Juventus Season 2015-2016

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

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MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Moratti: ‘League more balanced’ 

http://www.football-italia.net/74118/moratti-‘league-more-balanced’?

 
Oct 9, 2015
 
Former Inter President Massimo Moratti sees a “more balanced” Serie A, and looks ahead to the Juventus match.

The Nerazzurri are second in the table, two points behind surprise leaders Fiorentina, and hold an eight-point lead over the Bianconeri.

“I don’t know if it’s more balanced or if the overall level is lower,” Moratti told Mediaset.

“However, it’s a League which gives everyone the conditions to hope.

“I hope the international break can be used for everyone [at Inter] to recharge their batteries, though we did well against Sampdoria.

“Of course, it will could also allow Juve to recharge, so we’ll have to see who can do more.”

The Nerazzurri have not beaten the Old Lady at San Siro since 2010, and Moratti hopes a win on October 18 can be a good omen.

“When we beat them then, we won the Scudetto, maybe if we win the next game we’ll succeed again. We all know how it ended then, so we hope it’s an auspicious sign.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

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MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Trap: 'Fiorentina and Napoli enchanting' 

http://www.football-italia.net/74139/trap-fiorentina-and-napoli-enchanting?

 
Oct 10, 2015
 
Giovanni Trapattoni is “enchanted” by Fiorentina and Napoli, but analyses the problems at Milan and Juventus.

The legendary Coach sat down with La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport to discuss the current Serie A scene, which has the Viola top of the table.

“I am enchanted by Fiorentina and Napoli,” said Trap. “Paulo Sousa is an intelligent lad who I know well and his Fiorentina is sparkling.

“Napoli are very well organised and almost arrogant in the way they push past teams. Sousa and Maurizio Sarri both know that more difficult moments will come. It used to happen to me in mid-November and I had 14 players in the squad, not 25.”

Juventus won the last four editions of the Scudetto, but find themselves 10 points adrift of the leaders.

“They are very far back, but will those in front always be able to maintain this pace? After all, Juve have that solid mentality and winning spirit. They also play good football, even though they struggled to score.

“Alvaro Morata and Paulo Dybala are excellent young forwards. Let’s just say they have the time to recover.”

Another of Trapattoni’s former clubs, Milan, continue to stutter even under new Coach Sinisa Mihajlovic.

“I believe in Mihajlovic. He has experience, did well in previous campaigns and has character. Maybe Milan made a mistake in trying to transform players in roles that they were not suited to.

“At that level, you get the right player for every role.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

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MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Moratti: 'Inter reflect Mancini' 

http://www.football-italia.net/74141/moratti-inter-reflect-mancini?

 
Oct 10, 2015
 
Massimo Moratti believes Inter “reflect the character of Roberto Mancini” and looks forward to facing Juventus.

The Derby d’Italia is played next Sunday evening and they’ve had very different starts to the Serie A season.

“Many sides are capable of winning the Scudetto, although compared to previous years we have a much better chance,” the former President told Sky Sport Italia.

“It is strange to see Juventus so far back in the table, especially considering everything they did last year.

“What was my favourite Inter-Juve? Certainly a 6-0 at San Siro. I was young then and always remember it with a smile.”

That extraordinary result was on April 4 1954, when Moratti’s father Angelo was President of Inter.

Now Erick Thohir is at the helm and Mancini on the bench.

“The team has been renovated a great deal, we have high hopes and want to do well this season.

“There’s a lot of Mancini in this new Inter, as he specifically requested all the players. The team also reflects the character of their Coach.

“I am happy with how all the players are doing, but if I have to pick one who has impressed me the most then I’ll say Jeison Murillo.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

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MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Morata aims to be fit for Inter vs Juventus 

Despite reports suggesting he could face over a month out, the Spanish striker says
he is in line to return for the Italian champions next weekend at San Siro.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/723/serie-a/2015/10/10/16197972/-?

 
Oct 10, 2015
 
Juventus striker Alvaro Morata has set his sights on being fully fit to face Inter in Serie A next Sunday.

The Spain international was stretchered off in the first half of the European champions' 4-0 win over Luxembourg on Friday with an injury to his lower leg.

Some initial reports in Spain claimed Morata could face between one and four months out of action, despite having avoided a fracture to his leg, but the 22-year-old has moved to dispel those concerns.

Morata posted on his official Twitter account: "Neither one month nor four... I'm working hard to be ready for Sunday!"

The 22-year-old had further tests on the problem late on Friday and the Bianconeri later stated his progress will be monitored over the coming days.

"Alvaro Morata has today returned from international duty and the Juventus medical staff has confirmed the diagnosis of their Spanish counterparts: a bruised right leg with no evidence of fractures.

"The striker's condition will continue to be monitored over the coming days in order to assess the best course of action for his return to training."

Morata has scored three times so far for Juve this season in what has proved an inconsistent campaign to date for the Serie A champions.

They head into the clash with Inter a full 10 points adrift of current league leaders Fiorentina, and eight behind Roberto Mancini's men.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

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MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Allegri: 'Juve can win Scudetto' 

http://www.football-italia.net/74159/allegri-juve-can-win-scudetto?

 
Oct 10, 2015
 
Max Allegri hopes to have Paul Pogba and Alvaro Morata against Inter and still believes in a Juventus Scudetto.

The Derby d’Italia is at San Siro next Sunday night and the Bianconeri received bad news during the break for international duty.

“Morata suffered a big bruise, the medical staff will monitor him day after day and we’ll see if he will be at our disposal for the next match in eight days,” Allegri told Sky Sport Italia.

“I have spoken to the lad, he’s very calm, even if it was a nasty knock.

“Pogba has this ankle problem, again it’s nothing worrying, but for three or four days at least he’ll have to train separately from the group and we’ll evaluate his condition as the week goes on.

“The injuries we’ve been dealing with are nothing in particular. I’m fairly confident they’ll both be available against Inter.

“To win the Scudetto we need consistent results, which is something we’ve struggled with so far this season in Serie A.

“Therefore we need to be consistent, because a victory away to Inter followed by two defeats renders the win pointless.

“Do we still believe in the Scudetto? That’s only natural, as we are only in October. In any case, we are giving the priority to the Champions League.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

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MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Jovetic: 'Beat Juve to send signal' 

http://www.football-italia.net/74169/jovetic-beat-juve-send-signal?

 
Oct 11, 2015
 
Stevan Jovetic insists he’ll be fully fit next Sunday and Inter beating Juventus “would send a strong signal.”

The Montenegro international was sent home early from international duty, as he wasn’t in any condition to play due to a muscular problem.

“I am still sad at our elimination from Euro 2016, as we put all our heart into it and it still wasn’t enough. We were also a little unlucky,” Jo-Jo told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport.

He is already focused on next weekend’s Derby d’Italia, as Inter hope to keep Juve struggling in mid-table.

“Beating Juventus would send a strong signal. It’d be a show of our strength in Serie A and a step forward in our campaign. After all, I’ve already scored against the Bianconeri at the Juventus Stadium.

“It’ll be a wonderful game, as despite recent results, they are still Juve.”

Inter haven’t beaten the Old Lady at San Siro since 2010, the year of the Treble, but this is comfortably the Bianconeri’s worst campaign since then.

“I don’t trust seeing Juve so far down the table. They remain very strong, even with injuries and many changes over the summer. They still have players of great talent and before the break for international duty were finding their feet again, so we must be wary.”

Jovetic was asked whether he is the decisive element in the side, as Inter won all five opening rounds before collapsing 4-1 to Fiorentina and drawing 1-1 at Sampdoria, both without him on the field.

“No, that was just a coincidence. We are a team and nobody is more important than anyone else. These situations can happen, now we’ll try to get back on our feet.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

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MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Scudetto race is wide open - Garcia 

Juventus' poor start to the Serie A campaign has made for a much
more competitive title race in Italy, according to the Roma coach.

http://www.goal.com/en-za/news/4563/main/2015/10/11/16223452/-?

 
Oct 11, 2015
 
Roma boss Rudi Garcia says the Scudetto race is wide open thanks to Juventus' stuttering start to the campaign.

Juve have cantered to four successive Scudetti and in 2014-15 finished 17 points clear of Garcia's Giallorossi, who fell off the pace dramatically after the winter break.

However, Juve have only won two of their opening seven matches and have been beaten by Udinese, Roma and Napoli - leaving them 10 points behind early leaders Fiorentina, and six adrift of Garcia's men.

With Fiorentina, Inter and Lazio all showing impressive early form, Garcia is relishing the title battle this season and hopes Roma can be part of that tussle come May.

"It is a much more open Scudetto race after four years in which Juventus were champions of Italy four times in a row and beat the record for points in 2013-14," he told Telefoot.

"This season the title battle is far more open and we have to make sure we're up there all the way to the end.

"Our objective is to qualify for the Champions League, but it is our ambition to do as well as possible."

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

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MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Mancini prepares Derby d'Italia 

http://www.football-italia.net/74184/mancini-prepares-derby-ditalia

 
Oct 11, 2015
 
Roberto Mancini prepares Inter to face Juventus and congratulates Italy on qualification for Euro 2016.

The Coach picked up an award and spoke to Mediaset Premium this afternoon.

“The Derby d’Italia is always an important match. It will certainly be an intriguing night with two great teams facing off,” he said of next Sunday’s Serie A fixture.

“It would be an important step to get a win, but there’s still a week to go and we’ve got time to work on it.

“We’ll see how the internationals are doing when they return between Tuesday and Thursday, then evaluate everything carefully.”

Last night Italy booked their place at Euro 2016 with a 3-1 victory away to Azerbaijan.

“I compliment the side, because it’s never easy to qualify with a round to spare. Matches are wide open, even those that on paper might seem easier.

“Hopefully before June we’ll improve fitness levels, because Italy always do good things at the Euros and World Cup.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

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MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Morata and Pogba extra time 

http://www.football-italia.net/74197/morata-and-pogba-extra-time

 
Oct 11, 2015
 
Alvaro Morata and Paul Pogba are having extra training sessions to be fit for Inter v Juventus next Sunday night.

Both players picked up injuries while on international duty this week and returned to Turin early.

Morata was relieved to see he hadn’t sustained a fracture or lesion, just heavy bruising to the right calf muscle after he was stretchered off against Luxembourg.

Pogba sprained his right ankle in training for France and missed out on their friendly outing.

Today Coach Max Allegri gave his players the day off from training, but Pogba and Morata were at the Vinovo ground anyway.

They had extra training sessions and therapy with the medical staff today, hoping to rush the recovery process and be ready for the Derby d’Italia.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

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MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Ancelotti: 'Strange Scudetto race' 

http://www.football-italia.net/74213/ancelotti-strange-scudetto-race?

 
Oct 12, 2015
 
Carlo Ancelotti analyses the problems at Juventus and gives his Scudetto predictions in a “strange” Serie A race.

The Coach is taking a break and ready to get back to work in January, so sat down with the Corriere dello Sport newspaper.

He cast his eye over the European scene, including the surprise leaders of the Liga and Serie A, Villarreal and Fiorentina.

“They are two different situations. In Italy, Fiorentina are doing very well and surprised the big clubs, who changed a great deal over the summer.

“The Viola are on top and tied to the uncertainty of who will be there at the end. We don’t know who will win the title, maybe even Fiorentina, or Napoli, or Roma, or Juventus fighting back.

“In Spain we already know who wins at the end, it’s either Barcelona or Real Madrid.”

Inter and Milan invested a great deal of money this term, but are yet to reap the rewards.

“It is disconcerting they’ve conceded so many goals, especially as they brought in players of a very high level like Joao Miranda, Jeison Murillo, Geoffrey Kondogbia, Carlos Bacca and Luiz Adriano, all players that the biggest clubs in Europe wanted.

“It is truly a very strange campaign, open and absolutely anything could happen.”

Ancelotti still has a fondness for the club he played for, but is yet to manage – Roma.

“They are the side with the most quality. In attack there’s Edin Dzeko, Mohamed Salah, Gervinho and Iago Falque, plus Francesco Totti. In the middle Radja Nainggolan and Miralem Pjanic bring equal doses of strength and technique.

“There are only a few problems at the back, but right now they seem to be the most reliable team. Daniele De Rossi playing in defence is a bit of a fad after Javier Mascherano at Barcelona and now Javi Martinez at Bayern Munich.

“Mind you, the precursor was the Baron, Nils Liedholm, when he put Agostino at centre-back. I played in defence once, in a friendly for Milan against Barcelona. That one time was enough to realise it was not a good idea.”

Napoli are emerging as surprise title contenders under Maurizio Sarri after crushing Milan 4-0 and defeating Juventus.

“I’ve only seen them play once, against Empoli in perhaps their worst performance. I do like the team for their organisation, speed and technique. Napoli can absolutely win the Scudetto.

“I really liked Sarri’s Empoli last season, as they were a dynamic side with a precise identity and attacking football. It might seem a paradox, but today’s Napoli reminds me of Empoli, sitting compact with a very high defensive line.

“If the quality of the Napoli players marries the quality of Sarri’s organisation, then the fans will have fun.

“I also like Paulo Sousa at Fiorentina. Last term with Real Madrid we beat Basel 5-1 in the Champions League, but the away leg was very balanced and uncertain.”

The giants are struggling so far this season, so how does Ancelotti read the situation?

“Juventus changed a great deal, as Andrea Pirlo, Carlos Tevez and Arturo Vidal are formidable players, fundamental for their style of play and the level of the side.

“They were replaced by young players who still need to settle in. It’s not easy to find an alternative to Pirlo from one day to the next. Claudio Marchisio would’ve fit the bill, but he’s been injured and max Allegri was forced to change within the change.

“However, in the most difficult games of the season, Juventus have done well, beating Manchester City and Sevilla.

“At Real Madrid and Barcelona it’s a different situation. So far my ex-team hasn’t lost, while Barcelona felt the weight of injuries to Leo Messi and Andres Iniesta. Maybe they also felt a bit sated after last year’s success.”

Real Madrid sacked Ancelotti over the summer and replaced him with Rafa Benitez, who he met up with in Nyon.

“I didn’t need to give him any advice because he already knew what it was like there and expected all that has happened. He was born there, he trained in the youth academy and knew that at the slightest slip-up the controversy would explode.

“Criticism at Real is excessive. In fact, the whole environment around the club is excessive, both in a good and a bad way.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

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MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Asamoah Ready For Huge Inter Challenge 

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/10/juventus-winger-ready-for-huge-inter-challenge/?

 
Oct 12, 2015
 
Kwadwo Asamoah is ready to face Inter this weekend and is hoping Juventus can continue their recent revival.

The Ghanaian international has played just one minute in Serie A this season and is hoping to make an impact for Juve in the Derby D’Italia this Sunday.

“The game against Inter will be a huge challenge,” Asamoah told Tuttosport.

“It is a big game for the fans so we are hoping to win.

“I want to get onto the pitch and help the team after being out injured.”

Asamoah then had his say on Juventus’ slow start to the season and insisted the team must carry on their good form from before the international break.

“After a difficult start we have come back and got back to winning ways,” Asamoah continued.

“We want to start strong after the break.

“We need to resume from where we left off against Sevilla and Bologna.

“Winning is crucial for us.

“Sometimes you start a season slowly, but we have to stay positive and know that we can do better.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

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MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Mancini: ‘Important to beat Juventus’ 

http://www.football-italia.net/74216/mancini-‘important-beat-juventus’?

 
Oct 12, 2015
 
Inter Coach Roberto Mancini admits beating Juventus would be “a big coup and an important thing.”

The Nerazzurri welcome the Turin giants to San Siro after the international break, having not won the home fixture of the Derby d’Italia since 2010.

“Beating Juve would be a big coup, and an important thing,” Mancini told reporters as he attended an event in Montefeltro.

“It’s the Derby d’Italia, I’m sure it will be a great evening between two great teams. Now we have to play like Inter.

“We’ll prepare as we always do, it’s a historic match, which automatically brings motivation, and also the Derby d’Italia has become very unique in recent years because of all the controversies which have broken out.

“We have to be well prepared, because it brings particular pressures with it.

“We haven’t won it at home since 2010? Well then, that’s enough, it’s already been too long…”

Mancini then gave an update on the injury situation facing the club, assuring that Geoffrey Kondogbia will be available for the visit of the Old Lady.

“Kondogbia is fine, he’ll be available.

“Am I happy Stevan Jovetic didn’t play for Montenegro? I’ll be even happier if he plays on Sunday.

“Adem Ljajic? I didn’t see his game, but there’s no problem. I hope that Adem can adapt as soon as possible, we have to give him time.

“I certainly believe in him, otherwise I wouldn’t have asked to take him to Inter.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

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MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Juventus duo Paul Pogba and Alvaro Morata
could face Inter despite injuries 

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/juventus/story/2659188/juventus-duo-paul-pogba-and-alvaro-morata-could-face-inter?

 
Oct 12, 2015
 
Paul Pogba and Alvaro Morata could both play for Juventus when they visit Inter Milan at the weekend, despite picking up injuries while away on international duty.

France midfielder Pogba picked up an ankle injury and missed his side's friendlies, while Spain forward Morata suffered a blow to the leg in the win over Luxembourg.

Morata was sent to Turin for tests amid fears he could have fractured his leg, but a statement on the official Juventus website said he had only suffered bruising.

"The striker's condition will continue to be monitored over the coming days in order to assess the best course of action for his return to training," the statement said.

Morata, writing on Twitter, said: "It's not going to be a month [out], nor four. I'm working hard to be back at my best for Sunday."

Álvaro Morata ✔ @AlvaroMorata
Ni un mes ni cuatro... Trabajando a tope para estar listo el domingo!!!

The news is a boost for Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri, who may now be able to field his strongest team to face Inter as they continue to recover from a tough start to the season.

"To win the Scudetto you need a continuity with your results, which we've not yet had," he said at a round table event in Pisa, reported by Il Corriere della Sera.

"If you win in Milan but then lose your next two, that win in Milan's worthless.

"We've had a full squad available since Sept. 10 and I think that we're doing really well now. We've been together for 20 days and I'm pleased with the way the lads are working, considering all the difficulties we had.

"I think our aim has got to be to get to March in the best condition possible to be able to play for our chances in the league as well as in the Champions League, because we need to get through and play a great Champions League campaign."

Juve trail second-placed Inter by eight points after seven games.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

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MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Juan Jesus: ‘Winning all that matters’

http://www.football-italia.net/74242/juan-jesus-‘winning-all-matters’?

 
Oct 12, 2015
 
Inter defender Juan Jesus says “all that counts is winning” against Juventus “no matter the score”.

The Derby d’Italia will be contested at San Siro on Sunday, with the Nerazzurri winless at home to their great rivals since 2010.

“It will be a great match, it’s the Derby d’Italia,” the Brazilian told Inter Channel.

“The Coach [Roberto Mancini] will prepare us in the best way for the match. We can win at San Siro. Juve need points, but we need them even more to make up for the [4-1] defeat to Fiorentina.

“The important thing is to win, no matter the score. If it’s 1-0 or 2-1, all that counts is winning.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

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MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

The return of the real Juventus

Juventus have resembled the walking wounded, but after recovering players
from injury Luca Cetta expects the Bianconeri to start the climb up the table.

http://www.football-italia.net/74263/return-real-juventus?

 
Oct 13, 2015
 
Immediate reactions weren’t encouraging. In some discomfort as he lay prone on the turf, Alvaro Morata was stretchered from the field. Initial speculation pointed to potentially a month on the sidelines.

The scenario echoed that of Claudio Marchisio last season, originally ruled out for at least six months following a knee injury picked up on Italy duty. That sparked a furore between Antonio Conte and his former employers. Fortunately for Juve, the midfielder was back in a matter of weeks.

Like in March, reports of a long-term issue weren’t one Juve were hoping to read. So all concerned could breathe a sigh of relief when it was announced Morata had suffered only heavy bruising to his leg. With a crucial Derby d’Italia looming it was a welcome statement.

Injuries have been the theme of the season. After a raft of summer changes, Massimiliano Allegri was not helped by having players sidelined. Never has the Coach had a full strength team available. It was hard enough to adjust following a number of summer arrivals and departures through the Vinovo gates. Having to piece together a team exacerbated the problem. Only once has Allegri named an unchanged line-up, as the side which downed Sevilla backed up to defeat Bologna.

Morata wasn’t the only worry over the international weekend, the injury crisis not aided by Paul Pogba suffering an ankle injury. Meanwhile, a thigh concern saw Roberto Pereyra pull out of Argentina’s shock loss to Ecuador.

Injuries have contributed to Juve’s lowly standing in Serie A – currently 12th on eight points from seven matches. But that’s not the only reason. The Bianconeri failed to convert domination into goals against Udinese, Chievo and Frosinone. They’ve also shown a soft centre defensively. According to WhoScored.com only Fiorentina have conceded fewer shots per game in Serie A, yet Juve have conceded eight times. It has put pressure on the Coach, who last season went so close to claiming an historic treble.

Slowly the infirmary is emptying. Pogba left Les Bleus training to return to Turin and both he and Morata are undergoing extra training sessions to be ready for the trip to Milan. “Working flat out to be ready for Sunday!” Morata wrote on Twitter with an accompanying photo taken at Vinovo. “The injuries we’ve been dealing with are nothing in particular. I’m fairly confident they’ll both be available against Inter,” Allegri declared.

In addition, Marchisio and Stefano Sturaro have returned to training after missing recent outings. They join two players who only just traversed the comeback trail. Sami Khedira made his debut for the Turin giants versus Sevilla and then scored against Bologna. Kwadwo Asamoah returned in the latter. All four will be up for selection. Meanwhile, Mario Mandzukic is close to taking the field again.

Finally, Allegri is working with something resembling his best team. The only major concern remains Stephan Lichtsteiner. He has started his recovery from surgery following breathing problems, but will be unavailable in the upcoming weeks. Yet the situation will be alleviated as Martin Caceres returns from his club-imposed exile.

With Allegri getting the wounded back out into the trenches, now we will see the ‘real’ Juventus. It’s an important period of the season for the Old Lady, especially given leaders Fiorentina are 10 points clear.

After stuttering through the opening months, the Bianconeri need consistency, something Allegri has acknowledged: “To win the Scudetto we need consistent results, which is something we’ve struggled with so far this season in Serie A. Therefore we need to be consistent, because a victory away to Inter followed by two defeats renders the win pointless.”

The action comes thick and fast throughout the remainder of October, which also includes the Derby della Mole and third Champions League outing versus Borussia Monchengladbach. Overall, there are five games in 14 days. It can help shape their season prospects. That Allegri has recovered most of his squad is vital.

In some respects the season starts now for Juventus. They know they cannot afford to keep dropping points. The Bianconeri have lost as many times in eight matches as they did in 38 last term. But with a full deck to play with, Allegri can show his real hand. This is the time for Juventus to flex their muscles.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Caceres returns to Juventus squad after car crash ban

The Uruguay international, who slammed his Ferrari into two parked cars in Turin
on September 29, will be available to face Inter at San Siro on Sunday.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/723/serie-a/2015/10/13/16285802/-?

 
Oct 13, 2015
 
Juventus have cleared Martin Caceres to resume first-team duties after suspending the defender for his involvement in a car crash last month.

The Uruguay international lost control of his Ferrari just after midnight on September 29 and collided with two parked cars and a bus stop .

Caceres, whose agent Daniel Fonseca admitted had been slightly over the legal alcohol limit for driving, escaped unhurt but he was fined €1,000 by Juve and indefinitely suspended from all first-team activities.

However, the Bianconeri confirmed to ANSA on Tuesday that the former Sevilla man has been given the green light to rejoin Massimiliano Allegri's squad ahead of Sunday's Serie A clash with Inter.

Caceres' availability is a major boost for the Italian champions, who have been rocked by the loss of Stephan Lichtsteiner for an indefinite period of time, after the Switzerland wing-back was forced to undergo an emergency heart procedure.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Inter Defender Talks Up
Crucial Game Against Juventus

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/10/inter-defender-talks-up-crucial-game-against-juventus/?

 
Oct 13, 2015
 
Inter left-back Alex Telles wants to beat bitter rivals Juventus in the upcoming Serie A meeting in order to make the fans happy.

The ex-Galatasaray player said he is happy because this will be a crucial week for Serie A, and wants the Nerazzurri to remain focused.

“We are working hard for this game, it is a game we must win,” the Brazilian told fcinternews.it.

“It is a week in which the league can change a lot, it is an important week.

“We must stay focused because it is a crucial game.

“My message for the fans is that we will work hard, focus on the game and on winning.”

Telles concluded saying the team were keen to defeat the reigning Scudetto holders.

“We want to win against Juventus for ourselves and for our fans.”

Inter are currently second with 16 points, two behind leaders Fiorentina, whilst Juventus, who visit the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on Sunday night are 12th with eight points.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Barzagli: ‘Juventus must not lose’

http://www.football-italia.net/74318/barzagli-‘juventus-must-not-lose’?

 
Oct 14, 2015
 
Andrea Barzagli warns Juventus can’t afford to lose the Derby d’Italia with Inter on Sunday.

The Bianconeri have started the season poorly and are currently 12th in Serie A, eight points behind the Nerazzurri.

“If we want to have a bit of hope we definitely have to come out of the game undefeated,” Barzagli told Sky.

“At the same time, we’re still at the beginning of the season so it’s still early. Eight points is a big gap for Inter though, and if they get a result if would be a problem for us.

“They started very strongly, so they will be a very difficult team for us to beat, and we’ll have to prepare to the maximum.

“We’ve had two good games [against Sevilla and Bologna], but I think we can still improve.

"I think we have to improve some small defect that we have, because we’re conceding more than you normally would considering the number of shots on our goal.

“That means we’re lacking something on the pitch that we had before, so I think there’s still a lot to do and we shouldn’t be deceived by these two victories.

“I think when you’re defending it’s not just about the physical side, but also the mental one. You have to be constantly focused, not conceding a metre to your opponents.

“Of course, the defensive balance doesn’t just depend on one position, but how the whole team moves.

“The players in front of us have to give us a hand, just as the attacking play also depends on us defenders.”

Barzagli then discussed some of the new arrivals in Turin this summer.

“Cuadrado has impressed us with his personality. He always wants the ball. He’s working very well, as we all are, and that’s an important starting point.

“Rugani? Daniele is very professional, he turned up for pre-season before all of us, he’s studying the veterans, and he has the advantage of being very attentive.

“He’s promising, as are all our young players. It will be an important season for him, in future he’ll take charge of this Juve.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Ravanelli Urges Supporters To Be Patient With Team

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/10/former-juventus-striker-urges-supporters-to-be-patient-with-team/?

 
Oct 14, 2015
 
Former Juventus forward Fabrizio Ravanelli says the club’s fans must allow time for the Bianconeri to get things right this season.

The Old Lady have had a frustrating start to their league campaign and as a result find themselves in 12th position in Serie A, but Ravanelli believes supporters must be calm about the team’s performances.

Speaking to radio program I Laziali Sono Qua, Ravanelli called for calm about Juventus’ imbalanced fortunes so far this term.

“You can’t always win,” Ravanelli told Elle Radio.

“The Bianconeri has changed so much and it takes patience.

“In the Champions League, beating Manchester City and Sevilla, the club has proven to be effective.

“Some issues have conspired against Allegri’s team, but after four consecutive league titles you can not fault a team like Juventus, which has proven itself capable of surviving even the failures.

“The winner does not cling to excuses.

“When things go wrong, you know where you are wrong and fix it.”

Asked about this weekend’s derby between Inter and Juventus, Ravanelli believes it’s a good opportunity for his former team to find their form again.

“Inter-Juventus may be the occasion for the Bianconeri to find direction,” continued Ravanelli.

“The Nerazzurri now have more to lose than Allegri’s team.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Felipe Melo injury scare

http://www.football-italia.net/74319/felipe-melo-injury-scare?

 
Oct 14, 2015
 
Inter midfielder Felipe Melo skipped training with a muscular problem, but is optimistic he can face Juventus on Sunday.

The Brazilian did not take part in today’s session due to a slight muscular problem.

However, Sky Sport Italia claim it was mainly as a precaution and he should be ready to start against Juve.

Since arriving from Galatasaray on transfer deadline day, Melo has been a key figure in the Nerazzurri midfield.

It is also an opportunity to face one of his former clubs.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Kondogbia key to Inter Milan's success
in Derby d'Italia vs. Juventus

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/internazionale/110/blog/post/2663123/kondogbia-key-to-inter-milans-success-vs-juventus-in-derby?

 
Oct 14, 2015
 
As the corner looped out to the edge of the box, Maicon controlled the ball on his right knee, dinked it over the onrushing Amauri, took one more touch on the same knee and then blasted the ball past Gianluigi Buffon from 20 yards out. Inter fans will remember this day, and not just because of this goal. They will identify April 2010 as the last time they beat Juventus at home (2-0 on that day). Five-and-a-half years later, the two will face off in the Derby d'Italia on Sunday night, and Roberto Mancini has not forgotten Inter's five-match winless streak at the San Siro against Juve.

Speaking to reporters as he attended the National Culture Awards in Montefeltro, the Inter coach noted that beating Juventus would be "a nice boost" for his team. Mancini is aware of the weight this rivalry carries and the controversies it can give rise to. Who can forget the clash from the 1997-98 season when referee Pietro Ceccarini denied Ronaldo a penalty for what seemed like a foul on him by Mark Iuliano. The memory of this has stuck firmly in the minds of the 'Interesti'.

Inter could open up an 11-point gap if they manage to beat the Bianconeri and this would give the Nerazzurri faithful reason to believe that their demolition at home to Fiorentina was a one-off.

Juventus may have conceded in 10 of their last 11 league games and may have also have had their worst start to a season since 1980-81, but they cannot be taken lightly. Ironically, in the aforementioned season, they won the league and they will be hoping that their last victories against Sevilla and Bologna have signalled a turning point. The Old Lady will certainly be hoping that this is the case, while at the same time thinking that the Nerazzurri's mauling to the Viola and draw against Sampdoria shows that Inter's season is stalling.

Mancini's focus is on Geoffrey Kondogbia, who suffered a minor injury against Sampdoria. Kondogbia is expected to be fit and ready to play, and so Mancini will be hoping that his most expensive signing can put in a stellar performance against the Turin giants. One of the most enthralling duels in the Derby d'Italia will be the battle in the midfield between Kondogbia and Paul Pogba. The Bianconeri midfielder is also expected to overcome an injury to play and this titanic clash is certainly something that won't be missed.

It is certainly a game that could be won and lost in midfield as both teams have lacked fluidity and creativity this year, despite their various degrees of success in transition. Juventus have been arguably too "Pogba-centric", especially in the early games and have relied too much on the youngster carrying the team while the new players adapt. Inter, on the contrary, have perhaps not been as "Kondogbia-centric" as they should, with the ex-Monaco man offering up indifferent performances.

Kondogbia has managed to work well with Felipe Melo in certain games and has made the Nerazzurri midfield look secure. The Frenchman has, however, not performed the "box-to-box" midfielder role he managed to do so well at Monaco. It is this reading of the game and dynamism that he is still yet to find at Inter. Perhaps it is confidence, but the frustrating thing for Mancini must be that if Kondogbia just believed more in his own ability, he would be a bigger asset to the team.

Despite the form of Juventus, a win in the Derby d'Italia will be enormous for the Nerazzurri, whether from a confidence or a points perspective. Their season, without exaggeration, may be shaped by this result. This is not a game where style will be important; it is all about the result and if Kondogbia can overcome his compatriot in battle in the middle, then Inter stand a good chance of winning.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Jovetic: 'Could have joined Juve'

http://www.football-italia.net/74339/jovetic-could-have-joined-juve?

 
Oct 15, 2015
 
Inter star striker Stevan Jovetic reveals he was close to signing for Juventus back when Antonio Conte was the Coach.

The Montenegrin will be expected to carry his team in the Derby d'Italia between the two Italian giants this Sunday.

“During Conte's times I was very close to Juve. There was interest, that's certain enough.

“They called my agent, though I never spoke with Conte myself. In the end I stayed at City.

“I have no regrets, though a thousand things happened that didn't allow me to play at my best. My experience in Manchester was fantastic.

“I lost one week's worth of training but I'm feeling good and I'll be ready by Sunday."

JoJo then discussed the dark moment of his past injury.

“I broke my cruciate ligament at the age of 20 and that was the worst moment in my career. That's when you see who your true friends are.

“I always knew that I was going to come back stronger than I was before.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Icardi: 'Maybe Juve fear me'

http://www.football-italia.net/74342/icardi-maybe-juve-fear-me?

 
Oct 15, 2015
 
Mauro Icardi looks forward to the 'special game' of Inter-Juventus, while wondering: 'Are they afraid of me?'

The Derby d'Italia is the highlight of Week 8 in Serie A, and the 22-year-old will be entasked alongside Stevan Jovetic with breaking down the Bianconeri defence.

“It's a special game,” he told La Stampa. “I wonder if at Juve they are afraid of me?

“Do I always score against the Bianconeri? I started scoring when I was a kid and I never stopped. Should I do that now?”

Icardi was then asked about his lifestyle and his alleged reputation as a 'bad boy'.

“Appearances deceive. In life I always did things my own way and in the end I was right.

“Now I enjoy the delight of a wonderful extended family and I have everything I desired: four beautiful children and football.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Juve: Pogba, Khedira, Marchisio in

http://www.football-italia.net/74347/juve-pogba-khedira-marchisio?

 
Oct 15, 2015
 
Juventus will be able to count on their starting midfield trio of Paul Pogba, Sami Khedira and Claudio Marchisio against Inter.

The succession of injuries in the Bianconeri's midfield kept Coach Max Allegri from ever fielding all of his stars simultaneously.

According to Sport Mediaset, the 'Magnificent Three' should all be available for this Sunday's Derby d'Italia, the potentially decisive match against Inter.

The main doubts relate to Pogba, who returned from international duty with an ankle sprain. While sources are optimistic that he will make it, his presence is still not certain.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8523]

INTER - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 8
Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Icardi: 'Juve perfect to come back'

http://www.football-italia.net/74349/icardi-juve-perfect-come-back?

 
Oct 15, 2015
 
Inter striker Mauro Icardi says he came to Inter 'to win everything', and believes Juventus are 'perfect to come back' to first place.

The Nerazzurri need to bounce back after making one point in two games before the break, and this Sunday's Derby d'Italia against the Bianconeri provides them with a special opportunity.

“I married Inter with only one objective in mind: winning everything,” he told Il Secolo XIX.

“This is a glorious club but they're emerging from years in which they didn't win anything.

“When I signed my extension until 2019 I fixed my mind on bringing the club back where it belongs.”

Icardi also discussed the terrible 4-1 defeat to Fiorentina in Week 6, who have now kicked them out of first place.

“We changed our way of playing, then everything immediately went wrong.

“There was the penalty, the red card for Miranda, I tried interfering with their game but to no effect. It was their night.

“Now the Bianconeri are perfect to come back.

“Nobody in Italy expected them to start off this way, but we'll see where they are at the end. Pirlo, Vidal and Tevez were their pillars and they're definitely feeling their absence.

“Dybala? We could have played together at Inter, then Juventus signed him. This means he has great quality, which you'll see soon... but hopefully not on Sunday!”

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127