Juventus Season 2014-2015

[Socrates 8515]

[Socrates 8515]

Serie A preseason starts today

Jun 30, 2014

Serie A clubs start preseason plans from today, with Torino the earliest to report back and the rest of the League to follow shortly.

Torino will report back for preseason training from this evening, when players are due to report at a Turin-based hotel by 10pm Italian time, before a first session on the field is held on Tuesday morning.

With the Granata in Europa League third qualifying round action from July 31, they are the Serie A to return to preseason training earliest this summer.

The giornalaccio rosa dello Sport run through the dates for the other 19 teams, listing Sampdoria as due back next, from July 1 when their players reconvene in Genoa.

Inter start work from July 4 at Appiano Gentile, ahead of a training camp from July 9 to the 20 in the small Trentino town of Pinzolo in the northern Alps and then the start of their US tour on July 23.

Next Saturday will see Andrea Stramaccioni begin work with his new Udinese players and the day after that Fiorentina will report back for duty.

From Monday July 9, Chievo and Milan will be back at work, with the Rossoneri under new Coach Pippo Inzaghi then also due to fly out to the US for a tour from July 24.

Cagliari, Lazio, Napoli, Parma, Empoli, Genoa and Sassuolo are all calling players back on July 11, whilst Palermo will ask theirs to return a day later.

Defending champions Juventus, whose preseason plans take them out to Indonesia, Australia and Singapore, start work on July 14, as do Atalanta.

Roma are back at Trigoria from July 15, before they also head out to America from July 21. From August 9 they are then due for a week in Austria.

Verona are due to start training from July 16, whilst the last team to confirm their place in Serie A for next season, Cesena, will begin preparations to beat the drop from July 19.

[Socrates 8515]

Blue and green for Juve 2014-15?

Jul 1, 2014

Images of what could be Juventus’ colours for next season have surfaced, with a blue second shirt and a fluorescent green third shirt.

The Bianconeri are set for a final season with Nike for 2014-15, before switching over to Adidas to begin a six-year €139.5m deal with the German sportswear manufacturers.

Images have surfaced recently of what could be the club’s final shirts with Nike, with little variation shown in the potential home wear - the addition of a collar and slightly thicker stripes the notable changes to last season’s design.

The away shirt pictured in leaked images is a bright mid-blue, with a large star emblem pattern detailed into the design and centred around the badge.

The shirt assumed to be the Juve’s third strip takes on an unusual design for the club, with it a fluorescent green colour, broken only by small black detailing along the shoulders and torso.

Image source: Tuttosport’s @Mau_Romeo

[Socrates 8515]

Juve start preseason today

Jul 14, 2014

Juventus begin preparations for the defence of their Serie A title on Monday, with Fernando Llorente the first due to face reporters.

The Bianconeri have called up 27 players to meet at Vinovo for a first session to be held this afternoon, as the club begin preparations to try to win a fourth successive League title.

Absent from training will be Fabio Quagliarella, and those players who were involved with their countries at this summer’s World Cup.

Before training, it will be striker Fernando Llorente to face reporters.

Juve reported last week that training for the next two weeks at Vinovo will be held behind closed doors, in the interest of public safety ‘as the infrastructure surrounding Juventus Center is unable to support the large amounts of fans who traditionally follow the team’s summer preparations’.

[Socrates 8515]

Serie A fixture date announced

Jul 16, 2014

Fixtures for the upcoming Serie A season will be announced on Monday July 28, it has been confirmed.

ANSA have revealed that the games for the 2014-15 campaign will be drawn live on Sky Sport Italia in their studios in Milan.

The opening matches of the season will be on August 31.

[Socrates 8515]

Benitez: Juve still the strongest

Jul 18, 2014

Rafa Benitez says Antonio Conte’s exit doesn’t change Juventus’ status as the strongest in Serie A, whilst he reflects on Napoli’s preparations.

The Vesuviani and others in the League have been handed a boost early into pre-season with the news this week of Conte’s exit from the Bianconeri after three successive title-winning campaigns.

However, for the Partenopei’s Coach, talk of his team becoming new favourites for the Scudetto is premature.

“I heard about the news, but I am thinking about my team. The squad of Juventus has always been the strongest and it will be again,” Benitez has told reporters today.

“It does not change much, I do not think that we have become the favourites. Allegri is a strong Coach like Conte.

“We will see what happens but their level will always be high.”

[Socrates 8515]

Coppa Italia draw

Jul 22, 2014

The 2014-15 Coppa Italia draw has been performed with Lazio-Livorno early on, while Inter-Milan and Roma-Juventus could be semi-finals.

The draw is a tennis-style table with the top eight seeds (Juventus, Roma, Napoli, Fiorentina, Inter, Parma, Torino and Milan) entering in the Round of 16.

The first round is on August 10, the second on August 17, the third August 24 and fourth on December 3.

The Round of 16 is on January 14 and the quarter-final on February 4.

In this edition of the Coppa Italia, the only round with two legs is the semi-final, played on March 4 and April 8.

The Final is set for June 7 2015 at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, but there is a reserve date of May 20 if this clashes with European commitments.


Round 1

Aug 10

Benevento-Correggese
Catanzaro-Akragas
Como-Matelica
Cremonese-Cosenza
FeralpiSalò-Santarcangelo
L’Aquila-Altovicentino
Lecce-Foligno
Juve Stabia-Prato
Monza-Olginatese
Pisa-RapalloBogliasco
Reggina-Casertana
Salernitana-Alessandria
Savona-Terracina
Sudtirol-Teramo
Venezia-Taranto


Round 2

Aug 17

Avellino-Venezia/Taranto
Bari-Savona/Terracina
Bologna-L'Aquila/Altovicentino
Brescia-Pro Vercelli
Carpi-Pisa/RapalloBogliasco
Catania-Sudtirol/Teramo
Cittadella-Pontedera/Messina
Crotone-Reggina/Casertana
Entella-Benevento/Correggese
Frosinone-Como/Matelica
Lanciano-Salernitana/Alessandria
Latina-Novara
Livorno-Vicenza/Bassano
Modena-Monza/Olginatese
Perugia-FeralpiSalò/Santarcangelo
Pescara-Albinoleffe/Renate
Spezia-Lecce/Foligno
Varese-Juve Stabia/Prato
Ternana-Catanzaro/Akragas
Trapani-Cremonese/Cosenza


Round 3

Aug 24

Genoa vs Lanciano/Salernitana/Alessandria
Empoli vs Bologna/L'Aquila/Altovicentino
Atalanta vs Carpi/Pisa/RapalloBogliasco
Bari/Savona/Terracina vs Avellino/Venezia/Taranto
Hellas Verona vs Trapani/Cremonese/Cosenza
Perugia/FeralpiSalò/Santarcangelo vs Spezia/Lecce/Foligno
Cagliari vs Catania/Sudtirol/Teramo
Palermo vs Modena/Monza/Olginatese
Chievo vs Pescara/Albinoleffe/Renate
Sassuolo vs Cittadella/Pontedera/Messina
Lazio vs Livorno/Vicenza/Bassano
Varese/Juve Stabia/Prato vs Entella/Benevento/Correggese
Sampdoria vs Frosinone/Como/Matelica
Brescia/Pro Vercelli vs Latina/Novara
Udinese vs Ternana/Catanzaro/Akragas
Cesena vs Crotone/Reggina/Casertana


Round 4

Dec 3

Chievo/Pescara/Albinoleffe/Renate vs Sassuolo/Cittadella/Pontedera/Messina (1)
Lazio/Livorno/Vicenza/Bassano vs Varese/Juve Stabia/Prato vs Entella/Benevento/Correggese (2)
Sampdoria/Frosinone/Como/Matelica vs Brescia/Pro Vercelli/Latina/Novara (3)
Udinese/Ternana/Catanzaro/Akragas vs Cesena/Crotone/Reggina/Casertana (4)

Genoa/Lanciano/Salernitana/Alessandria vs Empoli/Bologna/L'Aquila/Altovicentino (5)
Atalanta/Carpi/Pisa/RapalloBogliasco vs Bari/Savona/Terracina/Avellino/Venezia/Taranto (6)
Hellas Verona/Trapani/Cremonese/Cosenza vs Perugia/FeralpiSalò/Santarcangelo/Spezia/Lecce/Foligno (7)
Cagliari/Catania/Sudtirol/Teramo vs Palermo/Modena/Monza/Olginatese (8)
Round of 16

Jan 14

Milan vs Winner 1
Torino vs Winner 2
Inter vs Winner 3
Napoli vs Winner 4

Roma vs Winner 5
Fiorentina vs Winner 6
Juventus vs Winner 7
Parma vs Winner 8


Quarter-Final

Feb 4

Milan/Winner 1 vs Torino/Winner 2

Inter/Winner 3 vs Napoli/Winner 4

Roma/Winner 5 vs Fiorentina/Winner 6

Juventus/Winner 7 vs Parma/Winner 8


Semi-Final

Mar 4 & Apr 8

Milan/Torino vs Inter/Napoli

Roma/Fiorentina vs Juventus/Parma

[Socrates 8515]

Full Serie A 2014-15 fixtures

Jul 28, 2014

Week 1

31/8/14

Atalanta-Verona

Cesena-Parma

Chievo-Juventus

Genoa-Napoli

Milan-Lazio

Palermo-Sampdoria

Roma-Fiorentina

Sassuolo-Cagliari

Torino-Inter

Udinese-Empoli



Week 2

14/9/14

Cagliari-Atalanta

Empoli-Roma

Fiorentina-Genoa

Verona-Palermo

Inter-Sassuolo

Juventus-Udinese

Lazio-Cesena

Napoli-Chievo

Parma-Milan

Sampdoria-Torino



Week 3

21/9/14

Atalanta-Fiorentina

Cesena-Empoli

Chievo-Parma

Genoa-Lazio

Milan-Juventus

Palermo-Inter

Roma-Cagliari

Sassuolo-Sampdoria

Torino-Verona

Udinese-Napoli



Week 4

24/9/14

Cagliari-Torino

Empoli-Milan

Fiorentina-Sassuolo

Verona-Genoa

Inter-Atalanta

Juventus-Cesena

Lazio-Udinese

Napoli-Palermo

Parma-Roma

Sampdoria-Chievo



Week 5

28/9/14

Atalanta-Juventus

Cesena-Milan

Chievo-Empoli

Genoa-Sampdoria

Inter-Cagliari

Palermo-Lazio

Roma-Verona

Sassuolo-Napoli

Torino-Fiorentina

Udinese-Parma



Week 6

5/10/14

Empoli-Palermo

Fiorentina-Inter

Verona-Cagliari

Juventus-Roma

Lazio-Sassuolo

Milan-Chievo

Napoli-Torino

Parma-Genoa

Sampdoria-Atalanta

Udinese-Cesena



Week 7

19/10/14

Atalanta-Parma

Cagliari-Sampdoria

Fiorentina-Lazio

Genoa-Empoli

Verona-Milan

Inter-Napoli

Palermo-Cesena

Roma-Chievo

Sassuolo-Juventus

Torino-Udinese



Week 8

26/10/14

Cesena-Inter

Chievo-Genoa

Empoli-Cagliari

Juventus-Palermo

Lazio-Torino

Milan-Fiorentina

Napoli-Verona

Parma-Sassuolo

Sampdoria-Roma

Udinese-Atalanta



Week 9

29/10/14

Atalanta-Napoli

Cagliari-Milan

Fiorentina-Udinese

Genoa-Juventus

Verona-Lazio

Inter-Sampdoria

Palermo-Chievo

Roma-Cesena

Sassuolo-Empoli

Torino-Parma



Week 10

2/11/14

Cesena-Verona

Chievo-Sassuolo

Empoli-Juventus

Lazio-Cagliari

Milan-Palermo

Napoli-Roma

Parma-Inter

Sampdoria-Fiorentina

Torino-Atalanta

Udinese-Genoa



Week 11

9/11/14

Cagliari-Genoa

Chievo-Cesena

Empoli-Lazio

Fiorentina-Napoli

Inter-Verona

Juventus-Parma

Palermo-Udinese

Roma-Torino

Sampdoria-Milan

Sassuolo-Atalanta



Week 12

23/11/14

Atalanta-Roma

Cesena-Sampdoria

Genoa-Palermo

Verona-Fiorentina

Lazio-Juventus

Milan-Inter

Napoli-Cagliari

Parma-Empoli

Torino-Sassuolo

Udinese-Chievo



Week 13

30/11/14

Cagliari-Fiorentina

Cesena-Genoa

Chievo-Lazio

Empoli-Atalanta

Juventus-Torino

Milan-Udinese

Palermo-Parma

Roma-Inter

Sampdoria-Napoli

Sassuolo-Verona



Week 14

7/12/14

Atalanta-Cesena

Cagliari-Chievo

Fiorentina-Juventus

Genoa-Milan

Verona-Sampdoria

Inter-Udinese

Napoli-Empoli

Parma-Lazio

Roma-Sassuolo

Torino-Palermo



Week 15

14/12/14

Cesena-Fiorentina

Chievo-Inter

Empoli-Torino

Genoa-Roma

Juventus-Sampdoria

Lazio-Atalanta

Milan-Napoli

Palermo-Sassuolo

Parma-Cagliari

Udinese-Verona



Week 16

21/12/14

Atalanta-Palermo

Cagliari-Juventus

Fiorentina-Empoli

Verona-Chievo

Inter-Lazio

Napoli-Parma

Roma-Milan

Sampdoria-Udinese

Sassuolo-Cesena

Torino-Genoa



Week 17

6/1/15

Cesena-Napoli

Chievo-Torino

Empoli-Verona

Genoa-Atalanta

Juventus-Inter

Lazio-Sampdoria

Milan-Sassuolo

Palermo-Cagliari

Parma-Fiorentina

Udinese-Roma



Week 18

11/1/15

Atalanta-Chievo

Cagliari-Cesena

Fiorentina-Palermo

Verona-Parma

Inter-Genoa

Napoli-Juventus

Roma-Lazio

Sampdoria-Empoli

Sassuolo-Udinese

Torino-Milan



Week 19

18/1/15

Cesena-Torino

Chievo-Fiorentina

Empoli-Inter

Genoa-Sassuolo

Juventus-Verona

Lazio-Napoli

Milan-Atalanta

Palermo-Roma

Parma-Sampdoria

Udinese-Cagliari



Week 20

25/1/15

Cagliari-Sassuolo

Empoli-Udinese

Fiorentina-Roma

Inter-Torino

Juventus-Chievo

Lazio-Milan

Napoli-Genoa

Parma-Cesena

Sampdoria-Palermo

Verona-Atalanta



Week 21

1/2/15

Atalanta-Cagliari

Cesena-Lazio

Chievo-Napoli

Genoa-Fiorentina

Milan-Parma

Palermo-Verona

Roma-Empoli

Sassuolo-Inter

Torino-Sampdoria

Udinese-Juventus



Week 22

8/2/15

Cagliari-Roma

Fiorentina-Atalanta

Empoli-Cesena

Inter-Palermo

Juventus-Milan

Lazio-Genoa

Napoli-Udinese

Parma-Chievo

Sampdoria-Sassuolo

Verona-Torino



Week 23

15/2/15

Atalanta-Inter

Cesena-Juventus

Chievo-Sampdoria

Genoa-Verona

Milan-Empoli

Palermo-Napoli

Roma-Parma

Sassuolo-Fiorentina

Torino-Cagliari

Udinese-Lazio



Week 24

22/2/15

Cagliari-Inter

Empoli-Chievo

Fiorentina-Torino

Juventus-Atalanta

Lazio-Palermo

Milan-Cesena

Napoli-Sassuolo

Parma-Udinese

Sampdoria-Genoa

Verona-Roma



Week 25

1/3/15

Atalanta-Sampdoria

Cagliari-Verona

Cesena-Udinese

Chievo-Milan

Genoa-Parma

Inter-Fiorentina

Palermo-Empoli

Roma-Juventus

Sassuolo-Lazio

Torino-Napoli



Week 26

8/3/15

Cesena-Palermo

Chievo-Roma

Empoli-Genoa

Juventus-Sassuolo

Lazio-Fiorentina

Milan-Verona

Napoli-Inter

Parma-Atalanta

Sampdoria-Cagliari

Udinese-Torino



Week 27

15/3/15

Atalanta-Udinese

Cagliari-Empoli

Fiorentina-Milan

Genoa-Chievo

Inter-Cesena

Palermo-Juventus

Roma-Sampdoria

Sassuolo-Parma

Torino-Lazio

Verona-Napoli



Week 28

22/3/15

Cesena-Roma

Chievo-Palermo

Empoli-Sassuolo

Juventus-Genoa

Lazio-Verona

Napoli-Atalanta

Milan-Cagliari

Parma-Torino

Sampdoria-Inter

Udinese-Fiorentina



Week 29

5/4/15

Atalanta-Torino

Cagliari-Lazio

Fiorentina-Sassuolo

Genoa-Udinese

Inter-Parma

Juventus-Empoli

Palermo-Milan

Roma-Napoli

Sassuolo-Chievo

Verona-Cesena



Week 30

12/4/15

Atalanta-Sassuolo

Cesena-Chievo

Genoa-Cagliari

Lazio-Empoli

Milan-Sampdoria

Napoli-Fiorentina

Parma-Juventus

Torino-Roma

Verona-Inter

Udinese-Palermo



Week 31

19/4/15

Cagliari-Napoli

Chievo-Udinese

Empoli-Parma

Fiorentina-Verona

Inter-Milan

Juventus-Lazio

Palermo-Genoa

Roma-Atalanta

Sampdoria-Cesena

Sassuolo-Torino



Week 32

26/4/15

Atalanta-Empoli

Fiorentina-Cagliari

Genoa-Cesena

Inter-Roma

Lazio-Chievo

Napoli-Sampdoria

Parma-Palermo

Torino-Juventus

Udinese-Milan

Verona-Sassuolo



Week 33

29/4/15

Cesena-Atalanta

Chievo-Cagliari

Empoli-Napoli

Juventus-Fiorentina

Lazio-Parma

Milan-Genoa

Palermo-Torino

Sampdoria-Verona

Sassuolo-Roma

Udinese-Inter



Week 34

3/5/15

Atalanta-Lazio

Cagliari-Parma

Fiorentina-Cesena

Inter-Chievo

Napoli-Milan

Roma-Genoa

Sampdoria-Juventus

Sassuolo-Palermo

Torino-Empoli

Verona-Udinese



Week 35

10/5/15

Cesena-Sassuolo

Chievo-Verona

Empoli-Fiorentina

Genoa-Torino

Juventus-Cagliari

Lazio-Inter

Milan-Roma

Palermo-Atalanta

Parma-Napoli

Udinese-Sampdoria



Week 36

17/5/15

Atalanta-Genoa

Cagliari-Palermo

Fiorentina-Parma

Inter-Juventus

Napoli-Cesena

Roma-Udinese

Sampdoria-Lazio

Sassuolo-Milan

Torino-Chievo

Verona-Empoli



Week 37

24/5/15

Chievo-Atalanta

Cesena-Cagliari

Empoli-Sampdoria

Genoa-Inter

Juventus-Napoli

Lazio-Roma

Milan-Torino

Palermo-Fiorentina

Parma-Verona

Udinese-Sassuolo



Week 38

31/5/15

Atalanta-Milan

Cagliari-Udinese

Fiorentina-Chievo

Inter-Empoli

Napoli-Lazio

Roma-Palermo

Sampdoria-Parma

Sassuolo-Genoa

Torino-Cesena

Verona-Juventus

[Socrates 8515]

Chievo-Juve opens 2014-15

Jul 29, 2014

Chievo-Juventus and Roma-Fiorentina will open the Serie A season on August 30 with Milan-Lazio on Sunday evening.

The fixture list was drawn up on Monday evening and now the Lega Serie A has revealed the first changes. Click here for the full Serie A calendar.

Reigning Scudetto holders Juventus will begin the 2014-15 season away to Chievo at the Stadio Bentegodi in Verona.

It kicks off on Saturday August 30 at 18.00 CET.

That evening at 20.45 there will be Roma against Fiorentina at the Olimpico.

The opening round will have all the other fixtures played at 20.45 CET except for Milan-Lazio, which is at 18.00 CET.

Once again, this season the typical Serie A weekend will be broken up over two days.

There’s one tie at 17.00 UK time on Saturday, one at 19.45, one at 11.30 on Sunday morning, six at 14.00 UK time and one on Sunday at 19.45.

There is also the potential for some Friday or Monday night matches to help teams prepare better for the Champions League.

This first round has no afternoon kick-offs because of the heat in August.


Week 1

Sat Aug 30

Chievo-Juventus (17.00 UK time, 16.00 GMT)

Roma-Fiorentina (19.45 UK time, 18.45 GMT)


Sun Aug 30

Milan-Lazio (17.00 UK time, 16.00 GMT)

Atalanta-Verona (19.45 UK time, 18.45 GMT)

Cesena-Parma (19.45 UK time, 18.45 GMT)

Genoa-Napoli (19.45 UK time, 18.45 GMT)

Palermo-Sampdoria (19.45 UK time, 18.45 GMT)

Sassuolo-Cagliari (19.45 UK time, 18.45 GMT)

Torino-Inter (19.45 UK time, 18.45 GMT)

Udinese-Empoli (19.45 UK time, 18.45 GMT)

[Socrates 8515]

[Socrates 8515]

Allegri's Juventus XI in Cesena

Jul 29, 2014

Juventus have already named their starting XI against Cesena tomorrow, including Andrea Pirlo and Stephan Lichtsteiner.

The Bianconeri will play the newly-promoted side at the Stadio Dino Manuzzi on Wednesday evening.

Coach Massimiliano Allegri has released his initial line-up for the pre-season friendly.

Carlos Tevez is not included, as he is on leave following the kidnap and release of his father in Argentina.

Gigi Buffon has also been left behind, apparently due to injury, so Marco Storari and Sebastian Giovinco start.

This is the second game under Allegri, the other being a shock 3-2 defeat to amateur side Lucento.

New signing Roberto Pereyra will start after his move from Udinese, while Allegri continues to test the four-man defence.

Many will be curious to see where the Coach places Pirlo, as a discussion over his position prompted the midfielder to quit Milan when Allegri was in charge.

Juventus: Storari, Sorensen, Bonucci, Chiellini, Lichtsteiner, Padoin, Pirlo, Pereyra, Motta, Giovinco, Llorente

[Socrates 8515]

Juve held to draw by Cesena

Jul 30, 2014

Juventus were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw with Cesena this evening in Massimiliano Allegri’s second game in charge.

The new Coach named a strong XI for the match at Stadio Dino Manuzzi, with Andrea Pirlo, Stephan Lichtsteiner, Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini all returning after World Cup duty.

The Bianconeri were on top throughout the first half, with Pirlo going closest to opening the scoring, however, the Old Lady couldn’t take their chances and went in at the break goalless.

A host of changes were made at half time, with the likes of Kwadwo Asamoah, Martin Caceres and Claudio Marchisio all joining the action.

Despite this though, the champions couldn’t gel and were left humbled by the newly-promoted side as they came away with only a goalless draw.


Cesena: Leali,Volta, Lucchini,Capelli,Perico,De Feudis,Cascione,Ze Eduardo,Renzetti,Djuric,Defrel

Juventus: Storari, Sorensen (Buenacasa 81), Bonucci (Ogbonna 45), Chiellini (Caceres 45), Lichtsteiner (Asamoah 45), Padoin (Marchisio 45), Pirlo (Marrone 45), Pereyra (Spinazzola 65), Motta (Pepe 45), Giovinco (Coman 65), Llorente (Vitale 81)

[Socrates 8515]

Juventus and Roma have
an advantage over Napoli - Benitez

The Spaniard believes there could be seven sides battling for the Scudetto
this season but has tipped last year's top two as the teams to beat.

Aug 3, 2014

Napoli coach Rafael Benitez believes Juventus and Roma have a clear advantage in the race for the 2014-15 Serie A title.

Benitez enjoyed a promising first season at the helm, winning the Coppa Italia crown and securing Champions League football with a third-placed finish, although his side finished 24 points behind champions Juventus and seven adrift of Rudi Garcia's Roma.

The Spaniard expects those two clubs to lead the way again in the forthcoming campaign, even though Juve have lost the services of coach Antonio Conte, but has also pointed to the threat posed by Inter, who beat Roma 2-0 on Saturday.

"For the Scudetto, Roma and Juventus start with an advantage," Benitez told Sky Sport Italia.

"We also saw Inter have constructed a younger team with more intensity.

"All three of them will be difficult to beat, but we mustn't forget Fiorentina and Milan too."

[Socrates 8515]

Scudetto not as easy as
people think, insists De Rossi

The midfielder does not believe champions Juventus will be significantly weaker
without Antonio Conte and has pointed to the strengths of Inter, Lazio and Fiorentina.

Aug 3, 2014

Roma vice-captain Daniele De Rossi feels the expectations on his side ahead of the new Serie A season are excessive.

Rudi Garcia's men finished second in the Italian top flight last term in the Frenchman's maiden year in charge at the Stadio Olimpico.

Despite going 17 league games unbeaten at the start of the season, Roma finished 17 points behind Juventus as the Turin club won their third consecutive title.

However, the departure of Antonio Conte from the Juve dugout has led many to question their title credentials for this year, while Roma have recruited extensively to sign the likes of Ashley Cole, Davide Astori and Juan Iturbe.

But, speaking after a 2-0 loss to Inter in the International Champions Cup in Philadelphia on Saturday, De Rossi still believes it will be a difficult ask for Roma to win their first Scudetto since the 2000-01 season.

"This year for the first time I will say we have to target the Scudetto, but targeting is not the same as achieving and it's not as easy as people think," De Rossi told Roma Channel.

"From what I hear people seem to say Inter are weak and Juve without Conte are an amateur team.

"On top of that, Romanisti [Roma fans] might make fun of Lazio, but they have constructed a good squad, while Fiorentina recovered two important players like Giuseppe Rossi and Mario Gomez.

"Our objective is the Scudetto, but it won't be easy."

[Socrates 8515]

Trap: Juve still the team to beat

Aug 4, 2014

Giovanni Trapattoni believes that Juventus are still the team to beat this season, even without Antonio Conte.

The 45-year-old tactician left the Bianconeri last month after three successive title-winning years.

But even with Massimiliano Allegri now in charge, Trap is confident that the Old Lady can keep up their winning run.

“Juventus are the team to beat,” he told La Nazione. “Juve have always been that team, regardless of who the Coach is.

“It doesn’t matter if it’s Conte, Allegri or Trapattoni, Juve are always strong.

“However, Roma look to be as good as they’ve ever been. They’re going to be a force. As will Napoli, who are moving well in the market.”

The former Milan boss then commented on the Rossoneri, and new man Pippo Inzaghi.

“Milan have an obligation to be near the top of the table. But I have to admit I see a bit of myself in Pippo.

“I started with the youth team after a good career.”

Conversation then moved to Fiorentina, and their formidable strike force.

“It is fundamental that Rossi and Gomez are fit and playing well. And I wish them all the best after what they’ve been through.

“I had Gomez at Stuttgart. The lad has a great physique and has improved vastly on his technique.

“I’m really rooting for him.”

[Socrates 8515]

ISL all-stars 1-8 Juventus: Llorente hits
hat-trick as Allegri's men run riot

Carlos Tevez, Sebastian Giovinco and youngster Kingsley Coman were also
among the scorers in a comfortable pre-season victory for the Italian champions.

Aug 6, 2014

Fernando Llorente scored a first-half hat-trick as Juventus thrashed an Indonesian Super League all-stars team 8-1 on Wednesday.

Andrea Pirlo levelled for Juve almost immediately after Srdjan Lopicic had given the hosts a shock early lead in Jakarta.

Spaniard Llorente then took ownership of the game with his quickfire treble and Sebastian Giovinco added a fifth for the Italian champions before the break.

Substitute Kingsley Coman then bagged his first Juve goal in the 66th minute, before Carlos Tevez and Simone Pepe completed the rout for Massimiliano Allegri's men.

The home side surprisingly went ahead in the third minute when Lopicic made the most of slack marking to side-foot home a corner from close range, but Pirlo equalised from the spot from the next attack after Giovinco was tripped in the area.

Llorente then took centre stage and put Juve ahead in the 16th minute by lashing home from just inside the box after a poor defensive header from Zulkifli Syukur, before he extended their advantage soon after when he tapped Stephan Lichtsteiner's centre into an empty net.

The duo combined again for Llorente's third, this time the Spaniard planting a firm header into the bottom right-hand corner from the Swiss' accurate cross.

Giovinco got in on the act on 35 minutes, the diminutive forward drilling a left-foot shot into the far-right corner.

A host of changes saw the tempo slow somewhat after the break, but Juve notched a sixth when Coman turned home substitute Pepe's cross for his maiden Juve strike.

Two minutes later, Juve made it seven when Tevez converted the rebound after Pepe's shot had hit the woodwork.

And Pepe capped a fine run-out off the bench when he latched onto Tevez's throughball and deftly clipped the ball over the advancing keeper in the closing stages.

[Socrates 8515]

Juve crush ISL All Stars

Aug 6, 2014

Juventus have recorded a thumping 8-1 victory over ISL All Stars in the opening match of their pre-season Asian tour.

Coach Max Allegri fielded a strong team for the match in Jakarta but watched his players fall behind early on, with Srdan Lopicic netting after only three minutes.

However, Andrea Pirlo equalised from the penalty spot barely a minute later before Fernando Llorente bagged a quickfire hat-trick to put the Old Lady 4-1 up after 22 minutes. Sebastian Giovinco added another before half time.

A goal apiece for three of Juve’s four second half substitutes, Kingsley Coman, Carlos Tevez and Simone Pepe, rounded off a comprehensive victory for the Serie A champions.


ISL All Stars 1 – 8 Juventus

Lopicic 3 (I), Pirlo p 4 (J), Llorente 16, 20 & 22 (J), Giovinco 35 (J), Coman 66 (J), Tevez 68 (J), Pepe 90 (J)

Juventus: Buffon, Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Ogbonna, Caceres, Pirlo (Pepe 63), Marchisio, Asamoah, Pogba (Coman 46), Llorente (Tevez 53), Giovinco (Chiellini 64)

[Socrates 8515]

Indonesian Super League All-Stars
vs. Juventus: Score, Grades & Reaction

Aug 6, 2014

Indonesian Super League All-Stars 1-8 Juventus

Fernando Llorente scored a hat-trick in the opening half-hour as Juventus began their Asia-Pacific pre-season tour with a hefty 8-1 win over the Indonesian Super League All-Stars at the GBK Stadium in Jakarta.

The Turin team had been stunned by an early opener for the hosts, but an Andrea Pirlo penalty and a Sebastian Giovinco strike sandwiched Llorente's treble in front of a partisan pro-Juventus crowd.

Under new head coach Massimiliano Allegri, the Serie A champions have failed to impress in their pre-season matches, with defeat to Lucento followed by a draw against Cesena.

However, the match against the All-Stars proved to be effectively a walkover, as Llorente and Juve ran riot in the opening 45 minutes.

Kingsley Coman added a sixth goal for Juventus midway through the second half before Carlos Tevez tapped home the seventh.

Simone Pepe had enjoyed an excellent second half for Juve, and his reward came in the penultimate minute when he grabbed the eighth goal for his team.

Juventus named a relatively strong side with Andrea Pirlo, Paul Pogba and Claudio Marchisio starting, but key players such as Carlos Tevez and Arturo Vidal were sidelined for the game.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
Juventus starting XI: Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Ogbonna; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Giovinco, Llorente #ISLStarsJuve

Serie A Indonesia @LigaItaliaSERIA
ISL All Stars XI (vs #Juventus): Meiga; Zulkifly, Fakhrudin, Lobo, Ricardo; Maitimo, Gustavo Lopez; Lopicic; Kone, Gonzales, Nesteban.


The Italian giants were left stunned in the second minute as the host team took the lead when Srdan Lopicic lost Stephan Lichtsteiner at a corner and slotted past Gianluigi Buffon.

It took Juve just two minutes to level, but they needed Pirlo from the penalty spot after Sebastian Giovinco was brought down in the area to do so.

Allegri's team went in front in the 16th minute when Llorente caught a long ball from Pogba before firing home to make it 2-1.

Moments later, it was 3-1 to the Turin club, with Llorente again on the scoresheet after being first to a loose ball inside the All-Stars' box.

The Spaniard had his hat-trick before the half-hour mark, heading home after Lichtsteiner found him with a great ball.

Nine minutes before the break, Llorente turned provider when his cross into the area was turned home by Giovinco to give Juventus a 5-1 lead.

Luca ^Tyrian^ @Tyrian3
Kudos to all the indonesian fans,they make it look and sound like the match is at the Juventus Stadium @juventusfcen #ISLStarsJuve

Allegri made a raft of changes for the second half with goal hero Llorente and Giovinco among those not to appear after the interval. Patrice Evra was one of four newcomers who came on, the former Manchester United man making his first appearance after his move from Old Trafford. Buffon was also replaced by Marco Storari.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfc
Girandola di cambi per la Juve:

Asamoah/Evra
Giovinco/Coman
Pogba/Pereyra
Llorente/Tevez

With the sting taken out of the game before the break, Allegri decided on four more changes in the 63rd minute.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
Four further substitutions for Juventus: Chiellini, Padoin, Pepe and Vitale join the action.

Juventus added a sixth goal in the 66th minute when Coman scored with the help of Simone Pepe's assist.

Tevez was then on hand to tap home the Italian champions' seventh goal of the night after Pepe's shot had bounced back off the post.

Pepe deserved a goal for his efforts in the second half, and it duly arrived in the 89th minute. He clipped the ball over the All-Stars goalkeeper after a tremendous pass from Tevez.


Selected player ratings

Fernando Llorente: A+

A simply terrific first-half display by the Juventus striker. The game proved to be a timely reminder of his qualities, and his finishing was first class.


Sebastian Giovinco: A

Some great movement by the Juventus star throughout his time on the pitch in Jakarta.


Stephan Lichtsteiner: B+

Recovered well from his early error and even provided an assist for one of Llorente's goals. Rarely troubled, though.


Post-match reaction

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
Allegri: "It was a good workout for us, I was pleased with the attitude shown by the lads out there."

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
Allegri: "We've been raising the tempo and adding greater intensity in order to improve our physical condition."

[Socrates 8515]

Indonesia All-Stars vs. Juventus:
What Massimiliano Allegri Learned

Aug 6, 2014

Italian champions Juventus travelled to Jakarta this week to visit Indonesia for the first time, much to the delight of the club’s huge fanbase there. The first match on their Asian tour saw the Bianconeri face off against an All-Star XI from the nation’s domestic league, and the encounter saw many of Juve’s international players back in action.

Massimiliano Allegri named a strong starting line-up, and he will hopefully have used the occasion to discover what to expect from his new side in the forthcoming campaign. Still relatively new to the role, the coach witnessed much of his squad in action for the first time during Wednesday’s exhibition game, and the experience could prove vital in the months ahead.

On the following pages is a look at what Allegri will have learned from the 8-1 victory at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium.


The Juventus Squad Is Deeper Than Ever

While Allegri fielded a strong side, Juventus kicked off without arguably their best defender, midfielder and striker, with the leading figure from each department absent from the line-up.

Without Giorgio Chiellini, Arturo Vidal and Carlos Tevez, each section of the team was missing its leader, and yet the side performed well.

While it is difficult to read too much into a pre-season friendly, the starting XI still looked strong without those key men, and the reserve players stepped up well.

Names like Martin Caceres, Claudio Marchisio and Sebastian Giovinco could all be vital squad members in 2014-15.


The Llorente-Lichtsteiner Link Remains Strong

Fernando Llorente netted one of his goals in Jakarta from a Stephan Lichtsteiner assist, their link-up play proving vital for Juventus once again.

Last term, the Spanish striker netted 16 league goals, while the defender led the Bianconeri with a total of eight assists.

That six of those were to Llorente shows just how important their partnership became to Antonio Conte’s side, and the Swiss international’s crossing looks set to be a vital weapon under Allegri.


Juventus Have Attacking Options

While Llorente continued his fine scoring form, the match will also serve as a reminder to Allegri that this team has depth in attack.

Carlos Tevez returned to net Juve's seventh goal on the night, but there was far more on display than just the first-choice duo.

Sebastian Giovinco scored and won a penalty, while Kingsley Coman netted his first-ever goal for the club in the second half. With Alvaro Morata still to return from injury, it is clear that this version of the Bianconeri will not struggle for goals.


Indonesian Juventus Fans Are Among the Best in the World

TERIMA KASIH INDONESIA! @@

While other clubs like Manchester United and Real Madrid may lead world football in terms of global popularity, even those two giant clubs would struggle to match Juve’s fanbase in Indonesia.

The Gelora Bung Karno Stadium was at its 88,000 capacity, packed full of Bianconeri supporters in full voice.

The Asian country has waited a long time to see their heroes travel to play a fixture there, and the atmosphere they created will live long in the memory of Allegri and the Juventus players.

[Socrates 8515]

A-League All Stars 2-3 Juventus:
Pogba & Pepe spare Bianconeri's blushes

The France midfielder equalised with two minutes to go at the ANZ Stadium before
the winger plundered an injury-time winner as Alessandro Del Piero ended on the losing side.

Aug 10, 2014

Paul Pogba and Simone Pepe struck twice in the closing stages as Juventus twice came from a goal down to record a dramatic 3-2 win over the A-League All Stars on Sunday.

Marcelo Adrian Carrusca opened the scoring just nine minutes into the friendly at the ANZ Stadium but Fernando Llorente headed home an equaliser for the Bianconeri just before hour mark.

Tomi Juric's 77th-minute strike looked to have won it for the All Stars but Pogba hammered home a half-volley before Pepe snatched a last-gasp winner after pouncing on a loose ball in the box.

A lively start from the hosts saw former Juventus star Alessandro Del Piero have the first sight of goal after eight minutes. The World Cup winner's free-kick struck the wall, but a minute later the All Stars were ahead through Carrusca.

Matt Smith brought the ball confidently out of defence to begin a flowing move that ended with Carrusca cutting inside Angelo Ogbonna, before firing low into the bottom corner of Gianluigi Buffon's net.

Juve were struggling to cope with their opponents and nearly fell further behind on the half-hour as Besart Berisha forced Buffon into a smart save, the experienced goalkeeper pushing a curling shot wide.

The visitors gradually found their stride as Andrea Pirlo began to dictate proceedings, and a neat move between the Italian champions' front two almost brought an equaliser.

Carlos Tevez and Llorente exchanged passes on the edge of the penalty area but the Argentine's low shot struck a post before bouncing out for a goal kick.

Juve eventually levelled as Patrice Evra made good ground down the left and, after being found by Pirlo, delivered a pinpoint cross to find Llorente, who headed beyond Eugene Galekovic.

A host of changes gave the All Stars a boost and with 13 minutes remaining they claimed what appeared set to be a winning goal, as Juric cut in from the left edge of the area and lashed the ball into the back of the net.

With time running out and Juve staring defeat in the face, it was Pogba who initially came to the rescue with a sumptuous volley over Mark Birighitti to level the match. But the drama was not over.

The All Stars failed to clear a late Juve corner and Pepe latched onto the loose ball inside the penalty area to fire into the bottom corner and seal the victory.

[Socrates 8515]

Juve beat Del Piero's All-Stars

Aug 10, 2014

Juventus twice fought back against Alessandro Del Piero’s A-League All-Stars to win 3-2 in a Sydney spectacular.

The Bianconeri continue their pre-season tour of Asia by playing this exhibition match in Sydney, greeted by 65,000 fans.

It was the first time Del Piero has faced his former teammates and also his last game in Sydney. Arturo Vidal was on the touchline, as he still hasn’t fully recovered from a knee problem.

Alex tried one of his trademark free kicks and curled another effort just over the bar, but it was Adelaide midfielder Marcelo Carrusca who surprising gave the All-Stars the lead. He dribbled past a static Angelo Ogbonna to fire in an angled drive.

It should’ve been 2-0, but Gigi Buffon was alert to deny Besart Berisha’s strike.

Tevez had a great opportunity to equalise just before half-time, but after a give-and-go with Fernando Llorente his right-foot finish thumped the upright.

Stephan Lichtsteiner deflected Thomas Broich’s attempt out for a corner and Claudio Marchisio’s header was practically cleared off the line by Eugene Galekovic after splendid work by Tevez.

The pressure was building and the Bianconeri got their equaliser, as Patrice Evra whipped a cross into the centre for a classic Llorente header.

Del Piero, who leaves Sydney FC this summer, left the field to a standing ovation from the entire stadium after 64 minutes.

The All-Stars continued to impress and went back in front, as Juric took advantage of a defensive error to blast home.

Just as the Australians were preparing to celebrate a shock victory, Paul Pogba popped up with a fantastic stop and right-foot screamer into the corner.

Juve’s quality won out eventually, as Sebastian Giovinco’s cross was deflected, turning into an assist for Simone Pepe. The Bianconeri conquered the ANZ Stadium deep into stoppages.


A-League 2-3 Juventus

Scorers: Carrusca 9 (A), Llorente 59 (J), Juric 76 (A), Pogba 88 (J), Pepe 93 (J)

A-League All-Stars: Galekovic; Smith, Rose, Muscat, Berisha; Ibini (Hersi 66), Carrusca (Montgomery 66), Riera; North (Thwaite 66), Broich, Del Piero (Williams 64)

Juventus: Buffon (Storari 70); Caceres, Bonucci, Ogbonna; Lichtsteiner (Coman 80), Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Evra (Asamoah 70); Tevez (Pepe 80), Llorente (Giovinco 86)

[Socrates 8515]

Five-star Juve in Singapore

Aug 16, 2014

Andrea Pirlo bagged a brace as Juventus ended their pre-season tour of Asia with a 5-0 victory in Singapore.

The Bianconeri opened the new stadium with a friendly against the Singapore Selection.

Paul Pogba rattled the crossbar after just four minutes with his header, but it was offside anyway.

It was Pirlo who broke the deadlock with an inspired free kick. Rather than curl it over the wall, he cheekily waited for the players to jump and placed it under their feet.

Pirlo doubled their tally before the break, converting a penalty when Shakir pulled back Roberto Pereyra in the box.

Pogba made it 3-0 straight after the restart, skipping past two defenders down the left to fire into the far corner.

Pereyra was denied by a fine save, but it was only a warning ahead of Sebastian Giovinco’s impressive volley from the edge of the box on a Pirlo corner.

Kwadwo Asamoah also shined his scoring boots with a splendid volley moments later.

Arturo Vidal and Carlos Tevez did not take part, as Coach Massimiliano Allegri did not want to risk them on a shoddy pitch.


Singapore 0-5 Juventus

Scorers: Pirlo 17, pen 43 (J), Pogba 48 (J), Giovinco 54 (J), Asamoah 71 (J)

Juventus: Buffon (Storari 46); Lichtsteiner (Marrone 52), Bonucci (Caceres 46), Ogbonna (Chiellini 46), Evra (Asamoah 46); Pirlo (Pepe 58), Pogba (Blanco 80), Vitale (Marchisio 46); Pereyra (Buenacasa 73), Giovinco, Llorente (Motta 58)
Singapore: Hassan; Al-Qaasimy, Safuwan, Baihakki, Shakir; Hariss, Shahdan; Pejic, Shahril, Camara; Velez

[Socrates 8515]

5 Reasons Why Roma Won't Win
Silverware This Season

Aug 17, 2014

Though they have been the side that has looked most likely to knock Juventus from the precipice of Italian football recently, Roma could struggle to win any trophies in 2014-15.

The Giallorossi finished runners-up to Juventus in Serie A last season, and they have progressed to at least the quarter-final stage in the Coppa Italia every year since winning it back to back in 2006-07 and 2007-08.

But while they will be considered contenders in several competitions in the upcoming campaign, it is difficult to see Roma taking home any silverware.

Here are five reasons why.


Juventus Are Still the Kings

The Giallorossi may have finished second in Serie A in 2013-14, but by season's end they trailed Juventus by the massive margin of 17 points.

That is the gap which needs to be closed if Roma, and others, are to compete for the league title, and it is hard to see anyone making such a vast leap.

The one ray of hope may be that Juventus decide to concentrate on European football, rather than focus on winning their fourth straight Scudetto.

But even if that is the case, someone in the trailing pack will have to produce an near-perfect campaign to overhaul the champions.

While the Coppa Italia might offer more of an opportunity for silverware due to the knockout format of the competition, the Bianconeri will start that competition as favourites as well.


Totti Isn't Getting Any Younger

Francesco Totti has been Roma's talisman for so long now that it is hard to remember a time when the club was not heavily reliant on him.

And if the Giallorossi's pre-season was anything to go on, Totti will once again be the side's most influential attacking player.

This is somewhat worrisome when you consider the legendary No. 10 is now 37 years old.

While his skills remain as honed as ever, Totti's ageing legs can no longer be counted on to carry him through 90 minutes of every game of a long season.

The Roma captain managed 20 starts in 2013-14, and he was subbed off on 14 of those occasions. His participation levels will surely drop off even further in the upcoming campaign, meaning the Giallorossi will have to find a way to win without their main man.


Inter, Napoli and Fiorentina Have Strong Squads

Roma may have been the second best Italian side last season, but there are a group of teams who are looking in good shape to overhaul them this time around.

Inter have a fresh look about them and, with Walter Mazzarri entering his second year in charge, should hit the ground running.

While Milan may still be a side in transition, Napoli and Fiorentina both appear to have strong squads heading into the 2014-15 season, and they will be pushing for domestic honours.


Lack of Firepower Up Front

Though there is considerable talent among Roma's posse of attacking players, it does seem they are lacking a genuinely world-class goalscorer.

As mentioned, Totti is still capable of brilliance, but he cannot be depended on to score more than 20 goals as he did in his younger days.

Mattia Destro is the closest the Giallorossi have to a target man, and while he managed 13 Serie A goals last campaign, he will need to take his game up another level if Roma are going to be in the running for trophies at season's end.

Those in the support cast such as Gervinho, Juan Iturbe, Adem Ljajic and Marco Borriello can contribute a handful of goals, but they are not quite as fearsome as some of the other strikers in Serie A, at least at this point of their respective careers.


Roma Are Not Ready to Win the Champions League

While Roma fans will be delighted to see their side in the Champions League this season, there is little chance of the team going all the way in the world's most prestigious club competition.

Roma will be seeded in pot three or four, meaning they are sure to come up against at least one of European football's powerhouse clubs in the group stage.

Even if they make it through to the knockout rounds, it is hard to see them getting past the likes of Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Chelsea and Real Madrid to claim the trophy.

Domestic football will be the club's best chance of silverware.

[Socrates 8515]

Juventus: Full Report Card for Every
Position Entering Serie A Season

Aug 21, 2014

It has been a tumultuous summer for Italian champions Juventus, with the Turin club rocked by the resignation of Antonio Conte just two days into their pre-season training schedule. The subsequent appointment of Massimiliano Allegri as coach led to a somewhat pessimistic air surrounding the club, although that seems to have since cleared.

The Bianconeri have been—despite Arturo Vidal being constantly linked with a move away—relatively quiet on the transfer front, although there is still time left in the window for some late additions. Those who have already arrived at the club have reinforced the level of depth available to the new boss, while those departing have largely only been fringe players.

What follows over the following pages is a breakdown of the current Juventus squad by position, looking at the strengths and the weaknesses of each department.


Goalkeeper

Captain Gianluigi Buffon returns for his 14th season representing the club, and he is only 12 appearances short of a landmark 500th match for the grand Old Lady of Italian football. The 36-year-old remains, despite his advancing years, among the world’s best at his position and can be relied upon to once again deliver consistently excellent performances.

According to statistics available from Fox Soccer, only Morgan De Sanctis (21) managed more clean sheets than Buffon (18) last term, with the Roma ‘keeper playing almost 400 minutes more than his Juve counterpart.

The same source shows he also made 89 saves, conceding a league-low 0.61 goals per game during 2013-14. Currently, Marco Storari occupies the position of deputy, although the former Milan man has been linked with a move to Sassuolo in recent weeks, per Sky Sport Italia (via Football Italia).

Grade: A


Right-Back/Right Wing-Back

Stephan Lichtsteiner remains the undisputed first choice on the right flank, with the Swiss international leading the club with eight assists. As discussed here previously, his link-up play with Fernando Llorente proved to be a valuable weapon last term, with the duo combining for six of the striker’s 16 league goals in 2013-14.

While Mauricio Isla has left for Queens Park Rangers, the Bianconeri moved quickly to bring in Romulo as a replacement. Like the Chilean, the former Hellas Verona man is able to play in a variety of positions, but he is largely expected to act as back-up to Lichtsteiner on the right.

The versatile Brazilian also notched eight assists while averaging 2.5 tackles and 1.3 interceptions per game for the Gialloblu. Weighing in with six goals of his own, the 27-year-old looks set to be an interesting addition for the reigning champions.

Grade: B+


Left-Back/Left Wing-Back

Perhaps the weakest position in the squad, the decision over who patrols the left flank is likely to depend on the formation chosen by coach Allegri. Should he opt to retain Conte’s 3-5-2 framework, the likely candidate is Kwadwo Asamoah, a standout performer for Juventus since arriving from Udinese.

The Ghanaian has excelled as a left wing-back, improving his attacking forays while showing a sound ability to cover defensively when the need arises. Federico Peluso was previously second choice in that role, but the 30-year-old was sold on to Sassuolo earlier this summer.

In his place comes Patrice Evra, a man who needs no introduction following eight successful seasons with Premier League giants Manchester United. Arriving in Turin for a low fee, the Frenchman provides a viable solution on the left should Allegri decide upon a more traditional back four.

The positives of signing the 33-year-old defender were discussed in detail here, and his veteran experience should prove to be a viable asset, particularly in the Champions League.

Grade: C-


Central Defence

The regular trio of Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini remains intact, and they have proven beyond doubt their ability to perform domestically. Their displays as a three-man back line were largely responsible for the Bianconeri conceding a league-low 23 goals last term.

Forming the backbone of the club’s three consecutive titles, the problem comes when switching to a back four. Chiellini is a top-quality player in any setup, but with Barzagli struggling with injuries, Bonucci is unsuited to the alternative formation.

Angelo Ogbonna has yet to fully settle into life at a truly big club, which leaves Martin Caceres as the only viable alternative. The Uruguayan was excellent last term, averaging 2.2 tackles and 1.2 interceptions per game while completing 90.5 per cent of his passes.

Allegri will need him to continue that rich vein of form if he is to be able to constantly chop and change the team's playing style, particularly when the Champions League gets underway. There have also been major indications that Luca Marrone will provide cover in this area as the need to rotate arises.

Grade: B-


Central Midfield

Undoubtedly, the team’s biggest strength lies in the quality, chemistry and variety of its four leading midfielders, each offering the side a vastly differing skill set and combining to become one of Europe’s very best units.

Andrea Pirlo is usually the headline act, with the veteran genius providing four goals and six assists last term. He led the team with 69 completed passes per game. Beside him, both Paul Pogba and Claudio Marchisio added defensive awareness with attacking intent, their strength and stamina the perfect foil for Pirlo’s guile and cunning.

However, it is Arturo Vidal that provides this Juventus with its beating heart, the Chilean proving to be the club’s most valuable player once again. As if 11 goals and five assists didn’t already mark out his vital contribution, only Udinese’s Allan (136) bettered his 2013-14 tally of 130 tackles, highlighting the impact of his contribution at both ends of the pitch.

Roberto Pereyra may not have been the midfield signing Juventus supporters were hoping for, but the 23-year-old should add to the depth here as well as providing another option further forward.

Grade: A+


Attack

With the arrivals of both Carlos Tevez and Llorente last summer, Juventus took a giant leap forward in terms of attacking quality, with the duo combining for 35 league goals in their debut campaigns.

Each played a vital role, with the impact of Tevez having adding a huge impetus to the side’s cutting edge upfront. Fabio Quagliarella and Mirko Vucinic both left the club this summer, and that should see an increase in playing time for the much-maligned Sebastian Giovinco.

Beyond that trio, the squad remains limited, although Alvaro Morata is the biggest name to arrive in Turin this summer. Able to play in a variety of attacking roles, the former Real Madrid star should provide Allegri with greater tactical flexibility, a matter dissected in greater detail here.

Perhaps the side remains one player short in this department, but the level of quality is already high enough to challenge for the biggest honours in 2014-15.

Grade: A-

[Socrates 8515]

Juventus squad for Trofeo TIM

Aug 22, 2014

Juventus named their squad for Saturday’s Trofeo TIM tournament against Milan and Sassuolo.

The pre-season competition sees three 45-minute matches and the side with the best record on the night gets the trophy.

It is the opportunity for Coach Massimiliano Allegri to face two of his former clubs.

Juventus squad for Trofeo TIM: Buffon, Romulo, Chiellini, Caceres, Ogbonna, Pogba, Pepe, Marchisio, Tevez, Giovinco, Llorente, Motta, Bonucci, Padoin, Pirlo, Asamoah, Vidal, Vitale, Lichtsteiner, Storari, Evra, Rubinho, Pereyra, Mattiello, Marrone, Audero