Juventus Blog

Fabio Grosso Is A Juventus Player

2009-09-03T00:16:00.004+07:00

Juventus reached an agreement with Olympique Lyonnais for the definite transfer of Fabio Grosso for a total of €2 million payable in three annual instalments. The value of the agreement can be increased up to a further €1 million upon reaching certain sport objectives during the length of the contract.

The agreement is under the condition that the international transfer in favour of Juventus reaches the club by Tuesday 1st September 2009. Juventus signed a three year contract with the player.

"The signing of Fabio Brosso – declared general manager Blanc – adds quality to an already very competitive squad. The international experience and the qualities of a world champion will certainly be useful to a team competing on three fronts. Ferrara, will therefore have at his disposal other technical solutions and will have a player who he got to know during his experience with the national team. With this signing Juventus have ended a very busy transfer market, which hand has now all the best conditions to concentrate on its sports objectives".

Fabio Grosso is to all a symbol of the world cup in Germany. He was the one to score the goal against Germany which opened the way to the final for Italy and his was the decisive penalty which drove an entire country into ecstasy on that night in Berlin.

Fabio Grosso’s career in the summer of 2006 reached its climax but did not burn out with the victory in Germany. To get to the top of the world, Grosso started from the very bottom from his debut in Serie C2 with Chieti in 1988, to Palermo in 2004 and the call-up to the national team.

After the world cup which he lived as a hero, he moved to Inter for one season before joining Lyon with whom in two years he made 52 appearances and scored 2 goals. Now, on the last day of the transfer market, he joins Juventus and return to the Italian championship where he wants to be a protagonist.

Juventus.com

And Now, On With The Championship

2009-08-19T23:26:00.004+07:00

With the Trofeo Berlusconi having brought an end to the pre-season matches, Juventus is preparing for the official season. The bianconeri met in Vinovo this afternoon for the first session of the week. (excluding the fine-tuning yesterday, before the match against Milan) which will lead to the match against Chievo, on schedule for Sunday afternoon at 20:30hrs at the Stadio Olimpico.

The group, with only Sissoko (in France for treatment) and Caceres (granted leave), first met with Ferrara for instructions in the centre of the field and then Grygera, Chiellini, Del Piero, Felipe Melo, Camoranesi, Almiron, Diego, Tiago, Giovinco and Zebina went to the gym while the rest of the team stayed on the field where the players who played yesterday took part in an unwinding session while the others participated in athletic work followed by technique exercises and a series of mini-matches on a reduced field.

Juventus.com

Primavera: 1-1 Against Inter, But The Result Is Under Judicial Scrutiny

2009-08-19T23:26:00.003+07:00

After the defeat on the day before against Roma, Bruni’s Primavera returned on the field for the “Tirreno e Sport” tournament which saw Juventus playing against Inter in Bracciano. The bianconeri played a good match, especially in the first half while in the second half exhaustion left a mark. Yago’s goal, which put the bianconeri ahead, was equalised by an-own goal by Bamba. The match ended in a 1-1 draw but the result is under judicial scrutiny with the verdict expected on Wednesday morning.

Juventus.com

Marchisio: "We Are Ready"

2009-08-19T23:26:00.001+07:00

With the Trofeo Berlusconi having been archived, the summer friendly matches of Juventus also came to an end. As from Sunday it is down to the serious staff with the first championship match day. Claudio Marchisio, one of the absolute protagonists both in bianconero and in azzurro with which he debuted less then a week ago, analyzed the situation:

"We had a good pre-season reaching the Peace Cup final, winning the Trofeo Tim and losing the Trofeo Berlusconi only after penalties. We played well, especially in the first half while in the second we had a physical decline. However, this match has satisfied us because we managed to do what the coach asked of us".

The summer saw an important change on formation level: "It is not the 4-4-2 formation which was traditional for years and which we adopted in the last seasons. At first we found a few difficulties but we worked well and the results are beginning to show".

On what he expects from this season both on team and personal level, Marchisio has no doubts:

"To go on like this. It was an important summer to me, both for the work done and the debut with the national team, but most of all I think that on team level we must aim high in all competitions because with this team, strengthened by the new signings, we can win on all fronts. We are at the start of the season. There is time for improvement but I think we are at a good point".

Is Inter always the team to beat?

"I think, that not withstanding Ibrahimovic’s departure, they were strengthened, but we must look at ourselves because in football the one who is most hungry for success is the one that wins. We must also improve against the smaller teams, something which we missed last year".

Juventus.com

Cannavaro: "Diego Is A Very Important Player"

2009-08-19T23:25:00.002+07:00

During the launch of the new sky schedule, Fabio Cannavro spoke of the Trofeo Berlusconi and the bianconeri’s ambition for the season that is about to begin:

"Juventus played a very good match in Milan. Diego showed he is a very important player for our formations. The club invested a lot of money. After 3 years it wants to get back to celebrating with its supporters".

Asked about the incredible wages, Cannavaro answered: "I set an example. The crisis is not only due to players’ wages. Definitely, something must be done".

Juventus.com

Afternoon Training In Vinovo

2009-08-19T23:25:00.001+07:00

After the Trofeo Berlusconi “gala night”, which, notwithstanding the defeat after penalties, saw the team leaving a good impression, especially Diego, in his first friendly after his debut in the Peace Cup, the bianconeri will be back to work in the afternoon.

The appointment is once again at 18:00hrs, summer schedule, while as from tomorrow until the eve of the match against Chievo the training sessions will be at 10:00hrs.

Chievo will in fact be the first opponent in the championship, which is now round the corner, and which will be played at the Olimpico on Sunday with kick-off set for 20:45hrs.

For the first match of the championship the Juventus coach will not be able to count on Felipe Melo, who is suspended for one match, which suspension he inherited from last season.

Juventus.com

Primavera, Bad Start In The “Tirreno e Sport”

2009-08-19T23:24:00.000+07:00

The adventure of the Primavera in the “Tirreno e Sport”, a youths tournament in the Lazio region, started off badly. In the first match of Group C, Bruni’s team lost by 2-1 against Roma. Giuseppe Giovinco scored from a free-kick.

The result complicates the team’s progress in the tournament as they are forced to win the second match, on schedule tomorrow (Tuesday 18th August) against Inter in Bracciano. Only the first in each group and the best runner-up qualify for the semi-finals.

Barcelona's Martin Caceres 'Happy' With Juventus Loan

2009-08-02T01:16:00.001+07:00

Martin Caceres is poised to sign for Juventus on a season-long loan deal, after falling out of favour at the Camp Nou.

The 22-year-old Uruguayan is already in Turin, where he passed a medical with Juventus this morning, and the only pending issue now is the announcement from both clubs.

Upon arriving in the Italian city, Caceres told AS: "I am really happy to be here at Juventus, I cannot wait to start."

Caceres, who has 15 international caps to his name, will train with Juventus for the first time when they return from Spain, where they are currently competing in the Peace Cup.

He will hope to follow in the footsteps of his fellow countryman Paolo Montero who spent nine very successful seasons in Turin.

Luís Mira, Goal.com

Del Piero And Tiago, Once Again Protagonists Against Real

2009-08-02T01:15:00.002+07:00

The last time, at the Santiago Bernabeu, one had left the field with a standing ovation from all the Madrid public, while the other saw himself earning the best match ratings. Alessandro Del Piero and Tiago have a particular feeling against Real and even in Seville they were amongst the best.

The captain once again left his mark with two perfect crosses for Cannavaro and Salihamidzic and once again he was accompanied off the field by the applause of those present:

"They are feelings which always make you happy and which you never get accustomed to. Today we did well, closing up well and being compact while giving the impression that we are more of a team then them. These victories are important and charge us up but they must be treated accordingly. We have not done anything yet but tonight we showed we can play at high levels against anyone".

Even Tiago is satisfied. The Portuguese hit his second post after the one against Nancy in Joeuf but most of all he confirmed himself as being a new signing compared to the past years.

"I am happy because we won playing well and because of the way things are going for me. With the change in scheme I feel better. Before I was sacrificed on the defence while now I am more free and I can express myself better participating more in the attacks and proposing play. Besides, a feel more faith in me".

Juventus.com

Cannavaro: "We Are More Of A Team Then Real"

2009-08-02T01:15:00.001+07:00

For once, even Fabio Cannavaro can smile after a match between Juventus and Real Madrid and he can do so even more. The victory against his former mates is also thanks to his goal at the beginning of the match. The first goal by the defender after his return home is a beautiful present to the fans who welcomed him enthusiastically from the first day in Pinzolo.

"It is always nice to score. I did not celebrate only out of respect to my former team-mates. Today’s match was a challenging one, difficult as it always is against Real. The field of play did not help us but we managed to give a good performance and we’re happy to have reached the final. Juve more of a team? I think so. Real has always been like that, even when I was there. In difficult matches like this it counts on the individual moves of the single players".

Juventus.com

Ferrara: "These Victories Help The Winning Mentality To Grow"

2009-08-02T01:14:00.001+07:00

Ciro Ferrara said so from the first day in Andalusia that Juventus wanted to win the Peace Cup and the results are proving him right. After having beaten Seville and Seongnam, his team also gave him the joy of a victory against Real.

Besides feeling happy with the access to the final, the coach is also pleased with another step forward made by the group:

"Such victories definitely help to create a winning mentality and we are working mostly for this. I am happy with the result and with th performance. Everybody was charged-up ever since this morning’s training session and I could not have asked the boys for more. Now we are in the final and we are already thinking of Sunday’s match".

Juventus.com

Juve Win The Battle Of The Titans

2009-08-02T01:12:00.000+07:00

Ciro Ferrara’s team have lived up to the coach’s words fielding a great match and cruising to the final of the Peace Cup after beating the merengues featuring Cristiano Ronaldo.

The bianconeri had a fiery start immediately scoring the lead on the 4th minute. A free-kick by Del Piero is headed home by former-galactico Cannavaro with a helpless Dudek sent to the other side of the post. Four minutes later, it was Torres who cleared a dangerous cross destined to Amauri.

On the 9th minute the Brazilian goes close tos coring after receiving from Del Piero with the ball going inches or rather millmetres wide. Another absolute protagonist is Buffon who on the 16th minute saves greatly on a Guti shot.

Real try to react and on the 21st minute it is Raul who sees the ball go slightly high over the post. Juventus however continue to have the upper hand and on the 24th minute a defensive error by Real sees Amauri shooting at goal and Metzelder saving on the line with the ball destined for the net.

Amauri wins the ball again and dribbles even the goalkeeper but finds Pepe in opposition. On the half hour mark it is Chiellini who saves on Cristiano Ronaldo after a good run by the Portuguese ace.

Nine minutes later Chiellini fouls Raul in the area and the referee orders a penalty for the merengues. Cristiano Ronaldo scores from the eleven metres. The last chance of the half is for Real with Benzema left unguarded by the defence but the ball goes slightly high over the bar.

The second half sees Legrottaglie coming on for Cannavaro and also a substitution of the referee. Juventus continue wither agressive and brilliant approach to the game and exactly on the same minute another cross by Del Piero, this time finds Salihamidzic who heads behind Dudek into the net.

Two minutes before Giovinco shows great footwork to enter the area and cross towards Amauri who forces the keeper to a difficult save. One minute after the second Juve goal, Ronaldo enters the area and shoots but finds Buffon in great shape who saves. From the rebound the ball reaches Raul who shoots hitting the post. The best keeper in the world saves again 3 minutes later following a powerful free-kick by Metzelder.

On the 60th minute Giovinco makes way for Zanetti. Four minutes later Raul sends the ball very high over the bar in what seemed a dangerous opportunity and two minutes later it is Benzema who is not precise enough on the shot.

The 68th minute sees Del Piero being replaced by Iaquinta and four minutes later Marrone comes on for Felipe Melo. Juventus administer the match with great personality and go extremely close to scoring a thrid goal when a brilliant shot by Tiago hits the post in what seemed a sure goal.

On the 89th minute Camoranesi dances the samba with the ball as he goes past two defnders with a magnificent move worthy of Nureyev and shoots with Dudek saving with some difficulty. The dying minutes see Real in a desperate attempt to equalize and the galacticos go close twice.

First on the 90th minute with a Benzema header going high over the post and then on the on the 93rd with Buffon finding some difficulty to hold the ball after a cross from the right but blocking Cristiano Ronaldo from shooting at goal.

The match ends in a well deserved victory for Ciro Ferrara’s bianconeri who on Sunday will play against Aston Villa in the final of the Peace Cup.

Juventus.com

Chiellini’s Charge

2009-07-31T10:37:00.003+07:00

"Playing against great champions is always nice, especially against those who play abroad, because you are curious to know how you measure up". Giorgio Chiellini is charged-up and ready for Real Madrid. For a fighter like him, the match against the phenomenal merengues is even more stimulating:

"Real is made up of great champions but it won’t be easy for them either to immediately find an identity and perhaps it will not be possible for all of them to play together. We must maintain our identity of a team that we are trying to improve".

Asked about the value of Kakà and Cristiano Ronaldo with the Brazilian being paid much less Giorgio is objective:

"I think the difference lies in the fact that it was necessary for Milan to sell the player whereas Manchester United would only give up Cristiano Ronaldo at an irrefutable price. Saying who is better whether it is Kakà, Ronaldo or Messi is impossible. Objectively Kakà is not less valuable then Ronaldo or Ibrahimovic. Diego? In recent years he improved a lot. He showed he is capable of great numbers and Juventus can be his launching pad in becoming like them".

Juventus.com

Ferrara: "Friendly Matches Do Not Exist"

2009-07-31T10:37:00.001+07:00

The Peace Cup is about to enter its most exciting part: On Friday Juventus and Real Madrid will play for access to the final of the tournament and expectations are on the rise:

"We will try to win – began Ciro Ferrara during the eve’s press conference – It is of great satisfaction being able to play such great matches, even though it is not the Champions League. When there are such matches, during a preparatory period with many important novelties, there is great curiosity to know the real value of the teams. Even though it will not give definite judgments, indications on what must be improved and on the good done up to now can be drawn. We are here to try and win the tournament and if this must be by going past Real, then it is even better".

In such cases one cannot speak of friendly matches and this is true in the eyes of Ferrara: "To me there is no such match as a friendly match. This is the mentality we must have whether the opponent is Real Madrid, Vicenza or Cisco Roma. If you are Juventus and you are striving to become a strong team you must always play to win. In such matches you don’t even need to work on motivation. It is a match between great champions and therefore all want to show their value".

The match against Seongnam which opened the doors to the semi-final for Juventus, already gave useful indications especially withy regards to Diego’s talent and the personality of Felipe Melo:

"It was important for both of them to begin gaining confidence with their mates during the match. It is clear that some players are more fit then others. The intention is to have all in the best condition possible before the start of the championship and therefore it is clear that Diego and Felipe Melo will have to play for longer periods".

For Ferrara the match is a first as a coach but in his past as a player the precedents are quite a few: "I remember Real-Madrid- Napoli (2-0) on my debut in the Champions Cup, played in an empty stadium. At the time I was marking Butrageno...". Apparently El Buitre in the past few days was seen in the hotel were Juventus are staying: "He was here? I didn’t see him, but in reality I didn’t see him neither when he scored in the return match – joked Ferrara – Luckily now things are different and I don’t play anymore…".

With regards to the possible formation against Real, Ferrara did not reveal anything: "we do not want to give any advantages to our opponents. All details are important even in this sort of match. Sometimes it is important to manage the group well because it is only right that all the players feel as if they are protagonists and having the chance of competing for a place. Even other coaches with more experience then me behave in this manner so it isn’t wrong. I announce the formation to the team during the technical meeting before going to the stadium".

No indications are given with regards to the starting eleven but there isn’t much doubt about the scheme to be used: "We will not change our scheme. We will try to play in our manner, knowing that before us we will have a team that is made up of great ball jugglers. We have other characteristics but we are working to keep ball possession as high as possible, even though the Italian teams are used to move forward immediately and seek the goal. It is a sort of culture we carry with us".

"The fact of fielding more offensive elements is not always a guarantee of scoring more goals. You can even have a different type of formation and shoot at goal by means of the midfielders. It is enough to think of Rome who for many years only had Totti in front with midfielders capable of shooting at goal".

Real seems to be a perfect machine following the signings made but Juventus is no less competitive: "Perfect teams do not exist. There are very strong teams but it does not mean they win all their matches. Having spent a lot of money does not always correspond to definite results".

"We lived this at Juventus, when for many years, notwithstanding a careful management, we kept on winning. They invested very much but we feel we can make it. I will not give percentages but I know Juventus can win".

Ferrara wants an aggressive Juventus, capable of spectacular moves but also of concreteness. The coach is not inspired by any team in particular, even though he admits he admires Guardiola’s Barcelona very much:

"Last year they played great football, with all the men moving but I wouldn’t like being quotes as saying that I would like a Juventus similar to Barcelona. I do not want to cite past teams, otherwise one would have to think of too many formations that made history like Napoli or Sacchi’s Milan".

"Remaining in the present day, Barcelona has great quality but even Manchester is a great team. I want a Juuventus capable of maintaining its characteristics of a team that never says die. It will be hard to be as spectacular as Barca and so we will try to be more concrete".

During the press conference, Ferrara is flanked by Giorgio Chiellini and the coach is asked if he intends re-transferring the defender onto the flank:

"I believe that at the moment is one of the strongest central defenders in the world and therefore I do not think I’ll field him as fullback. It could be a solution in a case of emergency, but generally we will be trusting the left side in the hands of important players like Molinaro and De Ceglie without forgetting Brazzo, who can also play in that position".

Finally a thought about Caceres who could soon become a bianconero: "The medical tests went on well and therefore it is probable he will be part of this team. He will be another element to give us a hand. Ariaudo’s future? Well, he is willing to improve and with five central defenders he might find very little space. It could be useful being loaned out to gain experience but even staying could be important. I believe very much in him and we will decide together on what is best".

Juventus.com

Molinaro, 26 Years Of Running. Happy Birthday Cristian. Your wishes On JuventusMember

2009-07-31T10:36:00.003+07:00

While awaiting the match against Real Madrid and trying to win the prestigious Peace Cup, Juventus have something to celebrate already. It is a particular event which does not pass unnoticed.

Today, Thursday 30th July 2009, is the 26th birthday of Cristian Molinaro. The defender from Campania has reached this age on the run, just like on the field. Having got back with the group after totally recovering from the problem which halted him last year, he now promises to have another year as protagonist.

The best wishes from Juventus and all the fans go to “Moli”.

Send your birthday wishes to Cristian on JuventusMember.com

Ferrara: "Championship Mode Right From The Start"

2009-07-31T10:36:00.001+07:00

"The fixtures handed us important matches at the beginning and at the end. It could be dangerous both for us and for our opponents. In any case, it is better to start with two great away games, so we can get into championship mode right from the start. All this without forgetting Chievo who, if I recall correctly, last year managed to play a little joke on us".

This is the way Ciro Ferrara commented the fixtures of the Serie A drawn this afternoon. The start for the bianconeri will be a fiery one: after the first match in Turin against Chievo, Juventus will be playing two away matches (with an international break in between) at the Rome Olimpico – the first against the giallorossi and the other against Lazio:

"In the first few days it will be impossible to see the teams ready – continued Ferrara - it will still be a sort of running-in. The two away matches in Rome are difficult and will see the teams still not one hundred percent there, but this applies to all".

For a great start there is also a great closing. After the match against Inter on the 15th match day, the last match will be against Milan, a match which perhaps would be better to play without having the necessity of winning the 3 points:

"In reality having a difficult match on the last day changes very little – concluded the Juventus coach – I think that consistency drives the team to winning the championship".

Juventus.com

Diego: "Our Objective Is Victory"

2009-07-31T10:33:00.000+07:00

The adventure in black and white of Diego Ribas de Cunha could not have a better start. The Brazilian, who made his debut yesterday against Seongnam took control of the game after a few minutes, gave some brilliant prescise passes and topped it all up with a fantastic goal. He definitely lived up to the great expectations: :

"It was a special goal which I hope was the first of many. I think it was a perfect evening for me, because after two months without playing I managed to win and score. I am very happy. Obviously, I still have to improve but I will manage through work".

What struck people most of Diego’s match was the way he clicked nearly perfectly with Vincenzo Iaquinta:

"When we speak of our attackers, we’re speaking of four high level players. With time I will learn how to understand their movements and where they prefer to receive the ball. Our scheme is similar to the one I played in Germany. Yesterday I felt well in that position. This system is perfect for me".

With regards to possible competition with Del Piero, Diego immediately cleared the situation:

"I am not here to compete with Del Piero. I am here to do my job and win myself space. Del Piero is one of the best players in the world and deserves great respect from all. He is a special player. My objective is to win. Personally, I don’t care who takes the free-kicks or who scores".

After having seen Diego at work, more people are convinced about the potential of this Juventus:

"It is one of the strongest teams in the world, part of the elite of football. It can win any trophy and that is why I am here. I feel well here, both with my mates and with the technical staff who are treating me with great affection and I can only improve".

The first objective has already been declared: beating Real in the semi-final and taking the Peace Cup home:

"We are not in the ideal form yet, but the match against Real Madrid will be special as always. We will play to win because our objective is winning the tournament".

The match against Real evokes the Champions League and Diego does not hold back on the subject:

"It is impossible for a team like Juve to take part in a tournament simply to participate. With the investments it made and the players it has it must always try to win. This is our mentality. Everybody is awaiting Juventus and we must be conscious of this. The Champions League is an objective, a difficult one true, but we must work to win it".

He is ambitious but with his feet firmly on the ground. Diego wants to help Juventus to win but is not seeking personal success:

"The golden ball is not one of my objectives. Those are things that come slowly. A career is made up of many steps and I want to concentrate on the first: playing well, helping Juventus and winning. The world cup is another great objective of mine. Up to now I have never taken part in one, but to do so I have to do well with Juventus and I am 100% concentrated on this. We must try to win and the rest will follow by default".

Juventus.com

Felipe Melo: "I Am Happy With My Debut And The Welcome By My Mates"

2009-07-30T00:57:00.001+07:00

In the first episode of the Brazilian festival, in which Diego was the absolute protagonist, even Felipe Melo managed to play a role. 45 minutes on the field less in then a week since his signing for Juventus is definitely not bad at all especially seeing the result.

The midfielder can feel satisfied with his landing on planet Juve: "We managed to win against a difficult team which only two days ago drew against Seville. Since I joined my mates I’ve worked a lot. I am happy with the welcome I received and my adaptation is moving faster then I thought".

"I immediately understood I joined a great family and this is important. A long season awaits us an, even thanks to Diego, we can reach high goals. The scudetto is a dream but that is what we are working for".

Juventus.com

Legrottaglie: "There Couldn’t Have Been A Better Start"

2009-07-30T00:56:00.000+07:00

Together with Sebastian Giovinco, he was the last to return from his holidays, but at the end of the day Nicola Legrottaglie excused himself for…the delay. On his seasonal debut he immediately had a positive performance (which coincided with the first clean sheet) and a goal typical of a striker, scored in collaboration with Giovinco.

At the end of the match, Nicola expressed all his satisfaction: "A debut with a goal. It certainly couldn’t have been a better start to the season. I am happy. It was the prize for the hard work I am doing at the moment, since I joined my mates. A player with my build always finds it harder to find his form. Diego? He is exceptional. We all know his qualities and we know he can do really well with us".

Juventus.com

Ferrara: "I Am Happy But We Can Improve Further"

2009-07-30T00:55:00.002+07:00

If anybody still had any doubt about the kind of coach Ciro Ferrara is he would have had a clear sign at the end of the match in Jerez. Just like so many illustrious predecessors, even the new Juventus coach is one that is never pleased enough.

Even after the 3-0 victory against Seongnam that saw the bianconeri through to the semi-final of the Peace Cup, Ferrara is still seeking to improve his team.

"I am happy with the result but there is still room for improvement. At the end of the first half I was not happy and I even told the boys. In the second half, on the other hand, there was a good performance".

"Diego’s debut? I hoped it would be like this. His talents are known by all but even he has to improve further. He can give so much to this team. Now we’re through to the semi-final. Our objective is to win the Peace Cup even if we have to play against Real in the sem-final".

Juventus.com

Real Make It Through To The Semi-Final Against Juventus

2009-07-30T00:55:00.001+07:00

Real Madrid made it through. After having unexpectedly drawn in the first match against Al-Hittihad, the Galacticos managed to beat Ecuadorian side Lega de Quito 4-2 after a tough match and a0-0 draw up to the end of the first half.

Cristiano Ronaldo broke the dead-lock after a few minutes from the start of the second half from the penalty spot. Granero made it 2-0. After the temporary 2-1 scored by the South Americans Metzelder made it 3-1. In the dying minutes of the match, the teams scored a goal each (Negredo for Real Madrid) fixing the final result on 4-2.

The Peace Cup will therefore have the most awaited of semi-finals: Real Madrid and Juventus will be meeting a few months after the double victory by the bianconeri in the last edition of the Champions League. This time the match will not be played at the Turin Olimpico or the Bernabeu in Madrid but it will be a great match anyway. The appointment is for Friday 31st July at 20:30 in Seville.

Juventus.com

What A Debut For Diego! Juve Books Real

2009-07-30T00:54:00.001+07:00

At the end of the day, the qualification to the Peace Cup semi-final was a smooth one. In Jerez, Juventus had their best match of this new season and tonight Ciro Ferrara can’t help but be satisfied in all aspects.

The final 3-0 score against Korean side Seongnam is the result of the great authority shown by the bianconeri who did not miss a single step. A match to enjoy, especially for the subscribers of Juventus Channel who can watch the game as from 23:30hrs, a match which should not be missed.

It was supposed to be Diego’s night and it was. The Brazilian left an impressive mark on his first match: great passes, a share in the first goal scored by Iaquinta (following a first-timer cross by Camoranesi) and the beautiful second goal. All of this in 60 minutes which were enough for the first match. Diego’s was not the only debut. The first 45 minutes of Felipe Melo were also good. The midfielder came on for Zanetti.

Great match by Legrottaglie and Giovinco who excused themselves for the delay in joining the team by creating the 3-0: cross by the Atomic Ant and goal by Nicola. One last remark? For the first time since the start of the season, Juventus achieved a clean sheet and even this is a sign of great steps ahead made by the squad.

What about the Peace Cup? Mission accomplished and semi-final reached. Now the team must wait for a couple of hors to know the name of their opponent against whom they will play on Friday. The name of the team will be known at the end of the match between Real Madrid and the Colombian side of Lega de Quito.

It is useless to say that everybody expects the Galacticos for a first tasty appetizer of the season. To meet Cristiano Ronaldo, Kakà and friends immediately, even though at the end of July, would be a nice way to test the qualities of the bianconeri.

In Jerez, Ferrara fielded a defence made up of Zebina, Legrottaglie, Chiellini and Salihamidzic with Buffon back in goal. The midfield was made up of Camoranesi, Zanetti and Tiago. The Brazilian played behind Iaquinta and Trezeguet.

The expectations are immediately satisfied. Diego has a will to perform and the rather careless way of playing of Seongnam suited him perfectly. There are immediately great spaces and the great touches of the playmaker are pure honey for his mates, especially for Iaquinta who is launched twice.

On the first occasion there is a dubious offside flag waved while on the second a precise save by the Asian keeper. The Brazilian also tried from a free-kick, one of his specialities, but the wall’s deviation made a well-calibrated shot look less dangerous. Seongnam tried to react and just before the 30th minute Dong Won put the ball slightly wide from an inviting position.

The dead-lock was broken on the 40th minute. A great one-touch bit of football by the magical bianconeri: Diego for Camoranesi who crossed to the middle with the keeper in a faulty exit and Iaquinta depositing at the back of the net. The striker from Calabria has had a great seasonal start after the mark left against Seville.

The goal saw the teams end the first half on 1-0 and the bianconeri draw closer to the semi-final. The second half began with the public who had their eyes all on Diego in the first half having to share their gazes with Felipe Melo who came on for Zanetti.

Once again the match starts off with the duo Diego-Iaquinta. The Brazilian passed to the striker who moved past an opponent and passed to Trezeguet who missed from just under the goal. The goal is however scored by Diego and it is a real pearl. Two touches with the soles of his shoes to get rid of a rival player and a beautiful left-footed shot to the corner of the net with no chance for the Korean goalkeeper: 2-0 and result assured.

The Brazilian’s match came to an end after an hour. He left the field for Giovinco (also on his seasonal debut) amidst the applause of the public. Molinaro replaced Zebina. Buffon cannot just be a spectator and saved following an incursion by Radonzic. Ferrara’s team immediately won back control of the match and Trezeguet went close to the third goal heading after a perfect cross by Camoranesi: well done to the Korean keeper.

There is however, just a short while to wait before the third goal and it is created by the last two players to join the squad. On the 26th minute Giovinco runs on the flank and crosses to Legrottaglie who headed the ball hammering it into the back of the net.

Marrone also came onto the field, as a replacement for Tiago, Ariaudo on for Legrottaglie and Chimenti on for Buffon but the match has nothing left to say. Seongnam seeks a bit satisfaction but this denied them by Chimenti, Juventus try to pass the time and begin to think of Friday’s semi-final, without yet knowing the name of their opponent for which they still have to wait for a few more minutes.

Teams

Juventus (4-3-1-2): Buffon (Chimenti); Zebina, Legrottaglie, Chiellini, Salihamidzic; Camoranesi, Zanetti (Melo), Tiago; Diego (Giovino); Trezeguet, Iaquinta.

Seongnam (4-4-2): Sung Ryong Jung; Sung Hwan Kim, Ognenovski Byung Kuk Cho, Hack Yong Jang; Dong Won, Han, Ho Lee, Jung, Woo Kim, Ban; Dong Geong, Cho, Radonzic.

Goals: Iaquinta (J), Diego (J), Legrottaglie (J).

Juventus.com

Athletic And Tactical Work In Seville

2009-07-28T00:22:00.001+07:00

Juventus are continuing to work hard in Seville. Even today the bianconeri trained in the evening to escape the heat, on the field of the Estadio Guadalchivir.

The team was divided into two groups: first the defence worked with Maddaloni on positioning and defensive movements while the midfielders and the attackers were busy on a sort of “obstacle race”, carrying out mixed tactical work, made up of sprints, movements and changes of direction.

After half an hour the two groups changed over and it was the turn of the strikers and the middle line to work on the tactical aspects before a mini-match on a reduced field which involved the whole team.

Diego took part in the entire session with his mats, Momo Sissoko stayed in the gym while De Ceglie worked separately.

The bianconeri will get back to work on Monday evening to prepare the second match of the Peace Cup on Tuesday in Jerez at 20:30hrs.

Juventus.com

A Goalless Draw Between Seville And Seongnam

2009-07-28T00:21:00.000+07:00

The match between Seville and Seongnam, the opponents of Juventus in the group phase of the Peace Cup, ended 0-0.

Notwithstanding the supremacy of the home team, it was the Koreans who had the best chances but the score never changed.

Juventus is at the top of the table with three points, followed by Seongnam and Seville, who have now been eliminated, with one point.

At this point the match against the Koreans on Tuesday (20:30hrs in Jerez) will be decisive to establish who will go through to the next round. A draw is enough for Juventus.

Juventus.com

Secco: "Trezeguet Is Staying"

2009-07-28T00:18:00.000+07:00

"Trezeguet will be with us even this year, I am practically sure". Alessio Secco swept away any doubts. The sports director met with journalists this morning to speak about the transfer market.

"Juventus are very happy to keep Trezeguet. If he had to come to us to be transferred and came along with an interesting offer for all parties, we might take it into consideration. This is the agreement we have with him and his agent. At the end of the last championship he had made us understand that if the right offer came he would have considered a possible transfer".

"It must also be said that, see the situation of the transfer market and his salary, it is not that easy to find a team of his level. We have not received any offers up to now. There was only some interest shown by foreign clubs but they did not present interesting proposals. Clearly, if he had to leave, we would have to buy another attacker but one with his characteristics would be hard to find".

"This is why we are not looking for buyers: we think that he can still give much to Juventus and we do not have the necessity to sell him. If the situation had to change David would not be transferred to any Italian teams. Anyway my feeling is that Trezeguet will stay with us".

On the other hand, the Frenchman is training with great professionalism and has already scored two goals in the pre-season matches against Cisco Roma and Vicenza: :

"He is working well and giving all on the field. – went on Secco – On Friday he did not play against Seville because he suffered a light blow to the knee during training in the morning and therefore his absence was agreed on with the coach".

From one attacker to the next, from Trezeguet to Amauri. The Brazilian, sent-off against Vicenza, immediately made-up by scoring against Seville:

"Amauri immediately apologized to the coach and his mates after the mat6ch against Vicenza. The day after I called him to my office and he also apologized to the club. This year we made important investments and we must make sure they bear fruit and therefore we must be careful when it comes to behaviour and regulations and recreate that style that was a winning one for so many years. Amauri understood, that even though he was provoked, he made a mistake and made-up in the match against Seville with an excellent performance".

Going back to outgoing transfers, the other name which was recently always spoken of is that of Christian Poulsen who, like Almiron, was not called-up for the match in Spain:

"I spoke to Poulsen’s agent last week and he asked me for a few days to consider the situation. If he were to decide to stay, we would not bandage our heads but we spoke to him clearly and the fact that he was not called-up for the tournament in Spain was a clear signal. The player has many requests especially from English teams".

The transfer of Poulsen is linked to the possible arrival of Caceres from Barcellons:

"We like Caceres and we are not trying to hide that but the deal has not yet been concluded. We feel the team is already complete even though his eventual arrival would be the cherry on the cake. For this to happen other situation with regards to other players must be solves, Poulsen in particular. However, if we sign Caceres it would be on loan".

Juve therefore, is not stopping. It is a sign of a healthy club, and this especially significant in a time when other realities are forcing teams to limit themselves on the transfer market:

"The events of 2006 allowed us to anticipate the crisis which others are currently going through and this allowed for the spending of approximately 50 million. A shift in balance? The field will say. Many spent just enough to fix their balance. We, on the other hand, even though we spent a lot, will break even , even if we do not sell anyone".

Another merit of the club management is the speed with which they acted on the transfer market, bringing home three great players like Cannavaro, Diego and Felipe Melo:

"When the opportunity to bring back Cannavaro to Turin came up, we thought it was an opportunity we should take because besides what he is capable of doing on the field he will also bring a winning mentality. Fabio is a healthy carrier. Apart from him however, I would not take back any of the players who left in the summer of 2006".

"With regards to Diego, we moved in time and it is a good thing we did, otherwise we would have probably paid much more for him seeing the vicious circle which was created in price terms".

"Melo was expensive? It is true, but at the end of the day the price of a player is relative when compared to the input on the field. Seeing for example, the price of Xabi Alonso, I would say that Melo did not cost much. On the other hand, having a release clause , Fiorentina would have never sold him to Juventus for a lower price".

The Brazilian joined Juventus after that for some time it seemed like the midfielder Juventus were about to buy was D’Agostino:

"We did not allude him. We were interested in him and we think his evaluation was in line with our offer. When we understood we should spend more money we turned on to Melo, a different but more functional player for our project. I think he has a better presence and physique on the field. D’Agostino is perhaps more technically talented but we believe that Melo can give more. With him we added kilos and centimetres but also quality to our midfield".

The signings were made. Now it is up to Ferrara to make them render as much as possible:

"I am very happy with Ferarra. A lot of work is being done but in the right spirits: there is happiness and serenity. A good group is being formed and the merit also goes to his collaborator. Juve must get back to thinking big: they must have to want to win even the friendlies and the trophies with no official value. We must bring back the winning mentality and get angry even when we lose a friendly. In these last few years this spirit had dwindled and now is the time to revive it".

Juventus.com

Fine-Tuning Before The Debut In The Peace Cup

2009-07-25T15:02:00.001+07:00

Juventus had a fine-tuning session this morning at the Estadio Guadalchivir. The bianconeri were on the field at 10:30hrs to perfect the mechanisms in view of tonight’s match against Seville, the first match of the Peace Cup at the Estadio Olimpico.

Ferrara divided the group into two similar teams, who while paying on half the field, tried out various solutions ranging from 4-3-3 to 4-4-2, putting into practice one of the coach’s principles: Juventus must be capable of playing in different formations, even during the match itself.

Diego took part in all the session with his team mates, while Momo Sissoko and Paolo De Ceglie remained in the gym. Camoranesi worked separately to recover from a blow to the calf suffered during training yesterday.

Juventus.com

Season Tickets: Last Year’s Quota Reached

2009-07-25T15:01:00.002+07:00

With little less then a month to the beginning of the 2009/10 Serie A (the bianconeri will play their first match at home on the 22nd or 23rd of August), the season ticket sale is coming to an end.

One week before the end of the sale, on the 1st of August, Juventus can already announce the reaching of the number of season tickets sold last year. Up to today both ends are already sold out as well as the East Side and Family Stand.

The success was expected after the first part reserved to the season ticket holders of last year (with 85% confirming their seats) and this confirms the supporters’ will to see the new team of Ciro Ferrara at work.

Del Piero: "We Want To And Must Improve"

2009-07-25T15:01:00.001+07:00

"In all the matches, even in the friendlies, in which the scope is improving the physical condition and finding automatisms, there is the possibility of improving. There is still a long way to go, however, to reach the top condition and even this second training camp, so to say, will be taken with the maximum of dedication".

Alessandro Del Piero appeared to be amongst the most in form layers in the first matches against Cisco, Nancy and Vicenza, but the captain is not satisfied and wants to leave his mark even in the Peace Cup, perhaps by winning the award for best player of the tournament:

"It could be a stimulus for each of us and I hope it will be a Juventus player to win it because it would me we went all the way. The award will be a result of team work".

The discourse shifts to the gap between Juve and Inter, especially due to the imminent departure of Ibrahimovic which could help reduce it further:

"With the departure of Ibrahimovic, Inter and the Italian championship have lost a great player but they gained another. Ibrahimovic and Eto’o are amongst the best in their role and I don’t know if Inter will be weakened or not, because Eto’o has enormous potential. Trezeguet to sign for Milan? It would be strange".

Juventus.com

Ferrara: "We Are Working To Create A Great Team"

2009-07-25T14:59:00.000+07:00

Juventus are starting to get down to serious work. In fact on Friday the bianconeri will make their debut in the Peace Cup in a match against Seville, a top Spanish Liga team:

"We have been taking things seriously since the 9th of July – clarifies Ciro Ferrara in the press conference launching the tournament – It is clearly an important appointment which will see us playing against teams of a certain level. It is however since the 9th of July that we have been working on becoming a team".

For the Peace Cup, Ferrara will finally have the complete squad at his disposal. "It will be a useful test to evaluate the team’s conditions. The internationals joined a short while ago and yesterday three important players, Legrottaglie, Giovinco and Melo, joined the team".

Attention is obviously on the new signings: "Melo must work to get back into shape, seeing that he finished with the Confederations Cup rather late. Expectations in his regard are very high just like the ones for Diego and Cannavaro but I expect more from all at Juventus".

"The first year in black and white can be tough and therefore it is my intention not to put too much responsibility on the new signings. I am not referring to Cannavaro who know the environment well but definitely to Diego and Melo".

"Diego will today begin working with the ball. We do not ant to rush things and him playing will depend on how far we go in the tournament and therefore we hope to advance and be able to utilize him".

Christian Poulsen’s absence attracted much attention: "He was not called-up for this tournament – explained Ferrara -. We spoke to him and he behaved very professionally during training. He must also think of the opportunity of playing in the world cup. It is a technical choice. He will now train in Turin and when we get back he will join the group again".

The Spanish journalists asked him about the deal regarding Caceres of Barcellona. "At the moment Caceres is not a Juventus player. Contract? “Jo no lo se” " answered Ferrara in Spanish, while smiling.

The Juventus coach got back to seriousness speaking of the next opponents: "Seville is a very good team. Up to a few days ago a dear friend of mine, Maresca, played for them.I know certain individualities well and it will be an important test even if they will be missing Luis Fabiano and Kanoutè. I have not yet decided with regards to the formation I will field. We will try to allow all the players to get match practice. There will space for everybody".

Talk shifts to the possibility of meeting Real Madrid in the semi-final: "I’d like to because it would mean that we won our group. Before getting to that match, however, we have two more to play. I would not like to read: “Bring on Real Madrid” in tomorrow’s papers. They spent a lot of money but if they could afford it then they did the right thing. Lately however, I think, even Platini is intended to regulate the situation to make sure clubs have a reasonable balance".

After the last two draws against Nancy and Vicenza, it would be important to get back to winning, even to help convince the team: "The attempt to improve physical condition must also come through positive results, but at this time of the season it is not fundamental. They help you work more tranquilly but they must not distract us from the idea of team work and the type of game we want to propose".

With regards to work, it will be hard to work in the 40 degree temperatures of Seville: "The important period was the one in Pinzolo. Now we will have to adapt to the climatic conditions. We will train early in the morning to avoid the heat. We must not pull back. The work will continue as planned".

After Seville, Juventus will play against the Korean side of Seongnam: "It will be a new experience – commented Ferrara -. I am not a connoisseur of Korean football but it is stimulating to play against it. They will give us a tough nut to crack because nowadays there are high level teams all over the world".

Juventus.com

Buffon: "I Have A Good Feeling"

2009-07-24T13:23:00.001+07:00

One adventure ends and it is soon time for another. After the parenthesis in the fresh air of Pinzolo, Juventus have changed place and climate for their second part of the preparation. The team is off to Spain, in the region of Andalusia, and the heat of Seville to play for the Peace Cup.

Seeing the sort of teams competing, the tournament represents an important opportunity for Ferrara’s team to compare itself with top rivals, but also to continue uniting the group, which is finally complete following the return of Legrottaglie and Giovinco and the addition of Felipe Melo.

Before departing, from the Torino Caselle airport, Gigi Buffon spoke about this. "I have a good feeling. Thanks to the good work done by the management, the team has been strengthened, but this is not enough to win. Many components are necessary. We will still have to work hard to obtain results. Now, we must only think of working and only after can we understand if we are capable of reaching our objectives".

After the first matches against Cisco Roma, Nancy and Vicenza, on the Iberian island the bianconeri will meet hosts Seville and Korean side Seongnam and in case they make it through to the next round, the possibility of encountering Cristiano Ronaldo’s and Kaka’s Real Madrid. These are further tests to evaluate the team’s improvement and the hope to finally see Diego in action. Even before showing his capabilities on the field, the Brazilian managed to win everybody, Buffon included:

"I haven’t yet had the occasion to see him at work on the field and I can only speak of him as a person. I can’t help but saying he’s splendid, he entered the group on tip-toes with total humility. A person like him can make us do a great leap in quality".

Finally, comes the unavoidable question about the next championship and the possible duel with Inter, especially in light of the possible departure of Ibrahimovic to join Barcellona and the arrival of Eto’o for the nerazzurri. The Juventus number one does not think the rivals are weakened:

"A champion like Eto’o cannot be considered as the last in class. He cored many goals in these last years and contributed to the victories of Barcellona".

Juventus.com

Amauri: "The Red Card Against Vicenza? I Made A Mistake"

2009-07-24T13:18:00.001+07:00

LI am really sorry about the sending-off against Vicenza. I made a mistake which the team paid an expensive price for". Amauri admits his faults. The red card he was shown on the 18th minute of the match in Trento on Tuesday, landed his mates in difficulty and ruined Ferrara’s plans. The Brazilian, going back on the episode admitted his mistake: "At this point in the preparation it is important to assimilate schemes and movements on the field and this, after my exit from the field, was not possible. I apologize to the club, the coach, my mates and the supporters. The incident will serve me as a lesson so as not to repeat similar mistakes".

Juventus.com

Lippi tips Inter and Juve

2009-07-24T13:16:00.001+07:00

Italy Coach Marcello Lippi is now certain Inter have what it takes to win the Champions League, but believes Juventus will take the Scudetto from them. Both clubs have been reinforcing their teams ahead of next season, causing some pundits to talk about a renaissance in Italian football.

“Let's not joke, Serie A has not been transformed into a second rate championship. Sure, Kaka has entertained us for many years. Ibra has made the difference for Inter, but our movement always manages to propose new stars,” Lippi told La Gazzetta dello Sport. “I would like everyone to remember that, some years ago, a man by the name of Zidane chose to leave for Real Madrid, but Italian football, despite the loss of a phenomenon like Zizou, won a World Cup and some Champions League titles.

“Let me remind you of three names destined to light up our Sundays. Eto'o is not inferior to Ibra. Actually he has a better goal to game ratio. Lucio had thousands of offers, but chose Inter. Finally Diego is a formidable and very young talent.”Asked if he agreed with the belief that the economic crisis is penalising Italian football, Lippi replied: “The problem is not Italian, but global. Real Madrid are not the normality. The problem is that we will come out of this crisis in only one way: building champions at home.

“However, to go down this road we have to protect the good coaches. Instead, the academies earn loose change and the coaches, even the best prepared, are forced to accept jobs in the Lega Pro to earn money.”

Asked if Italian football needs to win the Champions League, Lippi replied: “Inter are one of the three favourites after Barcelona and beware the Manchester United of my friend Ferguson. He still has a mountain of money to spend and has already signed Owen. Manchester have a winning framework and they will conserve it despite Ronaldo's departure.” Lippi didn't reserve Real Madrid the same praise.

“Kaka and Ronaldo are two phenomenons and two proud men, but you cannot invent a team capable of winning the Champions League in a month. Real need at least a year of 'construction'.”

Asked to explain what he likes about Inter, Lippi replied: “I like Eto'o and Milito makes me enthusiastic. He is a champion who works for his team-mates. Everyone will see that Mourinho will make Inter acquire the right European mentality. Inter are ready to win in Europe or at least reach the Final.”

Passing to Juve, Lippi said: “They are ready for the Scudetto. I remember what Gianni Agnelli always used to say: 'I prefer to win the championship rather than the Champions League.' The Bianconeri have decided to open a new cycle.

“I like this 'new' Juve a lot. The new signings. Ferrara on the bench. The staff with the return of Gautino. The frightening euphoria of the fans. It's the petrol that can help Juve fight shoulder to shoulder with Inter from the first day of the championship.”

Channel4.com/sport/football_italia/

Peace Cup Team Guide: Juventus

2009-07-24T13:14:00.000+07:00

Bolstered by Brazilian midfield imports Diego and Felipe Melo, the Bianconeri have Jose Mourinho’s Inter Milan in their sights as they begin the quest to bring the Scudetto back to Turin.

Preseason hurdles include La Liga third-place finishers Sevilla and Korea’s Seongnam who are, according to Juventus’ official website, “only lacking some improvement in their main matter pending: defence.” An ironic statement given the Old Lady’s current state of affairs.

History

Juventus are the most successful club in Italy, having won 27 league titles (not counting, of course, the two rescinded in the wake of the Calciopoli scandal). Their first era of dominance began in the early 30’s when they romped to five consecutive Scudetti.

However, their return of two European championships is seen as highly unflattering for a team of Juve’s stature and it wasn’t until 1985 that they captured the trophy on the strength of current UEFA president Michel Platini’s penalty kick. It’s a dark footnote that their first European victory served as the backdrop to the Heysel Stadium Disaster, which resulted in the deaths of 39 people, mostly Juventus supporters.

In 2006, the club were relegated to Serie B after certain club officials were implicated in the Calciopoli scandal. A handful of top players such as Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Patrick Vieira and Fabio Cannavaro jumped ship, though the team nevertheless bounced back up after one season.

Currently

Juventus have been steadily rebuilding their squad since returning to Serie A though this hasn’t always gone according to plan. High-profile Portuguese midfielder Tiago is one of the biggest flops in recent memory.

With the arrival of defensive midfielders Mohamed Sissoko and Christian Poulsen, from Liverpool and Sevilla respectively, Juventus had two hard-nosed ball-winners but not much more in the way of playmaking. The Bianconeri have been forced to continually rely on the aging legs of Alessandro Del Piero, Mauro Camoranesi, David Trezeguet and the now-departed Pavel Nedved.

Squad

Werder Bremen’s Diego and Fiorentina’s Felipe Melo were brought in to jump-start the team’s often sluggish attack. Diego’s role as the number 10 will unburden Del Piero, who can now push higher up the field. It remains to be seen if Melo will repeat his splendid Fiorentina form while much anticipation surrounds 22-year-old Sebastian Giovinco, who is expected to have a breakout season.

It’s the defense that’s more worrisome. The ossifying Fabio Cannavaro is the only significant acquisition in the rear guard and his slowing motor was woefully exposed by a rampant Liverpool in Real Madrid’s Champions League mauling last year. Of even more concern is the recent form of Giorgio Chiellini, considered by many to be the next great Italian centre-back until an insipid showing at the Confederations Cup revealed a ponderousness to his game that’s not often taken advantage of in Calcio. It’s fair to say that full-backs Jonathan Zebina and Zdenek Grygera will prompt few managers to alter their tactics.

Peace Cup 2009

This will be a time to blood Diego and Melo, find the optimum role for Del Piero and allow Sissoko and Poulsen to offer more cover to a questionable defense. Look for Giovinco and Amauri to make statements and new manager Ciro Ferrera to bring a few fringe players in from the cold.

Fixtures

Sevilla – Juventus (July 24)

Seongnam – Juventus (July 28)

Prediction

Despite the holes, Juventus remain a formidable team and a difficult opponent to overcome. They have experience in spades, and though a dangerous and well-balanced Sevilla squad may give them problems, Juventus should outlast their Korean opponents.

Goal.com

The“Peace Cup” Mission Begins. The Bianconeri Have Landed In Seville

2009-07-24T13:13:00.000+07:00

The “Peace Cup” mission has officially begun. Juventus left in the late morning from the Torino Caselle airport and arrived in Seville, in the Andalusia region, for its first participation in the famous international tournament, a tournament which seeing the participants deserves to be entitled “the Summer Champions Legaue”.

Twelve teams, from all over the world, are participating. Ciro Ferrara’s team will be playing in Group A where it will meet home team Seville (Friday 24th July at 22:30hrs) and Korean side Seongnam (in Jerez on Tuesday 28th July at 20:30hrs). If the bianconeri make it through to the next round, they will most probably meet Real Madrid in the semi-final.

This evening, the squad will have a training session which will be followed by a fine-tuning session tomorrow morning, a few hours before the debut in the tournament.

Juventus.com

Juventus Coach Ciro Ferrara Forgives Amauri For Outburst During Friendly

2009-07-23T09:03:00.000+07:00

In today's friendly draw between Juventus and Vicenza (1-1), striker Amauri got himself sent off after losing his temper and attacking an opposing player by hitting him on his back.

As he left the pitch, while captain Alessandro Del Piero and Fabio Cannavaro tried to calm him down, the Brazilian was still furious and showed the referee the finger.

This obviously conditioned Juve's performance, with coach Ciro Ferrara forced to shuffle his team around after they were left behind with ten men. After the match, the coach talked about this episode, warning his team against this type of indiscipline happening again when the official games start.

"Amauri immediately apologised to all of us for what he did," Ferrara said to Tuttosport.com. "I'm not sure what happened, but we have to try to avoid these things, especially when we start playing official matches.

"Today we played a friendly, but remaining with ten men forced everyone to do extra work. Although I didn't get any indications on the new system, at least the lads put minutes in their legs, I care about getting to the start of the season with all the players in the same level of form."

Danilo Pochini, Goal.com

David Trezeguet's Agent Tight-Lipped On AC Milan Talk

2009-07-23T09:02:00.001+07:00

David Trezeguet's future is less than clear as his agent stays quiet over the Milan rumours.

Antonio Caliendo, who deals with the Juventus striker's movements, did nothing to confirm nor deny today's reports. It is suggested that Milan are interested in the striker as their move for Luis Fabiano appears to have hit a brick wall. Marco Borriello was said to be the player Milan would offer in return for the Frenchman.

"I am staying quiet today," Caliendo told Tuttomercatoweb.com.

"I have already spoken about my client in the past and so today is a day of silence from me."

Caliendo was seen wining and dinning in Milan on Tuesday night with Rossoneri vice-president Adriano Galliani. Coach Leonardo said he liked Trezeguet, but Galliani then denied reports of a move for the Frenchman.

"Marco Borriello will not be part of any David Trezeguet deal," the chief told the club's official website.

Voices regarding an exit grew louder last night when the striker refused to take the captain's armband during a heated 1-1 friendly against Vicenza.

Salvatore Landolina, Goal.com

Martin Caceres Could Be A Juventus Player In 10 Days

2009-07-23T09:01:00.000+07:00

It is well documented that Martin Caceres is wanted by Juventus, and the player's agent, Daniel Fonseca, has repeatedly said that a move is in the offing, and he appears confident that a deal can finally be sealed.

"Nothing has changed since we last heard, but Juventus are optimistic about the signing," Fonseca told tuttomercatoweb.com.

"I think that in 10 days time the situation will be resolved. Does it depend on Barcelona or Juventus? Neither of them - we are waiting for the player's answer, which should arrive in 4-5 days, and then we can finally move forward."

Caceres has been told by Pep Guardiola that he is free to move on, as the Barca coach cannot guarantee him regular first team football. The 22-year-old found himself behind Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique last year, and his chances are even thinner this season with the return of Henrique from his loan spell at Bayer Leverkusen and Gabriel Milito on his recovery from a serious injury.

The Blaugrana are currently in negotiations with Inter for the transfer of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, and this is also holding up Caceres' potential move. Juventus are eager to take the Uruguayan on board, as he can play anywhere across the back four to provide invaluable cover for the full-backs.

Anthony Wright, Goal.com

Felipe Melo: "I Will Work Hard To Win The Championship And The Champions League"

2009-07-23T08:56:00.000+07:00

It was a rather quick and unexpected signing and yet it seems to be , together with that of Diego, the greatest signing in the Italian transfer market. Felipe Melo has joined Juventus the team which he admired as a child, the one captained by Roberto Baggio.

The fans expect Juventus to challenge Inter seriously for the championship and Melo believes that this is possible:

"I am not scared of Inter. It is a big club but so is Juve and if we all work together I am sure we can reach great goals". He defines his move to Juventus as a leap in quality: "I think the fact that the club did a rather big financial effort to sign me, this makes me feel good. I am happy to have reached this level and now I will work hard to win the championship and the Champions League".

An ongoing debate is whether football should be spectacular or aimed at results and who better then a Brazilian can answer such a question?

"I think it is more important to win rather then to be specatacular. I played in great teams which were spectacular but did not win anything and in others were we weren’t specatcular but we won because we were united. We must be united like a family and work as a team so as to obtain our objectives".

Journalists have compared Felipe Melo to Emerson and Dunga: "I have just joined a great team and I just want to think of working hard. In two years or three years time, after having won some important titles, then perhaps I will be in a position to be compared to other greats like Emerson and Dunga but not at the moment".

"The Brazilian national team?I am now at Juventus. I will work hard for Juventus because this club must always be at the top. I will work hard and then if I do well the Brazilian national team call-up will come as it has in the past but I am a Juve player and I will work hard to be worthy".

"We must all work hard. With or without Diego or Melo, Juve are strong and so we must work hard and be united to be as strong as possible. I can’t wait to be in the dressing rooms, speak with the other players and get to know them. I once played against Sissoko in Spain and now I am really curious to speak to him and play by his side".

Told that the fact that last year he was shown quite a number of yellow and red cards, the audacious Brazilian answered:

"Last year I was shown quite a few cards. It was my first year in Italy and this could have been the reason since in 4 years in Spain I only got shown one red card. Now I know the methods of the referees here in Italy and even though as a midfielder I am bound to be shown cards I will definitely be more careful and shown less cards".

Felipe Melo is destined to become a Juve fan idol and this can easily be deduced from his conclusion to the press conference:

" I came here because Juventus is a club that can win anything. All we have to do is work hard. If we work hard and do so well the scudetto will be a bit closer".

Juventus.com

Secco: "The Signing Of Felipe Is An Important Signing For The Club"

2009-07-23T08:55:00.000+07:00

Felipe Melo’s signing has been well received by the fans and highly acclaimed by the journalists and ver rightly so because the 26 year old midfielder has nothing less then 9 years of professional experience with the last season spent at Fiorentina aiding the viola to qualify for the Champions League preliminaries.

Juventus sports director, Alessio Secco, explained the strategy by which Melo was signed: "The signing of Felipe is an important signing for the club. We mate quite a financial effort but I am sure it will be worthwhile because he will give an important contribution to the team. He had a very good season and when we got to know that we could afford the expense we went straight ahead with it. In fact it was very quick".

At the end of the conference Alessio Secco took the opportunity to thank Marco Marchionni and Olof Mellberg for all they did at Juventus.

Juventus.com

26 Off To The Peace Cup

2009-07-23T08:54:00.000+07:00

After the friendly on Sunday in Joeuf against Nancy, the new 2009/10 Juventus is about to breathe some international air again. The squad is ready to leave for Andalusia where it will take part in the 4th edition of the Peace Cup, to be held in Europe for the first time.

In contrast to the recent summer training camp in Trentino, Ciro Ferrara will have practically the entire squad at his disposal.

This means that for the first time those players who were not in Trentino will also form part of the group: new-signing Felipe Melo, Nicola Legrottaglie and Sebastian Giovinco.

In all the squad will be made up of 26 players including two from the Primavera: Luca Marrone and Ciro Immobile. Poulsen and Almiron will not form part of the group but will remain in Turin to train.

Not all the players present will take part in the tournament. According to regulations only 25 players may be enlisted. Paolo De Ceglie was not inserted in the list since he is still recovering from the injury to the left angle suffered a month ago during the Under 21 European Cup held in Sweden.

Juventus.com

A Day Of Relax Before The Next Departure

2009-07-23T08:51:00.000+07:00

The luggage of Juventus are always ready at the start of this new season. After having returned from Trentino, where they had the first part of the summer preparation, the bianconeri are ready to leave again. As from Thursday the Spanish adventure of the Peace Cup begins.

Ciro Ferrara’s team will be playing two matches – against Seville and Seongnam – but most of all the trip will serve as a new phase of work, even though in a warmer climate when compared to the one in Pinzolo.

While awaiting the departure to Andalusia, all the bianconeri that took part in the summer camp in Val Rendena were granted a day of rest, with the exception of Paolo De Ceglie who worked in the gym in Vinovo in order to pursue his recovery following the injury to the left ankle.

The player from Valle D’Aosta, however, was not alone at the Juventus Center. Together with him were Nicola Legrottaglie and Sebastian Giovinco. The 2009/10 has just officially begun for them. After the holidays, the two bianconeri made their first steps while waiting to join the group tomorrow for the departure. Everything is fine for both, especially the young playmaker who returned to normal activities exactly 22 days after the surgical operation he underwent on the 1st of July.

The only player who is still yet to join is last signing Felipe Melo but this will soon be settled. The Brazilian will today receive his baptism in bianconero during a press conference which is to be held at the Juventus Media Center in Vinovo at 17:30hrs. The presentation will be aired live on Juventus Channel.

Juventus.com

Felipe Melo’ s Presentation On Wednesday Afternoon

2009-07-22T09:04:00.001+07:00

With the summer training camp having come to an end, Ciro Ferrara is about to have the complete group at his disposal. Before leaving for Andalucia to take part in the Peace Cup, even the last bianconeri will join their mates: Legrottaglie, Giovinco and Felipe Melo.

The Brazilian will be presented officially during a press conference which will take place tomorrow, Wednesday 22nd July, at the Juventus Media Center in Vinovo. The appointment is fixed for 17:30hrs and will be transmitted live on Juventus Channel.

Juventus.com

Marchisio: "I Am Sure That Working In This Manner We Will Have A Great Season"

2009-07-22T09:03:00.002+07:00

It is a visibly exhausted but satisfied Marchisio who leaves his comments at the end of the match between Juventus and Vicenza.

"It was very hot. I am glad to have played. We did not do too bad when one considers the fact that there were some of us who played two day ago and had a rather long trip. We were rather tired and the heat did not help but we hope to do better during the Peace Cup in Spain".

"Juventus changed with the signing of new players who are important and who will make us make that step ahead in comparison to last year. Ferrara brought along his winning mentality which he had even as a player and I am sure that working in this manner we will have a great season".

Juventus.com

Ferrara: "There Is Still A Lot Of Work To Be Done"

2009-07-22T09:03:00.001+07:00

Ciro Ferrara did not seem to be entirely pleased after the 1-1 draw against Vicenza and yet the Juventus coach knows that the team is far from complete and that the heavy workload of the two-week training camp has left its toll on the players, as did the sending-off of Amauri and the heat the match was played in.

"It was a match which was immediately difficult due to the sending off of Amauri but I must be honest and say that I think the team showed good play notwithstanding one player less. I saw some good movement and good reaction".

"We are trying out a new system which the players must still get used to and then one must consider the fact that players like Diego, Sissoko and Giovinco are still to enter and this could make a difference. We managed to create a good number of occasions and this is a positive thing but obviously there is still a lot o work to be done".

The match against Vicenza saw the fielding of the international players: "Today was important for the internationals who I think did quite well especially when one considers that the physical condition must improve. I wanted them to play to start getting back into form. Obviously they were rather tried from the training but they showed some good things".

Juventus.com

Draw At The Briamasco (Juventus - Vicenza 1-1)

2009-07-22T09:02:00.000+07:00

The match against Vicenza has one important novelty: the many international players on the field after the few days spent with the rest of the team in Pinzolo.

The first few minutes are rather slow which is acceptable and expected when one considers the heavy workload undergone by the players in the last few days especially the internationals who joined less then a week ago. The match however starts to warm up with Juventus beginning to take over the field and showing good acceleration. On the 8th minute there is a fast bit of action with a Camoranesi cross too long for Trezeguet.

Del Piero seems to be in grade shape and offers a number of magical touches with Juventus gaining metres. On the 13th minute Chiellini heads high from a corner. Three minutes later Bjelanovic takes the Juve defence by surprise, goes past Buffon and passes to Misuraca who scores the opener (1-0).

On the 19th minute Amauri is sent-off for kicking the ball towards an opponent with play at a stop. The decision of the referee is rather heavy and abrupt when one considers that the match is a friendly.

Notwithstanding being one player down, Juventus react well and on the 21st minute a Camoranesi cross is deviated by a defender forcing the keeper to a great save for a corner. Six minutes later it is once again the Italo-Argentine who after some beautiful ball play is fouled from behind with the referee simply awarding a free-kick. Del Piero takes it: the ball is kicked magically but the bar denies him the goal in what was an unlucky miss.

On the 29th minute there is a good Tiago pass towards Grygera who crosses well into the area but the defence manages to clear before any bianconero can head home. Two minutes later there is another bad Vicenza foul, this time on Del Piero with the referee once again keeping the card in his pocket. The captain takes the free-kick but the defence clears.

The 36th minute sees some beautiful footwork by Del Piero with the ball finally deviated into corner. From the flag the ball reaches Cannavaro who first tries to head the ball home and then shoots with his left foot to see the ball go inches wide of the post.

Seven minutes later another hard tackle, this time on Tiago, goes once again unsanctioned by the referee. On the 45th minute the ball is handed by a Vicenza player. It is Del Piero who takes the free-kick from a long distance sending it just slightly wide.

The second half, as is typical of these friendly matches, is characterised by a number of substitutions with Manninger, Zanetti, Salihamidzic, Poulsen and Ariaudo coming on for Buffon, Camranesi, Molinaro, Grygera and Chiellini at the kick-off of the second part of the match.

On the 10th minute Cannavaro is substituted by Alcibiade and five minutes later it is Marrone who comes on for Marchisio. On the 16th minute A good Alicbiade ball reaches Del Piero in the area but the captain is denied what would have been a beautiful goal by Frison. Trezeguet sees a goal being disallowed for off-side.

On the 21st minute Immobile comes on for the captain and on the half hour mark the continuous attempts to equalize bear their fruit. Da Silva fouls Brazzo in the area and a penalty is given which is scored by Trezeguet.

The 86th minute sees a good long ball by Poulsen reaching Trezeguet but the defence clears in time/

The end result, a 1-1 draw, doe not make any of the team particularly happy but when one considers the fact that the bianconeri played with one men less for over three fourths of the game it becomes more acceptable.

Juventus.com

Juve enjoy Ibra exit

2009-07-20T11:59:00.000+07:00

Juventus general manager Jean-Claude Blanc believes Serie A will be “more entertaining” with Samuel Eto’o instead of Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Inter and Barcelona have agreed to exchange strikers plus £40m and the loan of Aleksandr Hleb, though they must first work out personal terms.

Many say this will weaken the reigning Italian champions and give Juve a far better chance of winning the Scudetto.

“I wouldn’t say that,” warned Bianconeri chief Blanc. “If Eto’o arrived to replace the Swede, then it wouldn’t be that bad for them, would it?

“Let us just say that without Ibra the League could be more entertaining.”

Last season Juventus finished second to Inter and have reinforced significantly over the summer with Diego, Felipe Melo and Fabio Cannavaro.

As Milan have sold Kaka and Inter get set to release Ibrahimovic, does this make the Turin giants favourites?

“We are focused only on our own squad and getting the best results,” added director of sport Alessio Secco.

“Naturally, an Inter without Ibrahimovic would be a step in the right direction for us.”

Channel4.com/sport/football_italia/jul19k.html

A Draw “Chez Platini” (Nancey - Juventus 1-1)

2009-07-20T11:56:00.000+07:00

The centenary of the club of Le Roi’s birthplace saw the two former teams of the UEFA president sharing the spoils in what was a rather entertaining match featuring some good bits of action by the bianconeri notwithstanding the heavy workload of the past few days.

The first half started off with Juventus on the attack as a show of the hard athletic work undergone by the players in the past few days beginning to yield its results. On the 3rd minute an Immobile cross reaches Amauri but the shot is deviated into corner. One minute later a great personal initiative by Del Piero sees the ball going inches wide.

On the 8th minute a great cross by Immobile goes past the keeper and reaches Amauri who puts the ball into the back of the net for the opener (1-0). Nancy begin to emerge and on the 12th minute it is Manninger who performed a great save.

The 22nd minute sees a good shot from the outside the area by Tiago going wide. Ten minutes later it is once again the Austrian keeper who is once again forced to perform a good save.

On the 34th minute a beautiful exchange between Del Piero and Amauri sees a beautiful conclusion by the Brazilian go slightly wide. Three minutes later a great bit of action by Immobile sees the French keeper forced to resort to a corner.

The bianconeri seem to relax towards the end of the half and are made to pay for this as on the 45th minute Ouaddou equalizes with Manninger rather unlucky to save a first time with the ball falling beyond the goal line on the rebound.

As is typical of summer friendly matches the second half is characterised by a number of substitutions with the bianconeri coming on to the field for the start of the second half with Bamba instead of Zebina and Chimenti instead of Manninger.

On the 4th minute it is Amauri who goes close to scoring a second with the ball going high over the bar. Six minutes later Chimenti performs a great save following a dangerous Nancy attempt.

The 13th minute sees Poulsen coming off for Molinaro and three minutes later it is Marrone who comes on for Zanetti. On the 21st minute Del Piero sees a cross being deviated into a corner with the ball from the flag being cleared by the French defence.

More substitutions are made on the 23rd minute with Daud and Esposito coming on for Salihamidzic and Immobile respectively. On the 25th minute Tiago goes close to scoring but the ball hits the post after a good shot. Five minutes later Nancy go close to scoring their second but Chimenti denies them with a good low save.

The match tended to slow down a bit in the middle of the second half but this is expected considering the heavy workload the players have endured in the past few days.

On the 38th minute it is once again Amauri who after receiving from Tiago showed some splendid play with his final low cross not finding anybody to push it in. An immediate reaction by Nancy, seconds later saw the Juve defence clearing with difficulty.

The 42nd minute saw a great Del Piero attempt going slightly high over the bar. With the ball out it was Tiago (who had a good match) to make way for youngster Pirrotta.

The 43rd minute saw a good exchange between Amauri and Del Piero with the captain’s shot being saved by the French keeper, the last real bit of action before the final whistle.

Juventus.com

A Sunday Spent Between Trentino And France

2009-07-20T11:54:00.000+07:00

Pinzolo and Trentino, Joeuf and France: so far and yet, for once, never so close. This is thanks to Juventus and its summer programme, which today the 19th of July (Zebina’s 31st birthday) will be living its most intense and perhaps the most fascinating day.

The internationals are in Pinzolo where they are continuing their preparatory work. Buffon, Cannavaro, Chiellini, De Ceglie, Marchisio, Camoranesi, Sissoko, Almiron, Diego, Iaquinta, Trezeguet, Kirev and De Paola: 13 worked in the morning at the Centro Sportivo Pineta which was once again was invaded.

The new arrivals underwent athletic tests in order to catch up with the others. Diego and De Ceglie trained on the field. Trezeguet trained in the gym while Sissoko underwent physiotherapy.

The rest of the group landed in the Nancy airport at 12:00hrs, before arriving in Joeuf (the birthplace of Michel Platini), where at 18:00hrs they will be playing the friendly against Nancy, the second seasonal friendly for Ciro Ferrara’s team.

Juventus.com

Elkann sees Juve of the future

2009-07-19T01:24:00.000+07:00

Patron John Elkann believes extending Alessandro Del Piero’s contract is part of “Juventus building for the future.”

On Friday the captain added one year to his deal, keeping him with the Bianconeri until June 30 2011.

“Del Piero’s renewal is of great importance, and another step forward in Juventus building for the future,” said club owner Elkann.

“Juve have a lot of trust in tomorrow, as proved by signing a young Coach like Ciro Ferrara. I was glad to see a tough training regime and also how quickly the youth team players are settling in.

“Ferrara and his staff are taking big steps forward to be ready for the start of the season. I expect an entertaining team and only the results will tell us if the balance of power with our rivals has changed.”

The Turin giants have drafted in Diego from Werder Bremen, Felipe Melo from Fiorentina and Fabio Cannavaro as a free agent from Real Madrid.

“We believe [UEFA President Michel] Platini is right, as in football investment must be sustainable and we did what we could,” added the heir to the Agnelli empire.

“One must try to use the same criteria to guarantee consistency to both clubs and fans. We are also working on something special for players and supporters in the form of a new stadium.”

Channel4.com/sport/football_italia/

Sold Out Under The Rain

2009-07-19T01:21:00.001+07:00

Bad weather is leaving its mark in the last few hours in Pinzolo and after the strong storms yesterday, even this morning Val Rendena woke up with cloudy skies. The rain, however, did not stop the bianconeri from working hard.

Even today the team was busy with repeats on distances of 600 and 300 metres for those players who took part in the training since the beginning of the camp and of 1,200 metres for those who joined the group in the last few days.

Amongst the latter was Paolo De Ceglie who arrived in Pinzolo last evening and this morning worked in the gym together with Momo Sissoko, Alessandro Del Piero and Diego. The Brazilian then worked on the field with professor Gaudino to the joy of the public present.

Juventus.com

Del Piero: "Happy And Proud"

2009-07-18T12:54:00.002+07:00

It is a day of celebrations for th Juventus supporters present at the summer camp in Pinzolo and for those who heard the new on the media. Alessandro Del Piero extended his contract with the club up to 2011. The contract was due to expire in 2010. The negotiations were very short and the signature came during the camp in Pinzolo which saw the arrival of John Elkann and Jean-Claude Blanc in the morning to join Alessio Secco who is following the team closely.

"The negotiations were fast even due to the fact that we all had the same intention. I thank the club for the faith shown in me and John Elkann who I thanked this winter for having given me a historical ball as a sign of esteem and who today I thank again for his presence here".

It was a Del Piero sporting a black-eye (suffered during training) but happy: "I am proud to have been at Juventus for all these years and I still want to write important pages in the history of the bianconeri. As I said two years ago, there exist all the possibilities to play for another two seasons at top level. Until when will I go on playing? Until I can guarantee the qualities which made me who I am in all aspects".

Present in the first row were all his staff, captained by his brother Stefano, as well as many local authorities and the president of Trentino S.p.A and Sport and Agriculture councillor Tiziano Mellarini. It is really a great day. Del Piero celebrated speaking of the new Juventus taking shape and of a group which is living these days with great enthusiasm:

"The enthusiasm captured all. I was told that there has never been such a great attendance by the supporters to watch the team training. When we are enthusiastic and happy: two important ingredients to prepare the foundations for that which can become our home. We are highly motivated and will seek to achieve all our objectives".

Del Piero has no doubts with regards to Juventus’ potential: "Even last year we showed that in a single match we can beat anyone meaning that we have a group of great quality. The next step is winning not only in a single match but also in a competition: championship, Champions League and Coppa Italia".

Juventus mad important investments, strengthening an already competitive team. "I am happy about this because the financial effort by the club, who was on this transfer market only second to Real Madrid (that is beyond the market!), means that all have the same will of the team which is built on a lot of enthusiasm and the will to win".

Now all must get to work "and find the mechanisms with the great players that have been signed". Amongst these is Fabio Cannavaro. "It is up to him to win back the faith of the fans – declared Del Piero – but I don’t think he will have any problems because he is a great champion and because he has all our support".

To conclude a thought dedicated to the national team: "The World Cup is one of my objectives. It would be great to take part as it would also mean that I had a great season".

Juventus.com

Blanc: "Alex’s Contract Extension Is Another Great Signing"

2009-07-18T12:54:00.001+07:00

"We are all very satisfied because we decided to extend a long marriage. It was right to do so now while preparing for the next season so as to allow Alessandro to work with his mind at rest and give a clear sign to all Juventus fans".

This is the way by which Jean-Claude Blanc commented Alessandro Del Piero’s signing of a new contract up to 2011 on Juventus Channel. A new transfer market signing for Juventus:

"Yes, we can define it as such. The media are always speaking of new players but it is as important to be able to count on champions of the calibre of Del Piero and Buffon. We are happy to have made this signing in Trentino where even in the past many positive signs were given".

Juventus’ presence in Trentino is leading to enthusiasm of such proportions that was never witnessed in the past:

"Three years ago we were welcomed but now we are all proud of being Juventus supporters, of this team and of the work done in these last 36 months. Now we hope to see the results while maintaining our feet on the ground and judging after the end of the three competitions".

Juventus.com

John Elkann: "Juventus Believes In The Future"

2009-07-18T12:53:00.000+07:00

It was a Friday the 17th with John Elkann as potagonsit in Pinzolo. The Fiat vice-president wanted to personally say hello to Ciro Ferrara and the team and be present at an important moment in the career of Alessandro Del Piero who extended his contract until 2011.

The day in Trentino began very early. Having departed from Turin aboard a helicopter together with Jean-Claude Blanc, the Engineer visited the team’s hotel and later the Centro Sportivo Pineta to watch the morning training session.

After lunch, he joined all the Juventus contingent at the fire fighters barracks to be present in the first row during the Del Piero press conference. Before leaving Trentino and returning to Turin, John Elkann spoke to the journalists.

"Del Piero’s renewal is of great importance because it is another step in the construction of the future. Juventus believes firmly in the future and this is shown in the signing of a young coach like Ciro Ferrara".

The new Juventus for 2009/10 is making its first steps and the engineer could witness this for the first time with a complete squad (or nearly) after the arrival of the internationals. They were two hours of intense work which helped him understand if things in Val Rendena were being taken seriously:

"It was a positive day. I noticed a great atmosphere and serious work with hard and demanding training. I am happy to have seen so many Primavera players included. Ferrara and his staff are making progress in order to be ready for the season. My expectations? A team that entertains. Whether the equilibrium with regards to the other teams has changed will be decided on the field".

Surely one can say that the club owners continue to believe in the Juve project. This is shown in the signings of Diego and Felipe Melo but also in the support with regards to the new stadium project which are all important and well studied investments.

"We believe Platini is right. In football investments must be sustainable and we did all we could. We must seek to use the same criteria to guarantee a certain consistency for the club and the supporters. With regards to the stadium, we worked to be able to give something special to the players and the fans".

Juventus.com

First Training Session For Buffon & Co.

2009-07-17T23:50:00.001+07:00

The training session of the internationals, who arrived in the early afternoon in Pinzolo to join the rest of the squad brought the eight day of the Juventus training camp to an end. The day was given as an off day to all the rest (except for some of the Primavera) to those who worked hard in the past few days and who took the opportunity to practice their hobbies.

Alexander Manninger, for example, took advantage of the beautiful scenery of Val Rendena to go fishing for trout. Others visited Madonna di Campiglio while another group played golf or went for a bicycle ride. Del Piero confirmed himself as being a hard worker training hard in the gym in what was a personalised session.

It was a totally different day for Buffon, Cananvaro, Chiellini, Camoranesi, Iaquinta, Marchisio and Almiron, who joined the group after having recovered from an influenza attack which kept him in Argentina.

After the medical tests in the morning, the group reached Pinzolo at about 15:30hrs and after approximately two hours were already on the field for their first training session of the season.

With Diego and Sissoko in the gym, the afternoon session saw the participation of Buffon, Cannavaro (cheered by the fans), Chiellini, Camoranesi, Iaquinta, Marchisio, Almiron, Molinaro, and Primavera Alcibiade, Immobile, Mirarchi and Pirrotta as well as goalkeepers Kirev and Pinsoglio.

After a good half hour of athletic work, the group was busy with juggling and ball control exercises before playing a mini-match on a reduced field to the joy of the spectators who once again filled the stands of the Centro Sportvo Pineta. Fifteen minutes of running brought the session to an end.

Juventus.com

Del Piero to pen Juve extension

2009-07-17T23:48:00.000+07:00

Alessandro Del Piero is about to put pen to paper on a lifetime contract with Juventus, according to reports.

The Bianconeri captain has reached an agreement with the club hierarchy to tie himself to the side until 2011.

His current deal was set to expire at the end of this season and directors were eager to avoid a similar situation to Pavel Nedved, where the last-minute offer of a pay-as-you-play contract was rejected.

Although no figures have yet been confirmed, it’s believed the Juventus legend will receive around £2.5m per season.

It is also claimed in Tuttosport and the Corriere dello Sport that Del Piero is already planning his career path once he hangs up his boots.

The captain will turn 35 in November and could well have a future in Ciro Ferrara’s Coaching staff in Turin.

Diego has been signed to essentially replace Alex and during yesterday’s opening friendly of the summer he played in the trequartista role due to the Brazilian’s absence.

Channel4.com/sport/football_italia

Barcelona Make Christian Poulsen Enquiry

2009-07-17T23:47:00.000+07:00

Barcelona have made a tentative enquiry about signing Christian Poulsen from Juventus after looking set to miss out on Liverpool's Javier Mascherano, according to the Dane's agent.

The Blaugrana are keen to add a ball-winning midfielder to their ranks ahead of the new season and have turned their attentions to the former Sevilla star.

Poulsen failed to shine during his first season in Italy and is rumoured to be prepared to move if Barca were to step up their interest in him and make a concrete offer.

Juve have also stated that the Blaugrana have asked about the player and his agent is now waiting to see if anything transpires after the initial contact.

"There has been a request from a Spanish agent relating to Barcelona," Jorn Bonnesen told bold.dk.

"He asked whether Christian would be interested in joining Barcelona.

"You never know what will happen, but Juventus' sporting director [Alessio Secco] has also admitted to being in contact with Barca."

Lucas Brown, Goal.com

Coppa: Inter-Juve for quarters?

2009-07-17T23:46:00.000+07:00

The eight seeds for the 2009-10 Coppa Italia have been drawn, meaning we could see an Inter-Juventus quarter-final.

The Lega Calcio put the seeds – Fiorentina, Genoa, Milan, Inter, Juventus, Udinese, Roma and holders Lazio – into a draw for a tennis tournament style competition.

The top sides will only begin their campaign in the Coppa from the round before the quarter-finals.

If they all win their ties, then the quarters will be Fiorentina-Lazio, Inter-Juventus, Milan-Udinese and Genoa-Roma.

Lazio won the Coppa Italia last season after beating Sampdoria on penalties in the Final.

Channel4.com/sport/football_italia/

Amauri: "On In This Manner"

2009-07-17T23:44:00.000+07:00

On the team’s day off, following the first friendly of the new season, Amauri and Salihamidzic lived a new experience: a helicopter ride over the park in Brenta up to Pergine where they visited the Sant’Orsola establishment, one of the four brands with which Trentino is bound to Juventus as sponsors.

After a detailed course on small fruits, Amauri spoke of football going back to the friendly against Cisco Roma: "It went well, considering the heavy workload we have been given up to now. I must say that I did not expect so much work but I am sure that it will be useful during the season".

The seasonal debut was also the occasion to try out the new formation in which Amauri immediately felt comfortable: "…even though there is still much to work on – he admitted – especially for us attackers who, playing in this manner, must press more in midfield to aid the midfielders. With a semi-striker, however, we have more possibilities of getting close to the goal".

He was also asked about the competitors in his role ("It is a good thing it exists because we all have to work hard to give our maximum"), mentioning a few names: "Trezeguet? If he is motivated it is good for Juve to have such a player. Del Piero? Is the pillar of this team, or rather he is Juve. If, as the papers are writing, he chooses to stay at Juventus for life, it will be a marvellous thing especially since nowadays such faithful players in modern football are very rare".

"Nedved? I would like him to return to us because besides having been a great champion he is a true person and true people can always give something more. Diego? He is a player of great quality and will help us create more goal opportunities. This is why I can’t wait to have him on the field with us".

Juventus.com

Salihamidzic: "Ready To Win"

2009-07-17T23:39:00.000+07:00

The joker still wants to jump out of the pack. For the third consecutive year, Hasan Salihamidzic is one of the protagonists of the Pinzolo training camp. His dedication and will to sacrifice himself together with his availability and nice character make of Brazzo a player loved by all from his mates up to the supporters. He is also very appreciated by the coach that sees in him a player capable of playing in every role.

As from the first days of this new adventure, together with Molinaro who is recovering and De Ceglie who is still on holiday, Salihamidzic adapted well to the left fullback position and against Cisco Roma was one of the best. The day after, the Bosnian spoke of the current situation during the meeting organized by Sant’Orsola which was held at Pergine Valsugana in which he participated together with Amauri. He arrived aboard nothing less then a helicopter.

"It was not my first time on a helicopter but flying over mountains is really splendid. I am happy with how the camp in Trentino is going. There is a fresh climate which is important for us. Everything is perfect, from the hotel to the participation of the people accompanying us up to every training session. Yes, I would say that Pinzolo is ideal for us".

Brazzo spoke also of football and the match against Cisco Roma keeping in line with what Ferrara and his team mates said:

"We played a good match but we are conditioned by the fact of having worked a lot in the last few days. Now we are a bit tired but we are improving everyday. Together with Ferrara and all his staff we are working well, we have many good players and were made even stronger by the new signings. We are ready to win".

In order to win Ferrara needs players like Salihamidzic just like Pessotto was when Ciro was still a protagonist on the field. Brazzo is a guarantee both in facts and in words.

"My role? It’s that of helping the team. For me what is important is to play and not my position on the field. That is decided by the coach and makes no difference to me. I am happy to be here and have been so since the day I came. It is nice to be part of Juventus, a team amongst the most famous and with so many fans".

Juventus.com

Juventus Coach Ciro Ferrara: Inter Are Favourites For The Scudetto

2009-07-16T11:57:00.001+07:00

Juventus coach Ciro Ferrara has claimed Inter are the favourites to win next season's Scudetto race, despite the Bianconeri's impressive transfer campaign.

Ferrara has made some good signings this summer with the hope they will pay immediate dividends for the upcoming campaign. Fabio Cannavaro arrived from Real Madrid, Diego was captured from Werder Bremen, and Felipe Melo is on the verge of joining from Fiorentina.

The former defender has been planning for next term, but he is keeping his feet on the ground as he invites Inter to set the standard.

"Mourinho is disappointed? Inter remain the favourites," Ferrara is quoted as saying by Goal.com Italia.

"Sometimes you have to stay away from certain declarations in order to allow others to be on the front pages.

"You can say Inter are the favourites. Milan and Fiorentina are also there. It's better to let the others make the front pages and for us to work in the dark."

The Bianconeri play against Cisco Roma in a friendly later this evening.

Salvatore Landolina, Goal.com

Juventus Starlet Albin Ekdal Joins Siena On Loan

2009-07-16T11:55:00.000+07:00

Siena have added to their ranks ahead of next season with the loan signing of Albin Ekdal from Juventus, according to tuttomercatoweb.com.

The Old Lady were keen for the 19-year-old Swede to garner more first-team experience next season so that he can continue to progress as a footballer, but were unable to give him assurances of regular football in Turin next year.

While other promising players such as Claudio Marchisio, Paolo de Ceglie and Sebastian Giovinco made the step up to the first team last year, Ekdal only made a handful of appearances - despite being highly thought of.

The Swede has only been with Juventus for a year, having joined from Swedish side Brommapojkarna last summer. He is also following in the footsteps of Paolo de Ceglie, who spent a year at Siena as part of a co-ownership deal, while Giovinco and Marchisio were also loaned out prior to being more involved in the Juventus first team.

Ekdal marks another important signing for Siena, who have added quality to their ranks already by way of Michele Paolocci, also from Juventus, and Felipe Gomes.

Anthony Wright, Goal.com

Deschamps to pick up Poulsen

2009-07-16T11:54:00.000+07:00

Christian Poulsen is ready to leave Juventus so he can work with Didier Deschamps at Marseille.

The midfielder has been told in no uncertain terms that he is not a part of new boss Ciro Ferrara’s plans.

He had turned down a move to Turkish side Fenerbhaçe last week and was linked with an unlikely £13m swoop by European Champions Barcelona.

It is reported in Italy and France this afternoon that Juve have reached an agreement with Marseille to hand over the Danish international.

The French club will pay approximately £7m to take Poulsen to Ligue 1 under the guidance of former Juventus Coach Deschamps.

Channel4.com/sport/football_italia

Juventus To Renegotiate For Napoli's Fabiano Santacroce

2009-07-16T11:53:00.001+07:00

Juventus are ready to push forward plans for Napoli defender Fabiano Santacroce after previous negotiations failed.

The Bianconeri have been keen on the stopper for a while and they tried to land him last month. At that time, Napoli wanted €8 million for their man and thus the deal went cold.

However, on Tuesday, the player's agent, Antonio Dell'Aglio, claimed Juve were interested in his client, fuelling speculation that the 22-year-old was on his way.

Tuttosport claim Juve want to take him on a one-year loan as Napoli coach Roberto Donadoni doesn't consider Santacroce as a first team regular. The Bianconeri are now trying to work towards a temporary deal with the option to buy him permanently next season for €4.5m - the figure that was paid for the stopper by the Partenopei.

Initially, the Turin-based side had hoped for a possible swap deal in which Santacroce would have exchanged places with Paolo De Ceglie, but the latter's agent closed the door, claiming his client wanted to remain in Turin.

Salvatore Landolina, Goal.com

Official: Felipe Melo Joins Juventus

2009-07-16T11:48:00.000+07:00

The news is official: Felipe Melo is a Juventus player. The last details of the deal with the player and Fiorentina have been finalised (see press release) and Felipe Melo is in full effect a Juventus player. The Brazilian midfielder, fresh from winning the Confederations Cup will spend a few more days in Brazil on holiday and will arrive in Turin on the 22nd of July to begin training.

Felipe Melo spoke to Juventus Channel on Tuesday, the day of his medical check-up at the Fornaca Clinic and the Centro di Medicina dello Sport:

"I am very happy to have joined Juventus and can’t wait to start working. I believe very much in this team that was reinforced and that can compete with anybody in an attempt to reach all the goals in Italy and in Europe".

Felipe Melo de Carvalho joins a more then ever Brazilian Juventus after the signing of Amauri (last season) and Diego. A central midfielder born in 1983 (in Volta Redonds on the 26th June), he joins Juventus after a good season with Fiorentina and long experiences in Brazil and Spain.

Brought up as a player by Flamengo, before travelling to Europe, Felipe Melo played for two more Brazilian teams: Cruzeiro and Gremio. In 2005 he crossed the ocean to join Maiorca but only spent a few months with the Spanish team. Two seasons with Racing Santander and one with Almeria introduced him to the crowds.

In the summer 2008 he was transferred to Fiorentina with which team he made his debut in the Champions League (in the preliminaries) and in the Serie A during the match against Juventus on the first match day.

The excellent performances with the viola earned him a call-up to Dunga’s national side of which he soon became a strong point. In February of this year he made his debut (against Italy in London) and in July the satisfaction of winning the Confederations Cup as a protagonist in South Africa.

Juventus.com

Pinzolo Awaits Internationals

2009-07-16T11:47:00.000+07:00

One week since the start of the training camp in Pinzolo tomorrow – Thursday 16th July – Ciro Ferrara will be able to count on nearly the whole group. As scheduled, seven bianconeri will arrive in Val Rendena.

The seven players are 5 Italian internationals fresh from the Confederations Cup, that is Gigi Buffon, Fabio Cannavaro, Giorgio Chiellini, Mauro German Camoranesi and Vincenzo Iaquinta. They will be joined by Claudio Marchisio who will be cutting his holidays after the Under 21 European Cup two days short and Sergio Almiron who due to influenza could not join the rest of the team immediately.

Only three players will still be missing. For Paolo De Ceglie it is a question of one day since he will return on Friday 17th July. The only players who will not join the team in Trentino are Nicola Legrottaglie and Sebastian Giovinco who will meet the rest of the squad in Turin before the departure to Andalucia for the Peace Cup.

As from tomorrow therefore, the group will be much larger. Up to now only Raffaele Bianco left the training camp just like Massimiliano Maddaloni who left for Coverciano for the coaching course.

Juventus.com

Technical Work In The Afternoon

2009-07-16T11:46:00.000+07:00

Third day of repeats for Juventus: this morning the bianconeri underwent six repeats, always on a distance of 1,200 metres. The aerobic strengthening work is important to fill the tanks with petrol in view of a long and busy season.

Before the athletic part, the bianconeri worked on technical and tactical aspects with the midfielders working with Sormani on ball possession and circulation while the attackers and the defenders worked with Ferrara and Maddaloni on movement during non-possession and re-starting.

Momo Sissoko worked in the gym as scheduled and was later joined by Alessandro Del Piero who did not take part in the repeats but underwent a personalized training programme.

In the afternoon, after the press conference by Ciro Ferrara, the team returned on the field for the second session of the day. The bianconeri first worked in the gym were Diego and Sissoko remained for the rest of the session while the others descended on the field to the joy of the public who like in the past few days filled the stands of the Centro Sportivo Pineta. T

he players were busy in a series of mini-matches divided into sections, first on half the field and then on three-quarters: a task aimed at practicing one-on-one football but also at confronting situations of numerical inferiority or superiority.

On Wednesday the team will play its first seasonal friendly against Cisco Roma (live on Juventus Channel) but the bianconeri will still train in the morning starting at 10:00hrs.

Juventus.com

Ferrara Before The First Match

2009-07-16T11:44:00.000+07:00

Two months later, Ciro Ferrara is ready for his second “debut” of his career as Juventus coach. The team is on the eve of its seasonal debut of Wednesday afternoon in Pinzolo against Cisco Roma. This will be the occasion to see the results of the work done in the first week of the summer camp in Val Rendena and for the team to show itself to all for the first time.

It is a provisional debut, as was underlined by Ciro Ferrara during his first press conference in Trentino:

"In order to evaluate I need to have the complete squad at my disposal. For this reason I am counting on being able to field all the players for one half even though I think that out of precaution Diego and Sissoko will not take part in the match. We will try to have an attacking midfield even though I do not want to focus on numbers and formations. What interests me is leaving a good impression".

Ciro Ferrara will have a complete (or nearly) team in the next few days when all those involved will arrive. It is however a fact that the Juventus 2009/10 that is being born in Pinzolo satisfies the coach’s expectations:

"The club made great efforts and met my requests. The objective is to have two players in each role and putting all on the same level in a healthy competition in order for everyone to have the right motivation. How I am facing the season? I am very motivated, I know my responsibilities but I am not afraid of what awaits me".

While waiting for the season to begin properly with matches worth three points, the bianconeri are preparing themselves with the idea in mind of always being protagonists without too many proclamations:

"I do not say those sort of things – continued Ferrara -, like I never did when I was a player. We decide about our objectives in the dressing room but certainly our intention is to compete for the top. Nobody asked me to win the scudetto but that was not necessary. Many have won it with words but that won’t get anybody far. The gap between us and Inter? Only the pitch will decide whether it was reduced or overcome".

The most unexpected but most welcome bit of news for the supporters was reserved by Ferrara for the end:

"Yesterday I spoke to Nedved and I told him that I would like to have him as my collaborator. Pavel decided to retire from football and needs a few months to rest but I think that he will finally agree perhaps by the beginning of the championship. If he were to accept I’d be very happy".

Juventus.com

Aerobic Strengthening And Tactics In Pinzolo This Morning

2009-07-14T23:24:00.005+07:00

Juventus-Cisco Roma On Juventus Channel

2009-07-14T23:24:00.003+07:00

Juventus are preparing to play their first summer friendly match. After the last few days of intense training, the bianconeri will get back to playing matches. At 17:30hrs at the Centro Sportivo Pineta they will in fact play a friendly against Cisco Roma, a team of the Lega Pro second division (ex-Serie C2).

The match will be aired live on Juventus Channel which will link-up to Pinzolo a quarter of an hour before kick-off. Interviews from the side-lines, interviews and live commentary with the technical participation of Massimo Carrera in an event which is not to be missed.

Juventus.com

Great Feast In Aid Of The Sant’Anna At Chalet Fiat

2009-07-14T23:24:00.001+07:00

For the second consecutive year, the foundation “Crescere Insieme al Sant’Anna” managed to win itself an important bit of space in the Juventus summer training camp. After the great experience of 12 months ago, yesterday evening – Monday 13th July – the high level dinner was repeated.

The location was changed from the Prà Rodont restaurant to the Chalet Fiat in Madonna di Campiglio close to the arrival point of the cable car of the Spinale. The attendance was even greater then that of last year. Over 160 people attended raising €6,000 (from entrance fees and final lottery) also thanks to the extraordinary participation of the Juve troop.

Directly from the summer camp venue in Pinzolo came Ciro Ferrara, Alessandro Del Piero, David Trezeguet, Tiago and Momo Sissoko. This was a fundamental contribution to the success of the evening as was the participation of the partners who also gave a helping hand: Fiat, New Holland, Bet&Click, Apt Pinzolo Madonna di Campiglio and Funivie Campiglio.

Juventus.com

Zanetti: «I’m Playing My Cards"

2009-07-14T23:23:00.001+07:00

You write Pinzolo and read Juventus. You write Pinzolo and also read Cristaino Zanetti. The midfielder from Carrara confirmed himself as being a camp-man in Val Rendena since together with Jonathan Zebina he is the only player to have taken part in all of the Trentino summer trips.

Four years, much experience gained and much will to give his contribution for the cause. New coach, new schemes but the same strong will as always:

"The competition has grown? It is normal that the great teams have many players but I am convinced that like always it will be the field to decide and the coach will choose not according to names but according to what he sees. With Diego’s arrival we will change our mode of play but this is not a problem for me and there will always be space for all".

Zanetti begins his season in Trentino with clear ideas. He knows what to ask of the new season and of the future.

"Last year I was conditioned by an injury I suffered in August which was made worse by the rush to get back. It is for this reason that I hope to have a physical condition which enables me to express myself as best I can. I am ready to play all my cards while respecting everyone. My contract expires in 2010? We will soon meet with the directors to discuss and my hope is to stay here and win something important while wearing this jersey".

After a year in Serie B and two in A, Zanetti wants to gain some satisfaction with the bianconeri. The proposal of the midfielder are not very different from the ones of his mates in the past few days:

"I never saw a great gap between us and Inter, not even in the last seasons. Last season we were conditioned by a number of injuries especially at important times. It will not be a race between two teams because Roma, Milan and Fiorentina are there too. We want to do well and with the charge given by the new coach. I see Ferrara as he was when he played: a good defender who was always concentrated and careful for every detail".

Juventus.com

More Hard Work This Morning. Afternoon Free.

2009-07-14T23:19:00.000+07:00

The hard work in Pinzolo continues. After the four repeats of 1,200 metres each yesterday, this morning the bianconeri underwent five, continuing the work on aerobic strength. Before the athletic part, the team took part in technical training: the midfielders were busy with Ferrara perfecting pressing and ball-less movements. The back line worked with Maddaloni on positioning, while the attackers trained with Sormani on long balls.

After half an hour the repeats began with the participation of Diego. Sissoko stayed in the gym as scheduled while Del Piero continued to work with Sormani, working on a special physical programme with the use of the ball, a technical and aerobic strengthening session of great intensity.

After the hard work of these last few days the bianconeri will now have time for some rest, Ferrara in fact granted the team a free afternoon.

Juventus.com

Summer Village Goes Crazy For Del Piero

2009-07-13T12:37:00.001+07:00

It was a festive Sunday for the thousands of Juventus fans who visited Pinzolo and the epilogue was no less: at the end of the afternoon training session in fact, the stage of the Summer Village hosted captain Alessandro Del Piero driving enthusiasm sky high in what was one of the most awaited moments by the public.

Alex thanked all for their affection with which he was greeted and responded cheerfully to the many mistakes asked by Valeria Ciardiello and dj Nanà, some of which serious and others lighter in theme. Speaking of these first days of camp the captain confirmed the common sensation, that is, that the team is highly motivated:

"We are working with great enthusiasm, even if this is not an easy time seeing the fatigue but after all it is rightly so. These are important days. The coach, the staff and some players are new but everything is going on well and we hope it will continue in this way because we want to win. We hope it will be a great season, better then the last".

After having thanked Diego, who had defined him a football genius, Del Piero said he is happy to be close to home:

"The Dolomites are part of me, seeing that I am from Veneto and so I feel they are my own even if we’re on the other side. Here the environment is spectacular, for the view but also for the welcome we receive".

Finally, Alex quenched the curiosity of the fans saying that he calls Ferrara mister and not Ciro, “It is only right”, that his favourite cartoons as a child were Goldrake and Holly e Benji and what work he would have liked to do if he hadn’t become a footballer (an electrician). Asked how he passes his free time during the camp, he answered with a joke: "A man of a certain age must rest". The rest of a warrior.

Juventus.com

Alex And Brazzo, Two Goals Each In The Mini-Matches

2009-07-13T12:36:00.000+07:00

Juventus have got down to business. As announced by the technical staff in the last few days, as from today the athletic work load is being increased and the schedule is being respected. The bianconeri began with a technical session.

The defenders were followed by Maddaloni, perfecting movement in phases without the ball while the midfielders and the strikers worked with Ferrara and Sormani on triangulizations and long balls.

After approximately 30 minutes the athletic session began with the binaconeri divided according to role and kept busy with four repeats of 1,200 metre runs. Once again it was Christian Poulsen who impressed together with Momo Sissoko setting very good times.

"It is work to strengthen the aerobic side which will be repeated in the coming days, after having verified the reaction of the players" explained trainer Andrea Scanavino on Juventus Channel. Alessandro Del Piero and Diego did not take part in the session with the rest but worked in the gym.

Diego remained in the gym with Cristiano Zanetti even in the afternoon while the captain was regularly on the field. The team was first busy in a series of ten-a-side mini-matches on a reduced field, playing first one touch football and giving a great show particularly thanks to the two shots by Sissoko which went inches wide and a plastic-like overhead kick by Amauri saved by Kirev.

After another mini-match with low balls the group was divided once again into two. This time it was once again long balls and shots at goal for midfielders and attackers while the defenders took care of positioning on crosses and one-on-one football.

This was followed by yet another mini-match, this time an 8-a-side one, which ended 4-3 for the team with green bibs which had Del Piero and Amauri as forwards both of whom scored. The captain scored twice, just like Hasan Salihamidzic his opponent of the day. The other goals were scored by Tiago for the greens and Trezeguet for the whites.

On Monday Ferrara will grant half a day of rest to the team who will only have a morning session.

Juventus.com

Juve fans battle over Cannavaro

2009-07-13T10:36:00.000+07:00

There is a battle brewing between Juventus fans and those ultras protesting against Fabio Cannavaro and Jonathan Zebina.

The role of the ultra’ in Italian football has always been a tricky one and there is set to be a deep split within the fanbase, which is already evident in pre-season training.

Cannavaro’s return from Real Madrid three years after he walked away in the midst of the Calciopoli scandal is the focus of the trouble.

The World Cup winner and the other Confederations Cup players do not begin training in Pinzolo until Thursday, but ultras already chanted slogans against him during this week’s sessions.

‘Madrid dumped you, Napoli repudiated you, only your avarice brought you back to us,’ read one banner, while others declared Canna ‘a traitor.’

Zebina was also targeted for abuse, but he was never a particularly popular figure among the Bianconeri fans.

Unusually, the majority of supporters turned on these hardliners with their own chants and jeers, but the situation is set to escalate when Cannavaro actually joins the squad.

The ultras have already been using fireworks and smoke bombs during the training sessions to make their protests clear.

According to Turin-based newspaper Tuttosport, the deep split between the sets of Juventus supporters could blow up next week with Cannavaro’s arrival.

Channel4.com/sport/football_italia

Fabio Grosso May Move To Juventus Next Week

2009-07-13T10:33:00.002+07:00

Lyon defender Fabio Grosso could be joining Juventus next week, according Le Parisien, but his future is dependent on that of Porto left-back Aly Cissokho.

Grosso's agent recently suggested that his client would like to return to Italy, but the conditions did not exist for that to happen at the moment. However, that could change if the French club manage to secure the services of Cissokho, who nearly joined AC Milan last month.

Juventus have been linked with the former Palermo star throughout the summer, as they look to continue their impressive transfer campaign and make a run for the Serie A title in 2009-10.

However, the player's agent admits that such a move appears unlikely at first due to the presence of other left-backs in Turin, and the Old Lady's desire to land a midfielder above all else.

The Bianconeri have already snapped up Diego from Werder Bremen, Fabio Cannavaro from Real Madrid, and are on the verge of signing Felipe Melo from Fiorentina.

The 31-year-old made 28 appearances in all competitions for the Ligue 1 outfit last season. Lyon have already signed striker Lisandro Lopes from Porto and are hopeful of bringing in Cissokho as well.

Adam Scime, Goal.com

Moratti: Juve are very competitive

2009-07-13T10:19:00.001+07:00

Inter patron Massimo Moratti sees Juventus as the main Scudetto contenders, but is less concerned with Milan and Roma.

“I think we were strong last season and have kept the basic structure with a few new additions such as Diego Milito and Thiago Motta, so we are even stronger now,” he told Sky Italia.

“Milan are facing some big changes, starting from their Coach, as I admire Leonardo a great deal. He’ll adopt different tactics, so we can expect anything from them, both good and bad.

“They could rediscover the hunger they have been lacking in recent years, at least in Serie A.

“Juve were already a good team last season and have become very competitive with the introduction of Fabio Cannavaro, Felipe Melo and Diego.”

In recent years Roma had been the main challengers to Inter for the title, but last season they failed to finish in the top four and are struggling financially.

“There are few families who are still able to control a football club,” sighed Moratti. “It is a very difficult thing to deal with.

“The Sensi family did very well in the past and this girl [President Rosella] has the tenacity and pride to keep hold of the reins.

“I admire her a great deal and know full well the problems one has to face in making these decisions.”

Perhaps the hardest working side on the transfer market has been Napoli, as patron Aurelio De Laurentiis snapped up Fabio Quagliarella, Luca Cigarini, Hugo Campagnaro, Juan Zuniga and Morgan De Sanctis.

“De Laurentiis has done very well, as he made some good buys last year too. He took a very generous approach to the passionate fans and I hope he can do well – although preferably not taking three points off us the same way they have done in the last two years!”

Inter have been defeated at the San Paolo for the last two consecutive seasons.

Channel4.com/sport/football_italia

Sissoko: "We Do Not Fear Anyone"

2009-07-13T10:17:00.000+07:00

The counter-proof will never be available but many are those who think thet without Sissoko’s injury (fractured leg during the derby against Torino) the 2008/09 season would have had a different result for Juventus. The Franco-Mali player entered the Juventus group and the heart of the supporters with the force of a cyclone.

Sissoko was immediately decisive for the team’s fate, ever since his signing in January 2008. He was important for all the year up to the stop due to an injury which in retrospect Momo speaks of in this manner:

"During the match against Catania I felt a pain in my foot that is why I stopped for a week before getting back to the field. Then during the derby I felt a more acute pain and we decided to do the operation. It was I who decided to go on playing after the first stop. The only time when I do not play is when I’m not feeling up to it and when this happens I say so".

"I was sorry not to be there at the end of the season but I don not think that everything depended on my absence. We are a team and a play cannot make the difference on his own. Having said this I was happy to feel the faith of my mates and the club".

Now Sissoko is back with a new hairstyle which has definitely not gone unnoticed and even more determined. This could be seen during the first days in PInzolo. During the athletic tests under Massimo Neri he was always amongst the best and was ready to fight hard even with words:

"We are working hard in these days even to get closer as a group. The team spirit must be our secret weapon. The club did well and with the new signings we are even stronger then last year. Diego? He is a nice person and a great player, like he showed with Werder and we are sure that he will do so here too. With him we will change formation but this does not frighten me because I am ready to put myself at the disposal of my mates".

This Juventus has something more then last year when a decline at the end of the season – during the time when Sissoko was injured – saw the possibility of fighting for the Scudetto go up in smoke. Momo is therefore ready to launch the team for a great season:

"Inter won the last scudetti but we never felt inferior. Now we are even stronger and we do not fear anyone. I don’t think it will be a race between two teams. There are other teams which have improved and which will be ready to fight".

Juventus.com

Athletic Work And Mini-Match On The Third Day At Pinzolo

2009-07-12T12:09:00.001+07:00

Third day of training for the bianconeri in Pinzolo. The morning started with a series of athletic tests. . The bianconeri were busy with a number of athletic exercises on a 3,000 metre distance intended to verify their condition in view of the next more intense phase of training which will start tomorrow.

The players, divided according to their role, took part in the first part with great dedication with Christian Poulsen seeming particularly in form leaving the rest behind. Momo Sissoko, Ciro Immobile, Hasan Salihamidzic and Cristiano Zanetti also did well to complete the virtual rankings of the middle-distance runners of Juventus.

The day was warmed further by the interviews given by president Giovanni Cobolli Gigli, by Alessio Secco and by the press conference of Cristian Molinaro and saw also the visit of the honourable Maurizio Paniz, president of the Juventus Club “Giovani Agnelli” accompanied by quite a large group of members of parliament strictly of bianconero faith.

In the afternoon, at 17:30hrs the team returned on the field of the Centro Sportivo Pineta for the second session. The stands were sold out with more then 4,300 spectators present. The bianconeri started off with twenty minutes of athletic work made up of floor exercises especially abdominal exercises and then short sprints and running with the ball.

After, Ferrara divided the group into two teams which played in a series of mini-matches on a reduced field and with a growing intensity, before the family match on three qaurters of the field.

The coach fielded two identical formations on a 4-3-1-2 scheme: on one side were Chiementi in goal, Zebina, Marrone, Ariaudo and Salihamidzic as defence, Bianco, Poulsen, and Tiago in midfield with Diego as play-maker and Amauri and Immobile as strikers.

On the other side were Manninger in goal, Bamba, Grygera, Alcibiade, Mirarchi in defence, Pirrotta, Zanetti and Sissoko behind Daud as fine-tuner (later substituted by Esposito) at the service of Del Piero and Trezeguet.

The match ended in a 3-1 victory for the formation with Diego and Amauri. Trezeguet opened the score with a first timer from a Daud shot which was blocked by Chimenti. The equaliser came thanks to Bianco who also was fast to take advantage of a short punch by Manninger. At the end it was the turn of Amauri to shine first by scoring the 2-1 with a left-footed shot and then taking advantage of a Diego pass depositing the ball at the back of the net for the final 3-1 with a right-footed shot.

Juventus.com

Molinaro: "I Can’t Wait To Start Again"

2009-07-12T12:07:00.000+07:00

A new season but also a new beginning after a difficult moment. For Cristian Molinaro, the training camp in Pinzolo does not only constitute the start of his third season at Juventus but also the end of a nightmare. Having overcome the problem to the kidney (caused by a blow suffered against Genoa) in the best way possible which problem forced him to end the season early, the fullback from Campania can’t wait to get back to running on the left flank.

Being able to return to the field and staying with his mates was a sort of liberation: "Now I am well and feel good – confessed Molinaro during the daily press conference in Pinzolo -, but at the beginning I was scared, especially since I was forced to stay in the clinic not knowing for sure what was wrong. After the 18th of June following the tests I felt better".

"They were two and a half difficult months especially since I am not used to doing nothing, which I overcame thanks to my family, the club, my mates and the supporters who sent me so many encouraging messages. Now, this stop will be my spring board to get back".

Two and a half months away from the field are long, especially for whom in the last two seasons played more then anyone else. Now he wants to get back, gradually. "At muscle level I still have to improve but in these last few days I have been alternating running with gym work. I hope to recover as soon as possible, being careful not to cause any problems".

"I am happy to have been able to play the mini-match immediately but I must work much more to catch up with the level of my mates and be able to give 200% once again like I always have. Alessio Secco confirmed that no other left fullbacks would arrive? I feel honoured with the faith the club has shown in me and must now prove I deserve it".

Molinaro is charged-up and ready to face his third season in black and white, with a bit of news with regards to the past: "I will once again be wearing number 19, the number which I had when I made my debut in the Serie B with Salernitana. I left the number 28 to Diego without any problems. He is a person who managed to get him self loved immediately and is adapting quickly".

"We must now wait to see him at work where he will show his talent. We were strengthened and we are aiming to obtain victories which we did not manage in the past two years. I don’t know if we closed the gap on Inter but I am sure that motivation will be important and we have a lot of it".

Juventus.com

3,000 Meter Test For The Bianconeri

2009-07-12T01:32:00.004+07:00

It was a morning of athletic tests for Juventus in Pinzolo. The bianconeri were busy with a number of athletic exercises on a 3,000 metre distance intended to verify their condition in view of the next more intense phase of training which will start tomorrow.

The players, divided according to their role, took part in the first part with great dedication with Christian Poulsen seeming particularly in form leaving the rest behind. Momo Sissoko, Ciro Immobile, Hasan Salihamidzic and Cristiano Zanetti also did well to complete the virtual rankings of the middle-distance runners of Juventus.

Secco: "We Are Not Looking For Left Fullbacks"

2009-07-12T01:32:00.001+07:00

While the team continues to work hard on the field in Pinzolo under the keen eyes of Ciro Ferrara and his staff, the management continues to work on the transfer market to make the team stronger. Alessio Secco is a constant presence in Val Rendena and is always in close contact with the team and with one eye open on the market.

The sports director spoke of the transfer market on Juventus Channel to clarify certain fundamental concepts with regards to left fullbacks, Tiago, the changes in the Primavera technical staff and the youths transfer market.

"We keep reading of the possible addition of left fullbacks – declared Secco – I would like to clarify that it is not true. We are not looking for any players in that role which for next season we will entrust again to Cristian Molinaro and Paolo De Ceglie".

The same goes for the Portuguese midfielder. "I don’t know how I can deny these rumours further. Tiago is not for sale, notwithstanding all the offers we received. We believe very much in him especially in the light of a three-strong midfield as Ferrara would like".

Finally a look at the youth sector, where there have been many changes and not only regarding players. "Alessandro Nista has joined our family and will be the Primavera goalkeeper coach. During the season, it is possible that he will lend a helping hand in the first team too. This however, does not change Ciro Ferrara’s staff with Michelangelo Rampulla taking care of Buffon and the other goalkeepers".

"With regards to the youngsters we loaned out Castiglia to Cesena and are finalizing the transfer of Bianco to Modena".

Juventus.com

Cobolli: "We Are Stronger Then Last Year"

2009-07-12T01:31:00.000+07:00

"Pinzolo has become the summer residence of Juventus and as always we are surrounded by great enthusiasm. I am happy to see great organization both in the structures hosting us as well as in the team. The players seem to be relaxed and convinced that they can do well".

President Cobolli Gigli expressed his satisfaction with regards to Juventus’ first steps in this new season. The feeling is positive and if the transfer deal with Felipe Melo is finalized the optimism would be even greater:

"At that point we would have the team that I really wanted – confirmed the president – but it is not right to speak of this now. The administration is pursuing this operation giving a further confidence boost to the deal which is in the hands of Blanc and Secco and which is possible thanks to a strong economic situation".

With Melo’s arrival it would be an even more Brazilian Juventus: "Yes, but also made up of players who have already had their experience in Italy and in Europe and this is an important factor because sometimes the Brazilians even though very talented may find it hard to adjust".

The team that is being built is a team that the president likes very much: "It is certainly a Juventus that is stronger then last year’s and the gap between us and Inter can be reduced quite a bit next championship. On the other hand, if last year we had managed to win those four or five matches which we drew we would have been much closer to the nerazzurri. Having said this, the experience thought me to be careful and keep my dreams to myself".

In the Juve of next season there will be quite a bit of space for youths: "De Ceglie, Giovinco and Marchisio will remain with us and thanks to Ferrara will have an important role in the team".

A subject which has been in the top news in recent days is the deal of Inter with Pavel Nedved: "I would be greatly surprised if Pavel moved to Inter. We parted with gratitude because he gave a lot to Juventus and he himself said he would not play anymore. He knows we await him with open arms and if he’d like to, Ferrara has projects and ideas for him in a technical role".

Back to Juventus and the near future, the president also spoke of the possible renewal of his mandate: "These three years were a formidable experience and I learnt a lot about football, on the bureaucracy connected to this world, I have relationships in the Lega with other clubs...With our share holders I have always had a good relationship but is not up to me to decide whether I should stay or not".

Juventus.com

Diego, First Goal In Black And White

2009-07-11T12:12:00.003+07:00

The second day of Juventus in Pinzolo was a very intense one, which started early in the morning with the first of the two training sessions. The bianconeri were already on the field of the Centro Sportivo Pineta at 09:30hrs.

After a warm-up and stretching, Ferrara divided the group into two: the defenders worked under his and Maddaloni’s direction working on one-on-one defensive movements. Dodo Sormani took charge of the midfielders and the attackers . Hasan Salihamidzic joined the defence. The same was repeated in the afternoon session.

The bianconeri returned on the field at 17:30hrs and after a warm-up under the eyes of Massimo Neri, the attackers were busy with triangulisations and shots on goal, whereas the defenders took care of the movements and the cross. After the work in groups, the team played the first mini-match of the season on a partially reduced field to the joy of over 2,000 spectators.

The two teams were fielded in two different formations: on one side a 4-4-2 formation made up of Chimenti in goal, Bamba, Grygera, Ariaudo and Salihamidzic as defence, Esposito, Sissoko, Poulsen and Daud as midfielders and Del Piero and Amauri as forwards.

Wearing blue bibs was the other team in a 4-3-1-2 formation with Manninger defending the goal, Zebina, Alcibiade, Marrone and Serini as defence, Bianco, Zanetti and Tiago as midfielders, Diego as playmaker and Trezeguet and Immobile as strikers.

The “family” match ended in a 2-1 score for captain Del Piero’s team, with the captain immediately in great shape. Alex illuminated the game play and set-up the second goal of the “whites” scored by Daus, while the first goal was scored by Amauri. The cherry on the cake came in the dying minutes: the first goal of Diego Ribas da Cunha who won himself a penalty scoring it with a great right shot.

The training sessions were not the only big event of the day in Pinzolo: after the morning session the journalists following the team were welcomed by Trentino, the director general of the Atp of Madonna di Campiglio, Pinzolo, Val Rendena, Delio Picciani, after which they followed the press conference given by Jonathan Zebina.

At the end of the afternoon session the stage of the Summer Village hosted Amauri and Daud who inaugurated the series of encounters between the Juve champions and the supporters.

Juventus.com

Amauri And Daud Protagonists At The Summer Village

2009-07-11T12:12:00.001+07:00

Amauri and Daud were the first protagonists of “Filo Diretto” with the supporters in Pinzolo, the event which allows the public to be in close contact with the Juventus champions. On the stage of the Summer Village, with dj Nanà and Valeria Ciardiello as presenters, the two players were welcomed with cheering by the hundreds of spectators. The enthusiasm was strong amongst the supporters just like it is amongst the players:

"There was enthusiasm even last year – explained Amauri – but now we are all very motivated. This group is made up of great champions and youngsters who are doing really well, just like Daud, who has the talent to become a great player".

The young attacker, after having received the compliments answered: "I am happy Amauri appreciates my talent. I can’t do more then hope to become a champion like him".

Amauri is charged-up and when he is asked if he aspired to the title of top-scorer he does not hesitate: "Why not? One must be ambitious in life. Last year I did well but it isn’t over yet and then after all there are many champions here and I am if I won’t be playing there will be another great attacker for the good of Juventus".

It is Daud’s turn to conclude who told a sweet anecdote about the Primavera dressing rooms. "Before the final in Viareggio, the coach was very tense and was walking nervously while we were warming-up playing basket ball. So Maddaloni said: “It is not the right attitude”. I answered him: “Calm down mister, after all we’re going to win and take the cup home”. He calmed down for a few minutes but we won the cup and really took it home".

Juventus.com

Zebina: "We Can Compete With Everybody"

2009-07-11T12:11:00.001+07:00

It is a Juve willing to do well and fight hard against all the teams in Italy and Europe. If there is a bianconero who more then others wants to incarnate this mentality it is surely Jonathan Zebina. The Frenchman is launching himself as reinforcement for Ciro Ferrara’s team.

After having finally forgotten the physical problems following the operation to his tendons, the defender wants to put the past behind and start a fresh greatly just like he did five years ago when he was transferred from Roma and immediately began to dominate the right flank.

"I can say I am finally healed – confessed Jonathan while inaugurating the press conferences in Pinzolo – and for this reason I must thank professor Cerulli and Stefano Fiorini. Now my tendons are back to normal and I don’t have any more excuses and therefore I must do well. Besides Massimo Neri, the trainer I had for six years is back. Ciro Ferrara as a coach immediately showed faith in me. I want to show everybody I deserve this jersey and this is the reason I am very motivated".

Zebina therefore, once again finds as coach a “youngster” who was his team mate during the 2004/2005 and who has now given him the right motivation:

"Last year my relationship with Ranieri did not help. We tried, I was available and he tried to involve me in his tactical plans but most of all the reason was the physical problems which had 70% of the fault. I am a physical player and if I am not well physically I render less then I can. After the operation I got rid of a burden which I had for months and which was understood by everybody, so much so I was very often considered to be a player who did not want to play. Now I am well and ready for a great season, just like in the last two matches of last season".

The will of Zebina can become a secret weapon at the disposal of Ciro Ferrara and of all Juventus to aim for great achievements. This will could be witnessed on the field in these first few days but even in a proclamation which cannot but please the Juventus supporters:

"In these years we never felt inferior to anybody not even when we were in Serie B. Moreover when it came to mentality we were the best and that is why we won even when we did not seem to be the strongest. Now we are finding this mentality once again with Ferrara. This transfer market made us stronger and we count on having drawn closer to Inter. I am sure we can compete against anyone. We have champions too. We must be aware of our strength with the right dose of humility".

Juventus.com

Two Hours Of Work This Morning

2009-07-11T12:08:00.001+07:00

The second day of Juventus in Pinzolo started off rather early. The bianconeri were already on the field of the Centro Sportivo Pineta at 09:30hrs. After a warm-up and stretching, Ferrara divided the group into two: the defenders worked under his and Maddaloni’s direction working on one-on-one defensive movements.

Dodo Sormani took charge of the midfielders and the attackers who were kept busy with rapid exchanges of the ball and finalizations with small posts. After the work with the ball, the bianconeri took part in athletic exercises consisting of much running and stretching in conclusion.

They were followed by Massimo Neri and his staff made up of Andrea Scanavino and Claudio Gaudino who joined the group today. The two hours of work will be repeated in the afternoon:

"We started gradually – explained trainer Massimo Neri on Juventus Channel – Gradually we will increase the work load. Gym? I have always also worked on strength and therefore we will surely make use of it".

Juventus.com

Diego Fever!

2009-07-10T22:53:00.001+07:00

If a good day can be seen from the morning, that between Juventus and Diego is a love destined to last long and leave its mark. The Brazilian wore black and white for the first time during the summer training camp in Pinzolo and it was immediately Diego-mania.

The Juventus supporters could not have welcomed him in a better way. From Vinovo to Trentino: the affection for the Brazilian could be seen everywhere. The player, while awaiting to reciprocate on the field, did it through words. From the square in Pinzolo, where he was officially presented to the public and through Juventus Member, Diego sent his personal message.

"As from today my adventure with Juventus begins – he told the Members -, it is the coming true of a dream which I have had for some time, that is since my name was mentioned in connection with this glorious club. During this time I had the opportunity to get informed, I read the history of the club and of its many victories but most of all I got to know about the warmth of you our supporters".

This warmth was more then evident during the evening held at Pinzolo. On stage together with Diego were general manager Jean-Claude Blanc and sports director Alessio Secco the event was aired live on Sky Sport (during the programme Calciomercato presented by Alessandro Bonan) and on Juventus Channel. Most of all however the new signing was together with many fans who did not want to miss out on the baptism in black and white of Diego. Many of these wore the number 28 which the Brazilian will be wearing at the beginning of his new adventure.

Read the message sent by Diego on JuventusMember.com

Juventus.com

First Session. Ferrara: "I Am Emotional"

2009-07-10T22:52:00.003+07:00

Juventus-Pinzolo part four. The arrival of the team in Val Rendena marked the start of the bianconeri’s summer training camp. Ciro Ferrara and the team arrived at the hotel at 17:30hrs in front of which were many fans full of enthusiasm and wishing to say hello to their idols.

It was the usual affection and a particular welcome for new arrival Diego who immediately stopped to sign autographs for the Juventus supporters.

The supporters then moved to the Stadio Pineta to watch the first training session of the team on schedule at 18:30hrs.

Juventus.com

Sissoko: "We Will Show Our Strength"

2009-07-10T22:52:00.001+07:00

Momo Sissoko is ready for a season as protagonist. After having completely recovered from the operation which conditioned the second part of last season, the midfielder from Mali spoke to Juventus Channel: «I am sure it will be a beautiful year. Even I feel better and I can’t wait to descend on the field». In an interview to be aired at 17:30hrs during “231 Estate”, Sissoko went on:

"With Diego and Cannavaro we made two great signings , two players of great value and experience which have shown their value in the teams they played for and they will do so again this year. I think all the teams made god decisions when it comes to transfers, but we are there, ready to play for the title with Inter and Milan. We are ready and we wont to show it on the field''.

Juventus.com

Molinaro: "I Am Super-Spoilt"

2009-07-10T22:50:00.000+07:00

Cristian Molinaro received excellent news with regards to the last medical visits undergone on the eve of the departure to Pinzolo and therefore cannot wait to get back to work with his mates:

"I am ready for the new season. At the beginning when I was told about the diagnosed problem to the kidney I was scared but I came through thanks to my family, friends, players and the club: I was super-spoilt" he told Juventus Channel.

"I am happy to be able to take part in the training camp with my mates. With regards to the time of my complete recovery it is up to the medical staff to decide".

Molinaro spoke of the new signings and the ambitions of the team: "Diego is a great player and he showed it. Thanks to him Juventus, is stronger. Cannavaro? You need not ask: he is a winner of the golden ball, world champion, he made Italian football history. With his addition to the team we gained quality and experience. We have a strong fighting spirit and a strong will to do well and charged-up for the new adventure".

Juventus.com

New Jerseys Presented!

2009-07-09T12:23:00.003+07:00

On the eve of the team’s departure to the summer camp in Pinzolo, the new jerseys for the 2009-2010 season were launched. The event, organized at the OGR (Officine Grandi Riparazioni), a suggestive location in the centre of Turin, saw the participation of general manager Jean-Claude Blanc and coach Ciro Ferrara while the jerseys were worn by the protagonists: Manninger, Amauri, Diego and Sissoko.

Nike Italia was represented by general manager Andrea Rossi who illustrated the innovations especially with regards to the second or away jersey. Both jerseys refer to the histroy of the club. The first jersey, in particular, has narrower black and white stripes and brings to mind the jersey worn by the protagonists of the Quinquennio (1930-1935) when Juventus on 5 consecutive scudetti. The shorts are white with a lateral black and white stripe while the socks, white too, have a subtle black line with “Juventus” printed on the calf.

The second jersey is the true novelty for the season. Built around the famous sentence pronounced by Giovanni Agnelli before the Champions League final against Ajax in 1996 ("If they are a team of Flemish painters we will be tough Piemontese") these are the innovations: a jersey the colour of steel with a black and white line in front. The shorts are black with a lateral line of the same colour. The socks are black with Juventus written in grey on the calf.

"Today - declared Jean-Claude Blanc – we are launching the new season which we hope can be rich in emotion and great results. All the Juventus group will be tenacious in order to confirm the value that this jersey carries along with it. In these seven years of collaboration, Nike has always been capable of working in this spirit and even this time they have come up with a product that fully reflects the history and value of Juventus".

Ciro Ferrara spoke of the jerseys themselves: "The first jersey, which brings the 1930s to mind, the one that contributed to Juventus being called “The Fiancee of Italy” (Fidanzata d’Italia), will accompany us towards new and prestigious objectives. The second is totally in line with the fighting and tenacious spirit of the club, the athletes and our supporters".

Finally, Andrea Rossi explained the choices made by Nike: "The first jersey reflects the Juventus tradition finding its inspiration in the Quinquennio, while in the second we were inspired by the character and pride which has always characterized the team in international football. This is from where the idea of steel colour and the diagonal black and white stripe was born. We hope that these new jerseys can give an important contribution in facing the new season".

To purchase the new jerseys immediately log on to www.juvestore.com

Juventus.com

Amauri: "Diego Will Give Us More Quality"

2009-07-09T12:23:00.001+07:00

Amauri, Momo Sissoko, Alexander Manninger and new signing Diego, were models during the presentation of the jerseys for the new season. The teams were on the stage which was prepared at the Officine Grandi Riparazioni and sporting the new jerseys and the event was also the occasion for a quick exchange of remarks.

Amauri could be seen wearing the new first jersey, the black and white one, and showing off a novelty. The Brazilian this year will be changing number from 8 to 11, the number which he wore when he played for Palermo.

"It is a great honour to wear the number which belonged to Pavel Nedved", he underlined while he did not want to commit himself with regards to the number of goals he would like to score in the new season: "For superstition purposes it is better not to speak of that but I hope to score enough for the team to win something important".

A helping hand can be given to him by Diego: "I am happy about his arrival and I hope he can do even better then he did last year. Certainly, he will be adding to our quality". After the presentation of the jerseys, Amauri spoke to the journalists about the Juventus that is being born: "Cannavaro is an important signing and he will bring along experience. Felipe Melo? I’d be happy if he came here, he is another champion".

"The club is making a great effort. Inter have perhaps the most complete squad but we can still win just like we could last year. The formation? I have no problems with adapting to any solution. I think I proved to be up to Juve’s standards. The national team? In September I will have the Italian citizenship and anything will be possible".

From one Brazilian to another: Tomorrow Diego will be the protagonist of the first training camp evening in Pinzolo during his presentation to the supporters. Today’s was a tasty appetizer. The Brazilian, in fact, wore the Juventus jersey for the first time. He wore the second jersey, the silver one enriched buy the diagonal black and white stripes, also showing the number he has chosen for next season, number 28:

"Having joined Juve is perfect – he stressed – I am happy to be hear and to wear this jersey for the first time".

Even Momo Sissoko wore the second jersey. He however, did not change number and kept the number 22 as he did the strong will: "Now I am hundred per cent well and ready for the next season. I can’t wait to begin".

Finally Alexander Manninger, who referring to the goalkeepers’ green jersey commented smiling: "Let us hope the colour brings luck".

Juventus.com

Ferrara: "Diego Is A Great Signing"

2009-07-09T12:22:00.002+07:00

Jersey presentation: Amauri, Diego, Sissoko and Manninger on stage – a joy for the new coach who as from tomorrow will have at his disposal most of the squad, excluding internationals, to begin preparing for the season. The squad satisfies him completely as it is full of great champions and an important signing:

"I noticed, that in Europe, with the exception of Real Madrid, there was no great movement of players or of money. Juve moved in a different manner by signing a very important player like Diego and is working towards another great objective. The club made a great effort to improve the team further and close in on the gap with Inter and the European greats".

Asked whether if with such a squad he feels a great responsibility Ferrara answered: "When you are at Juventus you always have a great responsibility and therefore it is better to work with players of a high level who have the right mentality for wearing this heavy jersey. I am proud and satisfied with the transfer operations carried out up to now and I don’t feel any particular pressure if not that felt by all".

With regards to the steel coloured jersey, Ferrara just like Blanc was asked to compare it to the team’s character: "Juventus has it in its history never to give up and this year just as per tradition Juventus will not want to lose a single game from the friendlies upwards. I remember that in the past sometimes we were not the strongest team but we won just the same thanks to the characteristics that Juventus possesses and which it shall never lose. If we then add the quality of the players we have I feel I can add that we think we shall do really well".

Juventus.com

Blanc: "No Proclamations. It Will Be The Field That Shall Speak"

2009-07-09T12:22:00.001+07:00

During the presentation of the jerseys, the general manager was asked about the team’s objectives:

"We will not make any proclamations – he answered – It will be the field that shall speak. We are making a step forward on the road which we embarked on three years ago with the right programme. The important things is to continue growing, improving the team and handing it over to the coach as a more competitive team".

Jerseys of steel for a tough team: "A team – concluded Blanc – that never gives up just like the team has done in the last 36 months. Then we will see. Football is nice because it always presents a number of surprises. I am sure that it will be a very sought-after championship and we will see how it ends".

Finally a remark about the transfer marker: "If we buy a player, he will be the last".

Juventus.com

As From Thursday The Adventure In Pinzolo Begins

2009-07-09T12:20:00.000+07:00

The countdown is nearly over. On Thursday 9th July the 4th summer training camp in Pinzolo for Juventus will kick-off. The team (without the internationals) will leave Turin in the early afternoon for Val Rendena.

At 18:00hrs, the team will be on the field for the first training session on the field of the Stadio Pineta, which just like every year will be the headquarters of the team during its stay in Trentino.

In the first phase of the camp the squad will be missing the international players (Buffon, Camoranesi, Cannavaro, Chiellini and Iaquinta) who will join on the 16th of July, whilst on the 18th it will be the turn of Marchisio and De Ceglie. The group will be completed on the 22nd of July with the arrival in Turin of Giovinco and Legrottaglie. Almiron is still in Argentina, down with flue, and will join the team as soon as possible.

Here is the list of players who will be in Pinzolo at the start of the training camp: Amauri, Lorenzo Ariaudo, Raffaele Bianco, Antonio Chimenti, Diego, Alessandro Del Piero, Zdenek Grygera, Mario Kirev, Alexander Manninger, Cristian Molinaro, Christian Poulsen, Hasan Salihamidzic, Sissoko, Tiago, Trezeguet, Zanetti, Zebina.

These Primavera players will be joining the first team: Raffaele Alcibiade, Abdoulaye Bamba, Ayub Daud, Andrea De Paola, Simone Esposito, Yago, Ciro Immobile, Luca Marrone, Federico Mirarchi, Carlo Pinsoglio, Domenico Pirrotta.

Juventus.com

New Jerseys, Expectations Rising

2009-07-08T22:43:00.001+07:00

The waiting is nearly over. On Thursday 9th July, Juventus’ season will kick-off officially with the summer camp in Pinzolo but before the return to sport activities another important appointment is in line. On Wednesday 8th July, in fact the new jerseys for the 2009/10 season will be presented.

The event will take place at 17:00hrs at the Officine Grandi Riparazioni in Turin. Much is the curiosity with regards to the new gear of Del Piero and company. Those subscribed to Juventus Channel will be able to follow the event live.

At the end of the presentation general manager Jean-Claude Blanc and coach Ciro Ferrara will hold a press conference to inaugurate the new season.

Juventus.com

Lyon snub Trez

2009-07-08T22:41:00.004+07:00

Lyon have rejected the chance to sign Juventus striker David Trezeguet, choosing Porto's Lisandro Lopez instead.

After selling Karim Benzema to Real Madrid last week, Lyon have been trying to wrap up a deal for his replacement.

Lyon have been repeatedly linked with Trezeguet this summer. However, their interest never turned into anything concrete.

Les Gones have now formally announced the arrival of Lopez, who could cost them as much as £24m depending on his performances.

Juventus would have liked to do a deal for Trezeguet, as they are looking to raise funds so another big signing can be made before the transfer window closes.

However, in a show of their respect for the Frenchman, the Bianconeri are only willing to sell him if the solution is to his liking.

Trezeguet joined Juventus in 2000 and is the most prolific foreign goalscorer in their history.

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Fiorentina Have Not Contacted Juventus For Grygera

2009-07-08T22:41:00.003+07:00

Juventus and Fiorentina could be set to make another deal, according to the latest reports from Italy that are suggesting that Zdenek Grygera may be ready to switch the Bianconeri colours for a Viola shirt.

The two clubs were recently involved in the transfer that saw Marco Marchionni move from Turin to Florence, whilst they also may be involved in a potential deal that could see Felipe Melo go the other way.

In stark contrast to the latest reports surrounding the future of Grygera though, his agent has come out and stated that he is unaware of any interest from the Florentine club.

“I honestly do not know anything about this,” the agent Zdenek Nehod affirmed in an interview with Firenzeviola.it.

“I have not been contacted by the Viola at any stage this summer, so I have nothing to say about this.

“Before we do anything, we still have to speak with the Bianconeri to discuss our situation, so it is too early to be assessing other options.”

Adrian Del Monte, Goal.com

Italy Legend Antognoni Tells Melo: Reject Juventus

2009-07-08T22:40:00.001+07:00

Italy legend Giancarlo Antognoni, who won the 1982 World Cup and spent most of his career with Fiorentina, has told Viola ace Felipe Melo to reject a proposed move to Juventus.

Reports suggest the Bianconeri are ready to make a bid for the much sough-after Brazilian who is also wanted by Arsenal. Melo claimed he was happy in Florence and that it was the club's decision as to whether to keep him or sell up. Viola legend Antognoni has now told the Brazilian that rejecting the Bianconeri is not difficult, as he did it during his day.

"Melo? Yes, you can say no to Juventus. And it was not difficult as it can sometimes seem from the outside," the former midfielder told Il Corriere Fiorentino.

"I was 24 and I had just come back from the World Cup in Argentina (1978). I had big ambitions and wanted to win, but I decided [not to join Juventus] when I spoke about it with my wife. She agreed with me."

Football has changed plenty since then, and despite Antognoni's advice, it's down to Melo and Fiorentina to consider his future.

Salvatore Landolina, Goal.com