stadium and current Delle Alpi

Tribuna Ovest 1° raw: 8,85 metres (28 metres)
Trivuna Ovest last raw: 49 metres (68,30 metres)
Tribuna 100 1° raw: 8,85 metres (43,50 metres)
Tribuna 100 last raw: 26,50 metres (49,10 metres)
Tribuna media 1° raw: 33,80 metres (57,50 metres)
Tribuna media, last raw: 49 metres (59,10 metres)
Curves, 1° raw: 8,85 metres (50 metres from the middle of the curve)

iaquinta be new hope for azzurri

2009-03-27T09:05:00.001-07:00

Vincenzo Iaquinta would have no qualms operating as the main striker in Italy's World Cup qualifier in Montenegro, the Juventus player said on Thursday.

Iaquinta has often been used in a wide position by coach Marcello Lippi but injuries to Luca Toni and Alberto Gilardino mean the 29-year-old is almost certain to lead the line in Podgorica on Saturday.

He has played in that position in this week's training sessions with Udinese duo Antonio Di Natale and Fabio Quagliarella supporting him in a 4-3-3 formation.

"At Juve we play with two forwards. In the national team I have been used on the wing. If I play as the main striker I can equally create space," the former Udinese frontman told a news conference.

"I have never played with Italy from the start as the main striker but it's not a problem. At Udinese I did it for seven years and that is the position that suits me best."

Iaquinta, who scored twice in last weekend's 4-1 win at AS Roma, has not always been a regular for Juve but has played five games in a row after injuries to Amauri and David Trezeguet.

"If I'm fit I don't feel inferior to anybody. I am enjoying a really great spell. I am playing with continuity, I don't have physical problems and I am well psychologically," he said.

World champions Italy, who also host fellow Group Eight leaders Ireland in Bari on Wednesday, are missing injured players in each position.

Training sessions suggest Sampdoria's Angelo Palombo will play alongside Andrea Pirlo and Daniele De Rossi in midfield.

Juventus a protagonist at the stock exchange

2009-03-27T08:58:00.001-07:00

March is another month dedicated to the stock exchange on the part of Juventus. The same as every year, a delegation from the club, made up of general manager Jean-Claude Blanc and the director of administration and finance Michele Bergero, took part in the Star Conference 2009, two days in which the stock market of Milan dedicates to those clubs in the stock market who form part of the STAR group.

The 8th edition was held at the historical Palazzo Mezzanotte in Milan and gave the opportunity to the Juventus directors to present to the public made up of investors the club’s situation with particular prominence given to the stadium project. If a year ago (the 6th of March to be exact), the conference was held just a few days after the go ahead by the board of directors, today Blanc was in a position to present the progress made: from the presentation of the project to this very day, including the demolition of the old stadium and the upcoming works for the construction of the new one.

Juventus Edge Closer "Fantantonio" Cassano

2009-03-25T09:54:00.000-07:00

Press rumours suggest that Juve and Samp are about to reach an agreement over the transfer of ‘Fantantonio’.

According to Turin-based newspaper Tuttosport, Juventus and Antonio Cassano will tie the knot next summer, with midfielder Sergio Almiron moving to Sampdoria in a part-exchange deal.
The recent meeting between John Elkann, the chairman of Juventus’ parent company IFIL, and Blucerchiati president Riccardo Garrone was reportedly the turning point in the discussions. Tuttosport suggests that the Old Lady will therefore keep hold of Sebastian Giovinco, who seemed to hold the key to the deal.

Sampdoria were said to be interested in the ‘Atomic Ant’ as a replacement for Cassano but Juve are unwilling to part company with their rising star, who has been in superb form of late.

And the Doriani would welcome the arrival of Argentine midfield man Almiron, who is expected to return to Turin at the end of the season after a disappointing loan stint at Fiorentina.

ROMA VS JUVENTUS

2009-03-21T16:45:00.000-07:00

ONCE AGAIN JUVENTUS PROVED HIS SUPERIORITY WITH BEAT A BIG TEAM ROMA. THANX FOR IAQUNITA WITH 2 MAGNIFICIENT GOAL

PLAYER RATINGS: Roma 1–4 Juventus

ROMA

Doni: 4.0- Was beaten handily four times and was hung out to dry by his back four.

Riise: 5.0- The former Liverpool man made a wonderful save on Del Piero with Doni beaten but will not pleased that the back line conceded four goals

Loria: 6.0- The much-maligned centre-back scored his first goal for the Giallorossi but it came in a losing cause.

Mexes: 4.0- Looked like a pylon when Iaquinta stepped around him and opened the scoring. His evening did not get any better when Iaquinta out-jumped him for his second goal of the match.

Panucci: 4.0- The veteran right-back was run ragged by Giovinco and Co. and it may be time for him to hang up his boots

Filipe: 6.0- The youngster made his first start of the season and was one of the only bright spots in an otherwise ugly evening for the Giallorossi.

Brighi: 5.0- Worked his socks off tonight in the first half but could not handle the presence of Poulsen in the midfield.

Tonetto: 5.0- His little flick set up Loria’s goal but failed to do much after that.

Baptista: 5.0- The ‘Beast’ was rather tame this evening and will not have pleased his manager with his performance.

Menez: 6.0- The flashy French winger went to ground much too easily at times but won the corner and then provided the delivery that set up Loria’s goal.

Vucinic: 5.0- He was starved of service upfront and was jeered off the pitch when he was substituted late in the game.

SUBS: Montella (63”) 5.5, D’Alessandro (82’) NA Stojan (91’) NA

JUVENTUS

Buffon: 6.0- Did not have much to do between the posts tonight but made a good stop on D’Alessandro in the closing minutes.

Molinaro: 7.0- The hardworking defender did not put a wrong foot forward all evening long and linked up well with Giovinco.

Chiellini: 8.0- He was sporting a mask after breaking his nose but it did not inhibit his performance which was top class as usual. Made a wonderful sliding block on Brighi in the 16th minute.

Mellberg: 7.5- The Big Swede scored a rare goal when he sent a bullet header past Doni to put the match to bed.

Grygera: 7.0- His cross set up Iaquinta for his second goal of the match.

Salihamidzic: 7.0- He is rounding into form after coming back from a long injury layoff and Juve’s midfield has been better for it.

Tiago: 7.0- The Portuguese playmaker put a solid performance together as he pulled the strings in the midfield tonight.

Poulsen: 7.0- The tough as nails holding midfielder created space for Tiago and Giovinco to work with.

Giovinco: 7.5- The ‘Atomic Ant’ set up Iaquinta’s goal with a beautiful pass and was a danger every time he touched the ball.

Iaquinta: 8.0- Took his goals extremely well as he danced around Mexes and fired a shot past Doni for his first and then out-muscled the Frenchman to head past Doni for his second.

Del Piero: 7.0- The captain was unlucky not to have added his name to the score-sheet as Riise cleared what was a certain goal off the line.

SUBS: Nedved (70”) 7.5, Marchionni (73”) 6.5

PERFECT GOAL BY PINTURICHIO

2009-03-20T17:51:00.000-07:00

THE MASSCOT OF JUVENTUS EL PINTURICHIO EL MAGNIFICIO ALESSANDRO DEL PIERO'S GOAL

JOSE MOURINHO LEAVE BY INTERISTI

2009-03-16T07:32:00.000-07:00

Suporter Inter Dissipates Mourinho

After was defeated earlier from Liga Champions, suporter Inter Milan supporters make a banner which contain lampooning in komplek practice Pinetina.

Number of suporter Nerazzurri hating Mourinho is increases after their team they swallow bitter pill to fail geting away to quarterfinal Liga Champions because was defeated by Manchester United . This is failure fourth time in four years.

But, suporter assumes worse this failure compared to era Roberto Mancini. The Beneamata is noted only twice wins, three draw and fails in 16 Big. This achievement is the worst which in earning Inter last five years.

Though, suporter before all hopes arrival of Mourinho returns to brings them to great achievement in champion league after had not felt during more than 40 years. As a form of disappointment, a number of suporter make a banner in place of practice Pinetina writes down 'Bigmouth , go away from Milan'.

Mourinho several times involved animus with mass media and club competitor since taking over care taker positon from hand of Mancini. Rumor exhaled by Italian media to mention Mourinho will leave Inter towards English premiere league.

Its very funny

source

juve vs roma

2009-03-15T17:33:00.000-07:00

Next Match

Roma vs Juventus

The Bianconeri are keeping the Serie A title race still open. After the loss to Chelsea in the Champions League, Claudio Ranieri made some wholesale changes to the team for the Bologna game in Turin. For once, the Tinkerman's choices seemed to pay the right dividends as Juve stormed to a 4-1 win to keep the pressure up on Inter. A new and tougher challenge awaits the Bianconeri in Rome. Anything less than a win could see the Nerazzurri take a further leap towards the title.

Although Ranieri is well aware of the injury situation at Trigoria, he will not be taking anything for granted against Roma. The Giallorossi showed their mettle against Sampdoria, and thus an alert Juve will need to be present at the Olimpico this weekend. Following the recent spat with David Trezeguet, peace seems to have been reached between the Frenchman and his coach. The prolific striker missed out last week, perhaps as punishment for his rant against Ranieri. However, he has a good chance of featuring this weekend as the coach makes more changes.

Juve will be confident knowing they have not lost to the Giallorossi in the league for almost four years, but the Olimpico has not always been kind to them this season. Juve have lost and drawn there already this term, albeit against Roma's bitter rivals Lazio. Ranieri and his men will be hoping it's third time lucky in Rome this weekend. Nothing more than three points will be on the agenda, and it's time to show their mettle as we enter the business end of the season. Although the gap between second and first stands at seven points, the Scudetto lantern is still, just about, flickering for the Old Lady.

Pavel Nedved is back in contention for his side after missing out last week. Giorgio Chiellini is also likely to play following a nose break last week, but he will wear a protective mask to support him. Olof Mellberg is likely to keep his place ahead of Nicola Legrottaglie who has a problem to his left knee. Claudio Marchisio is still struggling with a knock, and he is unlikely to feature. There may be space for Tiago and Christian Poulsen in midfield. Mauro Camoranesi, Mohamed Sissoko, Cristian Zanetti, Amauri, Paolo De Ceglie and Alex Manninger are all out of contention with various problems.

juventus vs bologna 4 -1

2009-03-14T19:27:00.000-07:00

Juventus: Buffon; Grygera, Chiellini, Mellberg, Molinaro; Tiago (Poulsen 46), Marchisio, Salihamidzic, Giovinco (Daud 88); Del Piero (Immobile 91), Iaquinta
Bologna: Antonioli; Zenoni, Britos, Terzi, Lanna; Bombardini (Osvaldo 74), Mudingayi, Mutarelli (Amoroso 52), Volpi, Valiani (Adailton 62); Di Vaio

Tonight young playmaker Giovinco was the best man on the pitch as Juventus came back to beat Bologna 4-1. The 22-year-old scored the second goal and gave the assist for Juve's first, and showed exactly why he is considered such a major talent with a number of great moves.

Following the match, he was asked by Sky interview if he thought this was his best performance in the black and white shirt, to which he responded: "Perhaps, because I've played three games in a row now and so I am starting to play with more continuity.

"Before I was lacking in match rhythm. If a player plays more, he can express himself better."

On whether he is happy he decided to stay at Juve instead of leaving in January, Giovinco said: "I had no doubts I would stay at Juventus, perhaps other people did. I believe in my potential and I am very happy.

"My favourite role? Everyone knows what my role is, the coach knows it, but I try to adapt to what he asks of me.

"It was fundamental to win and react to the elimination from the Champions League, and to get close to Inter. That's what we did."

Inter are currently four points ahead, but they have a game in hand, tomorrow night at San Siro against fourth-placed Fiorentina.

man of the match : Giovinco (assist + 1 goal )

juventus vs chelsea

2009-03-11T17:10:00.000-07:00

the best team not always be a winner

this is the video, iaqunita goal is very spectacular
may be he can be the next delpiero

spesialisation del piero hwkwkwkw

TORINO VS JUVENTUS 0 - 1

2009-03-08T17:23:00.000-07:00

Torino vs juventus

It was time for the Turin derby tonight at the Stadio Olimpico. Juventus needed all three points to keep the Scudetto race somewhat alive, after Inter won their away match at Genoa earlier this afternoon.

Nevertheless, coach Claudio Ranieri played a second-string team, perhaps in view of the looming Champions League clash against Chelsea, with Amauri and Vincenzo Iaquinta in attack, while Pavel Nedved, Alessandro Del Piero, and David Trezeguet all started from the bench. Meanwhile, Torino had Roberto Stellone and Alessandro Rosina up front in a 4-4-2 formation.

First Half

Juventus started the game strongly, with ‘Atomic Ant’ Sebastian Giovinco looking dangerous in the opening stages. In the second minute, he cut inside from the wing and let go a shot from outside the area that was well grabbed by Matteo Sereni.

A minute later, the youngster found Iaquinta inside the area with a good pass, and the striker fired a dangerous shot that forced a magnificent save from Sereni.

The "home side," in this case Torino, responded in the seventh minute as Stellone blew a huge chance, heading the ball over the bar from a great position on a corner kick.

Five minutes after that, World Cup winning midfielder Simone Barone fired a dangerous shot from outside the area that had to be tipped over the bar by Gianluigi Buffon. It was an entertaining match with chances for both sides at this stage.

Barone made himself dangerous again six minutes later, forcing Buffon into another decent save with a header on a great cross by Marco Pisano.

A massive chance fell to Iaquinta in the 26th minute, as he seemed sure to score with a well-placed header toward the bottom corner, but somehow Sereni managed to keep it out with some miraculous reflexes.

The latter part of the first half was considerably slower, and the next chance didn’t come until the 41st minute, when Claudio Marchisio tried his luck from a similar distance from where he scored the winner last week against Napoli, but this time there was no lucky deflection and the ball was easily grabbed by Sereni.

That was the last chance of a decent first half from both sides, particularly in the opening half an hour.

Second Half

No changes were made during half-time by either coach. The second half continued in the same fashion as the second part of the first, both teams struggling to find any openings.

In the 47th minute, Amauri made himself dangerous as a latched on to a long pass inside the area, and fired the ball toward the near post, but Sereni was once again alert.

For about twenty minutes there were no chances of note, but in the 73rd minute Sereni had to perform heroics again to prevent Torino going behind. From a free-kick, defender Olof Mellberg headed the ball and Sereni managed to save it, but the real miracle came when the goalkeeper also denied Hasan Salihamidzic a seemingly certain goal on the rebound, tipping the ball onto the post.

Just when it seemed both sides were too tired to create any more chances, Juve opened the scoring in the 81st minute. Substitute Pavel Nedved sent in a free-kick from the left and Giorgio Chiellini headed the ball past Sereni, who got furious with his defenders for losing sight of Juve’s bulky centre-back.

Following this goal, the Bianconeri had no problems hanging on to their lead and secured a crucial victory that allows them to remain within seven points of Inter. Meanwhile, Torino are in 16th place with 24 points, but after tomorrow’s matches they may slip back into the relegation zone.

DOWNLOAD

2009-03-02T17:20:00.000-08:00

download screensaver juventus

CLASSIC STYLE WITH GOOD ANIMATION JUST LIKE ROLL FILM . VERY ENTERTAINING AND AS JUVENTINI WE MUST HAVE IT . DOWNLOAD HERE
JUVENTUS Screensaver v.1

A screensaver (44 wallpapers included) of the Great Soccer Team - JUVENTUS FC. For more soccer wallpapers, screensavers, themes, hotbars, cursors and icons.
ALL DOWNLOAD HERE

JUVENTUS Screensaver v.2

UPDATED WALLPAPER WITH GOOD MUSIC TOO NICE TO BE JUVENTINI SCREENSAVERS, DOWNLOAD CLICK HERE

JUVENTUS Screensaver v.3

ALL ABOUT DEL PIERO , WITH VERY MUCH HIGH QUALITY WALL PAPER AND EFFECT IS NEED TO BE HAVE FOR ALL JUVENTINI DOWNLOAD HERE
DEL PIERO Screensaver v.3

download themes xp of juventus

JUVENTUS themes v.1

download mp3 of juventus

JUVENTUS mp3 Grande juve

JUVENTUS THEME SONG mp3

download magazine about true calciopoli

CALCIO ITALIA MAGAZINE "THE TRUE OF CALCIOPOLI"

juventus

2009-02-28T21:02:00.000-08:00

Juventus History since 1897

-=The begining=-

Legend has it that one day over a century ago, November 1, 1897 to be
exact, a group of youngsters age 14 to 17 from the D'Azeglio High School
in Turin, sitting on an uncomfortable bench on a street called Corso Re
Umberto, decided to start a sports club with the aim of playing football.
The same legend has it that the club was called "Juventus" more or less
by chance, and that the name was immediately loved and adopted as a way
of life.

The Club, who's first president was Enrico Cafari, changed headquarters
often but soon made a name for itself against many more expert teams in town.
The players weared pink jerseys. Juventus made their debut in the Italian
championship in 1900, wearing this uniform. The black and white one was
imported directly from Nottingham in 1903. The team played in Piazza d'Armi.
Meanwhile some of the early games were played on a field near the current
train station of Porta Susa. This field was soon covered by buildings and Juventus
rented a field on the Motovelodromo Umberto I in the Crocetta part of
town instead. Juventus played here until 1906. Juventus then moved to the
north of the city and the Stadio di Corso Marsiglia. This small stadium
was known as “Campo Juventus" in Turin.

Juventus won their first Italian championship after a heart stopping three
way final against Genoa and Milanese. This victory crowned the efforts of
the Club's pioneers, under Swiss president Alfredo Dick, with the help of
a number of foreign players. Alfredo Dick soon left the Club in anger, however,
after losing support from the majority of players, and founded his own
soccer team, called Turin. In doing so he took with him a number of valuable
foreign players.
The ensuing years were not easy ones for the team, and up to the First World
War Italian soccer was dominated by Pro Vercelli and Casale. Juventus
stepped into the limelight again just after the war: goalkeeper Giacone and
fullbacks Novo and Bruna were the first of the Club's players to be called
on the National team. At this time the President was Corradino Corradini,
a poet and man of letters.

In 1923 Giampiero Combi, one of the greatest goalkeepers of all times,

made his debut on the team. On July 24 of that historical year the Club's
Members unanimously elected Edoardo Agnelli, son of the founder of
the Fiat automobile company, as President. The Club now boasted its
own soccer field in Corso Marsiglia, with masonry stands to host the
growing number of fans.

This was the prelude to five consecutive championship trophies in the
1930s, under coach Carlo Carcano and a lineup with champions such as
Orsi, Caligaris, Monti, Cesarini, Varglien I and II, Bertolini, Ferrari and
Borel II. This uninterrputed string of trophies went from 1930 to 1935,
and at the same time players from the Club gave an important contribution
to the Italian national team, which won the World Cup in Rome in 1934.

-=Challenge Europe=-

The Club's first steps in the international arena date to the same period,
when it participated in the European Cup, illustrious ancestor of the
Cup Winner's Cup, reaching the semifinals four times. In 1947 Gianni Agnelli
, son of Edoardo who had died tragically in a plane crash in 1935,
took the helm, bringing back the glorious years. At this time the Club's
most representative champions were Carlo Parola, the Danes John
Hansen and Praest, and above all Giampiero Boniperti, who was to
become the Club's recordman for games played (444) and goals
scored (177). Juventus won the National championship in 1950 and 1952.

In 1953 Giovanni Agnelli stepped down as president, a position
which was to be filled two years later by his brother Umberto. A new
cycle of victories was about to be inaugurated: the Club won the
national championship in 1958, 1960, and 1961 with players such
as Omar Sivori and John Charles, becoming the first soccer Club
in Italy to have won ten national championships (in 1958) and being
awarded the national medal for sports merits. Although city rivals
Torino had their own stadium at via Filadelfia, its slow demise saw
the club move to share the Comunale with Juventus in 1960.

Juventus returned to victory in 1967 under Vittore Catella's
presidency, opening a long cycle of triumphs with its most representative
champion, Giampiero Boniperti: the Club won nine national
championships in fifteen years ( in 1972, '73, '75, '77, '78, '81,
'82, '84, '86) plus all there was to win in the international arena: UEFA
Cup (first success in 1977), Cup Winner's Cup (1984), European
Cup, Supercup and World Club Championship (1985).
In these years the team was coached by Vycpalek, Parola and,
above all, Giovanni Trapattoni. This was the time of great
Italian champions (from Zoff to Scirea, from Tardelli to Cabrini,
from Causio to Paolo Rossi, Gentile, Furino, Anastasi and the
current vice president Roberto Bettega) but also of foreign
champions such as Michel Platini, who played for Juventus five
seasons, winning two national championship trophies, two
European Cups, one World Club Championship, three times
top scorer of the year and three golden balls.

===============================================

Full name
Juventus Football Club SpA

Nickname(s)
La Vecchia Signora (Old Lady),
Bianconeri,Zebra,Gobbi (deprec.)

Founded
November 1, 1897

Ground
Stadio delle Alpi,Turin, Italy
Stadio Comunalle(olimpico) turin,italy

Capacity
69,041
30,000 olimpico

Chairman
(Italy) Gigli

Manager
(ITALY) CLAUDIO RANIERI
Juventus (Latin for Youth, pronounced /ju.ˈvɛn.təs/) is one of
Italy's oldest and greatest football clubs, based in Turin, Piedmont.
It competes in Serie A. Juventus are widely regarded as one of the world's
top clubs.

The team typically plays in black-and-white striped shirts and black
shorts (but for decades in white shorts), and is nicknamed la Vecchia
Signora (the Old Lady), bianconeri (black-and-white's), zebre (zebras),
or deprecatively gobbi (humpbacks) by the opponents. The team gets its
black-and-white striped kits from English side Notts County. Originally
the team played in pink shirts (pink being the cheapest material available)
with a black tie.

When the club decided to change these, it was decided to import kits,
but a mix-up by the supplier meant that the team got the Notts County
black and white instead. The club's stadium is the 69,041-seat Stadio
Delle Alpi, which it currently shares with Torino F.C.. This arrangement
will end after the 2005–06 season, when Torino F.C. will open a new
ground of its own.

Juventus F.C. was founded in November 1897 by students from Massimo
D'Azeglio Lyceum, in a "legendary" bench in one of Turin's boulevard, Re
Umberto boulevard. The team won a previous version of the national
league titles as early as 1905, but did not win their second until 1926.
In 1923, the Agnelli family (owners of Fiat) gained control of the club,
and built a private stadium in Villar Perosa (near Turin) and a complete
series of facilities and services.

From 1931, the club won five consecutive Italian league championships
(Italian scudetto). In 1933, they began playing at the Stadio Comunale.
Post-war the club was very successful domestically, winning its tenth
championship in 1961, but did not win any European titles until 1977
with the UEFA Cup.

The height of European success was not reached until 1985, when
they won the European Champions Cup, but this success was largely
overshadowed by the Heysel disaster that had occurred during the
final between Juventus and Liverpool. Juventus repeated the success
by winning the Champions League for a second time in 1996, and
have not won it again since, the closest chance being when they lost to
AC Milan in the 2003 final due to losing in a penalty shootout.

Juventus also won the Cup Winners' Cup in 1984 and two more
UEFA Cup (1990, 1993). However, in 1999, due to their poor
domestic season, they were forced into the ignominy of entering the
UEFA Intertoto Cup in order to qualify for Europe. They have won
28 Italian titles and nine Coppa Italias to date, both national records.
The club is also one of only four to have won all three major European
trophies.

Until recently, Juventus' players had to wear short (and regular) hair;
the club also provided the team with official formal wear
(made by famous tailors) and forced them to complete their
educational studies. Most of its players remained with Juventus until
the end of their careers; many still work for the club or for Fiat
(or related companies).

The two stars on the Juventus shirt signify they have won the Scudetto
over 20 times. In fact, Juventus won the Italian Championship 28 times,
more than any other Italian club; no other club has won the championship
over 20 times, but the closest one to that objective is AC Milan.

Juventus is now a corporation, listed on the Borsa Italiana. The sale
of Zinedine Zidane to Real Madrid of Spain was the most expensive
in football to date, costing the Spanish club over $64 million (US),
which is accurately £48 million.

On January 10, 2006 Alessandro Del Piero became the all time
leading goalscorer for Juventus when he scored three times in a
match against Fiorentina and took his total goals for the club to
185. The previous record holder was Giampiero Boniperti, who
scored 182 goals for the club. Other famous players to have
played for the club include Michel Platini, Franco Causio, Gaetano
Scirea, Dino Zoff, John Charles and Zinedine Zidane.
***Juve Logo's ****

Fourtieth years (40)

seventieth years (70)

eightieth years (80)

ninetieth years (90)

2004

this is juventus logo whe mussolini era in italia

before this year juventus dont have a logo:
end of 40's until 50's
60's Leoncini
70's cabrini
81 scirea
85 platini
91 casiraghi