Juventus Season 2011-2012

[Socrates 8386]

[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 25 - 25-2-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) Stadium - Milan

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Ibrahimovic: AC Milan are missing an extra quality,

but Juventus have a big advantage by only playing once a week

In an exclusive interview with Goal.com, the Sweden international explained that

an ability to pick up points when playing badly has eluded the Rossoneri this term.

Feb 19, 2012

Zlatan Ibrahimovic believes that there is an intangible quality missing from AC Milan this season, which has resulted in them being unable to pull away from a Juventus side who, he claims, are playing with a significant advantage.

Milan are currently two points off the pace in Serie A under Massimiliano Allegri, a man who Ibrahimovic says that he ranks very highly as a coach, with the unbeaten Bianconeri's 3-1 win over Catania on Saturday having once again deposed the San Siro outfit as leaders. And, in an exclusive interview with Goal.com, the 30-year-old said that there is one key difference between this season and last term's successful title charge.

"I think when we had been playing badly last year, we still got the points we needed. This year, when we have played badly we have been losing those games, and I think that is also a quality, that when you play bad you still get a point or even win," said Ibrahimovic.

"But this year has been less like that. We have lost many important points when we have played badly. We have also had to go through some very strange injuries, so it’s a combination, but it’s in the moment also. One moment you’re here, one moment you’re there, but the most important thing is to keep the level very high all season and I think that is what will make a team win."

The giant Swede, who is set to miss next Saturday's crucial clash between the top two through suspension, believes that there is something which remains in Juve's favour.

"I think Juventus are doing very well, but we shouldn’t forget that they play one game a week, and we play three," he observed. "It’s a big difference."

However, Ibrahimovic remains very happy with Milan's progress, and that of coach Allegri, who he says that he ranks among the best he's ever worked with despite some question marks in the media recently due to the Rossoneri's wavering form.

"If you think of him like a book, he is at the beginning because he has a lot of pages in front of him to fill up," said the former Barcelona star. "He has won the league, he has won the Supercoppa, but I think he’s at the beginning of his career as a coach with a big team. He is still in a learning phase and is still to develop, but still I rank him very high because you have to be a very good coach to win the league.

"I heard Jose Mourinho say it’s better to be a coach in England than in Italy because in England you can be a coach for 20 years without winning anything, but in Italy you can be a coach for three months without winning and you are out. So, I think he is questioned every day depending on the result on a Sunday or Wednesday."

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

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Serie A Week 25 - 25-2-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) Stadium - Milan

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Andrea Pirlo prepares for emotional return to AC Milan

The former Rossoneri stalwart acknowledges that he will be feeling the occasion

when he returns with Juventus to San Siro, the stadium where he spent 10 years of his career.

Feb 19, 2012

Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo admits that it will be emotional when he steps onto the San Siro pitch against Milan for the first time with his new club.

The 32-year-old spent 10 seasons with the Rossoneri before moving to the Turin outfit as a free agent last summer.

"I'll inevitably feel particular emotions," the Italy international, who won two Scudettos on his way to making 284 appearances for Milan, told Juve's official website.

"It will be an important game which will see two excellent sides face each other. If the strongest players are involved, the match will be more interesting."

The World Cup winner will be bringing his best form into the game, having scored a goal and set up another two in his side's 3-1 Serie A comeback against Catania on Saturday.

"It was fundamental," Pirlo said of his performance at Juventus Stadium, "Because we were one goal behind and we needed to recover.

"We managed to do it very soon, and then we controlled the game. It was the same in our previous encounters as well [goalless draws with Parma and Siena], but unfortunately we failed to net in those games.”

The win saw Juventus return to the summit of Serie A, two points above second-placed Milan ahead of the two sides' climactic meeting on February 25.

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 25 - 25-2-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) Stadium - Milan

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

AC Milan's Kevin-Prince Boateng in doubt

for Juventus clash with new thigh injury

The 24-year-old is a major worry for Saturday's crunch match against the Bianconeri

after sustaining another medical problem in the club's midweek Champions League victory.

Feb 19, 2012

AC Milan have announced that Kevin-Prince Boateng will have to spend some more time on the sidelines after sustaining a new thigh injury.

The versatile midfielder had returned from a four-week lay-off in Milan's 4-0 Champions League victory against Arsenal in midweek, scoring the club's first goal with a stunning volley.

However, Boateng, who was replaced in the second half, will have to return to the club's infirmary after picking up a new muscular problem against the Gunners.

"Milan would like to announce that after the match against Arsenal, Kevin-Prince Boateng was diagnosed with a muscular strain in his left thigh," a club statement read.

"In the next few days a prognosis will be established after further medical tests are conducted."

Meanwhile, Il Corriere dello Sport claims that the Ghana international, who has been left out of the squad for the match at Cesena on Sunday, is doubtful for Saturday's visit of Juventus as he may have to spend at least two weeks on the sidelines.

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 25 - 25-2-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) Stadium - Milan

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

AC Milan coach Allegri:

Juventus match could be decisive in title race

The Rossoneri boss was quite pleased with his side's victory over Cesena

and is eagerly anticipating next weekend's game against the Turin outfit.

Feb 19, 2012

AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri believes that next weekend's Serie A match against Juventus could prove to be decisive in the title race.

The Rossoneri beat Cesena 3-1 on Sunday to leapfrog Juventus in the league table and Allegri is confident that his side will put in a strong performance in the encounter at San Siro on Saturday.

"We are happy to be top of the table again, even if we have played one more game than Juventus. Next weekend's encounter could be decisive and I expect it to be a fascinating match," Allegri said during a press conference.

"We have an entire week to prepare for the big game and I am confident that we will put in a great performance. If Ibrahimovic is available, he will play. If not, we will find another solution."

Allegri then took the time to reflect on his side's away win over Cesena and was quite pleased with the final result.

"The boys put in a great performance right until the third goal. We then allowed them too much space for a while. The most important thing is that we won though."

Milan have collected 50 points from 24 encounters and hold a one-point lead over Juventus.

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[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 25 - 25-2-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) Stadium - Milan

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Allegri: 'Decisive Milan-Juve'

Feb 19, 2012

Massimiliano Allegri is back on top of the table after winning in Cesena and admits next week’s Milan-Juventus “may well decide the title.”

The Rossoneri’s 3-1 victory at the Stadio Manuzzi this afternoon allowed them to leapfrog Juve in the leadership role, although the Bianconeri have a game in hand.

“We’re happy to be up there, even with an extra match played. Now we have a whole week to prepare for Saturday’s big clash and I am certain we’ll put in a great performance,” said the Coach.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic sat out the second in his three-match ban, but Milan have lodged an appeal.

“If Ibra is available, then he will play against Juventus. If he isn’t, then we have others who can do well. All we can do is wait for the result of the appeals process.

“On Saturday it will be a fascinating encounter that may well decide the title.”

Allegri was not entirely content with today’s 3-1 result in Cesena, even if Sulley Ali Muntari scored on his debut.

“The lads put in a great performance up until the third goal, then we allowed Cesena too much of the initiative and sat back, as we just stopped running in attack.

“Urby Emanuelson has great technique and does not often give the ball away. Other than the goal, Muntari also played well and is highly motivated, as he wants to forget the recent negative spell of his career.”

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[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 25 - 25-2-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) Stadium - Milan

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Marotta: Juve are the underdogs

Feb 20, 2012

Milan will be favourites in Saturday’s Scudetto showdown with Juventus, says Bianconeri official Beppe Marotta.

The two teams meet at the San Siro with the Rossoneri currently sitting at the top of the table thanks to a one-point lead over the Old Lady – who have a game in hand.

“Milan will start the tie as favourites,” director general Marotta stated on Monday afternoon.

“They are the reigning Italian champions and are one of the eight strongest sides in the European game.

“Nevertheless, we are proud of what we have managed to achieve in these years in order to become competitive again.”

As it stands, Milan are set to be without Zlatan Ibrahimovic given that he was banned for three Serie A games.

However, the San Siro giants have appealed against his suspension and he could be back in time for the weekend.

“I won’t try to predict whether Ibrahimovic will be eligible or not,” Marotta continued. “I haven’t seen the appeal documents so I can’t comment on it.”

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[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 25 - 25-2-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) Stadium - Milan

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

'Juve important but not essential'

Feb 20, 2012

Massimiliano Allegri has backtracked slightly on the importance placed on Week 25’s top-of-the-table clash with Juventus. “It’s important, but not essential.”

The Rossoneri will meet Antonio Conte’s Bianconeri a point and a place above them in Serie A. Whilst at the weekend he described the clash between the Division’s top two sides as ‘likely to decide the title race’, Allegri had somewhat downgraded the game’s importance by Monday afternoon.

“The challenge on Saturday is very important, but it is not essential,” the Coach told radio station RTL 102.5 on Monday. “The controversy? I believe it is part of the game, it is normal for the teams at the top.”

The latter comment was in reference to Juve’s recent complaints over the quality of refereeing.

Meanwhile, Allegri’s side will welcome back Andrea Pirlo to San Siro. The playmaker spent a decade with the Rossoneri, but left last summer on a Bosman to join Juve, who he has been in excellent form for recently.

“He’s an extraordinary player. In Turin he has found a new motivation and certainly those 10 years at Milan were not a failure. His quality is not up for debate.”

Nor too, according to Allegri, is Alexandre Pato’s quality.

“Pato has not been a disappointment, this is absolutely not true. Unfortunately he has suffered several injuries in the last two years.

“Now he is better, on Sunday I rested him as a precaution. He’s a great professional and on Saturday he will be available again to the team.”

Milan will find out on Thursday if Pato will be partnered in attack with Zlatan Ibrahimovic as the club’s appeal to reduce his three game ban to two is heard.

“Ibra is a good guy, a generous guy. It shows in his way of thinking, playing and especially in the fact that he is always at the forefront in defence of everything and everyone. I think he is an important player, who is doing well at Milan and fortunately arrived when I arrived.”

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 25 - 25-2-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) Stadium - Milan

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

AC Milan & Juventus set up the biggest league game in Europe this season

The victories for the two giants this weekend have set up Saturday's fixture at San Siro

perfectly, with the clash set to be bigger than anything else on offer on the continent.

Feb 20, 2012

Like card sharps raising chip for chip, sprinters matching each other stride for stride, or heavyweights going blow for blow, Juventus and AC Milan continued their magnificent duel this weekend with 3-1 victories that served only to make Saturday’s huge clash between the pair at San Siro an even more anticipated event. Make no mistake about it, we are five days away from the biggest game in any league this season.

With the Clasico contests having become so frequent they’ve almost become tiresome, and Real Madrid now bossing the Primera Liga title race by 10 points, the remaining clash against Barcelona at Camp Nou is less important than any the Spanish giants have contested in recent times.

Over in England, the Manchester pairing of City and United are separated by only two points right now, but one gets the feeling that – like Sonic v Doctor Robotnik when the guy in blue has a stack of gold rings and plenty of extra lives – Roberto Mancini’s side need simply to click into gear once more to decide the title in their favour.

Instead in Italy, we have a spectacular race between the two most decorated clubs in the land, which has become increasingly nip-and-tuck over the last four months. Since Milan overcame a poor start to claim a spectacular 4-3 come-from-behind win at Lecce in October, not once have the Bianconeri and Rossoneri finished a round more than two points apart.

For 18 weeks, we have had magnificent tussles which have meant bragging rights going back and forth in terms of the league leadership, and this weekend gave us the perfect platform ahead of the titanic battle to come on Saturday.

Juve took to the field first, losing an early goal to Catania’s Pablo Barrientos only to see ex-Milan man Andrea Pirlo take over proceedings. The midfield maestro turned in his very best performance yet in a season which has had many wondering why the Rossoneri let him go in the first place. He equalised with his first goal in black and white – well, shocking pink! – and went on from there to set up the win.

After Juve-owned loanee Marco Motta’s ridiculous foul on Paolo De Ceglie when already having seen yellow, it seemed only a matter of time before the home side would break down the Sicilian resistance. First, Pirlo's free-kick from the right was turned home by the excellent Giorgio Chiellini, then a perfectly weighted pass between two defenders sent in Fabio Quagliarella for the clincher.

Pirlo is clearly in a fantastic frame of mind heading back to San Siro. He went close on more than one occasion against Parma in midweek too, and in a campaign during which he has been Juve’s undoubted star – maybe even a Player of the Year candidate – his form has only got better with his return to Lombardy coming into view.

Milan’s response was just as powerful. Returning to the same Stadio Dino Manuzzi where they suffered a humiliating 2-0 defeat at the beginning of last season, they clearly weren’t in the mood to allow a second slip-up against Cesena.

Dominating from minute one, it seemed only a matter of time before they tore the Seahorses apart on the scoresheet as they had on the run of play. Debutant Sulley Muntari should arguably have had a goal inside five minutes, while Urby Emanuelson and Massimo Ambrosini also had good chances.

Muntari eventually did get on the scoresheet when turning home the loose ball after Francesco Antonioli had spilt Thiago Silva’s free kick. Emanuelson then doubled the lead within two minutes with a superb early strike which found the net off the inside of the post.

Robinho’s neat finish completed the rout, with Daniel Pudil’s excellent volley never looking much more than a consolation thanks in part to a misfiring strikeforce of Adrian Mutu and Vincenzo Iaquinta showing a rustiness in front of goal which they will need to address if the Emilia-Romagna side are going to stay up this season.

But the parity on the scoresheet between Juve and Milan this weekend only served to highlight how tight things are between the two heading into Saturday night. The Old Lady’s game in hand at Bologna on March 7 is looking like an increasingly important fixture, but with Antonio Conte’s outfit having drawn 10 fixtures, there is a feeling that they can’t rest on their laurels.

No, they need to beat the Rossoneri for a third time this season in order to give themselves the leadership once more, and from there need to demonstrate that they can cope with the pressure of leading from the front. Milan, meanwhile, need to pick up the three points that will finally see a modicum of breathing space developed between the two on the league ladder in order to negate the significance of the game in hand.

There has been no more important game between the two most decorated clubs on the peninsula post-Calciopoli, and there will be no more vital a clash in any European league this term. Book the night off on Saturday, because this is one game nobody can afford to miss.

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[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 25 - 25-2-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) Stadium - Milan

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Juventus star Pirlo: We hope that Ibrahimovic

will be available for Milan on Saturday

The Italian playmaker is anticipating the upcoming match against his former team,

and hopes that the powerful Swede will have his three-game ban reduced so that he can play.

Feb 20, 2012

Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo hopes that AC Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic will be available for Saturday's Serie A encounter between the two title contenders.

The Sweden international received a red card in his side's scoreless draw against Napoli earlier this month, and was consequently handed a three-game suspension.

However, Ibrahimovic opted to appeal his ban, with a final decision to be made this Thursday, and his former Rossoneri team-mate wants the striker to feature for the opposition.

"We hope that Ibra will be there on Saturday," Pirlo was quoted as saying by La Stampa.

Ibrahimovic has already missed two matches due to his suspension and will be available for Saturday's encounter at San Siro if his ban is reduced by one game.

The 30-year-old Swede has been a key figure at Milan this season, and has already netted 15 Serie A goals.

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[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 25 - 25-2-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) Stadium - Milan

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Giuseppe Marotta claims Milan are favourites

for Serie A showdown on Saturday

Juventus director has tried to take some of the pressure off his side, while stating

that Milan will pose a big threat, even if Zlatan Ibrahimovic misses the match.

Feb 20, 2012

Juventus director Giuseppe Marotta thinks that AC Milan are favourites for Saturday's match between the two clubs at San Siro.

The Bianconeri will be hoping to reclaim top spot in the Serie A table as they are one point below the Rossoneri, with a game in hand.

"Milan are the favourites for the match," Marotta told reporters. "They are the reigning league champions and one of the eight best teams in Europe."

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has served the first two games of his three-match suspension for slapping Napoli's Salvatore Aronica in the face but could feature in the crunch clash if Milan win their appeal.

But Marotta is not worried even if the Sweden international is cleared to play.

"Milan have shown that they are strong with or without Ibrahimovic," he added. "We will face a very strong opponent, whether he plays or not.

"A prediction for Milan's appeal? That does not concern us."

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 25 - 25-2-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) Stadium - Milan

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Allegri: Pirlo left Milan for Juventus

because he needed a new challenge

The Rossoneri boss has defended the decision to let go of the midfielder last summer,

as he feels the Italy international had lost his motivation at San Siro.

Feb 21, 2012

AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri believes that the Rossoneri made the right choice to let go of influential midfielder Andrea Pirlo in the summer of 2011.

The 32-year-old left the reigning Serie A champions for rivals Juventus on a Bosman move and has since developed into a key player in midfield for the Old Lady.

Allegri, however, does not have any regrets as he feels the playmaker lacked motivation at Milan and needed a new challenge.

"He's an amazing player and he's doing very well at Juventus. Often in life after many years you need a change," Allegri said to RTL 102.5.

"In Turin he has found new motivation, which had decreased after 10 at Milan. But there's no discussing his quality."

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

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Serie A Week 25 - 25-2-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) Stadium - Milan

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Fabio Quagliarella reveals he is ready

to lead Juventus attack against AC Milan

Antonio Conte may entrust the striker with a starting spot in the proposed 3-5-2

that he will deploy at San Siro on Saturday evening in the crucial Scudetto clash.

Feb 21, 2012

Juventus coach Antonio Conte may offer Fabio Quagliarella a rare starting spot in the weekend's pick of the Serie A action.

Conte will hope that the former Napoli striker's impressive display against Catania last weekend will provide some much needed momentum as they face title rivals AC Milan at San Siro on Saturday.

Quagliarella capped a fantastic performance at home against Catania with an 81st minute goal that sealed a 3-1 win for the Old Lady. The Italy international has been praised not just for his goal scoring, but for his role in the team and hard-working performance.

He has found his chances limited at Juventus Stadium this season with a series of injuries along with a high level of competition for places in Conte's side.

According to Goal.com Italy, when asked about the upcoming clash with Scudetto holders Milan, Quagliarella stated: "I am ready."

Conte now faces a difficult decision in picking his starting line-up for the top-of-the-table clash against Milan. Along with Quagliarella, he also has Mirko Vucinic, Alessandro Matri, Marco Borriello and Alessandro Del Piero at his disposal in attack.

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 25 - 25-2-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) Stadium - Milan

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Andrea Agnelli: Milan are favourites

Feb 21, 2012

Andrea Agnelli is another who believes that Milan are favourites for the upcoming League clash with Juventus this weekend.

Following on from Beppe Marotta’s claims that Juve are the underdogs for Week 25’s clash, Agnelli also sees the odds favouring the Rossoneri.

The Bianconeri President, however, still sees one advantage that his players take into the crucial encounter between the League’s current first and second-placed sides.

“I realise that there will be a bit of nervousness, that many people [in the League] at this time are trying to protect their interests,” reflected Agnelli on Tuesday.

“We have the rare honour - we are very relaxed.

“We approach Saturday’s game knowing that Milan are favourites because they are the current champions of Italy and they are already in the quarter-finals of the Champions League, so surely the Rossoneri are favourites.

“We’re going to make it a great game, it’s been so long they truly competed.”

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Serie A Week 25 - 25-2-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) Stadium - Milan

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Conte faces attacking dilemma

Feb 22, 2012

Juventus boss Antonio Conte will reportedly use a 3-5-2 formation against Milan – but who will play up front?

The tactician has fielded a variety of systems so far this season, yet it is being suggested that he has opted for a three-match defence rather than a 4-3-3 shape ahead of this weekend’s Scudetto clash.

As a result, the tactician will now have to decide whom he uses in attack given the Old Lady’s recent problems in that area.

After two consecutive 0-0 draws, Conte fielded Marco Borriello and Fabio Quagliarella from the start in Saturday’s 3-1 win over Catania.

Tuttosport is today reporting that Mirko Vucinic, who began on the bench last week, is in pole position for a starting shirt.

However, it is unclear at this stage who will partner the summer signing from Roma. The possibilities are: Quagliarella, Borriello, Alessandro Matri or Alex Del Piero.

Milan, Napoli, Lazio, Palermo and Roma have all scored more League goals than the Bianconeri’s 36 so far this term.

Leaders Milan and Juventus, currently a point behind with a game in hand, will meet at the San Siro on Saturday night.

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[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 25 - 25-2-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) Stadium - Milan

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Thiago Silva surprised by Juventus

Feb 22, 2012

Milan’s Thiago Silva admits that he has been surprised by Juventus’ emergence as a Scudetto contender this season.

The two teams will meet at San Siro on Saturday with the Rossoneri one point clear of the Old Lady at the top of the table, even if the Bianconeri have a game in hand.

“To be honest, I didn’t expect Juve to be this strong,” the Brazilian told the Corriere dello Sport on Wednesday.

“The Bianconeri have illustrated that they have a squad of quality guided by a really strong Coach in Antonio Conte.

“They are doing really well, but we can beat them.”

The Italian giants have already clashed competitively on two occasions this season – with Juve winning 2-0 in the League and 2-1 at San Siro in the Italian Cup.

“We have to reduce the amount of errors we make against them,” the centre-back continued. “We’ve always made too many against Juve and that is odd.

“Juve are a dangerous side to face because they are able to score against you after each mistake you make.

“They are a really quick team on the counter-attack too and they have a different mentality to all the other sides we have faced.”

Former Milan star Andrea Pirlo could be the man that the Rossoneri will have to keep quiet this weekend.

“We have to keep an eye on everyone, not just him,” Silva continued. “Saying that, Andrea is the element of the team which their play goes through.”

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Serie A Week 25 - 25-2-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) Stadium - Milan

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Milan back driver Ibra

Feb 22, 2012

Milan have defended Zlatan Ibrahimovic after his car struck a woman outside of the club’s training ground on Tuesday.

The unnamed female in question, who claims to be a journalist, received treatment for a hand injury at hospital after it was caught by Ibra’s wing-mirror as she stood in the middle of a road.

The Rossoneri today issued a brief note insisting that the Swedish international striker could not be held responsible for what occurred.

There are suggestions that he could face a police inquiry given that he failed to stop after the incident.

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[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 25 - 25-2-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) Stadium - Milan

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Thiago Silva: AC Milan are hungry for success again

The Brazilian defender has admitted the Rossoneri were previously lacking in motivation

to win more trophies, but assured that they are now hungry for silverware again.

Feb 22, 2012

AC Milan defender Thiago Silva has insisted that the Rossoneri are hungry for success again ahead of the highly anticipated Serie A clash against Juventus on Saturday evening at San Siro.

The Brazil international conceded that the reigning champions had some motivational problems at the start of the 2011-12 campaign, but is adamant that they have now regained their determination to win trophies.

"We lacked the real hunger for success. We no longer had the same willingness to win that we possessed before. This hunger for success is what makes the difference for a team with our qualities," Thiago Silva said to Il Corriere dello Sport.

"It happened after the Supercoppa Italiana. The league started and we were no longer the same. We seemed to be thinking that we could easily win another Scudetto. Football isn't like that, though. Things can change very rapidly. Right now, last year's feeling is back, and we're hungry for more titles."

Milan currently sit top of the Serie A table with a one point lead over Juventus, who have one game in hand.

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[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 25 - 25-2-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) Stadium - Milan

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Ibrahimovic struck woman with his car

The Sweden international allegedly clipped the waiting female journalist with

his rear-view mirror while reversing out of his parking space at Milanello on Tuesday.

Feb 22, 2012

Zlatan Ibrahimovic reportedly struck a female journalist with his car while driving away from AC Milan's training ground on Tuesday evening.

According to numerous Italian media sources, the Sweden international was exiting Milanello in his black Audi A3 at approximately 17:00GMT when the woman, who had been hoping to grab a couple of quick words with the player, was struck by the one of the vehicle's rear-view mirror.

The unidentified blonde was then taken to hospital, where she was treated for injuries to her hand.

Ibrahimovic had not been aware of the impact at the time and only learned of the incident upon returning home.

The non-accredited journalist has now reportedly filed a complaint against the 30-year-old striker.

Ibrahimovic is currently awaiting the outcome of his club's bid to have the final game of his three-game suspension for slapping Napoli defender Salvatore Aronica overturned.

The Rossoneri will find out on Thursday if the forward will be available for Saturday's Serie A clash with title rivals Juventus.

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[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 25 - 25-2-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) Stadium - Milan

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Spat between AC Milan and Juventus just adds fuel to the fire

Feb 23, 2012

The battle of the sound bites began almost a month ago, and though it has never reached a shrill pitch, the sniping and griping between players and executives of AC Milan and Juventus ahead of Saturday's summit meeting has certainly been audible beyond San Siro, home of the defending champions, and Juventus's handsome new arena in Turin.

Most notably, it has come within earshot of the Italian Football Federation, who will above all be concerned that a game around which the destination of the scudetto, the Italian title, might be decided, is well, and firmly, refereed.

Giancarlo Abete, the head of the federation found himself this week having to answer innuendos about his organisation having a vested interest in a successful defence of their national crown by Milan, as the row over perceived bias simmered.

It began two weeks ago with Beppe Marotta, Juve's director of football, complaining about a penalty not granted to his club in the match against Siena, when a point was dropped and Milan saw their chance to catch up and later overtake the then league leaders.

After Parma-Juventus, another 0-0 draw, Antonio Conte, the Juve head coach, wondered out loud if there wasn't a "tendency among referees against Juventus", and asked if "that's about balancing the past?"

That explicit reference to the 2006 Calciopoli scandal, after which Juve were relegated for their directors' part in manipulating referees, prompted a response from Abete: Conte's comments had been out of order, he said.

Milan have hardly been silent in this debate.

Massimiliano Allegri thought he spotted an infringement officials had missed when Giogio Chiellini scored during Juventus's win over Catania at the weekend. Chiellini has become an ogre lately in Milan minds, since, after the tetchy first leg of the Coppa Italia tie between the two clubs, he called for Milan's Zlatan Ibrahimovic to be banned from the next leg for an incident - unpunished at the time - with Marco Storari.

Storari, Chiellini claimed, had been slapped by the Swede, who was already serving a ban in the league for striking a Napoli player.

"Chiellini," suggested Adriano Galliani, the Milan vice-president, "is like a schoolboy who tells tales".

Ibrahimovic has kept quiet, but if he wins, on appeal, his bid to have his Serie A ban reduced from three matches to two, he will be available on Saturday.

He learns his fate today. Expect more grumbling in the direction of the authorities from Milan if his appeal fails, and from Juve if he wins the case.

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 25 - 25-2-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) Stadium - Milan

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Ancelotti on Milan-Juve

Feb 23, 2012

Paris Saint-Germain boss Carlo Ancelotti says he can’t predict the outcome of Saturday’s Scudetto clash between Milan and Juventus.

“It’s hard to say how it will end,” Ancelotti, who has bossed both sides, told Tuttosport in an interview on Thursday.

“Milan have some expert players, men who are used to winning these types of games. However, Juve will arrive at San Siro with great enthusiasm.”

Reigning champions Milan lead the standings given their one-point advantage over a Juve side who have a game in hand.

“Milan have maintained the same level as last season,” the former Chelsea tactician continued.

“Juventus, though, have quickly grown thanks to the work of boss Antonio Conte, the arrival of important players and the management of Andrea Agnelli.

“Enthusiasm and the new stadium has done the rest. The climate that has been created, the clear objectives and the style of football are helping every player to give even more.”

One player in particular who is helping the Juve cause is Andrea Pirlo, the Bosman summer arrival from Milan who Ancelotti knows well.

“Andrea is always the same,” the tactician noted. “Everyone hails the technical qualities of him, while his character and personality are undervalued.

“He is one of the few players who immediately understands what you tell him. Actually, a lot of the time you don’t have to say a word to him.”

As it stands, Zlatan Ibrahimovic is set to be suspended for the game – although an appeal may see him become available.

“If I was at Milan then I would hope to have him in the team,” Ancelotti stated. “Saying that, the Rossoneri have illustrated that they can be dangerous without the Swede.

“You play in one manner with Ibrahimovic, in another without him.”

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[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 25 - 25-2-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) Stadium - Milan

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Barzagli crowns Thiago Silva

Feb 23, 2012

Juventus’ Andrea Barzagli may be a part of the tightest defence in Serie A, but he concedes that Milan’s Thiago Silva is on another level.

The 30-year-old has played in every single minute of the Old Lady’s campaign so far this season and is one of the reasons why they’ve conceded just 14 goals in 23 Serie A ties.

However, ahead of this weekend’s showdown with the Rossoneri, he’s outlined his admiration for the Brazilian international.

“Thiago Silva is, without a doubt, the best defender,” the former Wolfsburg man told La Repubblica. “I’m some way off him.

“He has everything that is needed, like his teammate Alessandro Nesta who remains one of my favourite players.

“Our defensive strength? It is the team that makes the defence. If the goalkeeper saves everything, the midfield covers and the attackers press then you are at a good starting point.

“We are all a lot more aggressive this season and we aren’t that bad if we are all around the international set-up. I’m playing well, I feel secure.”

Turning to Saturday’s San Siro clash, the stopper is adamant that the home team are in pole position for the points.

“If we say that Milan are favourites then it is because we are looking at their players, at their CVs. Who wouldn’t say that Milan are stronger?”

As it stands, the Rossoneri will be without Zlatan Ibrahimovic even if his ban could be overturned on appeal.

“Things will change for Milan, not us, if he plays or not. They are more predictable with him, even if he himself is unpredictable.

“They move more as a team without Ibrahimovic.”

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 25 - 25-2-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) Stadium - Milan

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Chiellini: Pirlo has rejuvenated us

Feb 23, 2012

Andrea Pirlo is one of the main reasons behind Juventus’ surprise Scudetto bid, says Giorgio Chiellini.

The Old Lady are currently second in Serie A – one point behind leaders Milan even if the Bianconeri have a game in hand.

“Pirlo has been decisive,” the stopper told the Corriere dello Sport. “He’s allowed players around him to grow by being at their service.

“However, before being the exceptional champion that he is, it must be noted that he is an excellent person.”

Juve have finished the last two Serie A campaigns in seventh, but they could take a big step towards the Scudetto with a win at Milan on Saturday evening.

“No one would have imagined that we would be fighting for the championship this term, not even the most optimistic forecasts,” the Italian international added. “We’ve exceeded expectations.

“Will the game against Milan be decisive? No, it will be beautiful and important, but whatever the result is the distance between the two sides would still be recoverable.”

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 25 - 25-2-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) Stadium - Milan

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Robinho’s 10-year Milan pledge

Feb 23, 2012

Robinho has committed his long-term future to Milan despite his mixed performances so far this season.

The striker is contracted to the Diavolo until 2014, but he has his eyes on a much longer stay at Milanello.

“I’m really happy at Milan,” the 28-year-old told La Stampa. “If it was up to me then I would remain here for another 10 years…”

Robinho joined the club from Manchester City in 2010 after a loan spell in Brazil with Santos.

He scored 14 goals in 34 Serie A games during his first season, but has grabbed just four in 19 appearances this time around.

Nevertheless, he has found some form of late and is expected to start in Saturday’s Scudetto showdown against Juventus.

“If we play like Milan then we can’t be stopped,” continued the South American. “The Juve game will be decisive, more from a psychological point of view rather than for the League table.”

Robinho, should Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s ban be confirmed, could be partnered by Alexandre Pato in attack – another Brazilian who has had his form and injury problems this term.

“He’s a phenomenon,” Robinho added. “There are periods when things go badly, it happened to me too. However, boss Massimiliano Allegri showed me some faith and I was able to improve.”

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 25 - 25-2-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) Stadium - Milan

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Lippi opts for Milan duo

Feb 23, 2012

Milan have more accomplished centre-backs than Juventus despite what the stats say this season, insists Marcello Lippi.

The Old Lady have conceded just 14 goals in 23 games, while the Diavolo have been pierced on 21 occasions in 24 League matches.

However, ahead of Saturday’s Scudetto clash at San Siro, Italy’s 2006 World Cup winning Coach would rather have Milan’s central defenders in his side than the stoppers from Turin.

“Thiago Silva and Alessandro Nesta have something more than Juventus’ centre-backs at this moment in time,” Lippi told Sky Sport Italia.

Nesta is back in training and could replace Philippe Mexes, alongside Silva, in the starting XI for this weekend’s clash.

Juve, meanwhile, are set to keep faith with a three-man defence consisting of Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini.

Lippi won five Scudetti with Juventus during two separate spells with the Italian giants.

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