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Juventus set to pursue €444 million damages claim over Calciopoli - report
There are doubts over the impartiality of those who carried out the investigation into the actions of former Bianconeri general director Luciano Moggi
Juan 'happy and content' after first Inter training session
The Brazilian defender joined the Nerazzurri in the closing days of the January transfer window, and trained with his new club for the first time on Tuesday
Bruno Giordano: Diego Maradona dreams of returning to Napoli
The former Italy international has revealed that his old team-mate is keen to rejoin the Partenopei one day as coach, and still regularly follows the club's fortunes
Arsenal manager Wenger praises Juventus coach Conte: 'He has made some great choices in the transfer market'
The Gunners' French gaffer has voiced his admiration for the Bianconeri boss as he is impressed with how quickly he has adapted to the project at the Turin giants
Zenit St Petersburg hopeful of overcoming salary obstacle to sign Juventus winger Milos Krasic
The Serbia international appears to be surplus to requirements in Turin, and the Russian champions are keen to lure him away from his current club
Massimiliano Allegri insists AC Milan want to win the Coppa Italia
The Rossoneri boss is full of respect for the Old Lady, but assured that they have set their sights on eliminating their rivals to reach the Coppa Italia final
CSKA Moscow's Keisuke Honda vows to put transfer deadline day disappointment behind him
The Japan international has been linked with a host of top European clubs over the past 18 months and Lazio reportedly came close to signing him last month
AC Milan's Massimiliano Allegri bemused by Beppe Marotta's attack on referees
The Bianconeri official laid into the standard of officiating in Serie A after his side were denied a penalty in the closing stages of their 0-0 draw at home to Siena on Sunday
Juventus coach Antonio Conte to start January signings against AC Milan in Coppa Italia clash
Marco Borriello, Simone Padoin and Martin Caceres all arrived in Turin last month and the Bianconeri boss believes that the trio warrant the opportunity to prove their worth
Italy coach Cesare Prandelli: Door is open for Antonio Di Natale & Francesco Totti
The veteran duo remain key figures at Udinese and Roma respectively and there have been mounting calls for them to be recalled by the Azzurri boss
Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone: I'll coach Lazio one day
The former Biancocelesti midfielder only took charge of the Rojiblancos over the winter break but he has reiterated that he will return to the Stadio Olimpico in the future
Anzhi Makhachkala prepare €25 million offer for Inter star Wesley Sneijder - report
The ambitious Russian club are keen to strengthen their squad before the end of the month and are considering making a move for the Dutchman
Inter defender Walter Samuel ruled out for two weeks - report
The Argentine defender has sustained a minor problem which will rule him out of the club's upcoming Serie A encounters
Agent: Massimo Ambrosini is not contemplating retirement
The experienced midfielder will not begin talks over a new contract before the end of the season, but hanging up his boots is out of the question, according to his representative
Juventus set to pursue €444 million damages claim over Calciopoli - report There are doubts over the impartiality of those who carried out the investigation into the actions of former Bianconeri general director Luciano Moggi
Feb 8, 2012 1:40:00 PM
Juventus look set to follow through on their threat to launch a €444 million lawsuit against the Italian Football Association (FIGC).
The Bianconeri have been emboldened in their pursuit of damages by the publication of a 561-page report on the investigation into the Calciopoli scandal which first came to light in 2006 and ultimately resulted in former Juve general director Luciano Moggi sentenced to five years and four months in prison.
The impartiality of those who constructed the case against Moggi has been called into question by the document, while doubt has also been cast over the conduct of prosecutors and judges involved in the legal proceedings.
In addition, the report has, according to La Stampa, strengthened Juve's belief that a clear line should be drawn between the actions of Moggi and those of the club.
The Bianconeri, who were stripped of two Serie A titles and demoted to Serie B for their involvement in the ‘sporting fraud’, are now set to hit the FIGC with a massive claim for damages which could bring down the governing body.
Moggi, who was also banned from football for life because of the scandal, has always protested his innocence of the charges brought against him.
Juve coach Antonio Conte feels Euro 2012 is a realistic target for Emanuele Giaccherini
The Bianconeri boss has been impressed by the recent good form shown by the attacker and believes he can make the cut for the Azzurri in the summer
Alberto Gilardino ruled out for a month - report
The 29-year-old will spend some time on the sidelines after sustaining a calf problem and could miss the club's next five matches
Ambrosini slams Chiellini for Ibrahimovic slap remarks
The veteran midfielder has expressed his distaste at the accusations made by the Juve defender, claiming they are 'unpleasant and out of place'
Napoli new boy Eduardo Vargas: The football is very different in Italy
The young forward is struggling to reproduce his Chilean form while wearing the colours of his new club, but believes that he must first get used to Italian football
Juventus defender Chiellini accuses Ibrahimovic of slapping Storari
The Italy international has insisted that the towering attacker lost his temper in Wednesday's game and feels he should be punished for his behaviour
AC Milan interested in signing Benfica's Javi Garcia - report
The Rossoneri have reportedly identified the Spaniard as the man to inject freshness into their midfield, after being criticised for a lack of dynamism in the middle of the park
Hernan Crespo: Scudetto win when Juventus were in Serie B was my best Inter moment
The Argentine striker has looked back at his time with the Nerazzurri, and has singled out the 2007 title win as his best moment during his period at the club
Inter's Rodrigo Alborno: I'm delighted that people compare me to Javier Zanetti
The Paraguayan teenager is a new face in the Italian giants, and admitted that 'El Pupi's' work-rate and determination was a perfect example for any young player to follow
24 down 19 to go - After beating AC Milan at San Siro, can Juventus now go the season unbeaten?
After a couple of years of mediocrity, the Bianconeri are in with a chance of going through an entire campaign without losing a game in either the league or the cup
Chiellini hails team performance after Juventus' Coppa Italia win over AC Milan
The Italy international defender has expressed his delight with his side's display at San Siro, and stressed that the Old Lady are determined to lift the Coppa Italia
Wesley Sneijder aware of Manchester United link amid uncertainty over Inter future
The Dutch midfielder is thinking about plying his trade in the United States before he retires, while casting doubt over his long-term future with the Nerazzurri
New Al Nasr signing Luca Toni will succeed in UAE, says Al Jazira boss Franky Vercauteren
The coach of the Pro-League champions has backed the former Italy international to be a big hit in UAE, but naturally doesn't want him to score too many goals
Juventus coach Antonio Conte pleased with players' response against AC Milan
The 42-year-old is happy that the newly-introduced players turned in a good display and warned his men against complacency in the return leg
Massimiliano Allegri tells AC Milan to remain calm after Juventus defeat
The Italian coach admitted his side are going through a poor run of form but stressed there is no reason to panic as the club can turn the situation around
Walter Gargano says Napoli are targeting Coppa Italia triumph
The Uruguayan midfielder has highlighted the importance of winning the Coppa Italia as a way to compensate for the club's disappointing Serie A form
Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini: Sheikhs also interested in Napoli
The Rosanero supremo has lined up a Middle Eastern businessman to invest in his club and he has now claimed that the Partenopei could be set for an injection of petrodollars
Inter star Sneijder set to return against Novara
The Netherlands international missed last weekend's demolition at the hands of Roma with a leg injury sustained in the 4-4 draw with Palermo at San Siro
Ouasim Bouy hopes to follow in Edgar Davids' footsteps at Juventus
The teenage forward only arrived in Turin from Ajax in January but he has wasted little time in making his present felt, scoring a goal on his debut for the Bianconeri's Primavera
Situation critical: Why the financial gap is widening between Serie A's best & their European rivals like Real Madrid and Manchester United Deloitte's Football Money League for 2010-11 shows little good news for the peninsula's finest, though Juventus at least have hope of a quick turnaround in financial fortunes
Feb 9, 2012 11:30:00 AM
By Kris Voakes | Italian Football Editor
Accounting firm Deloitte’s annual report on European football revenue was released on Thursday, and for the big guns in Italy the gulf developing in front of them will come as a worrying statistic ahead of the early impact of the Financial Fair Play era.
While five Italian clubs feature in the ‘Football Money League’ Top 20 – AC Milan, Inter, Juventus, Roma and Napoli – the highest Serie A representatives, the Rossoneri, again sit just seventh, while the likes of Real Madrid, Barcelona and Manchester United continue to lead the way.
Deloitte breaks down the teams' revenues, which are ascertained with the absence of transfer fee and associated sales taxes, into three categories – Matchday, Broadcasting, and Commercial.
With spending set to be capped according to a team’s revenue over three years, Milan, Inter and Juventus will see the figures for 2010-11 as a warning of potential repercussions on the pitch in the future, with their continued slide away from Europe’s biggest of hitters providing plenty of food for thought.
And with one of the peninsula’s four Champions League slots having been sacrificed ahead of next season, the body blow which would be felt upon missing out on Uefa’s flagship competition has become an increasingly unthinkable – yet increasingly realistic – prospect for Italy’s trio of giants.
There are some particular points to note, though, from the latest figures, as while the commercial pull of Madrid, Barca and United cannot easily be matched, there is room for significant improvement elsewhere.
Matchday malaise an increasing issue
Italy’s main shortfall comes in the matchday category, with the continued problems of low crowds and a lack of room for manoeuvre in terms of hospitality packages making for a damning set of figures in the Serie A representatives’ accounts.
Of the top three Italian clubs, Milan raked in most on gate receipts, season tickets and memberships, yet their €35.6 million income is dwarfed by Real Madrid’s €123.6m, and is thrown into even greater context by the more favourable matchday takings of clubs such as Tottenham Hotspur (€47.9m), Hamburg (€41.8m) and Schalke (€37.2m).
The Rossoneri share a problem in this respect with neighbours Inter. The pair’s current home of the council-run San Siro is one of the most recognisable arenas in world sport, but gives no leeway for an increase in corporate sponsorship and hospitality.
Instead they have both lived largely off the income provided by commercial and broadcasting revenue in recent years, with an ever-present status in the Champions League a near-necessity to make them any kind of sustainable business model.
THE WIDENING GAP | Total revenue income for the top clubs in recent years
<tbody>
</tbody>
2008-09
2009-10
2010-11
Real Madrid
€401.4m
€438.6m
€479.5m
Barcelona
€365.9m
€398.1m
€450.7m
Manchester United
€327.0m
€349.8m
€367.0m
Milan
€196.5m
€244.0m
€235.1m
Inter
€196.5m
€224.8m
€211.4m
Juventus
€203.2m
€205.0m
€153.9m
<tbody>
</tbody>
In real terms, both clubs need to move to privately-owned arenas if they are to have any hope of attracting the kind of numbers which could make them competitive year-in, year-out at the top of the European game.With their move to the new purpose-built Juventus Stadium in August, the Bianconeri have become the trendsetters for Italian football, with their matchday returns at the Stadio Olimpico in 2010-11 of a paltry €11.6m – the worst of any Top 20 club and only 9.39 per cent of Madrid’s figure – emphasising the drastic need for them to have taken action.
The inability to cater for increased matchday revenue in their old surroundings was a large factor behind their poor figures, but another was their failure to qualify for the Champions League. Their €22.6m cut of the Uefa distribution in 2009-10 dropped to just €1.8m last season due to their participation in the Europa League, and saw them register a €51.1m decline in total revenue.
This all means that this season’s Football Money League list could be as bad as it is likely to get for Juve, with next term’s expected to see a significant rise in matchday income, with their move and the resulting lack of outgoing rent more than cancelling out the loss of Europa League money. A further projected rise could well follow the following year given their current placing at the top of Serie A, which would see them reclaim a spot in the Champions League in 2012-13, resulting in another boost in prize funds.
Italian clubs actually account for three of the bottom four spots in the Top 20’s list of matchday revenue, with Napoli’s €22m and Roma’s €17.6m also reflecting poorly on the league’s ability to generate money through gate receipts. However, the two southern sides have seen an increase in broadcasting income in 2009-10.
Broadcasting change has levelled the playing field
While Milan, Inter and Juve have dropped further away from Europe’s big hitters, Serie A in itself has seen a narrowing of the wealth gap in large part due to the collective bargaining agreement which came into play in the summer of 2010.
The big three have seen their broadcasting revenue drop dramatically, with Juve suffering the biggest hit when added to the loss of Champions League TV income. In total, the credit in this category was down by €90.7m for the traditional giants, with the Old Lady’s €43.8m reduction to €88.7m representing the most significant slump.
However, Roma and Napoli’s accounts are indicative of the fair play feel to the new broadcasting arrangement in the peninsula, with the capital club’s €25.5m broadcast gains explaining their €20.8m total revenue increase, while the San Paolo outfit’s broadcast cut was inflated by €18.6m on 2009-10 to help chart a €23.3m overall rise.
In addition to its sentimental value, the new stadium is actually an investment that allows us to bring Juventus to the level of the top clubs in Europe
Andrea Agnelli
<tbody>
</tbody>
This trend mirrors a widely held belief that Serie A is becoming a more competitive league – as shown by Champions League play-off representation for Fiorentina, Sampdoria and Udinese recently – but similarly reflects international opinion and Uefa co-efficients in terms of Italy’s standing on a continental scale.
Napoli’s overall and broadcasting revenues are likely to massively increase again in next year’s release due to their participation in this season’s Champions League. But with another qualification for the prestigious event unlikely, and Roma also struggling in the race for third place, there is one other way these clubs can look to boost revenue on a regular basis in order to compete for top European football regularly, and that is to follow Juventus’ lead and move home.
The hope for the future
As Italy’s ‘other’ entrants in the Top 20, Roma and Napoli are bridging the gap between the traditional powerhouses and the potential inductees. Another thing they share in common is a desire to change their living arrangements.
The Giallorossi have plans in place for a new purpose-built stadium to match Juventus’, with owner Thomas DiBenedetto, who took charge in April 2011, seeing it as a necessity to move up to the next level. Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis still hopes to trigger a redevelopment of the club’s San Paolo home despite the plan being shelved when Italy failed to secure the hosting rights to Euro 2016.
In essence, clubs are smartening up their act, slowly but surely. Juve’s new home was built out of the unsuitability of the old Stadio Delle Alpi for a club aspiring to compete at the top of European football. In truth, none of the stadiums in Italy were suitable. The only difference is that the rest remain in use.
The increased attendances due to the more pleasant surroundings, plus the added income from the greater flexibility for corporate attractions makes for a winning combination which would better reflect what is happening across much of the rest of western Europe.
"I am proud that Juventus finally has its own home," said the club’s president Andrea Agnelli at the stadium’s inauguration last summer. "For us it is an historic moment. In addition to its sentimental value, the new stadium is actually an investment that allows us to bring Juventus to the level of the top clubs in Europe.”
This time next year, we are likely to start seeing the numbers to support Agnelli’s claims, and it could well help to trigger the other heavyweights into action. In the meantime, they continue to gamble on Champions League qualification simply to hang on to the ever-thinning thread of the big boys’ coat-tails.
Barbara Berlusconi urges AC Milan fans to support the team The club director says that Massimiliano Allegri's side are entering a critical period of the season and the backing from the stands is required to help out the team
Should Juventus' Emanuele Giaccherini be called up for Italy's Euro 2012 squad? Goal.com asks for your opinion on whether the former Cesena man is ready to play for the national team at the high-profile tournament in June
Martin Caceres: This is a different Juventus than two years ago The Uruguay international has stressed that the atmosphere at the Bianconeri has changed since his previous spell in Turin, with the club currently enjoying better fortunes
Spalletti admits Zenit St Petersburg are keen on Inter star Sneijder The Italian coach has revealed that he is interested in bringing the former Real Madrid star to Russia, but realises it won't be easy to convince the Nerazzurri to sell
Andrea Poli: I want to stay at Inter for many years The promising midfielder is happy with life at the Nerazzurri after making a quick adaptation at the club, and is keen to stay beyond his loan stint after this season
Lazio coach Edy Reja: Players deserve a monument for Cesena comeback
The Biancocelesti found themselves two goals and one man down after just 35 minutes but rallied to claim three points which have lifted them up into third place in Serie A
Napoli coach Mazzarri rues missed chances against Siena
After seeing his team engineer a number of clear sights on goal at the Artemio Franchi, the Partenopei boss felt even a draw would not have been just reward for their dominance
Dino Zoff: Fabio Capello was right to quit England
The former Italy goalkeeper is in no doubt that his compatriot would have carefully considered his position before eventually severing his ties with the Football Association
Vialli: Capello will go to either Inter or Juventus
Nerazzurri supremo Massimo Moratti has already moved to dismiss speculation that the former Juventus and Milan boss will replace Claudio Ranieri as coach at the end of the season
Napoli's Aurelio De Laurentiis: No sheikh takeover happening
President Aurelio De Laurentiis points to recent figures released by Deloitte to refute claims that foreign investment in Napoli is incoming
Simone Pepe unlikely to return for Bologna-Juventus - report
Antonio Conte's men may have to face Bologna this weekend without the Italian winger, who has yet to fully recover from an ankle injury
Massimo Moratti: Reports linking Capello to Inter are groundless
The Nerazzurri supremo insisted that the club are not interested in appointing a new coach and said that the alleged interest in the former England manager lacks substance
Udinese-AC Milan set to go on despite snow
Reports indicate that Udinese-Milan will be played as scheduled, despite the recent trend of matches being postponed in Italy due to snow
Marco Amelia: Everyone is afraid of Ibrahimovic because he is so big and has a scary look in his eyes
The 29-year-old custodian has played down the latest incident involving the Sweden international and stated the striker has become a target for other clubs
Serie A preview: Udinese target Milan 10 February 2012
Udinese have a chance to close the gap on second-placed AC Milan in Serie A this week, while Inter Milan will be out to end their poor run.Francesco Guidolin's Udinese, three points adrift of AC Milan, host Saturday's clash, when the visitors will be without star striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
The Sweden international was red-carded in his team's 0-0 draw at home to Napoli on Sunday, and handed a three-match ban AC Milan intend to appeal.Ibrahimovic has netted 15 league goals this campaign, a tally bettered only by Udinese forward Antonio Di Natale (16).
Inconsistent Udinese have failed to win consecutive games this year, but they have the opportunity to take a step toward second by defeating Milan at Stadio Friuli.Freezing temperatures across Italy have forced several Serie A games to be postponed in recent weeks, but all are scheduled to go ahead.
Elsewhere, Claudio Ranieri's Inter enter their clash against Novara on Sunday on the back of a four-match winless run in all competitions.Inter had looked potential title challengers after recovering from their slow start to the campaign, but losses to Roma and Lecce have seen them fall nine points adrift of leaders Juventus.
Juventus travel to the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara to take on Bologna, and will be hoping to maintain their unbeaten league record, which has stretched to 21 matches.Antonio Conte's men also took a step closer to booking a spot in the Coppa Italia final with a 2-1 win over AC Milan in the first leg of their semi-final on Wednesday.
Lazio could briefly move third if they beat Cesena on Thursday.That fixture has been moved forward because of the Six Nations rugby clash between Italy and England, which is to be played in Rome on Saturday.
In other matches, Parma welcome Fiorentina to the Stadio Ennio Tardini on Sunday, Palermo face Cagliari, and Roma host struggling Siena.Catania sit 14th despite heading into their clash against Genoa on the back of a five-game winless league run, while Napoli host Chievo.Elsewhere, Lecce are three points from safety ahead of their trip to Atalanta.
Barbara Berlusconi urges AC Milan fans to support the team
The club director says that Massimiliano Allegri's side are entering a critical period of the season and the backing from the stands is required to help out the team
Feb 10, 2012 12:55:00 PM
By Enis Koylu
AC Milan director Barbara Berlusconi has urged the club's supporters to back the team despite their poor run of form.
The Italian champions have failed to win their last three games in all competitions, losing ground in the Scudetto race to Juventus and suffering a home defeat to the Turin club in the Coppa Italia semi-final.
However, Berlusconi, the daughter of Italy's former prime minister Silvio Berlusconi, has insisted that the terraces must keep the faith in Massimiliano Allegri's men.
"The team need to feel the support of our fans. This should not be a time of controversy and criticism. We are in an important stage of the season," Berlusconi said according to Ansa.
"The coming weeks will no doubt be decisive. We are still on course to achieve all our goals.
"There is no lack of good news. Stephan El Shaarawy is proving to be a promising footballer and some of our players are now reaching a good level of form.
"In general, however, this is a difficult period to go through, many of our players are still unavailable and we are playing every three days, so it is difficult to recover.
"But even so, I ask everyone for their support and confidence."
AC Milan's difficult run continues with a trip to fellow title-challengers Udinese, before a Champions League clash at home to Arsenal on February 15.
Agent of Udinese's Mauricio Isla claims interest from Liverpool, Juventus and Roma
The Chilean has been linked with a move to a bigger club and these claims appear to have been substantianted by his representative, who says three heavyweights are tracking him
Ancelotti denies Paris Saint-Germain interest in Inter's Diego Milito
The 52-year-old insists the French giants have not made an attempt to bring in the Argentine forward during his reign, and reveals his side only have eyes for younger alternatives
Udinese deserved more against AC Milan, says Francesco Guidolin
The Zebrette boss is disappointed his side lacked the ruthlessness to build on Di Natale's first half strike, but is adamant they showed enough to warrant at least a point
Allegri praises AC Milan's spirit after comeback win over Udinese
The Rossoneri boss hailed his side's cohesion, which he feels played an important role in eventually digging out the victory, and called for focus against Juventus next week
Juventus to offer Andrea Barzagli contract extension - report
The Old Lady are ready to reward the fine form shown by the Italy centre-back this season by renewing his current deal, which presently expires in 2013, for a further year
Juve coach Conte: Chiellini spoke about Ibrahimovic in response to a specific question
The trainer shed some light on the war of words involving the two players and also had a word on the Scudetto race and Fabio Capello, who recently resigned as England manager
Inter coach Claudio Ranieri: The players will react because they are true champions
The 60-year-old has stated that there is no cause for alarm following the 4-0 defeat to Roma in the last round of Serie A, and is convinced that the team will bounce back
Former Inter coach Gasperini: I was ready to take on the world with Palacio, Milito and Eto'o'
The unemployed coach believes that he could have achieved great success with the Nerazzurri had the club made the transfer market moves he asked for last summer
AC Milan's Zlatan Ibrahimovic: Marco van Basten is a legend, but Louis van Gaal is 'a dictator without any sense of humour'
The outspoken Swedish forward is never short of words and has praised the former Netherlands attacker whilst slating his former coach for what he sees as a lack of character
Juventus' game against Bologna and Fiorentina's trip to Parma postponed due to adverse weather conditions
Italy has been experiencing extreme snowfall and the proposed fixtures at the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara and Stadio Ennio Tardini have been called off after pitch inspections
Genoa president Enrico Preziosi confirms Alberto Gilardino will be out of action for three to four weeks
The Italy international forward, who moved to the Stadio Luigi Ferraris from Fiorentina in January, has picked up a calf injury and faces up to a month on the sidelines
Reto Ziegler's father: There is no place at Juventus for my son
The Switzerland international signed for the Turin giants last summer only to be loaned to Fenerbahce once Antonio Conte arrived - his future with the Bianconeri remains unclear
Napoli loan Cristian Chavez back to San Lorenzo
The 24-year-old Argentine forward was only signed by the Partenopei in August but he is already returning to his former club after failing to make any impression in Serie A
Genoa to discuss Juraj Kucka's future with Inter in June
The Slovakia international, who is co-owned by the pair, very nearly joined the Nerazzurri in January only for both parties to ultimately decide to leave him at the Luigi Ferraris
Cagliari's Radja Nainggolan eyes move abroad despite Juventus link
The Belgium midfielder has been heavily linked with a move to the Bianconeri but he insists that he would rather not join another Italian club if he decides to leave
Lecce's Souleymane Diamoutene to join Levski Sofia - report
The Bulgarian outfit first spoke with the 29-year-old Mali international defender and his Italian employers last month, but the proposed deal never materialised
'I was at Juventus at the wrong moment,' says Amauri
The Brazil-born forward admitted that he was unlucky during his time at the Turin-based club, while saying he is targeting a place in Italy's World Cup squad
Massimiliano Allegri plays down crisis talk at AC Milan
The 44-year-old is not too worried over the club's poor run in recent matches but insisted they must get back to winning ways, starting with Saturday's game against Udinese
Giuseppe Marotta: Chiellini is a great player and a man of principle
The director of the Serie A leaders backed the Italy international and refuted the notion his side want to see Zlatan Ibrahimovic banned after the Coppa Italia incident
Guti's agent: No offer from Lazio yet
The former Spain international is currently a free agent after parting company with Fenerbahce at the tail end of last year and is likely to move to China next
Agent reveals Premier League, Bundesliga and Serie A clubs interested in Javi Garcia
The Spaniard's representative said that several teams in Europe are keeping tabs on his client and revealed that a summer exit is possible
Serie A wrap: Maxi helps Milan sink Udinese, Cagliari edge Palermo 12 February 2012
AC Milan came from behind to beat Udinese 2-1 and move top of Serie A on Saturday, as Cagliari downed Palermo by the same scoreline.Hosts Udinese took the lead 19 minutes into the match at the Stadio Friuli.Veteran striker Antonio Di Natale picked up the ball in the middle of the Milan half and played a give-and-go with Gelson Fernandes.
The crisp move cut out the Milan defence, and Di Natale's subsequent effort deflected off Thiago Silva, looping over goalkeeper Marco Amelia and into the net.Di Natale missed a chance to double the lead on 35 minutes, snatching at a first-time shot following a good delivery from Mauricio Isla.The opportunities continued to arrive for Udinese as the home side dominated proceedings.
Pablo Armero was denied by a well-timed tackle from Milan defender Djamel Mesbah, while Maurizio Domizzi offered a tame effort after he was played through on goal.Udinese were made to rue those misses on 77 minutes, when goalkeeper Samir Handanovic spilled Stephen El Shaarawy's shot into the path of new arrival Maxi Lopez, who slotted into the open net.
Milan completed the turnaround with five minutes of normal time remaining.Goal-scorer Lopez centred the ball from the right flank and El Shaarawy was on hand to fire home emphatically at the near post.The victory sees Milan move first at the expense of Juventus, who had their trip to face Bologna postponed due to freezing weather.
Udinese, meanwhile, are fourth, one point behind third-placed Lazio and six back from the leaders.In the other match on Saturday, goals from Mauricio Ferreira Pinilla and Daniele Dessena helped Cagliari defeat Palermo 2-1 at home.The visitors got a goal back through Abel Hernandez's penalty with seven minutes remaining at Stadio San Elia, but Cagliari held on to record all three points.They are now 10th on the table, just one point back from eighth-placed Palermo.
Juventus' game against Bologna and Fiorentina's trip to Parma postponed due to adverse weather conditions Italy has been experiencing extreme snowfall and the proposed fixtures at the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara and Stadio Ennio Tardini have been called off after pitch inspections
Feb 11, 2012 10:56:00 AM
By Gareth McKnight
Sunday's Serie A fixtures between Bologna and Juventus at the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara and Parma against Fiorentina at the Stadio Ennio Tardini have been postponed due to adverse weather conditions.
Italy is in the midst of heavy snowfall and Antonio Conte's men have already had one match, against Roberto Donadoni's side, called off recently due to an unplayable surface.
ANSA have confirmed that both pitches were checked on Saturday morning by Serie A officials and GOS [Security Operations Group] representatives, with it deemed that the games the next day would be unplayable.
There were also concerns over supporters travelling to both games, as a majority of the roads leading to the grounds are treacherous due to around 15 centimetres of snow.
Bologna officials had asked for a later kick-off time for their fixture earlier this week due to the anticipated snowfall on Sunday, but it has now been decided that the games will be rearranged for a later date.
As yet no intimation of when the fixtures will be replayed has been given.
Ibrahimovic unperturbed by lack of Champions League success The Sweden international has never gotten his hands on the biggest prize in European club football but he remains proud of what he has achieved in the game up to this point
Siena - Roma to go ahead on 'perfect' pitch The game at the Artemio Franchi had been in doubt because of the adverse weather conditions which have forced a number of postponements in Italy over the past fortnight
Higuain, Lavezzi and Nani on Juventus hit-list as they look for big summer swoop - report The club are keen to underline their re-emergence as a major force in the Italian game by making a high-profile signing at the end of the season
Inter fans voice their unhappiness at the prospect of Fabio Capello replacing Claudio Ranieri as coach The former England boss' history with arch-rivals Juventus and AC Milan has tainted his reputation amongst the San Siro faithful, who do not want him as their new trainer
Agent stresses Thiago Silva is happy at AC Milan amid reported Barcelona interest The Brazil international's representative has insisted that the defender has no intention of leaving the Rossoneri any time soon, even if the European champions come in for him
Inter coach Claudio Ranieri dissatisfied with lack of reinforcements in January - report The club failed to replace outgoing players during the summer and winter transfer, leading to an appalling run of form that has put Champions League qualification in jeopardy
AC Milan trio Alessandro Nesta, Alexandre Pato & Kevin-Prince Boateng resume training ahead of Champions League clash with Arsenal The Rossoneri have received a boost on the injury front ahead of their European last 16 tie with Arsene Wenger's men at the Giuseppe Meazza on Wednesday
Emanuele Giaccherini: Next few weeks will be decisive for Juventus The versatile attacker has underlined the importance of the upcoming weeks for the Turin giants' but is confident they have the squad to cope with the congested fixtures
'We did not want to be in this place in Serie A', says Napoli's Morgan De Sanctis The Italian goalkeeper admitted that the club's position in the Serie A table does not match their expectations but noted the team are in contention for the European places
Dejan Stankovic: Inter fans' jeers are normal
The Serbian midfielder was disappointed with the defeat and admitted that the fans are unhappy with the team's form after another negative result in Serie A
Claudio Ranieri: Inter & Massimo Moratti are behind me
The Italian coach does not believe that his job is on the line after the disappointing weekend defeat and went as far as to state that the board fully supports him
Ranieri insists Sneijder is happy at Inter
The Netherlands international has been linked with a move to Russia, but the Nerazzurri coach insisted that he is satisfied at his current club
Udinese midfielder Mauricio Isla faces lengthy injury lay-off; Antonio Di Natale picks up toe injury
The Chile international and the prolific striker both sustained injuries during Saturday's loss against Udinese
AC Milan starlet Stephan El Shaarawy thrilled with win over Udinese
The young attacker helped the Rossoneri to a comeback victory with a goal late in the second half, and was over the moon with the final result
Maicon stresses Inter can not afford to drop any more points
The Brazilian defender has stated that the Nerazzurri have learned from their mistakes, and added they can not slip up again
Anzhi Makhachkala target Inter's Sneijder - report
According to Tuttosport, the Russian club's billionaire owner, Suleyman Kerimov, is willing to stump up sufficient cash to persuade the Nerazzurri to sell the Dutchman
AC Milan CEO Adriano Galliani: Victory over Udinese worth seven points
The Rossoneri were on the verge of slipping to third after falling behind early to a Antonio Di Natale goal but moved top of the tree thanks to two late strikes at the Friuli
Maxi Lopez delighted by 'dream' goal for AC Milan against Udinese
The Argentine came off the bench to net his first goal for the club at the Stadio Friuli before then setting up the winner for strike partner Stephan El Shaarawy
Inter fans voice their unhappiness at the prospect of Fabio Capello replacing Claudio Ranieri as coach The former England boss' history with arch-rivals Juventus and AC Milan has tainted his reputation amongst the San Siro faithful, who do not want him as their new trainer
Feb 13, 2012 12:40:00 PM
By Enis Koylu
Inter fans have voiced their unhappiness at the prospect of their club bringing Fabio Capello in as coach to replace Claudio Ranieri.
The Nerazzurri are without a win in five matches in all competitions, and during the course of Sunday's surprise 1-0 defeat to Novara, the team was roundly hounded by sections of the San Siro crowd.
However, the fans have now rejected speculation stating that Ranieri's place on the bench is set to be taken by Capello, due to the latter's past with both Juventus and AC Milan.
"We don't want him, we don't want Capello," fans chanted during the defeat to Serie A's bottom club.
Inter's poor run of form has jeopardised the club's chances of qualification for the Champions League, as they currently sit in fifth, six points behind Lazio.
Massimo Taibi: Ibrahimovic key for AC Milan against Arsenal
The former Rossoneri goalkeeper feels the outcome of the tie rests in the hands of a player who has often been accused of failing to perform on the grandest stage in club football
AC Milan coach Allegri: Arsenal not a one-man team
Many pundits feel that the Gunners have become too reliant on their Dutch forward, but the Rossoneri coach believes that there is much more to the north London side's attack
Barbara Berlusconi: Pato didn't stay at AC Milan for me
The daughter of the Rossoneri owner Silvio Berlusconi is currently dating the Brazilian forward, who rejected the opportunity to move to Paris during the January transfer window
Former Juventus striker Fabrizio Ravanelli: Games in hand are a 'psychological weight'
Having been overthrown at the top of Serie A and with games in hand, the 'Silver Fox' believes the pressure is on Anonio Conte's men to regain their place at the top of the league
'I do not think Capello will return to Italy', says Franco Baldini
The Roma director, who worked closely with the coach in England, has fuelled suggestions that a move to Anzhi is in the pipeline as the coach is allegedly keen to stay abroad
Moratti suggests it was impossible to keep Samuel Eto'o and Thiago Motta at Inter
The Nerazzurri supremo stated that he did not overlook the club's needs when the star duo left San Siro, but conceded that he may have done some wrong decisions
'Parma's doors are open to Del Piero', says Tommaso Ghirardi
The president of the Stadio Ennio Tardini outfit admits he is open to a move for the 37-year-old striker, who will have to look for a new club at the end of the season
Porto president Pinto da Costa: Andre Villas-Boas will join Inter if he leaves Chelsea
The 74-year-old president has no doubt that San Siro will be Villas-Boas' next destination but stressed that the Blues have no reason to be unhappy with the coach's work
AC Milan midfielder Seedorf: Arsenal are 'one of the sides to beat' in the Champions League
The 35-year-old midfielder has praised the Gunners ahead of Wednesday's home clash, as he reveals the joys of winning Europe's most prestigious club competition
Edinson Cavani talks up Champions League clash with Chelsea: Napoli can defeat anyone
The Uruguay international was glad that his club finally got back to winning ways against Siena and stated Chelsea must be wary of his side's threat
Roma's Luis Enrique: We played below our usual level against Siena
The Spanish coach rued the team's display after yet another negative result away from home and stated that several players did not perform to the best of their abilities
'I want AC Milan's Antonio Cassano at Euro 2012, even if he is our 24th man' - Italy's Cesare Prandelli
The Rossoneri striker may not be able to play in Poland and Ukraine, but the Azzurri boss is keen to reward the 29-year-old for his importance during the qualifying campaign
Lippi: Postponements will not slow Juve's title charge
The Bianconeri have had two games called off in recent weeks because of the heavy snowfall in Italy but their former coach does not believe they will be affected by the disruption
Kevin-Prince Boateng confirms return from injury against Arsenal
The Ghanaian has been out of action since suffering a muscular problem in last month's defeat to Inter but he has announced via Twitter that he will feature against the Gunners
Paolo Maldini set for coaching role with Paris Saint-Germain - report
The legendary Italian defender has been out of the game since calling time on his playing days in the summer of 2009 but he is now ready to accept a job with the Ligue 1 outfit
Zola: Giovinco is the heir to Juventus forward Del Piero
The former Italy international has voiced his opinion that the Parma star has developed into an excellent finisher and has what it takes to succeed the Juventus legend
Maradona feels persecuted: "I want to coach Napoli, but Italian authorities treat me like a traitor"
The Argentine legend has revealed his desire to take charge at the Partenopei one day, but feels that Italian authorities are after him after unpaid taxes
Mancini feels AC Milan are the best team in Serie A, but tips Juventus to win the title
The Manchester City manager believes that the Bianconeri have something extra over the Rossoneri, and insists that Inter will fight for third place in the table
Agent claims Juventus starlet Ouasim Bouy is the best player of his generation
The Dutchman's representative has little doubts about the midfielder's quality, and feels he is the best player in his age group in Europe after his January switch to Serie A
Conte: It's been a while since Juventus played a big role in the title race
The Bianconeri boss is pleased that his players continue to develop as the season goes on and is happy to see the Bianconeri become a genuine Scudetto contender again
Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone looking forward to emotional return to Lazio for Europa League clash
The former Lazio player has revealed that Thursday’s trip back to the Stadio Olimpico will be an emotional return, but is focussed only on progression for Atleti
Roma's Erik Lamela receives debut call-up in Argentine squad for Switzerland friendly
Albiceleste boss Alejandro Sabella announced an 18-man squad of Europe-based players, which included the young Roma man and a return for Liverpool's Maxi Rodriguez
Atletico Madrid boss Simeone braced for tough test against Lazio
The former Biancocelesti favourite is expected to get a warm welcome from the Stadio Olimpico, but he is expecting a rough ride on the field for the Rojiblancos
Maradona feels persecuted: "I want to coach Napoli, but Italian authorities treat me like a traitor" The Argentine legend has revealed his desire to take charge at the Partenopei one day, but feels that Italian authorities are after him after unpaid taxes
Feb 15, 2012 11:15:00 AM
By Stefan Coerts
Diego Maradona has stated that he dreams of coaching Napoli at one point in his career, but feels persecuted by the Italian authorities over his debt with the Italian tax man.
The former Argentina international wore the Napoli jersey from 1984 until 1991, and still owes the Italian government €37million in unpaid taxes according to the fiscal authorities.
"It would be great to work at Napoli again. My dream is to coach Napoli at some point," Maradona was quoted as saying by Il Corriere dello Sport.
"I love Napoli and the country, but the Italian authorities make me feel like a traitor. Every time I come back to Italy, I feel horrible. I had absolutely nothing to do with that tax debt. Some director pulled a clever trick."
The 51-year-old Maradona is currently in charge of UAE outfit Al Wasl.
Seedorf injury blow for AC Milan
The 35-year-old midfielder was forced off just 12 minutes into the 4-0 victory over the Gunners at San Siro and subsequent scans have received a minor muscle strain
Mauricio Isla: Udinese will let me leave at the end of the season
The Chile international has been heavily linked with a move to Inter but his agent claimed during the January transfer window that Liverpool were also keen on the player
Catania coach Vincenzo Montella: Juventus have defied all expectations this season
After back-to-back seventh-placed finishes in Serie A, the Bianconeri are currently just one point behind league leaders AC Milan with a game in hand
Mattia Destro flattered by Juventus link
The former Inter starlet has recently been linked with a move to the Old Lady and is honoured that a club of the Bianconeri's stature are keeping tabs on him
Inter striker Pazzini: Except for the big teams, all clubs in Serie A defend with 10 or 11 men behind the ball
The Italy international has voiced his frustration with the defensive tactics employed by the majority of Serie A outfits, although claimed none of the big sides are guilty
Parma director Leonardi: Juventus lack 'class and style'
The Ennio Tardini side have responded to the Bianconeri's complaints about Wednesday's refereeing, and feel that the Turin giants have "reacted very badly"
Fiorentina owners would be prepared to sell Jovetic for an "irresistible" €30m offer
If the Della Valle family decide to withdraw from the club, the Montenegrin star could be sold on, with Chelsea favoured over Napoli as a potential buyer
Guardiola, Villas-Boas, Capello & the coaches who are hovering over Ranieri's shoulder at Inter
Just under a month ago, the Roman was being lauded as a tactical genius after overseeing an eighth straight win but now he is facing the axe after a poor run of form
Shevchenko impressed with AC Milan after Arsenal victory
The former Rossoneri star was full of praise for the Serie A champions following their Champions League win on Wednesday against Arsene Wenger's men
Sulley Muntari says AC Milan are a 'step up' in his career
The Ghanaian midfielder is over the moon to have joined the Rossoneri on a temporary basis, and labelled his new club as "the strongest" in the game
Juventus back Antonio Conte's comments over state of refereeing
The Bianconeri have demanded fair treatment from referees after several club personalities expressed their unhappiness with the lack of penalty kicks awarded to Conte's side
Bisoli: AC Milan boss Allegri was lazy as a player
The former Bologna man played alongside the Rossoneri coach during his time with Cagliari in the 1990s and he never felt at any point that his colleague would make a good coach
Marseille star Loic Remy to miss Champions League clash against Inter
The forward, who was heavily linked with a move to Tottenham Hotspur during the January transfer window, underwent a scan on Thursday which revealed a minor hamstring injury
Ranieri: Inter reeling but determined to bounce back against Bologna
The Nerazzurri propelled themselves back into title contention with a run of seven consecutive victories but they now face a real battle just to claim third place
'I have had no contact with any other clubs' - Lavezzi commits future to Napoli
The Argentine attacker had been linked with a summer move to Juventus only a few days ago, but he was quick to dismiss the speculation and pledge his future to the Neapolitans
From the River reserves to the Argentina team in 18 months - the amazing rise of Roma wonderkid Erik Lamela
The explosive midfielder burst onto the scene during the 2010 Apertura, and while River were condemned to the Nacional B Lamela has gone from strength to strength
Arsenal's Robin van Persie is a fantastic player, declares Adriano Galliani following AC Milan's 'perfect game'
The Rossoneri vice-president stated his admiration for the Dutchman, but also praised the Italian champions for their domineering display in the 4-0 Champions League win
'Referees need to have more courage', says Nedved after Juventus denied penalty against Parma
The Bianconeri legend has stressed that referees need to show more courage when making big decisions, but added that the Turin giants will put the
Vialli: Guardiola could coach Inter next season
The retired striker believes that the highly-successful coach could join the Nerazzurri at the end of the season as his Barca contract is coming to an end
'Referees are afraid to award penalties to Juventus,' says Antonio Conte
The Italian coach says that his side are being treated unfairly as far as spot-kicks are concerned after they missed the chance to leapfrog Milan at the top of the table
Guardiola plays down significance of 'Inter' scarf
The former Spain midfielder's current contract with the Catalans expires at the end of the season and has been linked with taking over the Nerazzurri in the past
Agent believes Juventus legend Del Piero ideal for MLS
The Bianconeri have already confirmed that the legendary No.10 will leave the club at the end of the season and he has been heavily tipped to move to the United States
Napoli coach Walter Mazzarri: Serie A is the most difficult league in the world
The 50-year-old feels his system has been imitated by many other teams in Serie A and is not thinking about his side's Champions League clash with Chelsea
Feb 17, 2012 3:30:00 PM
By Enis Koylu
Napoli coach Walter Mazzarri feels that he has heralded a tactical revolution in Serie A, with many teams now imitating the system he has instituted.
Napoli have been praised for their dynamic brand of football since Mazzarri moved to the Stadio San Paolo in 2009 and the 50-year-old believes many coaches are now copying him.
"Serie A is the most difficult league. At a tactical level, many teams now play like us, from this point I have been a precursor," Mazzarri said during a press conference on Friday.
Mazzarri then insisted that he is focused solely on his side's trip to Fiorentina, rather than the upcoming Champions League clash with Chelsea.
"I am only focused on the game in Florence. Fiorentina are one of the best teams at home. Delio Rossi is a good coach, one of the most talented too and valuable to his team.
"He knows that Napoli need to be countered in a certain way and he will be attentive in both phases of play. It will be a hard-fought game tactically and the most motivated team will prevail."
Finally, Mazzarri spoke out about the touchline ban that will see him miss both games against Chelsea.
"We have taken note and are currently waiting for the reasons. I was hoping and counting on a reduction."
Inter striker Pazzini: Except for the big teams, all clubs in Serie A defend with 10 or 11 men behind the ball The Italy international has voiced his frustration with the defensive tactics employed by the majority of Serie A outfits, although claimed none of the big sides are guilty
Feb 17, 2012 11:05:00 AM
By Stefan Coerts
Inter striker Giampaolo Pazzini has stressed that the Nerazzurri will have to be careful in Friday's Serie A encounter against Bologna as he feels the majority of Italian clubs play on the counterattack.
The 2010 Champions League winners were beaten 1-0 by Novara in their last encounter, and Pazzini has warned that they can not afford to make the same mistakes again versus Bologna.
"All the teams who play against us defend deep and try to get the ball forward on the counter, we know it and we're prepared for it," Pazzini said to Inter Channel.
"The only teams who don't do that are big clubs; all the others defend with 10, 11 men behind the ball and attack on the break.
"Novara did it and they scored with their only chance and then it was hard. We'll definitely have to be careful not to give them space on the counter tomorrow."
Friday's match at the Giuseppe Meazza kicks off at 20.45CET.
