il Tifosi

Moving On Up!

2010-06-06T08:39:00.000-07:00

Il Tifoso has cancelled the milk & TuttoSport subscription, redirected its mail & moved to a new home!

Find us at http://iltifosi.tumblr.com

Hope you follow us there!

Grazie, e forza Il bianconeri per sempre.

This Week In Bianconeri

2010-06-06T01:19:00.000-07:00

A week of quiet negotiation & exits. Roberto Bettega, Fabio Cannavaro & Christian Molinaro all severed ties with Juventus this week. La Penna Bianca leaving was discussed in a previous post, a great man who's presence will be sorely missed. Molinaro spent the second part of last season on loan at Stuttgart & the German team were happy to meet the €4 million agreed transfer fee, as he has been the "best left-back in Germany" since his arrival!

€4m, ball not included...

Cannavaro was out of contract on June 1, so his departure was no secret, although his destination did come as a surprise. He has signed a 2 year deal with U.A.E. Champions Al-Ahli, & made a point of telling the world that he "always wanted to move to Dubai". Yes Fabio of course you have, & Sven Goran Eriksson is a Liverpool fan...

Beppe Marotta has been very busy this week, holding meetings with countless club representatives - trying to secure deals for more exits as well as chasing new players. Three things have become obvious about his work this week.

Firstly there is clearly a plan in place, for both the shape of the squad next season & for who is surplus to requirements under Del Neri - 2 points which Secco never fully understood. Second is the type of player he seems to be chasing; young, determined and slightly off-the-radar. Perhaps the names he is linked with are not household names, but we've seen the results of signing names rather than talent just last season.

"Who's got next?"

Simone Pepe has become the first signing of the new regime, secured for €10m from Udinese, with Marotta spreading the fee over the next four years. Fitting both the profile of the club & the system of Del Neri, the winger just needs to sign the contract which he has already agreed.

His ability to play both flanks will be an asset, as the new coach often switches his wide players during games. Milos Krasic of CSKA Moscow seems next on the list & Marotta has a meeting with the club on Monday, & various sources are reporting that Fabio Paratici has already agreed a deal with the players representative.

Marotta also admitted that moves for Marco Motta (co-owned by Roma & Udinese), Leo Bonucci and Antonio Candreva are also well advanced. All 3 again fit the plan, & Del Neri's tactical idea.

Pavel, sorry Milos Krasic

One stop on Marotta's world tour was Munich, which seemed to be to finalise the Molinaro deal, as well as looking for buyers for Amauri, Grygera & Salihamidzic. The signing of Pepe has yet to be officially announced, which seems to be because Agnelli wants to announce of a number of arrivals at once - both to reflect well on him but also to remove the pressure of a single player being his first addition, another intelligent move.

A busy week then, & one which bodes well for the future of the club. forza il Bianconeri!

La Penna Bianca Leaves Juventus

2010-06-01T01:50:00.000-07:00

A small announcement appeared on the club's official website yesterday, informing us that the return of Roberto Bettega was over after just five months. The White Feather returned in December as Assistant Director General & became a buffer between the playing staff & the management duo of Alessio Secco & Jean Claude Blanc. He was also ultimately responsible for the loan acquisition of Antonio Candreva & replacing Ciro Ferrara with Alberto Zaccheroni.

While his departure is saddening, it is really no surprise. The arrivals of Andrea Agnelli, Beppe Marotta, Fabio Paratici & Gigi Del Neri had left Bettega with no clear role & with his love for Juventus unquestionable he would not remain for the sake of sentiment. However, keeping a famous former player around in that "buffer" role is a common trait among Serie A sides, so a replacement should be employed soon.

In an interesting footnote to the story, Andrea Agnelli visited the Italian National team yesterday, at a similar time to the announcement being made public. So as one iconic former number 11 left the club, who was the Presidents companion for his visit to Sestriere...

This Week In Black & White

2010-05-30T00:33:00.000-07:00

The first week after the season ends is always quiet, especially when its the worst year in living memory. Much time for reflection and assessment by the new management. Agnelli, Marotta & Del Neri have much work ahead of them, made more difficult by the forthcoming World Cup, which means many players with which the club would want to talk to are locked away in training camps across the world.

Of course half the clubs players were on the post-season tour to the US & Canada, where the team lost to both the New York Red Bulls & Fiorentina. For an inside look at the tour from Canada, read an excellent blog post here.

Time to roll up those sleeves boys!

With very little news being made public you would have to assume that the three men, plus Jean Claude Blanc have been busy beginning to make the moves needed to bring la Vecchia Signora back into contention for honours. The rumour mill has been working overtime in order to fill the news void created, and a number of interesting things have been said.

The first has to be the interview with Del Neri, which is a candidate for the worst translated chat since a Chelsea steward claimed Claudio Ranieri said "it was a game of two halves". According to some versions the new coach was giving the captaincy to Marchisio next season, when the truth was far less sensational. A full summary can be read here.

The comments on Del Piero, Buffon and indeed Marchisio were great to hear, and show the new coach already has a good understanding of what the fans want next term. Also good to hear have been the words of Mattia Cassani & Domenico Criscito, both of whom spoke of their pride at being linked to Juventus, and how great they view the club despite the recent demise.

"Genoa? The roads will be busy!"

Also a lot of stories regarding ex-Bianconeri men coming from Genoa this week, where Ciro Ferrara has been linked with the coaching post, as Gasperini is expected to move to Fiorentina to replace Cesare Prandelli who is in turn replacing Marcello Lippi. Hopefully Ferrara can rebuild his career and show the qualities which convinced Blanc to take a chance last summer.

While speaking of Genoa, their President Enrico Preziosi has said while Inter do not want Leo Bonucci, Juve certainly do. He went on to say it would take "an offer from the asylum" to free the Italy defender.

So, lots of words, little action, & even less real news in what will probably be the dullest week of the summer leaves us fans doing what we always do. Watch & wait...

Heysel Remembered At Anfield

2010-05-26T10:19:00.000-07:00

Two ceremonies took place today in the city of Liverpool to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Heysel Stadium disaster.

The first was the planting of a white beam tree, which symbolises friendship and respect at the city's St George's Hall. The mayor of Liverpool and the Italian consul shook hands and planted the tree together.

From there the group moved to the Anfield Stadium, where a plaque was unveiled on the Centenary Stand. Before revealing the plaque Liverpool FC Chaplain made a poignant speech;

"We can't change our history or dry up all our tears. We cannot solve the mysteries still unanswered down these years. But we can, for all our children's sake and for the 39, build a monument of friendship that will stand the test of time."

The ceremony was then completed as Liverpool's captain that fateful night Phil Neal and Juve player Sergio Brio drew back the black curtains to reveal the plaque.

Also in attendance was Gianluca Pessotto who stood alongside Kenny Dalglish and Sammy Lee during the ceremony.

24 Hours From Hell

2010-05-23T12:15:00.000-07:00

Juve gored by Bulls

Last night Juventini the world over suffered as hated rivals Internazionale saw off Bayern Munchen to become European Cup winners for the first time since 1965. As if that were not painful enough, today witnessed a new low, as an Alberto Zaccheroni led shadow squad lost 3-1 to New York Red Bulls as part of the club's post-season tour of North America.

Surely this is the very definition of rock bottom?

US & Canada Tour: Old, New, Borrowed, Blue

2010-05-19T02:05:00.000-07:00

Juventus head to North America on Friday with an ill-fitting squad for what will be the last rites of Alberto Zaccheroni's time as coach. That none of the new regime want to associate themselves with this group tells you both how poor it is, and also gives an insight into the futures of many of the players, a large percentage of which lie away from Turin.

"YESSSS! I'm staying home!"

Manninger, Trezeguet, Grygera, Legrottaglie, Zebina, Salihamidzic, Amauri, Diego, Paolucci, De Ceglie & il Capitano Alessandro Del Piero from the first team squad are to travel. Grosso & Candreva will be the most disheartened members of the squad, given that they are only going following Marcello Lippi's decision to axe both from his World Cup squad yesterday.

The club has continued its tradition of "borrowing" players for these post-season tours, with Livorno duo Francesco Bardi & Alessandro Bernardini, Goncalo Jardim Brandao of Siena & Atalanta's Simone Padoin all joining the group.

The sad point in all this is that only Luca Belcastro & Luca Marrone from the Primavera will make the journey, which would be a great opportunity for young players to experience first team action without real pressure. Albin Ekdal - on loan at Siena - will travel, which is a boost for fans in North America as he is an exciting talent in a group short on both.

The Juve tifosi that I know from those places are passionate & knowledgeable about il Bianconeri, so many will know these names & appreciate the opportunity to support their team, no matter the make up of the group or the poor season just ended.

It's Over! Relief At Last, Recovery To Begin

2010-05-16T00:30:00.000-07:00

The nightmare that was Juventus in 2009/10 is finally over. The last game brought everything the whole sorry season did; A bright start, non-existent defending, too many goals conceded, a bizarre team selection in the wrong formation and an abject display of coaching that just left you sat scratching your head.

The full ratings review can be seen here

The prize for ONLY defender goes to...

The only positives to be taken from the game are that some of the worst offenders will not return next season. A replacement for Alberto Zaccheroni is likely to be named tomorrow, Fabio Cannavaro will surely not return, along with Zebina, Brazzo and a number of others.

Martin Caceres again put forward a strong case for his permanent signing, making a solid contribution in the short time he was given. David Trezeguet was once again sadly denied a farewell appearance. Zaccheroni banished Diego & Melo to the stands, yet failed to include any of the Primavera squad on the final day, a long-standing Juve tradition.

Over the coming days Il Tifosi will hand out the end of season awards, make a final suggestion for the summer & the weekly pagelle will be combined to give a final ranking for each player. Stay tuned...

Last Word? Last Day, Last Rites

2010-05-15T06:18:00.001-07:00

Yesterday Alberto Zaccheroni showed all the steel, aggression & attitude that has been so sadly lacking in Juventus during his tenure. Like most things during this period however the coach managed to mis-time & mis-judge even this.

"Need a lift Alessio?"

In his pre-game press conference Zaccheroni stated that “There are regrets that I was unable to improve the situation in the table”. He went on to add “I hoped to find fewer difficulties. A Coach is only as good as the choices he can make, but unfortunately I rarely had choice because of the number of injuries.“

In the most bizarre fashion the then said “It’s difficult to begin again, as this is a team sport and not one of the players had a good season. If the club asks my opinion, I’ll give it to them, but I didn’t see any players who salvaged their season.”

The first thing about it is to remind people that the team was undefeated at the start of Zaccheroni's reign, when only 14 first team players were available, & only started losing when the coach did have choices to make. Indeed it is those very choices that have been the most widely criticised points of the coach's mistakes.

"Hey Mister, recognise us?"

Then hearing him say no player had a good season, an easy - & perhaps lazy - explanation of the lowly league position. Then consider the form of Buffon, Chiellini, Marchisio & Del Piero. Where would Juve be in the league without that foursome this season?

Another brilliant piece of news yesterday was the resignation of Alessio Secco from his role as Sporting Director. This was expected as Monday's appointment of Beppe Marotta as Director General basically made him redundant in any case.

With the departure of Secco & Zaccheroni the future will begin as soon as Saturday's final game is over, a last day of a season Juventus & her fans will want to quickly forget, & one everyone connected with the club hopes will never be repeated.

All in all an interesting day ahead of perhaps the most meaningless Milan-Juve game in history.

Silly Season Becomes Sense & Sensibility

2010-05-14T05:09:00.000-07:00

Since the turn of the year crazy transfers & Juventus have gone hand in hand like, well, Juve and losses. Every day a new name was linked with a summer move to the club, each more incredulous than the last; Robin Van Persie, Franck Ribery, Rafael Benitez, Imelda Marcos.

Marcos: Boot deal already in place?

Ok, I made the last one up, but give Tuttosport time! On Monday Juventus official unveiled Andrea Agnelli as the new Club President, and agreed the appointment of Beppe Marotta as Director General. These appointments were greeted with great joy in Turin as both are widely respected men expected to return honour & glory to a Juve short on both this season.

Since then an impressive, if wholly unexpected, impact has already occurred. The crazy rumours have been replaced by an infinitely more sensible set of suggestions. Quality, useful - and not to mention attainable - targets have been linked; Juan Manuel Vargas, Van der Weil, Simone Pepe, Domenico Criscito & Mattia Cassani.

If this is the sign of things to come, then long may those two men run our club!

'Doria Not A Supermarket: Juve Keep Shopping

2010-05-13T13:37:00.000-07:00

A notice on Sampdoria's official website this morning stated that "Sampdoria is not, & never will be, a supermarket". This was in response to reports in the press that Luigi Del Neri is set to be unveiled as the new Juventus coach on Monday.

This follows the appointment of director Beppe Marotta earlier in the week & the papers are full of rumours linking numerous Blucerchiati players with moves away from Genoa.

NOT the President of Walmart...

Fans placed a banner at the club's training ground today bearing the words "Gigi: Europe is more beautiful in colour than in black & white", a clear message that they want the coach to stay with them rather than bolt to Turin.

All this is comes just a few days from the club's last game of the season, in which they can seal entry to the Champions League. If even half the departures do come true then it may be a very different Sampdoria that take their place in next season's qualifiers.

Perhaps a very different Juventus too...

Tuesday Thought: Great Eight, A Sad One

2010-05-11T06:26:00.000-07:00

Marcello Lippi today named his provisional 30 man Squad for the forthcoming World Cup. Eight Juve players were called up, a source of pride in a difficult season & congratulations go to Gigi Buffon, Fabio Cannavaro, Giorgio Chiellini, Fabio Grosso, Claudio Marchisio, Antonio Candreva, Mauro Camoranesi & Vincenzo Iaquinta. Commiserations to Nicola Legrottaglie who was the most shocking, if understandable exclusion.

Congratulations also go to Christian Poulsen (Denmark), Martin Caceres (Uruguay) & Felipe Melo (Brazil). Tiago also goes to South Africa as part of the Portugal squad.

Juventus Need More Than Rumours

2010-05-10T04:17:00.000-07:00

Following yesterdays capitulation to Parma in the last home game of the season (the full ratings can be seen here), Juventus will now finish seventh and be forced to enter the Europa League preliminary rounds, which begin in late July.

Due to this early start to the new season, which will bring the additional problems of a broken return, given that the games start just four days after the World Cup Final, the changes, new appointments and transfer business will need to be concluded at some pace by new President Andrea Agnelli.

"Is there still a vacancy at Bari?"

He starts that job today when the club holds its CDA, where Beppe Marotta is widely expected to be unveiled as the new Sporting Director. He will certainly be busy over the next two months to get the squad to the level it needs to be aiming for, and there must be heavy traffic both in & out of the club.

The rumour mill has been working overtime in the past few months, alleged deadlines for Rafael Benitez to agree a deal have come & gone, Prandelli, Spalletti & now Del Neri have emerged as possible alternatives. The club's choice of new coach is vital, the new man has to be given at least two full seasons to embed the team with his style of play.

That direction will shape the moves in the transfer market, which needs to be tailored to fit the new coach's philosophy. It is no use continually signing players without some idea of the system & tactics they will be needed to fit into. This has happened too often under the previous regime & the squad now lacks balance.

Lets hope the new President inspires us with confidence today, by unveiling his plan, & if Marotta is revealed as his first appointment at least we can enter the summer knowing the days of ill-advised & poorly considered transfer campaigns are over.

Two Games Left: Make Us Believe Again

2010-05-08T08:52:00.000-07:00

Serie A is fast approaching the end of what has been an unforgettable season. Roma's amazing resurgence under Claudio Ranieri, Inter's relentless march towards an historic treble, a stuttering Milan, Fiorentina's woe & the usual mix of madness, genius & great goals from Totti, Balotelli, Cassano & Miccoli.

None of this has helped Juventus fans as we have been forced to watch one of the worst teams in our illustrious history limp towards a sad conclusion after being humiliated twice in Europe & witnessing some utterly embarrassing displays domestically.

The early season promise has been replaced by a realisation that the squad is deeply flawed, that Ciro Ferrara was both fired too soon & the wrong appointment in the first place.

"Sixth Is This Way"

Now only two games remain. La Vecchia Signora currently lies seventh, a point behind Napoli & a place in the playoff round of the Europa League. Finishing sixth is vital as it avoids the qualifying rounds, enabling the squad to return as one & prepare for the season together.

Ending the season behind the Vesuviani would mean the players not involved in this summers World Cup would need to win a two-legged tie in July before they are fully fit & a whole month prior to the Serie A season getting underway.

Napoli face relegation favourites Atalanta followed by an impressive Sampdoria, who are aiming to secure Champions League football. With games against old foes Parma & Milan, Juventus have an even tougher end to the season, but perhaps that is a good thing.

Parma's season is already over, while Milan can seal third this weekend, meaning the last game will be a dead-rubber for them too. The two games present this far from vintage Bianconeri side with a last chance to make believers of us.

If they can put in two performances at this end of the season to match the early promise seen in the Roma & Lazio games way back in September, then we can head for the summer knowing that it will never be this bad again.

Juventus have disappointed heavily in 2009/10 and owe the fans greatly. These two games can go someway to erasing that debt.

More Evidence In Case For The Defence

2010-05-07T06:24:00.000-07:00

"Pink is just so not your colour!"

Danish International Simon Kjaer has been consistently linked with a move to Juventus this summer. His form, Juve's defensive woes, a buy-out clause in his contract and the good relationship enjoyed by the two clubs have all been sighted as reasons for the proposed move.

Yesterday Kjaer himself gave a clear indication of his intentions, when he stated "Juventus remains always one of the best teams. Its shirt and history appeals to me".

Alongside similar comments from Martin Caceres, perhaps next season Chiellini will have some help in the backline. Sign them up!

Brinksmanship, Blessings & Benitez

2010-05-05T11:09:00.000-07:00

The Rafael Benitez to Juventus saga rumbles on, with almost hourly updates from various news sources. Last week I attempted to cut out the false deadlines, the media-speak & "sources close to the club/coach/his pet iguana" and look at the benefits of the move. Come on keep up!

"If I stay there will be trouble, if I go...."

This week saw a number of key men give their blessing to the move - Gigi Buffon & Alessandro Del Piero. Given that the captain is a shoo-in for a directors role in the not too distant future, he looks to be practising appointing coaches already.

In addition Benitez seems to be living up to the stereotype of his countrymen, & his constant cries of "manyana, manyana", & the Juve board have started to get impatient. Contact has apparently been made with Luciano Spalletti of Zenit & another attempt to lure Cesare Prandelli from Florence.

It remains to be seen if this mere posturing on both parts, but that May 10 shareholder meeting looms large on the horizon & Andrea Agnelli will be keen to have his man in place by then. Meanwhile all we can do is watch & wait...

Superman Speaks

2010-05-04T02:32:00.000-07:00

Gigi Buffon commented once again on speculation linking him with a move away from Turin last night, saying his "desire to leave was as great as Juve's desire to leave him". Of course this has been translated into every language in the world and has been worded to give the "biggest indication yet" he is on his way.

Of course if the clubs desire is nil, then so is Gigi's. I cannot begin to describe the level of pain his sale would cause in Turin, or for the millions of Bianconeri fans across the globe. Here is the worlds best goalkeeper, one of the warriors who helped La Vecchia Signora face down the darkest days in her history, surely we can't lose him, now or ever?

Replacing him would be next to impossible, any other 'keeper is a backward step. Right now, today, with Andrea Agnelli a week from officially being president, with a new coach on the way, is the brightest and best moment for us in the last four years. Please Gigi, say it ain't so!

Normal Service Resumed

2010-05-03T06:20:00.000-07:00

So after the light relief of last week's stroll against Bari, the harsh realisation that this years edition of the Bianconeri needs major work was rammed home as the team struggled to a 1-1 draw away to Catania.

The trip to Sicily was always going to be difficult, Juventus lost 2-1 at home to Catania earlier in the season and a draw would ensure the opposition remained in Serie A next season. The game also highlighted the struggle of Diego this season. Brought to Turin to unlock tight Italian defences, he found himself on the edge of the game, unable to contribute much at all.

Diego: "Its the grasses fault..."

The Brazilian has really struggled to influence close games, and his excuse this week was to blame the pitches in Italy, particularly that at the Olimpico. This is frankly pathetic and I for one would have so much more respect for him if he just admitted he was finding it tough.

Zebina continued his one-man crusade to prove it's not only Brazilians who can't play on our grass, but those who look like them too, putting in another 90 minute performance that makes Melo look amazing. Amauri spent another match looking like a traffic cone in a Juve shirt.

From a Juve perspective the only unique thing this week was seeing Del Piero and Chiellini both have a bad game at the same time. They have been the only consistently good performers this season, but in this match both were poor. Del Piero could get nothing to go his way, and the big defender just looked tired and frustrated all afternoon.

"Must be our turn for a day off, no?"

le pagelle: Buffon 7, Zebina 4, Canna 6.5, Chiellini 6, PDC 5.5, Melo 4, Poulsen 6, Marchisio 7.5, Diego 5.5, Ale 6, VI 6, (Subs) Amauri 2,Brazzo NM, Candreva NM

The full ratings can be seen here

OFFICIAL: Santarcangelo Are (Probably) The Worst Team In Italy

2010-04-30T06:14:00.000-07:00

It does not matter how poor you think il Bianconeri have been this term, there is now a team who can lay claim to being officially the worst team in Italy, Santarcangelo. On Wednesday evening, Juventus played a friendly against the Serie D side, with each team allowed to make 11 changes.

The game is an annual event & this years fixture enabled Zaccheroni to get some game time into the legs of players like Legrottaglie, Iaquinta and the recently fit Martin Caceres. The coach chose to exclude Buffon, Sissoko, Diego & Trezeguet from action as they have all recently regained match sharpness after injury.

Pinsoglio: Better than Gigi, bigger than Seba...

Juventus goalkeeper Carlo Pinsoglio kept out every shot he faced, which probably makes the 20 year old the club leader in clean sheets, ahead of Buffon, Manninger & his Great-Grandfather, Chimenti.

But even this is only half the story as the final score in the match was 6-0. That's right, six! But wait, there is yet more shame & sorrow to be poured on the fresh wounds of the Santarcangelo players. Not only did they let in 6, Melo, Grosso & Michele Paolucci were among the scorers.

Still not convinced? OK, here comes the clincher, the final straw, the one simple fact that will show you beyond all doubt that this team of part-time players from Romanga is the worst group ever put together. Amauri scored a hat-trick! And he actually celebrated the goals too.

"Hey, I Should Play In Their League..."

No, he really did, 3 real goals. Against a real-live goal keeper. And defenders. Look, you can see them in the picture, its not photo-shopped or anything. Look at the pride & sense of achievement on his face. The relief is almost palpable. He was still Brazilian the last time he found the net....

The Wednesday Word: Agnelli!

2010-04-29T04:47:00.000-07:00

And that truly is the word on every Juventino's lips today as it is announced that Andrea Agnelli will take over as Juventus President at the end of this season. Coming as it does towards the end of one of the worst years in recent memory for the club, it is both a timely morale boost & a clear signal of intent that this slump towards mediocrity is over.

Oh, its a man...

The very mention of the name makes Juve fans remember the success that flowed under the stewardship of Gianni, Umberto & Edoardo. Now a fourth member of the "Royal Family" has taken control hopefully a third star won't be too far behind.

One thing that is for certain is no longer will business men make the football decisions at the club. The fact that the move has been made to link the family name to Juventus almost guarantee's silverware. The brother's Elkann & Andrea himself would not tarnish the legacy built by L'Avvocato. Agnelli means success for Juve is close at hand.

It would also seemingly indicate the start of the necessary revolution has begun, & Alessio Secco's time as Sporting Director will be over by the time the World Cup kicks off. His ineptitude will no longer be tolerated.

The close relationship Agnelli enjoys with Pavel Nedved - the two play football together on a weekly basis - means the Czech Fury is also increasingly likely to return in some capacity. If he shows the same desire, determination & pride that he did as a player, then he will make a telling impact too.

"Hi, fancy a new job?"

Today's Thought: Hits, Misses and Maybe's

2010-04-27T04:57:00.000-07:00

In this easily forgettable season for Juventus the finish line is in sight. Fourth place & the Champions League is probably now out of reach, barring a miracle the Europa League will have to suffice for another year.

Thoughts turn to summer & the drastic overhaul of the playing squad that is obviously needed. But who this season has earned the right to wear the Bianconeri stripes for another year & who shouldn't even be allowed in shops selling replicas of our colours?

Hope you kept the receipt!

With a never ending stream of rumours linking players with moves to & from Juventus here is how the squad stands right now;

P: Buffon - Club legend, must stay Manninger - Solid backup, stays unless good offer comes in Chimenti - time to retire (a year too late!)

D: Chiellini - Next Captain, must stay Legrottaglie, Grosso, Grygera - keep as back up unless better options become available Caceres - Sign him, now! De Ceglie - keep, a bright future Zebina, Cannavaro - don't let the door hit you...

CC: Marchisio - the future, simple as Melo - perhaps deserves another year, unless a great offer comes in Poulsen - proven a solid reserve Sissoko - keep, play alongside Marchisio, don't ask to pass! Diego - key choice, keep & build round or ship out Brazzo - let go Camoranesi - sell while still has value Giovinco - keep or use as leverage for a vital addition Candreva - sign, good addition

A: Amauri - bye! Trezeguet - sell to raise funds Del Piero - stay as long as you like Capitano! VI - keep

Bari On The Beach, Three Point Gift

2010-04-25T10:59:00.001-07:00

A win, & not only that but a routine, comfortable, easy win at that. The rarest of emotions for Juve fans this season, perhaps last felt in September when Ferrara was still filling us with hope. That Bari's best scoring chance fell to Jonathan Zebina says much about the approach of the Southern team. Safe from relegation & with minds already on summer holidays they enjoyed their day in the Turin sunshine despite the scoreline.

Bari's Star Man

A two goal haul marked the return to form & fitness of Vincenzo Iaquinta who's absence has hurt the team probably more than any of the 5642 injuries suffered at various times this season. His movement, work-rate and all round effort make VI the perfect foil for the graft, guile & vision of Del Piero & Diego. Candreva & PDC also made the most of actually playing with a real striker in the second half, after the removal of the Brazilian?-Italian?-Useless?-Number 11 (see its not just the score sheet where he can't get his name!)

Claudio Marchisio was deployed in central midfield alongside Poulsen, and again proved just how much of a waste it is to play him out wide. Full of running, endeavour & a willingness to get forward his ability and potential means next seasons midfield has to be built around il Principino. Putting him at the heart of the team, with Momo to do the dirty work is an ideal combination & can provide the base which a real team can be built on.

"Hi, remember me?"

le pagelle: Buffon 7; Zebina 5, Canna 6.5, Chiellini 7, PDC 6.5; Camo 6.5, Poulsen 7, Marchisio 7; Diego 7; Amauri 2, Ale 7. (Subs) Candreva 6.5, VI 8, Brazzo NM

The full ratings can be read here

All the talk in the post-game interviews was of the chase for fourth place being far from over & the effort being put in to achieve this goal. Napoli losing meant Juve moved into sixth place & now lie 4 points away from the last Champions League spot with 3 games remaining. Del Piero & Zaccheroni did a fine job of playing down their on-field argument which saw the Captain react furiously when his number was called for a late substitution. His fury was understandable given it would be the final change & Marchisio was in the process of being stretchered off! The young midfielder also gave interviews, confirming his withdrawal was due to cramp not injury - to much relief all round.

Fourth remains a difficult prospect given the three remaining games are far from easy, but at least today the Bianconeri put in a performance that lets us enjoy this mornings papers, quite a novelty this season!

Today's Thought: Bored of Summer, In April

2010-04-20T03:33:00.000-07:00

So there are still four games of the Serie A season left, then the Coppa Italia and Champions League Final. After that there is the small matter of the World Cup, lasting a month in South Africa.

Only then does the official FIFA and UEFA imposed transfer window open.

Yet here we are, in April, and the list of transfers both in and out of Juventus is growing daily. Pazzini, Dzeko, Zaccardo, Bonucci. That's just today's buys.

Buffon to Manchester City, or even United. €30 million or included in a deal for Vidic. Del Piero is going to New York.

The last one is genius, coming as it did just hours before a friendly between the two clubs was announced. The only thing we've sold so far is tickets.

Hope I'm not the only one fighting off a huge yawn every time one of these rumours appears?

50 Stars Invoke The Spirit

2010-04-20T01:58:00.000-07:00

Juventus have this week revealed the names of those players who will be honoured on a "walk of fame" at their yet to be named new stadium. Since buying the old Stadio Delle Alpi the board of directors have made clear their desire to celebrate the club's heritage at the new ground, it will be the first time since 1960 that Juve have had their own stadium and the club intends to make it a true home for the Bianconeri.

A list of 50 legends has been released, and each will be featured on a star around the stadium. Sports daily Tuttosport, based in Turin, understands that the names will be grouped in era's.

John Charles, Gaetano Scirea, Michel Platini, Giampiero Boniperti and Omar Sivori have all been included, as expected. Current stars Del Piero, Buffon, Trezeguet and Camoranesi will all feature. Some have expressed surprise at Polish star Zibi Boniek's inclusion after he was only at the club for three years, but that is countered by the fact he won the Scudetto, a European Cup and Cup Winners' Cup in his three years at the club.

Roberto Boninsegna and Karl Aage Praest missed out, while Moreno Toricelli's inclusion made their absences all the more remarkable to some observers.

While the Platini's, Zidane's and Del Piero's should be expected, that is not what Juventus means to me. It is players like Toricelli, Conte, Ferrara, Tacchinardi, Montero, Di Livio and Cuccureddu who embody what is so sadly lacking in this current team. Before La Vecchio Signora can return to challenge for lo Scudetto it must be recovered. Seeing these names on the list should be the beginning of that recovery, to invoke and inspire the "Spirito Juve".

The Morning After

2010-04-17T01:36:00.000-07:00

Ok, not only did we not win, it wasn't even close. From the minute Momo Sissoko got himself sent off Juve stood no chance against a very efficient Inter. This means our season is pretty much done, barring major slip-ups by Napoli, Sampdoria and Palermo the chance of the Champions League theme ringing out ever again at Turin's Olympico has passed.

So, we start again. This morning is reminicent of the day we gained promotion back to Serie A after our year in the purgatory of B. We have a squad containing a few dedicated, loyal and quality players, but the rest is men not good enough to wear our shirt or play at the level we want, expect and demand of our Bianconeri.

One more point to add this morning; Amauri. He became "Italian" this week, a real shame for both club and country. What we need is the quality Brazilian players we allegedly signed the past two years. Last night for Inter Lucio was a rock at the heart of the defence, Motta held the midfield with Cambiasso and Maicon, well he provided the moment of sheer brilliance to win the game. Our Brazilians meanwhile each spent 90 minutes watching the game pass them by. All three were ineffective, incompetent and invisible. Perhaps the Old Lady suffers a nut allergy...

Il Derby d'Italia: Vittoria Per Noi

2010-04-15T04:05:00.000-07:00

Juventus enter San Siro on Friday night with their season all but over. This time, unlike recent encounters, there is no title race to win for Juve, no chance of catching their most hated rivals.

It is an encounter filled with history & histrionics; Juve's record 9-1 win against Inter's youth team in 1961, the non-penalty on Ronaldo by Mark Iuliano, the abuse of Balotelli, Del Piero free-kicks, right up to il Principino's winner last December. The rivalry burst into a real hatred following the 2006 relegation, & the bitterness grows daily with the revelations in the current trial in Naples. Inter's role in Calciopoli goes deeper as most Juventini always believed it would.

We ask nothing else of this Juventus in 2009/10, an ugly 1-0 with the winner going in off Cannavaro's ear, we don't care. Just win for us!

Wednesday Word: Top of The League(s)!!!

2010-04-14T01:33:00.001-07:00

So, Juventus are 6th in Serie A today, and have a temporary coach in Alberto Zaccheroni who will no doubt follow Ciro Ferrara out of the doors of Vinovo at the end of the season. Both men should be disappointed at their time in charge of La Vecchia Signora, but if their careers have taken a hit, perhaps they should look up for inspiration.

No, not that up, although Friday's Derby d'Italia has Juventini around the world reaching for the rosary beads. Top of the league is where their gaze should take them, and pretty much any league will do.

Being sacked by Juventus is fast becoming the coaching badge of Champions. Currently top of Serie A? Claudio Ranieri's Roma. In France it is Didier Deschamps' Marseille, while Carlo Ancelotti is top of the EPL, four points clear. All men relieved of their duties by Juventus, all men doing far better jobs than the current regime in Turin. Food for thought indeed.

Today's Thought: "Take Your Vitamins, say your prayers!"

2010-04-13T03:17:00.000-07:00

Links to the identity of a new Juventus coach are now like vitamins to every fan, it doesn't matter where you look, what you read, the country you live in, you simply can't escape it. You wake up, there the latest. Usually its not a fresh idea, just a re-hashed one from another days old news. Yet you still have to take it. "One-A-Day"

Rafael Benitez, Cesare Prandelli, Antonio Conte, Gian Piero Gasperini, Massimiliano Allegri, Fabio Capello, Roberto Mancini, Laurent Blanc. The list is as endless and monotonus as some of it is absurd and far-fetched. Too often I close my pink paper thinking "thats another Euro you should've kept!" It reaches a point where the idiocy of the writer is surpassed by the continued gulability of the reader. Basta!

Happy Mondays!

2010-04-12T02:02:00.000-07:00

So finally Juve take 3 points from a game, & not only that but they keep a clean sheet too! These are things to be thankful for, even if the performance was woefully short of where it needs to be.

Here's the ratings;

Buffon 7, Zebina 5, Cannavaro 6, Chiellini 8, Grosso 4.5, Camoranesi 7, Melo 5.5, Marchisio 7, De Ceglie 6.5, Amauri 2,

Subs: Iaquinta 5.5, Poulsen 6, Giovinco 6, Salihamidzic NM

The full analysis can be seen here

Seeing Chiellini & Gigi Buffon back out there was a great boost before kick-off, as was the selection of Marchisio in his natural position. That was sadly due more to Sissoko's suspension than Zaccheroni making a good job of the team selection, as he proved with the introduction of Poulsen as a 2nd Half Sub, once again pushing our Number 8 out wide. Another plus is taking the victory while being able to protect Del Piero, who is a yellow card away from a one-game-stop. Still a side playing without conviction and invention, but at least its a Monday morning fans of La Vecchia Signora have no need to dread. The sun is that little brighter, the coffee tastes a little better...

VERGOGNA!

2010-04-11T11:13:00.000-07:00

The banner was there this afternoon, telling the players, coaches and directors exactly what the fans thought of recent performances. Literally translated the word means "shame", but it is a strong word, used to portray precisely the level of embarrassment currently being felt by those who carry Juventus in their hearts. A poor, lacklustre 1-0 will do little to appease those feelings ahead of Friday's Derby d'Italia.

All The News Thats Fit To.....

2010-04-10T03:28:00.000-07:00

So normally my posts are carefully considered, but this morning is different. I woke up, made the coffee, logged on to the internet and opened the papers, exactly the same thing I do every morning, quickly scanning news of politics, world events and religion, bypassing the lot and looking for the only news that really matters - anything relating to Calcio and more accurately, Juve.

What I found this morning is article after article of utter shit. Here's a few highlights (& my opinion on them);

Leonardo to quit after Berlusconi jibes? http://ping.fm

So, after just 8 months in charge, the Brazilian is going to turn his back on a club that has been his home for years? After 8 years of seeing Berlusconi hammer Ancelotti in the same manner does anyone believe he didn't expect the same? If you take the Milan job, you accept you're working for an asshole. Leonardo is an intelligent man who went in with his eyes wide open.

Careful Juve, Arsenal wants Caceres! http://bit.ly/93FOMR

Martin Caceres is on loan at Juve from Barcelona. Part of that deal includes a buy-out clause, set at €11 million, and a guaranteed first option agreement. If Juve want the player, they will get him, no matter what Arsenal offer or want.

Juve target Benzema and Gourcuff http://ping.fm/gktes

Another trequartista? One who's already had a go at Serie A & flopped (mitigating circumstances I grant you, but still!) Then one of the worlds most expensive players, after just one season??

These are right up there with selling Buffon to Manchester City, a gem that keeps cropping up. The club is in a self-imposed Press Silence. The sooner Italy's Dailies get used to the idea the better. Is it really worth wasting the column inches in the faint hope of a denial? What ever happened to the belief that silence is golden?

Rant over.

Juventus Chairman Blanc: Say Hello To The (Not So) Bad Guy

2010-04-09T03:15:00.000-07:00

With Juventus enduring as bad a season as most fans can remember, the blame for the state of the team has been laid where it usually is by football supporters when times are hard. After blaming the coach or manager, the rage usually turns upstairs, to the business men running the club.

Ciro Ferrara, the inexperienced coach, was sacked after just four months in charge as results began to go against him. An embarrassing 4-1 defeat to Bayern Munchen eliminated Juventus from the Champions League and all but sealed his fate.

Then Alberto Zaccheroni was brought in, but after an initial improvement, results and performances are as bad as they ever were under Ferrara. Another humiliating 4-1 reverse saw the club out of Europe all together and they are struggling to get back there next season, three points away from a Champions League spot, and falling fast.

Following the Fulham defeat came the inevitable; "Blanc and Secco out" was the general viewpoint of fans tired of seeing their great club tarnished in this manner. But to give the two men in question a share of the blame is to lack understanding of their clearly defined roles at the club.

Jean-Claude Blanc is the Chairman, responsible for the day to day & long-term running of the huge business that is Juventus Football Club. During his tenure Juventus have recovered from relegation, begun building a new stadium, provided huge funds for both wages and transfers, while still being one of the only big European clubs to turn a substantial profit.

Just this week a record-breaking sponsorship deal for next seasons home shirt was announced. The business world have been quick to lavish praise on this innovative move. What Blanc is not, and has never claimed to be, is a "football man". He employs people to make those decisions for him.

Alessio Secco is the Sporting Director, responsible for the football operation, appointing coaches, signing players and transfers. He was appointed to the position in 2006 by previous Chairman Giovanni Coboli-Gigli.

Since becoming Chairman last summer, Blanc has given Secco one transfer window - last summer - to prove himself. Obviously by the winter break the errors were proven. Blanc acted, bringing back Roberto Bettega to remove much of the power and influence from Secco. Immediately issues were resolved.

Two problem players, Tiago and Cristian Molinaro were sent out on loan, and the coaching change was made. Antonio Candreva was brought in, to offer width and invention to a midfield seriously lacking both qualities. All necessary moves, all made by Bettega and all issues that could and should have been seen by the Sporting Director last summer.

Secco remains in his job, although his role has been clearly reduced. Removing him permanently mid-season would make no sense from a business point of view, as he would be paid to the seasons end anyway, and with shareholders to answer to, naming a replacement at the same time as announcing his sacking is the ideal solution.

A competent football man is needed to take control of this important summer for Juventus. To remain among the elite, many changes are needed, and a large overhaul of an under-performing squad is not a task for a beginner. Perhaps this is the main reason behind Bettega's return, to advise Blanc on who to appoint to a position he himself does not understand.

What Juventus also needs is a new figure-head, a leader, someone the fans can look to and believe in, know the future of their club is safe. A President needs to be appointed, a man who the supporters would not question, one who can invoke the spirit of Juventus that is currently missing. One of the Elkann's, heirs to the Agnelli family, or Marcello Lippi are the kind of person needed to oversee the running of the club, to have someone with the club in their heart would instill belief back into everyone.

The business is in good hands, a fact fans would do well to recognise. If everyone else did their job as well as the Chairman, Juventus would be causing concern in Barcelona and Munich rather than Atalanta and Livorno.

This Week In Bianconero

2010-01-30T07:29:00.000-08:00

Lett me start this article with an admission. I've always loved Ciro Ferrara. That does not mean what follows is a defence of his managerial record, as the facts speak for themselves. What is clear, however, is that one of Italian football's true legends has been tarnished over the past few months, and I would like to try restore some of that shine.

I admired Ferrara from a distance as he won two scudetti and the UEFA Cup as part of the Napoli of Diego Maradona, holding both his style of play, and his will to win, in high regard. When Juventus signed him in 1994 it just felt right. The fact he is the only man Lippi brought with him from Naples speaks volumes.

When he retired from playing I felt the hole he left in our defence would be tough to fill. Lillian Thuram quickly changed that, but since he left for Barcelona, the right back slot became a problem for Juventus that remains to this day. Perhaps fitting, considering what has followed.

Over the 11 years Ferrara spent in Turin, Juventus slowly but surely replaced Napoli in his heart. He eventually played more games in his new home than he did under the shadow of Vesuvio. He was not born Bianconero, but he became one of us, by his own admission. Playing with that much passion and desire to succeed meant it could be no other way.

After Ranieri was fired last season with two games to spare, it was by channelling that same will and desire that ensured Juventus held on to second place under Ferrara's then-temporary charge. Then the current directors went to work.

They started of their summer by openly courting a number of managers to take permanent charge. Cesare Prandelli, Gianpiero Gaperini, and Antonio Conte all flirted with the club, before all three decided they were better off staying where they were.

Throughout it all, Ferrara did as he always had, acting with diplomacy, being a true gentleman, never once asking for anything. Only then, when all other avenues were seemingly exhausted, did the board turn to him as a full-time manager. Ciro Ferrara did what all Juventini would do at that point: He seized the offer with both hands and ran with it.

With no managerial experience whatsoever, the task was always beyond his capabilities at that time. But could any fan really turn down the opportunity to coach the club of his heart? After being a player is it not the dream job, the chance of a lifetime? Yes, he probably knew, deep down, that it was too soon, but love conquers all, right?

Another error by the men in charge—looking to experience failed, so they went for the cheap option. A no-lose situation when appointing a club legend as it ensures the fans get right behind the new man, restoring some faith in the tifosi hearts after it had been lost under Ranieri.

Then Ferrara started work making it "his" team. Out went the previous, safety-first 4-4-2 formation, replaced early in the summer with a three-man midfield, enabling marquee signing Diego to flourish. Taking his idea to the board, he told them his requirement for a deep-lying passer in midfield, a regista . They looked, making a very public bid for Udinese's Gaetano D'Agostino, which ultimately failed.

Felipe Melo was brought in, however, another destroyer to add to Christain Poulsen and Momo Sissoko. To make room for this expensive folly, Cristiano Zanetti was shipped to Fiorentina. This mistake was huge, as he was probably the only midfielder with the qualities required to make the new tactic work.

Defensive cover was also required, and the directors saw fit to hinder Ferrara even more by securing Fabio Cannavaro's return to the club. Clearly aging and fading, he was no upgrade on the Chiellini-Legrottaglie partnership of the previous season. To make room for these expensive additions, Marco Marchionni was also sacrificed. While not a great loss, this sale removed a safety net for Ferrara.

Without the winger, and with the retirement of Pavel Nedved, injuries to Mauro Camoranesi and Hasan Salihamidzic meant no wide players were available. This meant that the three-man-midfield would have to work, no matter the flaws. Despite all these handicaps, Ferrara and his team made their biggest mistake.

Unlike Milan, under fellow new manager Leo, Juventus got off to a great start. This raised fans' expectations to ridiculous heights, dreaming of both scudetto and Champions League success. When, after a few months, reality bit, there was only going to be one fall guy.

The horrendous injury list, the loss of form of the Brazilian players as the Turin winter set in, the loss of Sissoko to the Cup of Nations, the complete failure of Cannavaro. None of these are excuses for a club of this magnitude. All are reasons why Juve have struggled.

That is not to say Ferrara is blameless. His persistence with using Molinaro over De Ceglie. His reluctance to play Sebastian Giovinco. His blind assumption that Amauri and Diego would somehow rediscover their best form if they both played 90 minutes every game. His lack of faith early on in Martin Caceres. Yes, he made mistakes, what rookie doesn't?

What becomes all the more clear is that while he might never be the right man for the top job, he was exactly the kind of man the club needs as it attempts to move on from Calciopoli. Men who know the game, who love the club, who know how to win. The board rectified one similar mistake recently in bringing Roberto Bettega back to the club, it needs to act much quicker before it loses another in Ciro Ferrara.

This Week In Bianconeri

2009-12-20T04:01:00.001-08:00

There is no denying facts. Juventus are in a horrendous run of form. An embarrassing 3-1 loss at Bari, following the humiliating 4-1 Champions League defeat against Bayern Munchen, leaves no place to hide.

Many fans, pundits and football watchers are left wondering how long La Vecchia Signora can continue under the leadership of Ciro Ferrara. Adamo Digby takes a look at the situation, and comes to one simple conclusion.

Following the sacking of Claudio Ranieri last season, former Bianconeri star Ciro Ferrara was given a difficult brief by which to manage his first club. Bring the younger players into the first team, integrate five new players into the starting lineup, find a formation that brings out the attacking talents of Del Piero, Diego, Giovinco, Camoranesi, and three front-line strikers.

As if that wasn't enough, he was also expected to emulate the success of Pep Guardiola's first season at Barcelona, winning every trophy in sight. In the face of such a challenge, Ferrara went to work challenging the dominance of Inter and Jose Mourinho. He got off to a fantastic start, not only winning, but doing it in some style, as the 3-1 win over Roma showed all that was great about Ferrara's Juve.

Then came reality. The side has flaws, the lack of a regista being the most obvious. Missing out on Xabi Alonso and Gaetano D'Agostino has hurt the new formation, and some of the new signings. Melo has been pressed into trying to adapt his game and become that passer, which he simply is not.

The criticism of a player trying to help his team has been so great that the coach has removed him from the firing line altogether to try protect him.

Because the supply from midfield has been poor, Diego has suffered in the trequartista role, too. Dropping too deep to find the ball and help the team, his own level has dropped, along with his effectiveness.

Expecting instant success from a player moving from a different league is too much, with fans and the media guilty of short-term memories. Do they not recall the struggles of Zidane or Nedved's first season in Turin? Finding that passer for the midfield is a must, and the January window cannot open soon enough.

The defence has leaked goals, but also has three new players from last season. Martin Caceres has been a revelation at right back, securing his permanent transfer from Barcelona has to be a priority. Fabio Grosso has been a huge upgrade on the left, bringing his attacking threat as well as a solid defence. The team looks much worse when he is missing.

Which brings us to Fabio Cannavaro. Leave aside the "traitor" issue, which is pointless anyways, and Juventus signed him in hopes he could provide leadership, tutor the young players around him, and improve the side. The first two he may well be doing, but on the field, he is fast becoming a liability. Playing Nicola Legrottaglie alongside Chiellini is a short-term solution, but again a return to the market is needed.

Gianluigi Buffon had surgery straight after Saturday's game, but it is only expected to put him out for a month. It went well and the winter break gives him time to get fit again and rejoin the team. Alex Manninger is a more than capable deputy until then.

In attack, goals are proving difficult to come by. Leaving Diego's troubles for a minute, Alessandro Del Piero is still trying to get fully fit, but his return is a huge boost. David Trezeguet is a definite goal threat. Amauri needs looking after, and much like Melo, a break from the spotlight will do him good.

The real issue here has been the absence of Vincenzo Iaquinta. He was in the form of his life before his injury, scoring goals regularly and giving the side balance. His scheduled return in January will be a blessing.

A new partnership in central defence, and returns from Buffon, Del Piero and Iaquinta will improve the team. The addition of a passing midfield player in January will be like two signings, filling a huge hole AND giving us the opportunity to see the real Felipe Melo.

Add those to the players already doing well; Caceres, Chiellini, Grosso, Marchisio, Sissoko, Camoranesi and Giovinco. A team that performs well and provides a threat will bring the best from Diego too.

So what is the simple solution I alluded to at the start of this article? Let the new coach get the team he wants out on the field. Judge him not after 16 rounds, but after 38. After all, despite all the issues discussed, he has still led his side to victories over Lazio, Roma, Sampdoria, and Inter.

Milan and Inter are performing to their best. Juventus are way off realising their full potential, yet remain six points off the lead. Is it really worth more upheaval and turmoil for six points? Yes, a loss to Bari is far from ideal, but it is also worth remembering they have Serie A's meanest defence and are currently in fourth place.If Juventus realise the potential they hold, lo Scudetto is a realistic possibility.

In short? Just give Ciro Ferrara time.

This Week In, Erm Blue??

2009-10-17T02:06:00.000-07:00

Due to the International Break I was going to skip this weeks installment, but then I watched Italy's two games and thought, "Hey, same team different kit", so figured I'd write my usual column anyways. A story of heads, shoulders, knees, and erm...wasps.

The first "story" to break this week basically ended before it began.

Italian captain Fabio Cannavaro reportedly failed a drugs test. As more and more details emerged, it basically became a non-story. Everyone knew he'd fail the test, as he was given a cortisone-based shot to treat a wasp sting.

With the substance being banned, the club's doctors lodged the incident with the National Team medical staff. This was an error as they should have reported it to the FIGC. This resulted in the FA clearing the player, but expect the club to be punished financially sometime soon.

The next story was far more important to fans of the Bianconeri.

Claudio Marchisio has undergone surgery to repair a small tear in his right meniscus. This will leave him sidelined until around the middle of November. With must-win games against Fiorentina in the league and two vital Champions League games, Juve must hope that they can gain positive results without a player who has fast become the heart-beat of the side.

Just as fans came to terms with this latest injury, Gigi Buffon revealed a similar issue with his own knees. The talismanic keeper seemed confident, however, of managing the injury until after the Inter game in December.

This would give him the winter break to recover, meaning no important games would be missed. Many Bianconeri, myself included, pray he is right. That's not to say Alex Manninger isn't a very good keeper in his own right, just that he, like most, isn't Buffon.

Finally, after the longest of weeks, a game took place. The team fielded by Lippi in Ireland contained six Juventus players: Buffon, Legrottaglie, Chiellini, Grosso, Camoranesi, and Iaquinta. Their experience and familiarity being vital in the deciding game.

Buffon, Chiellini, and Grosso played in the same form as they have done for Juventus recently. Buffon was excellent and shoulders no blame for either goal. Chiellini was solid as ever, and Grosso was assured in defence while providing an outlet going forward.

Sadly, Legrottaglie was lacking the same form, conceding too many needless fouls including the one leading to the first goal. If Cannavaro cements his place alongside Chiellini in domestic football, Lippi will have no option but to look elsewhere when selecting his squads in future.

Camoranesi will have done his chances of going to South Africa no harm with a great display of attacking football. One of Italy's better players on the night, he took his chance well, powering a header past Given for the first equaliser.

Vincenzo Iaquinta also played well, despite a pretty poor first half.

After the break, he was unlucky to have a goal ruled out for off-side, but he worked away, finally coming up with the pass to set up the equaliser for Gilardino.

With those goals securing the Azzurri's place at the top of the group and guaranteeing qualification, it was no surprise Lippi chose to rotate the team for the Cyprus game. What was a surprise was how far that rotation went, and the crowds reaction to the performance.

The team selection was a completely different XI, meaning only Gila kept his place, and scored a remarkable hat-trick to secure victory, and worry Juve fans when they face his Fiorentina this weekend.

The only Juve player to feature was Cannavaro, who was returning from suspension. He put in a below-par performance, which showed the lack of games he's played this season. This too is a worry for Juventus, as Legrottaglie's poor form means a difficult choice for Ferrara come Saturday evening.

Another interesting aspect to Saturday's huge matchup is Felipe Melo and the money la Viola got for him.

The player was vital to Fiorentina's run to fourth last season, his form tempting Juve to part with almost £20 million for him. The intrigue comes with the fact that a large part of the money was given back to Juve for Zanetti and Marchionni. Add in returns to former clubs for Mutu, Chiellini and Prandelli, and a storied rivalry grows ever deeper.

All eyes will be on this game, with Juve winless in four games.

Let's hope Ferrara can restore some of the early season magic and provide another night to remember in Turin.

Roma v Juventus: In Review

2009-08-31T04:17:00.000-07:00

Juventus headed to the capital for week two, a tough test away to Roma before the International break. After Inter’s emphatic 4-0 mauling of Milan in the Derby, it was important Ciro Ferrara and his team answered with another good performance.

A typically loud and passionate crowd packed the sold out Olympico, hoping to see the Giallorossi respond following the opening day loss to Genoa. Julio Sergio, Mexes and Simone Perrotta came into the line-up for Roma. Juve made just two changes, Poulsen dropping to the bench to give Felipe Melo his debut after suspension, with Paolo De Ceglie replacing the injured Hasan Salihamizic.

Juventus started quickly, just as last week against Chievo, with Amauri and Tiago coming close to opening the scoring. The partnership of Amauri and Iaquinta looked in fine form, causing panic in the Roma defence almost every time one had the ball, the big Brazilian in particular looking dangerous. The constant barrage of attack made Roma look like the away team, a major accomplishment in one of European Footballs last real cauldrons.

The uncertainty in the Giallorossi backline finally brought the opening goal. Cassetti panicking on halfway, the ball stuck between his feet, Diego stole the ball and ran deep into the penalty area before cooly stroking past Julio with the outside of his right foot. A great slalom run and finish, bringing to mind numerous goals by another player of the same name!

Prior to the game Coach Ciro Ferrara instructed his team to be on their guard at set-pieces, as Roma have developed a habit of taking them quickly. His warning went unheeded, as immediately following the opener, the scores were levelled in spectacular fashion by Daniele De Rossi. A foul inside the Juve half gave them a free kick, a short pass to De Rossi and he unleashed a terrific shot past a stunned Gigi Buffon. Melo and Tiago too busy arguing with the official to notice the kick had been taken, Buffon was still trying to organise the defence.

Diego continued to torment Roma with his running and vision, one pass forcing Julio into a great save to claw an Amauri header off the line. The home side resorted to fouling Diego, bringing him down a number of times. One such foul from Perotta saw the two go nose to nose, the Brazilian visibly angry at his treatment. This seemed to take Juve’s new maestro out of the game for a while, letting Roma gain a foothold at last. They were unfortunate to go into halftime level, Jeremy Menez sending the totally unmarked Totti through on goal. Totti against Buffon in the one-on-one situation, a certain goal for Roma, but the worlds best keeper stuck out a hand to make a fantastic save.

Juve started the second half just like the first, taking the game to Roma. Amauri forced a save out of Julio Sergio at the near post, Iaquinta pounced on a defensive error to charge into the box, the finish was deflected over the bar by Riise's slide. Camoranesi replaced the injured Marchisio, but still Juve dominated. Julio Sergio parried another Amauri header, and the Bianconeri finally managed to break through moments later with Diego's second of the game. He was sent through by a great Iaquinta backheel, then turned Mexes inside out on the edge of the area and thumped a low, hard shot into the far corner. Sensing that was going to be enough the Juve players poured off the pitch and celebrated under their fans in the curva, Melo in particular enjoying himself!

Roma fought bravely for an equaliser, Vucinic and Menez coming close. Legrottaglie came on as Juve tried to hold them off but Totti drove a low left-foot shot past Buffon, but it cracked the base of the post. Ferrara took more action, Diego making way for Christian Poulsen. Five minutes of stoppage time seemed to last an age as Roma still lay
siege to Buffon’s goal but Melo settled the finally sealed the win on the counter, marking
his official debut with a well-taken goal, running from the centre circle to finish low past Julio Sergio from outside the area with his left foot.

Six points from six then, and the first fixture after the break being Lazio away. Juve looked at home in the capital, so lets hope for the same result in two weeks time!

Juventus Ratings

Buffon 6.5, Grygera 6, Cannavaro 5.5, Chiellini 6.5, De Ceglie 6 (Legrottaglie 5);
Tiago 5, Felipe Melo 7, Marchisio 6.5 (Camoranesi 6); Diego 8 (Poulsen 85);
Iaquinta 6, Amauri 7.5

In review: Week One

2009-08-26T12:45:00.000-07:00

So, the talking is over, its time to put up or shut up. After a summer of debate, transfers, petty squabbles and the usual hirings and firings, the season is finally underway. The first weekend of Serie A gave us a few hints as to what the season may hold for a number of clubs.

The undoubted surprise of the opening weekend came at the San Siro, Milan. Inter were hosting newly promoted Bari. In the build to to their first game, coach Jose Mourinho was finding new targets all week, aiming to build his usual siege mentality. He started off with Lippi's prediction that Juve would beat Inter to the title and his need for a trequartista, and ended, bizarrely with a rant about Islam, Cambiasso's injury and the lack of a trequartista.

The game was a battle from the off, Bari pulling Inter's defence all over the pitch, and they were fortunate to scrape a draw in the end. Inter took the lead thanks to a very generous penalty, which Eto'o looked almost embarrassed to take.

Cambiasso's absence was a huge miss to them, his character and will to win vital to the champions. Taking Sulley Muntari off after 29 minutes seemed extreme, as did blaming the Muslim player's observance of Ramadan, when he was clearly seen drinking while sat on the bench. The trequartista issue seems to have become essential to Mourinho, although finding one is proving difficult, with Cassano seemingly off limits and Sneijder changing his mind as often as Jose is on TV.

Across town, something off a renaisance seems to have hit Milan. A dire preseason of losses, both on and off the field, seemed to point to a season of turmoil and trouble. An impressive performance against Siena will calm the waters, as will assured performances from Thiago, Pato, and most importantly, Ronaldinho. Creating both goals, the former world player of the year looked every inch (and a few more around the middle!) his old self.

While Inter won't give Milan the space a hapless Siena did, the Derby this weekend looks a lot more interesting than it did two weeks ago.

Licking their lips at the prospect of a struggling Inter, Ciro Ferrara's new look Juve jumped into life at home to Chievo. Racing out of the blocks from the first whistle, they continued running until the tough preseason regime took its toll in the second half. Before visibly tiring however, the Old Lady put in a great performance, debutant Diego at the heart of everything going forward, while Cannavaro looked solid in defence.

A well executed set piece led to Iaquinta's header, with Chievo fortunate not to lose much more heavily. The Veronese did create a few chances, but Juventus had enough to hold them off comfortably. The likely addition of Fabio Grosso should provide the one thing lacking from this game, width.

Palermo, Napoli, Genoa, and Roma served up two entertaining games. All four had plenty of chances to win, with Palermo and Genoa holding onto three precious points. The first week had plenty of excitement everywhere you looked.

Every game in Serie A had goals, Inter didn't win, Milan did. Juve were, well, Juve. Genoa are top. Roma, Inter, and Fiorentina are all in the bottom half. The unpredictable, always entertaining, never dull Serie A season has begun!

This time next week the squads will be completed and the European Group stages will be drawn. With the Milan derby and Roma versus Juventus, we should have a much clearer idea of what the season may bring.

Juvenus v Chievo: In Review

2009-08-23T13:53:00.000-07:00

Week One in Serie A saw Chievo travel to Juventus, where new coach Ciro Ferrara was looking to inspire his revamped squad to getting a good start following Inter's home draw with new boys Bari.

Juventus started this match with a number of selection problems. Ferrara decided not to risk his captain, Alessandro Del Piero, resting him from the squad to protect his bad back. Amauri partnered Iaquinta in attack, ahead of debutant Diego. In goal, Buffon, protected by Grygera, Cannavaro, Chiellini and Salihamizic, selected ahead of Molinaro. Tiago was in midfield, flanked by Poulsen and Marchisio due to Sissoko's injury and Melo's suspension.

Juventus came flying out of the blocks, with Chiellini going close with a shot early on. Diego was at the heart of everything Juventus did going forward, and was assisted ably by the rehabilitated Tiago, the Portuguse looking assured in possession and determined to repay the faith shown in him by Ciro Ferrara.

After a number of fouls on Diego, a free kick swung in from the wing was met by Iaquinta, who's excellent header nestled in the far corner of the net, 1-0 Juve.

Pinzi and Pellisier went close for Chievo, before Iaquinta brought a great save from Sorrentino at the other end, after some excellent work down the right by Amauri. A good cross from Diego was then headed over by Chiellini.

The pace of the game dropped towards halftime, as both teams became eager for the whistle. Salihamizic picked up a knock in a challenge and was replaced by Paolo De Ceglie as the second half began.

Early on the second half was much slower tempo than the first, as both teams searched for an advantage, before Pellisier went close. That seemed to stir Juventus back into action, Diego again driving them forward, playing in Amauri who was unfortunate to see his attempt come off the post.

Diego was next to come close, chesting down after some scrappy play, his volley rising just over the bar, much to the relief of the stranded Sorrentino. Another lull in play brought cries of "Pavel, Pavel Nedved, Nedved" from the bianconeri faithful. The man in the Czech's old number 11 responded by blazing a shot way over the bar.

Primavera squad player Luca Marrone was then brought on for the impressive Tiago, in an amazing show of faith from rookie Juve coach Ferrara. Sebastian Giovinco and Martin Careces will hope to benefit from that faith in games to come. Juventus continued to work hard, pressing Chievo all over the pitch, perhaps trying to force an error their best way of securing a second goal.

Camoranesi came on for Diego on 88 minutes and the diminutive Brazilian can be very happy with his debut, impressive, full of the running and creativity sadly missing last term. The game was fizzling out by this point, a great cross from Luciano just evading Pellisier and providing a heart stopping moment for the Juve defence.

Juventus held on, Chievo's stubborn effort will cause teams problems this season, but Juve always seemed to have a couple of gears left in reserve. Those will be needed in the coming weeks, but overall Ferrara's man can be pleased with their first weeks work in Serie A.

Ferrara himself will have learnt plenty about his team today. His positives will be the clean sheet, his well functioning midfield and a seemingly faultless debut from Diego. The fullback issue now seems the biggest concern, with Grygera and Salihamizic failing to provide the width, an essential part of the new 4-3-1-2 formation.

So, with three points in the bag its onto the next game, where the Giallorossi will provide a much sterner test. Here's hoping Juventus have another good performance in the capital.

Juventus Ratings

Buffon 6, Grygera 5.5, Cannavaro 6, Chiellini 6.5, Salihamizic 6 (sub 46 De Ceglie 6), Poulsen 6.5, Tiago 7 (sub 75 Marrone 5.5), Marchisio 6, Diego 7.5 (sub 88 Camoranesi), Amauri 7, Iaquinta 7.

Opening Day

2009-08-22T09:09:00.000-07:00

"There is no sports event like Opening Day of baseball, the sense of beating back the forces of darkness and the National Football League." - George Vecsey

So, here it is, Opening Day. There really is nothing like it, no matter what your sport, nor your team.

Everyone starts level on points, everyone's thoughts are of what the season ahead will bring, nobody thinks of losing, relegation or disaster. Here is your last chance to dream, your last day in denial, the last hiding place.

Tomorrow, everything changes. After the first game the favourites are decided, the winners and losers, coaches are made or broken, transfers successes or failures.

While everyone agrees you don't win the title in the first few weeks, you can certainly lose it. This is particularly true of Serie A, where leads are rarely opened up, even more rarely blown.

'It's a game we've got to win. It's also a game we've not got to lose.' - Graham Taylor, former England Manager

The belief of fans of all 20 teams, is there on Opening Day in a way it never is during the regular season. Fans of Siena, Bologna, and Bari will head to their games against Milan, Fiorentina and Inter dreaming that they may spring the surprise story of the first day.

There always is one, a fairytale that carries on that little longer for one team, that dream that starts to come true.

A look at Burnley beating Manchester United in their opening home game of the English Premier League season gives hope to the little guy, that supporting your team against the odds can pay off.

"I began by playing for the biggest club in the Lorraine region , went on to the biggest club in France and ended up with the biggest in the world." - Michel Platini, Nantes, St Etienne and Juventus

So we arrive at Juventus, starting the season her fans hope will be "the one." That finally Calciopoli and all its ills can be a part of history, rather than still feeling its effects, that Inter can finally be caught, that we can once again bear the Scudetto Shield on our shirts.

The pain of the season in Serie B will never truly leave us until we are champions again, the players who stayed will never feel vindicated until we once again can be the best.

Returning Juventus to their rightful place atop Serie A was a common mantra among those who remained loyal to the shirt, the reason Nedved struggled to walk away.

"Juve will always be Juve. There are a number of teams that have a winning spirit built in, and Juventus are one of them." - Emilio Butragueno, Spain

Claudio Ranieri could never understand, he lacked that Spirito Juve that never dies, that can never be explained, but that Ciro Ferrara has in abundance, so too Alessandro Del Piero.

The fans hope Diego and Melo have captured it too, that their Brazilian flare doesn't wilt and die in the ferocious spotlight that comes with the black-and-white shirt.

That Amauri can play a full season in the form he started the last, that Iaquinta can start this term like he finished last, that Trezeguet can recapture his poaching skills, that Cannavaro can play like the "Berlin Wall" we admired so much, that Chiellini can grow into his potential, and that Buffon and Del Piero will be, well, Buffon and Del Piero.

We hope the club have struck the right balance, that a new manager, new formation and new players can bring a return to the old days, of victory and success, of Scudetti and Coppa, a third star on the shirt, a European Cup in the cabinet.

So here we are, Opening Day, full of hope, dreams, expectations and willing our team to victory.

"I'm proud to be a "juventino", to be a "bandiera", like you define me to be often, in reality I'm just a small part of a big black & white "bandiera" (flag) that grows with the years and if you look closely your name is part of it... To continue making this "bandiera" grow we need everybody: let's stay united." - Alessandro Del Piero