Friday 11 March
Moggi hails ‘great’ Juventus
Football Italia
Director general Luciano Moggi believes his Juventus side are back to their best after dumping Real Madrid out of Europe.
There were doubts starting to creep in about the true quality of the side, after they recently let an eight point lead slip in Serie A. But the outfit last night overturned a 1-0 first leg defeat to Real, to book themselves a place in the Champions’ League quarter-finals.
"We not only eliminated Real Madrid but we have underlined that we are a great side," said the club official. "I think that all of the players on the pitch demonstrated that they are players of the highest standard. We are not looking to send any messages but it is clear that we have quality and can beat anyone."
The Stadio Delle Alpi success was made the more impressive given that key man Pavel Nedved was absent. The Czech ace picked up a head injury in the first leg defeat and hasn’t been able to feature since.
"He’s now back in training and could start on the bench this Sunday," continued Moggi. "If that doesn’t happen then he will be back the following week. His absence has been very serious for us but few people have commented on that.
"We have just used our strengths to maintain our leadership in Serie A and are now through to the last eight of the Champions’ League."
Trez revels in goal joy
Football Italia
Juventus striker David Trezeguet admits that his acrobatic goal against Real Madrid has gone a long way to putting this season’s difficulties behind him.
The France forward, who scored the goal that forced extra-time in Wednesday’s heavyweight Champions’ League contest at the Stadio Delle Alpi, has missed much of the season with a shoulder injury and a virus.
"This goal has done me a lot of good after a difficult year," the 27-year-old said after Juventus sealed a 2-1 aggregate win.
Trezeguet came on in the 56th minute and broke the deadlock with an instinctive scissor-kick 15 minutes before the end. "It was an amazing goal," he said. "The move was brilliant and I found myself in a delicate situation."
The former Monaco hitman also spoke about the illness that had kept him out for the best part of a month.
"At first we thought it was a normal fever and the medical staff didn’t want to take me to one side," he explained. "I continued training but I kept on vomiting afterwards. So they decided that I should train separately and I did that for nearly a month.
"Only one in 300 people catch this virus so I’ve been quite unlucky," he added.
With France playing two key World Cup qualifiers, against Switzerland and Israel later this month, Trezeguet’s return to form is particularly timely.
"I feel good again and I know that the hardest part is behind me," he said. "I really wanted to get myself well again for the national team because it is very important to me. We’ve got two exceptional games coming up and I want to be involved."
Juventus hero Zalayeta: Our strength is our unity
Tribal Football
Juventus match-winner Marcelo Zalayeta says they will remain humble, despite an incredible victory over Real Madrid on Wednesday night. The Uruguay international struck the winner in the 116th minute to send Real's galacticos spiraling out of the Champions League and Juve's Delle Alpi home crowd into a frenzy.
The lanky striker declared: "We are happy, I have scored a goal and now, indeed, it is important to look forward. It is not every day you score against Real Madrid, nor do you see the Delle Alpi so enthusiastic.
"This Juve is a humble team and with our unity we can go a long way."
Juventus prefer Kuffour over Bayern Munich pal Kovac
Tribal Football
Juventus are not interested in Bayern Munich defender Robert Kovac, but teammate Samuel Kuffour, it has emerged. Both players are off contract in June and Kovac's agent revealed over the weekend that Juve had made an offer for next season.
But those close to Juve chief Luciano Moggi say he isn't interested in Kovac, but is keen to lure Kuffour back to Turin. The Ghana international has an Italian agent and while he has spoken openly of an ambition to join Arsenal, Moggi is convinced he could be tempted to Juve.
Thursday 10 March
Juventus 2 - 0 R Madrid aet (2-1 on agg)
Football Italia
David Trezeguet took them to extra time and Marcelo Zalayeta completed the job as Juve knock Real Madrid out of the Champions' League.
Fabio Capello and Zinedine Zidane came face to face with their former clubs and Juventus had to overturn a 1-0 first leg defeat in Madrid. They had already come back from 2-1 down to win here 3-1 and reach the 2003 Final, but the hero of that night - Pavel Nedved - is still out of action following a head injury he suffered in Spain a fortnight ago.
Manuele Blasi is also suspended, while David Trezeguet and Alessio Tacchinardi are not 100% fit, so Gianluca Zambrotta was pushed forward to make way for Gianluca Pessotto. Capello went for broke with the 4-3-3 system that has proved successful in recent weeks in Serie A.
There were several other familiar faces to the Peninsula, with ex-Roma man Walter Samuel and former Inter heroes Ronaldo and Roberto Carlos.
Juve had a great chance to take the lead and even the tie up on aggregate after just five minutes. Marcelo Zalayeta's through ball found Zlatan Ibrahimovic unmarked and he shot straight at the goalkeeper from seven yards.
Mauro Camoranesi drilled a fine effort inches past the far post from 20 metres, then an Alessandro Del Piero shot squirmed away from Iker Casillas and the Spaniard was very fortunate that the ball went out for a corner rather than into the net.
From the resulting set-piece, Ibrahimovic's header was deflected over, but the referee did not award the corner. Zalayeta drilled an angled effort wide from a poor clearance and volleyed over, while Zidane blasted Real's first chance well off target after 23 minutes.
There was a controversial moment on the half-hour mark when Ibrahimovic nutmegged Raul Bravo and was clearly held back, but the German referee and his linesman bizarrely did not award a free kick at the by-line.
Gianluca Pessotto's fierce strike was charged down on the edge of the box, then Ronaldo curled a low drive just wide of the far post on the counter-attack. The former Inter man again went at the defence single-handed, but a brilliant Jonathan Zebina tackle took the ball off his foot.
At the other end, Zalayeta's header was not cleared effectively and the Uruguayan nearly squeezed in the loose ball.
Ronaldo started the second half in similar fashion as Real finally got their first shot on target. He sprinted forward on the counter and his angled drive was fingertipped on to the far post by Gianluigi Buffon.
Zalayeta's deflected shot was into the arms of Casillas and David Trezeguet replaced captain Del Piero for the final 35 minutes. This will be another important moment in the fractious rapport between 'Alex' and Coach Capello, although he had been rather quiet throughout the game.
There were penalty appeals at the Delle Alpi when Camoranesi exchanged passes with Zalayeta and ran into the box only to fall under Samuel's challenge. The referee waved play on and, although there was contact, the midfielder seemed to be looking for the spot-kick.
Ibrahimovic ballooned a free kick well over from a very promising position, as Juve were now without their set-piece specialist. Camoranesi had another shot deflected past the near post and from the resulting corner Zalayeta nodded wide.
Figo's shot was comfortably blocked by Buffon and Ibrahimovic rolled across for Pessotto, whose shot was charged down for a corner. The Swede skipped past defenders moments later only to fire off target yet again.
Alessio Tacchinardi replaced Pessotto, moving Zambrotta into his favoured full-back position. The midfielder turned a volley wide as Juve continued to be horribly wasteful in front of goal. There was a curious moment on 73 minutes when Camoranesi's wayward effort was accidentally blocked by teammate Trezeguet.
Guti substituted former Juve star Zidane. The deadlock was eventually broken moments later.
Ibrahimovic held up Camoranesi's cross on the byline and Trezeguet acrobatically hooked it over his shoulder from six yards. It was a similar goal to the one the Frenchman scored in 2003 and levelled the tie on aggregate.
Buffon needed to stand his ground and stuck out an arm to punch away a powerful and swerving Roberto Carlos free kick as extra time loomed. Soon after, Ronaldo's goal was correctly disallowed for a clear offside position.
Ibrahimovic put in a cross after some fantastic footwork, but Camoranesi nodded it past the near post, then Buffon comfortably smothered a Ronaldo long-range strike.
Swedish international Ibrahimovic wasted perhaps the best chance of the game when Trezeguet's dummy left him clear on the edge of the area and he somehow managed to balloon it over the bar.
It went to extra time and the Golden Goal rule has been shelved, so it returned to the traditional two halves of 15 minutes apiece. Michael Owen replaced Raul after five minutes to inject a bit more pace into the side with Juve's legs increasingly tired.
Zalayeta went close to turning the tie with a volley from Camoranesi's free kick that was only inches away from the near post. Camoranesi himself curled a couple of efforts off target as Juve's finishing remained disappointing.
There was controversy after 21 minutes of extra time when Ronaldo and Tacchinardi were sent off for an off the ball incident. The linesman spotted the wrestling and then the Brazilian's stupid kick from behind and ordered both players red carded.
Figo curled the resulting free kick past the near post, but soon after Juventus doubled their lead with a stunning strike.
Raul Bravo's dreadful clearance went straight out to Zalayeta, who thumped home a low volley into the bottom corner of the net.
Juventus: Buffon; Zebina, Thuram, Cannavaro, Pessotto (Tacchinardi 65); Camoranesi, Emerson, Zambrotta; Del Piero (Trezeguet 56), Ibrahimovic, Zalayeta (Olivera 119)
Real Madrid: Casillas; Raul Bravo, Samuel, Helguera, Roberto Carlos; Gravesen, Beckham (Solari 77), Figo; Zidane (Guti 73); Ronaldo, Raul (Owen 95)
Ref: Merk (Ger)
Sent off: Ronaldo 113 (R), Tacchinardi 113 (J)
Capello is satisfied
Juventus.com
He’s immediately asked why he ran into the changing rooms right after the final whistle. Fabio Capello tells about shouting his lungs out. Then he analyses their great win.
“It was a very important and tough match for Juventus, due to the 0-1 in the first leg. We won, playing with heart, brains and good quality. The match was very hard, but we conceded very few to the other side, except for a shot by Ronaldo and two free kicks, one for Figo and one for Roberto Carlos”.
He’s asked about Zalayeta and Pessotto, who both performed a great match. “Such are players who train with great commitment and when you need them they never let you down.”
Trezeguet’s comment
Juventus.com
“We’re happy, we played an excellent match, causing Real some trouble, especially on the first goal, playing with great intensity during the whole match.”
David Trezeguet doesn’t behave out of his character: he put his own personal mark on the match when he got into the the second half, paving the way for qualification to quarter finals. His was a masterful goal, a precise and powerful scissors-kick, which is even more important as it occurs after the hard time David has gone through.
“Yes, this has been a quite unlucky season for me: first I had to stay out for the shoulder injury, then because of the virus I caught. Anyway, I fulfilled my most important wish: scoring a winning goal against Real Madrid. Now I have to continue working to regain a top condition. I think I can recover nearly 100% in two weeks’ time.”
As for Champions’ League draw, David has no preferences about next opponents but he knows exactly who he wouldn’t like to meet: “I hope we can avoid Italian clubs. It’s not nice to play for qualification against a club you usually meet in the home championship.”
Capello: Juve earned it
Football Italia
Fabio Capello maintains Juve fully deserved to knock Real Madrid out of the Champions’ League after 210 minutes of tense football.
“It is a deserved result and we played well against an opponent that had a real desire to get a victory here,” noted the Juventus boss after their 2-1 aggregate win. “We also created plenty of chances, but unfortunately weren’t able to make more of them.
“Real’s only real opportunities were that Ronaldo upright and Roberto Carlos free kick.”
Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Mauro Camoranesi and Marcelo Zalayeta were wasteful in front of goal, but substitute David Trezeguet scored the crucial strike that took this tie to extra time. “Trezeguet still isn’t 100 per cent fit and we agreed to put him in later because he is more effective when the tempo begins to drop,” revealed Capello.
The tactician made a surprise choice when he replaced captain Alessandro Del Piero with Trezeguet after just 55 minutes of play. “Zalayeta works harder and is a more valuable asset in the air. Del Piero did his job, just as everyone else did, as this was a game where everyone had to come together for the result.”
There are now no Spanish representatives in the quarter-finals, while Juventus and Milan could be joined by Inter when they play their second leg tie against Porto next week.
“Over the two legs I definitely think we deserved to qualify. Real play well in the middle of the park, but I’d say we were clearly the better side,” concluded Capello.
Gianluca Pessotto stepped into the full-back role so that Gianluca Zambrotta could fill in for the injured Pavel Nedved.
“The team performance was at a great level and it’s one of those nights that make football worth playing,” said the defender. “We were aware of the difficulties, but Juventus have proved they want to go all the way in this competition.”
Pessotto revealed that Capello had predicted the tie would go to extra time and his tactical plans were based on that theory.
“The Coach said that we should attack, but not leave space at the back, as this was going to be a long game and the breakthrough could come at any moment. Real still created a few chances, but I’d say Juve were a step above tonight.”
“Our patience was the key, as we didn’t get nervous as the clock kept on ticking and maintained our concentration until we reaped what we sowed. We knew conceding a goal would mean going out, so the whole team performance was magnificent.”
Juventus coach Capello: I couldn't control myself!
Tribal Football
Juventus coach Fabio Capello admits he couldn't control himself after seeing Marcelo Zalayeta fire his team into the Champions League quarterfinals last night.
Zalayeta struck just four minutes before penalties were due to decide the tie after David Trezeguet had levelled the aggregate scores at 1-1 against Real Madrid on 75 minutes.
"Immediately after the final whistle, I ran inside the changing room and shouted as loud as I could because I was so happy after such a tense match," beamed Capello.
"We didn't give them chances to score and I'm delighted with my players' performances. It was always going to be difficult to overcome the 1-0 defeat from the first leg but we played with heart, determination and quality.
"We didn't allow Madrid to play as they wanted. We were winning balls in midfield and immediately running towards the penalty box, making it difficult for them. I have no doubt we deserved to qualify."
Juve midfielder Gianluca Zambrotta added: "We cannot be happier than this. We fully deserved to qualify, giving them a real footballing lesson.
"Ahead of the game, Madrid were talking as if qualification was a certainty, but tonight, Juve were the real galácticos."
Palermo president hopes for Juventus help over recruiting
Tribal Football
Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini says he will begin talks this month about bringing Italian football's brightest young talents to the club.
"Within the next twenty days we will make the first negotiations of the market, I want the best talents between 18 and 20 years of age in order to develop them at Palermo," revealed Zamparini.
Bologna midfielder Mourad Meghni and Verona attacker Valon Behrami are the two players Zamparini has his eyes on.
Palermo could land both with the assistance of Juventus. The Turin giants are also keen and could sign the pair and loan them to Palermo for next season.
In exchange, Juve are expected to ask for Palermo defender Andrea Barzagli.
Chievo-Juventus
Football Italia
Juventus need a victory to maintain their leadership and come face to face with another team that has been at the centre of controversy this week.
The fires are still raging from Saturday’s 2-1 win at Roma, as both the Bianconeri goals should probably have been disallowed. The controversy surrounding the Turin giants and refereeing errors are hardly new, but they take on another edge in this match, as Chievo felt very hard done by in their defeat at Sampdoria.
Lorenzo D’Anna was forced to take his penalty twice and saw the second attempt saved, while John Mensah was harshly sent off and Samp’s goal came from a ricochet. The decisions prompted President Luca Campedelli to claim they were “sacrificial lambs to the slaughter of relegation,” but the fact remains they have lost their last four on the trot and are now just two points above the relegation zone.
Juve are still without Pavel Nedved and Paolo Montero, while David Trezeguet is slowly working his way back to full fitness after a nasty bout of flu. The Frenchman could start at the Stadio Bentegodi, giving Alessandro Del Piero or Zlatan Ibrahimovic a rest.
The trident attack system has been successful, but could be shelved by Fabio Capello. Chievo are without Simone Tiribocchi, Federico Cossato, Marco Malagò and Julio Cesar, while Mensah is suspended.
Chievo (probable): Marchegiani; Moro, Mandelli, D’Anna, Lanna; Luciano, Brighi, Baronio, Semioli; Pellissier, Amauri
Juventus (probable): Buffon; Zebina, Thuram, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Emerson, Blasi, Olivera; Zalayeta, Trezeguet
Ref: To follow
Report: Juve capture Kovac
Football Italia
There are strong reports that Juventus have already signed a contract with Bayern Munich defender Robert Kovac.
The club had already been linked with the player earlier this week, but the latest news from the Italian papers suggests a deal has been struck for a free transfer as he will be out of contract at the end of the season. He is valued at over £3m.
Croatian international Kovac will turn 31 years of age in April and Calciomercato.it claims he has put pen to paper on a two-year deal with Juventus. It will be the first Serie A experience for the central defender, who was born in Berlin and played for Bayer Leverkusen before moving to Bayern Munich in 2001.
Fabio Capello and director general Luciano Moggi have been revolutionising the defence since the summer, allowing Mark Iuliano to join Real Mallorca and loaning out Nicola Legrottaglie (Bologna) and Igor Tudor (Siena).
Ciro Ferrara is set to retire at the end of the current campaign and Paolo Montero is also moving on after spending most of this season on the bench.
I’m jinxed, says injured Kapo
Football Italia
Juventus midfielder Olivier Kapo is distraught after being forced onto the sidelines with a new hamstring injury. The 24-year-old France international, injured during Juve’s 1-0 loss to Sampdoria on February 2, broke down on Sunday just days after resuming training.
"I’m jinxed, I just can’t believe it," said the former Auxerre ace, who misses tonight’s Champions’ League game against Real Madrid. "I just accelerated during training and I felt the hamstring go. Exactly the same injury as the one that’s kept me sidelined for so long.
"The injury is one thing, but to miss the match against Real, it’s almost too much to take," he added.
Kapo, who has scored three times in nine caps for his country, has struggled to impose himself in Italy and is yet to find the back of the net, in 11 games, since his summer move.
Wednesday 09 March
Capello has selection doubts
Football Italia
Juventus boss Fabio Capello is still pondering which starting XI to select for Wednesday’s Champions’ League tie against Real Madrid.
The tactician was expected to play with a 4-3-3 system as the Italians look to overturn the 1-0 first leg defeat. But Capello could opt for a more traditional 4-4-2, given the fitness concerns regarding both Alessio Tacchinardi and David Trezeguet.
"I still have a few doubts in midfield and in attack, the only thing I’m certain about at the moment is my defence," he explained. "Tacchinardi didn’t complete training on Monday and we’ll need to keep a close eye on him. I also need to look at Trezeguet who still hasn’t got 90 minutes in his legs."
The Frenchman is set to start on the bench, while Tacchinardi is needed as both Manuele Blasi (suspension) and Pavel Nedved (injury) are unavailable.
"We need to be fully concentrated in order to not give Real any opportunities on the counter-attack," continued the tactician. "It is such an important game that I’ve hardly had to say anything to my side. It will be like a Cup Final.
"My players have been concentrating fully since the start of the week. None of the teams will be thinking about Serie A or La Liga, but just the Champions’ League."
Real are in confident mood ahead of the tie, with Roberto Carlos even claiming that Ronaldo will find the target. "Ronaldo could be a key figure but Real have so many," added Capello. "Prior to the first game, everyone was talking about Raul, Ronaldo and Zidane only for Helguera to score."
But Capello, who led the Madrid outfit to a Spanish League title, believes that January signing Thomas Gravesen is perhaps Real’s most important player.
"He’s given more balance to the side by playing in front of the defence," he said of the former Everton man. "He’s really played well for them in recent games and he’s becoming a vital figure, especially as such an attacking side as Real need someone like him."
Juventus squad: Buffon, Chimenti, Birindelli, Cannavaro, Ferrara, Montero, Pessotto, Thuram, Zambrotta, Zebina, Appiah, Camoranesi, Emerson, Olivera, Tacchinardi, Del Piero, Ibrahimovic, Trezeguet, Zalayeta.
Juventus (probable): Buffon; Zebina, Cannavaro, Thuram, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Emerson, Tacchinardi; Zalayeta, Ibrahimovic, Del Piero
Juventus v Real Madrid: Preview
ESPN Soccernet
Juventus are looking to play the perfect game on Wednesday evening in order to knock Real Madrid out of the Champions League. The Bianconeri enter the clash believing they can overturn the Spaniards' 1-0 lead in order to keep their European dream alive and they will do so in front of a sell-out Stadio Delle Alpi crowd.
Indeed not since Juve eliminated Madrid in the 2002-03 Champions League semi-final has the stadium been sold out. But the return of the Galacticos, who will be guided on the pitch by former Juve star Zinedine Zidane, will once again see the unusual scene of a packed venue.
Madrid may have lost that magical touch they had two years ago, having failed to clinch any silverware in recent seasons but the nine-times European champions are always a rival that demands respect. With the likes of David Beckham, Ronaldo and Zidane among their top stars, the Bianconeri know they will have to give their best if they wish to progress through to the next round.
"Against Real Madrid we have to play the perfect game," confirmed captain Alessandro Del Piero.
Zidane certainly agrees with the Italian striker, as Madrid's main priority remains the European competition with the league title an uncertainty. Madrid now trail Primera Liga leaders Barcelona by eight points following the weekend's draw against Valencia, and the mercurial Frenchman believes defeat is not an option for his side.
Zidane declared: "We are going to Turin to win and we will succeed. The Champions League is now our main objective and to be eliminated will be a disaster."
It is for such a reason that the midfielder will show no mercy against his former side.
Zidane added: "I want to do something great. Not because I will be playing against my ex-club or because I will be in front of my former fans but due to the fact that I want to give some joy to Madrid and to myself. Two years ago when I stepped out at the Delle Alpi my legs were trembling. Now the memory of Juve is a long way away."
But Wanderley Luxemburgo's men could commit the biggest mistake if they underestimate 'The Old Lady'. Fabio Capello's outfit may not display the skilful game that they once did but when it comes to handling pressure and being practical, Juve are the masters.
Juve warmed up for Wednesday's encounter by beating Roma 2-1 at the weekend in a high-tension game at the Stadio Olimpico that gave Capello a victory against his old club.
The win kept up the pressure on leaders AC Milan at the top of Serie A and for the second time in less than a week, Capello will be hoping to beat another of his former sides, a team he knows very well having guided Madrid to the Primera Liga title.
As long as his team show the same level of concentration they displayed in Rome, Capello believes his team can come out victorious.
"We can score at any time," said Capello. We just have to be patient and think that the game is long. What we cannot do is to give a goal away in the first minutes because that could be the worst thing that could happen to us."
He will rely on his defence to stop the advances of Ronaldo and Raul as Juve have the best backline in Serie A having conceded only 16 goals in 26 games. But the absence of midfielder Pavel Nedved, who is recovering from a head injury, may be a blow for the hosts and a blessing for Madrid.
"I am happy that Nedved will not be available as he was fantastic two years ago," admitted Zidane. "He really destroyed us."
Capello will also have to do without midfielder Emanuele Blasi who will serve a one-match ban and is set to be substituted by Alessio Tacchinardi. Once again, Capello is set to leave French forward David Trezeguet on the bench in preference of attacking trio Marcelo Zalayeta, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and in-form Del Piero.
CL Preview: Juventus-Real Madrid
Goal.com
As one of the most highly anticipated Champions League match-ups draws closer Real Madrid and Juventus prepare to face each other on Wednesday night. This heavyweight encounter could go right to the wire after Real’s narrow 1-0 win at home in the first leg.
BACKGROUND
Juventus were far from impressive as they crashed to a defeat at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium in Madrid for the first leg of this tie. The match was settled thanks to a solitary goal from Ivan Helguera as Real were unlucky not to make their dominance count for more.
Despite the loss, Fabio Capello’s side know from past experience that they can overcome their Spanish opponents. The Bianconeri were in a similar position two seasons ago after loosing 2-1 to Real in Spain. Juve won 3-1 at home, eventually progressing to the final and eliminating Real in the process. The Galacticos were comprehensively beaten in Turin as Juventus got their tactical approach to the match spot on.
This season both teams could not be more different in terms of style and approach. Whilst the Bianconeri are a much more balanced and organized team Real, the Spaniards tend to produce the more entertaining football. Despite the purchase of Walter Samuel and Thomas Gravesen, the Madrid side still look shaky in defence, something that will not have gone unnoticed by the Italians.
As the tie is perfectly poised for an interesting rematch the Real Madrid players are in confident mood ahead of their trip to Turin.
“Juventus should be warned that Ronaldo will score past them," predicted former Inter man Roberto Carlos. "Ronaldo is in great form again and he’ll definitely hit the target. We aren’t going there with the intention of playing for a draw."
As Juventus lost the first leg in Madrid 1-0, they will need to win by a two goal margin in order to qualify to the next round. Given the calibre of these two sides, the team that manages to progress to the next round will have a great chance of winning the competition in May.
TEAM NEWS
Juventus
Pavel nedved will definitely miss the tie after being hospitalised with a head injury. Trezeguet returns but should occupy a place on the bench as he is still lacking match fitness. Capello is expected to field Del Piero, Zalayeta and Ibrahimovic in a trident attack. Tacchinardi will replace the suspended Blasi in midfield.
Real Madrid
With Salgado still out through injury, Luxembourgo is expected to shuffle his pack. Raul Bravo should replace the right back. Raul has recovered from flu and should replace Michael Own who deputised in for the Spaniard in recent games. Brazilian keeper Cesar should also start in goal ahead of he injured Casillas.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Juventus
Zlatan Ibrahimovic has looked good all season for Juventus, but it is Del Piero that could really make the difference against Real. The striker’s experience of such games will be vital if Capello’s men are to progress in the competition. Recent games have seen Alex return to his best form and Real could be his next victim.
Real Madrid
Returning to his old hunting ground, Zidane will be desperate to triumph over his former team-mates The Frenchman was idolised by the Bianconeri faithful and will be desperate to help his new team through. Whilst Zidane has not shown the form he is capable of this season, Juventus will be in no mood to underestimate him.
PROBABLE STARTING XIs
Juventus: (4-3-3) Buffon; Zebina, Thuram, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Emerson, Tacchinardi; Del Piero, Zalayeta, Zlatan.
Real Madrid (4-4-2): Cesar, Raul Bravo, Helguera, Samuel, Roberto Carlos, Solari, Gravesen, Beckham, Figo, Raul (Owen), Ronaldo
PREDICTION
Juventus should win the encounter but may find it difficult to keep Real from scoring at their ground. Juventus 2-1 Real Madrid.
Tuesday 08 March
Alex hails ‘ugly’ victory
Football Italia
Alessandro Del Piero has admitted that Juventus’ win at Roma wasn’t a great spectacle for the game. The Bianconeri collected a precious 2-1 victory at the Stadio Olimpico on Saturday night, but the match was marred by too many fouls and some unsavoury challenges.
"There was too much nervousness out there," the Turin captain explained via his official website. "A little bit of everything went on during the match, and the tension on the field produced 72 fouls, far too many for a game of football."
It may not have been the greatest advert for Italian football but Del Piero, who was also slapped by Leandro Cufre in the encounter, was thankful for the points.
"In any case, we collected three indispensable points in order to keep up with Milan," added the Italian. "There is no doubt now that it will be a fight until the very end with the Rossoneri, as we have again demonstrated that we want the Scudetto as much as they do."
However, Alex is archiving the title race for now given the imminent arrival of Real Madrid in the Champions’ League.
"It is inevitable that we are already focused on the game against the Merengues," he continued. "We will be asked to give our very best and even more. We can go through but only if we play a perfect game."
Juventus, who play the Spaniards on Wednesday at the Delle Alpi, lost the first leg 1-0 after Ivan Helguera netted the only goal of the game.
Juventus keen on Kovac
Football Italia
Bayern Munich stopper Nico Kovac is being watched by Italian giants Juventus, says his agent. Juergen Milewski claims that the Serie A outfit have made Bayern an offer, thought to be around £3.6m, for the player. Kovac, a Czech Republic international, is available after he recently rejected a new two-year deal with the German outfit.
The Old Lady have also recently been linked with Kovac’s defensive partner Samuel Kuffour. The Ghana stopper has failed to agree terms over a new contract and he’ll leave for free at the end of the season.
The latter, who is set to be handed European citizenship in the next month, would be welcomed by Fabio Capello. The Juventus boss is a known fan of the international after he attempted to sign him while in charge of Roma.
The Delle Alpi outfit are keen to rejuvenate their central defensive options for the new campaign, due to the lack of cover for Lilian Thuram and Fabio Cannavaro. Juve presently only have Paolo Montero and Ciro Ferrara at the club as possible alternatives, following the January departures of Nicola Legrottaglie, Mark Iuliano and Igor Tudor.
Given that Montero is widely considered as past his best, and that Ferrara will retire in the summer, the club need some new faces.
Juventus chief Moggi: Deal for Roma's Cassano is complicated
Tribal Football
Juventus director general Luciano Moggi is delighted AS Roma striker Antonio Cassano wants to play for coach Fabio Capello, but insists a deal is unlikely for the youngster. Cassano declared on Saturday that he wants to play again for his former Roma coach, fueling speculation that Juve will bid for the player in June.
But Moggi said: "Cassano? Undoubtedly he is a champion but he has a contract with Roma. At this stage I do not see how we can sign him because he would have to ask to leave Roma."
Cassano's current deal expires in 2006.
Zidane fears Zlatan factor
Football Italia
Real Madrid ace Zinedine Zidane feels that his side must stop Zlatan Ibrahimovic if they are too eliminate Juventus from the Champions’ League. Real go into Wednesday’s last 16 clash with a 1-0 first leg advantage, but the former Bianconeri hero is concerned about the ability of Juve’s Swedish striker.
"Juventus fear us but we must go into the game with our eyes open," stated the Frenchman. "We must respect them as a team, all of them from Alessandro Del Piero to Jonathan Zebina. I’m worried about the whole side but Ibrahimovic is a player who at this moment in time is doing really well."
Zidane was a doubt for the Delle Alpi return but he’s recovered from injury along with Michael Owen and Raul.
"I’m feeling good," added the former Old Lady playmaker. "I’ve been rested from action for 10 days but I’ve been working hard in that time. I can’t wait for the game."
Zidane is also confident that his side know what is needed in order to reach the quarter-finals.
"We are going to Turin with the aim of scoring a goal and I think we will do that," added the midfielder. "If we don’t concede in the first 30 minutes then I think we have a great chance of getting a positive result.
"I expect Juventus to be very offensive and they will only defend when necessary. That suits us as we will have more space."
Juve look likely to be a threat in front of goal with reports suggesting that they will start the game with a trident attack. Del Piero and Ibrahimovic look certain to start, while David Trezeguet and Marcelo Zalayeta are in contention for the third attacking shirt.
Monday 07 March
Juventus chiefs welcome comments from Roma's Cassano
Tribal Football
Juventus director Antonio Giraudo welcomed the comments made by AS Roma striker Antonio Cassano before Saturday's clash between the two clubs.
Cassano managed to score in Roma's 2-1 defeat at home by Juve only hours after a television aired in which he spoke openly about his ambition to work again for Juve coach Fabio Capello.
"He is a sincere boy and his sincerity should be praised," said Giraudo. "He is a player who deserves natural and extraordinary sympathy: he is a great champion born with the ability to produce extraordinary performances."
Capello was also asked about Cassano's interview and said: "He's a sincere boy and is free to say what he thinks. I do not have a problem with it."
Juventus can trump Inter Milan for Ederson
Tribal Football
Juventus are threatening to trump Inter Milan for Nice defensive midfielder Ederson. Inter have first option on the 19 year-old Brazilian, but have been dithering about signing the youngster for next season which could leave the door open for Juve.
Ederson's agent, Antonio Caliendo, revealed: "Inter has an option on Ederson. This year he will play with Nice, but it will be a season of acclimatization in Europe, then Inter will be able to take advantage of their option in order to take him to Milan."
However, Juve have already made a move for Ederson and if Inter fail to move quickly they could lose out for the youngster. Inter suffered a similar situation two years ago when they failed to take up their option on then Sao Paulo ace Kaka, which allowed AC Milan to bring him to Italy.
AC Milan's Ambrosini drops Juventus hint
Tribal Football
AC Milan midfielder Massimo Ambrosini has admitted he'd like to move to Juventus. The Italy international is frustrated at the lack of regular games he's played this season and admitted: "If you're being employed only a little, your qualities fail to emerge.
"Play at Juve alongside Emerson? With the great players, one cannot fail to improve."
Fiorentina's Miccoli rules out Juventus return
Tribal Football
Fiorentina attacker Fabrizio Miccoli has declared he doesn't want to return to Juventus in the summer.
"It is no secret that I want to remain in Florence rather than return to Turin," said Miccoli. "It is not that I do not like Turin, but at Juventus there are five attacking players and I cannot see myself fitting in there. I have a greater chance of developing by staying at Fiorentina."
Sunday 06 March
Capello relishes Rome return
Football Italia
Fabio Capello and Gigi Del Neri refused to discuss the controversial refereeing decisions that marred tonight’s showdown at the Stadio Olimpico.
“The images are clear and therefore I don’t need to say anything about the refereeing errors,” stated an ironic Del Neri after their 2-1 defeat. “The team played on level terms with Juventus and went behind on their first chance, but it was always going to be a masculine match.”
The tactician has now faced Juve twice and lost in both encounters, although it was an improvement upon their sluggish 2-0 loss in October.
“We certainly suffered a lot less than in Turin, so if we continue to play with this intensity and determination then we’ll go far. We had our opportunities and did everything we could to beat Gianluigi Buffon, so Roma proved that they deserve to aim for a Champions’ League place.”
Capello returned to the Capital for the first time since his unexpected summer exit and gave the Roma fans something else to rage about with this result.
“I do not wish to comment on the reception I received here, as there is no point offending people or hitting back. I just want to talk about football. It was my comeback to a place where I had earned some great results and was happy.”
“I think that we played a great first half, then Antonio Cassano’s goal gave Roma belief and both sides were very determined,” noted the ex-Roma boss. “Perhaps our mistakes in the second period when on promising counter-attacks let us down, as we could have easily won by more goals.”
This win keeps Juve on top of the table on level terms with reigning Italian Champions Milan and the Scudetto race remains incredibly tight.
“We knew that Milan had won, so it was even more crucial to get past this obstacle. If the Rossoneri get more points and are better than us by the end of the season, then we take our hats off to a side that never gives up.”
Real Madrid drew with 1-1 with Valencia tonight and fell off the Liga pace, so Juve’s confidence is boosted going into Tuesday’s second leg tie.
“Real are very similar to Roma in terms of their style and quality, so we need the same determination and humility as tonight,” insisted Capello. “The most important thing is to be concentrated and not concede a goal, which means being focused until the final whistle.”
Alessandro Del Piero netted his third goal in two games, but the captain was substituted early into the second half.
“Del Piero’s replacement was a tactical choice, as he couldn’t chase after Mancini and the team was overall rather tired, so I needed someone more defensive in that role.”
Antonio Cassano has already been linked with Juventus in the past and before the game admitted he missed Capello and wanted to work with him again.
“Cassano said what he was thinking and in my book we should all respect those who speak their mind in an honest fashion,” he concluded.
Giallorossi director Rossella Sensi, the daughter of ageing President Franco Sensi, also hit hard at the controversial refereeing decisions that were made during this game.
“Roma deserve respect and although I accept that the errors were made in good faith, they should be more professional in these situations. These were serious mistakes that damage our campaign and our chances of qualifying for the Champions’ League.”
Fabio Cannavaro opened the scoring from close range and laughed off the Giallorossi’s complaints of pro-Juventus favouritism.
“There are refereeing errors for both sides and it is part of the game, but when there is a mistake that favours Juve it’s as if the sky is caving in,” noted the defender.
Roma's Cassano again heaps praise on Juventus coach Capello
Tribal Football
AS Roma striker Antonio Cassano again declared his ambition to work with former coach Fabio Capello - only hours before yesterday's clash with Juventus.
In a television interview, Cassano said: "I will embrace Capello (before the game), because I am missing him more and more. I will be criticised for doing so, but I don't care. Capello has been the biggest influence on me. He always will. He knows how to manage me."
Cassano's contract expires at the end of next season and as talks over a new deal rumble on he warned: "Money isn't the issue for me. I only want to win.
"Therefore, me staying at Roma depends on the project they're building. I think at the moment Roma should be honest with the public and admit the club's best hope is the UEFA Cup, because we are clearly not as strong as Juventus, AC Milan and Inter."
Roma 1 - 2 Juventus
Football Italia
An extremely controversial Alex Del Piero penalty gave Juve the victory at the Olimpico and Roma are furious as Fabio Capello gets his revenge.
This has always been a fiery encounter, but it went into overdrive following the controversial events of the summer. Emerson, Jonathan Zebina and Coach Fabio Capello joined rivals Juventus and have since been dubbed 'traitors' by the Roma faithful.
The Bianconeri opted for a trident attack with Marcelo Zalayeta joining Alessandro Del Piero and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, while Lilian Thuram was able to start despite suffering from flu.
Roma kept faith with Daniele De Rossi in midfield, while Francesco Totti returned from suspension to bolster their strike force. The pressure was on Gigi Del Neri's men following their 2-0 defeat at Palermo, while the visitors needed a victory to maintain Milan's pace at the top of the table.
Vincenzo Montella thought he had opened the scoring after two minutes, but it was correctly disallowed for an offside position. Moments later, Gianluigi Buffon could only punch out a Totti free kick and Matteo Ferrari's follow-up was charged down by Emerson.
However, it was Juventus who took the lead with their first chance of the game. A Mauro German Camoranesi free kick found Ibrahimovic for a free header that was only pushed into Fabio Cannavaro's path by goalkeeper Ivan Pelizzoli. Notably, both Bianconeri stars were unmarked when the set-piece was floated in, though Cannavaro was probably offside when Ibrahimovic made contact.
Totti was able to carry on after treatment for a painful nudge in the ribs, then Zebina was felled by Leandro Cufre clattering into his back after the ball had already been released.
A scuffle broke out after 21 minutes with former teammates Totti and Zebina both booked with the Roma captain going in high and the Frenchman reacting. Olivier Dacourt was also shown the yellow card for a dreadful challenge on Ibrahimovic.
Zebina did well to prevent Cassano's through ball reaching Montella in the six-yard box, and Buffon stuck out a hand as Christian Panucci nutmegged Cannavaro, but the first half was increasingly tense and choppy with repeated fouls.
Just before half-time, Roma finally found a breakthrough. Manuele Blasi's pass was intercepted and Totti quickly slipped the ball through to Cassano. The ex-Bari youngster was onside and two of his teammates were considered to be in passive positions, so Cassano stroked his finish past a helpless Buffon from eight yards. The Giallorossi star was booked for his celebration, having kicked down the corner flag.
However, less than two minutes later Zalayeta was tripped by Traianos Dellas and the referee pointed to the spot. It was on the very edge of the penalty area and replays suggest it was outside, prompting furious protests from the Roma players - especially Montella, who was practically restrained by his teammates.
Alessandro Del Piero stepped up and slammed a confident spot-kick past an immobile Pelizzoli to restore Juve's extremely controversial lead.
On the stroke of half-time there was an off the ball incident that could lead to a ban for Cufre' as he was caught on camera slapping Del Piero.
After the restart, Emerson's long-range strike whistled over the bar, while Amantino Mancini replaced De Rossi for a more attacking Roma outfit. Juve went close to extending their lead when Zalayeta fought his way past one challenge and Pelizzoli did well to hold his position and block with his feet.
Del Piero was surprisingly substituted and replaced by defender Gianluca Pessotto as Capello tried to make them a more solid line-up under increasing pressure from the home side.
Cannavaro needed a great tackle to prevent Cassano from skipping his way into the area, then at the other end Ibrahimovic had a goal disallowed for offside, although the Swede was level with Camoranesi's pass and therefore it was an incorrect decision.
Juve were extremely lucky not to conceded an equaliser on 67 minutes, as Thuram dived in to take the ball off Montella's feet from close range with only Buffon to beat and a deflected clearance whistled just wide of the empty net.
The Bianconeri were increasingly desperate and flung bodies at shots from Totti, Montella and Cassano. Totti's free header floated just past the woodwork, then Ibrahimovic picked the wrong pass on the counter-attack with Gianluca Pessotto unmarked in the centre.
Pelizzoli needed two touches to keep a Blasi piledriver under control, but the second half was almost entirely one-way traffic directed at Buffon's net.
David Trezeguet made an appearance late on, as he has missed the last three games with a flu virus, but Roma kept on pushing and Montella fired just wide of the near post with his weaker right foot.
There was panic in the area when Totti's sweeping pass took a touch off Zebina and into the grateful arms of Buffon, but it could so easily have been an own goal.
Del Neri went for broke and threw on teenage striker Daniele Corvia, so there were four strikers on the pitch plus Amantino Mancini for the final stages. Totti's free kick took a deflection off the defensive wall and bounced just past the post with Buffon stranded.
Another big scuffle broke out in stoppages as Cassano had to be dragged away from Camoranesi, who he accused of wasting time. The final whistle also saw some problems between opposition players as they left the field.
Roma: Pelizzoli; Panucci, Dellas, Ferrari, Cufre (Corvia 85); Perrotta, Dacourt (Aquilani 69), De Rossi (Mancini 53); Totti, Montella, Cassano
Juventus: Buffon; Zebina, Thuram, Cannavaro, Zambrotta; Camoranesi, Blasi, Emerson; Zalayeta, Del Piero (Pessotto 56), Ibrahimovic (Trezeguet 78)
Ref: Racalbuto
Juventus tracking Daniel, Bilbao starlet Iraola
Tribal Football
Juventus are keeping tabs on two of the Primera Liga's brightest young talents. Athletic Bilbao midfielder Andoni Iraola and Seville right-back Daniel Alves are both being scouted by Juve leading up to the summer market.
Daniel has been a long-term target for Juve, which are waiting for him to gain his EU passport before making a serious move for the former Brazil U20 World Cup captain.
Chelsea launch £8m Mutu claim
Football Italia
Chelsea have filed a claim to sue Adrian Mutu for £8m following his drug ban and free transfer to Juventus. The Romanian was sacked by the club after failing a routine drugs test for cocaine, but insist they are owed £8m compensation based on his transfer value and sporting sanctions against the player.
The 26-year-old is suspended worldwide until May 18, but has already penned a contract with Juventus and could return early if the Bianconeri’s appeal is successful.
Chelsea had already hinted at seeking compensation from his next club, but the matter is now official and the FA Premier League appeal committee will evaluate the situation at the end of March.
Juve director general Luciano Moggi was asked about this claim during his presentation Press conference last month and insisted, “The terms of this contract ensure that the club is not liable for compensation. It is a matter between Chelsea and Mutu.”
Ex-Parma star Mutu joined the Stamford Bridge outfit for £15.8m in 2003 and the legal precedent they hope to apply here is of another former Serie A star – Samp and Parma midfielder Ariel Ortega.
The Argentine was sacked by Turks Fenerbahce after failing to return on time from an international friendly. He was prevented from signing for Newell’s Old Boys during the appeal and was ordered to pay his former club £6m by FIFA.
Spanish giants line up for Barzagli
Football Italia
Palermo defender Andrea Barzagli is a known target for several Serie A clubs, but has now attracted interest outside the Peninsula. The Under-21 international impressed at Chievo last season and has been consistently solid in Serie A with surprise package Palermo this year.
He has long been linked with Juventus, Inter, Milan and Roma, but now Spanish newspapers suggest that Barcelona and Real Madrid have joined the race to capture his signature.
“I’ve heard nothing official about this and it seems crazy for clubs like Barca and Real Madrid to be interested in me,” said the 23-year-old. “It’s certainly pleasing to read my name linked with these sides.”
Barzagli has also caught the eye of Azzurri Coach Marcello Lippi, who have him his senior international debut in the 1-0 friendly win over Finland in November.
Azzurri confirm Iceland friendly
Football Italia
Marcello Lippi’s Italy squad will face Iceland in a friendly game four days after the World Cup qualifier with Scotland. The Azzurri were set to play this international test in the Far East or in Qatar, but a change of plans from the FIGC has seen the tie moved to Padova’s Stadio Euganeo for Wednesday March 30.
The game will take place just four days after their crunch World Cup qualifier against Scotland at the San Siro. It is a return to the past for Lippi, who opened his reign with a friendly match in Rekjavik on August 18 2004.
It wasn’t an auspicious start to his Italy career, as they were defeated 2-0 with early goals from Gudjohnsen and Einarsson. Since then, he has managed five wins and a defeat on the international bench.
Saturday 05 March
Roma v Juventus: Preview
ESPN Soccernet
Roma's 2001 Scudetto-winning boss Fabio Capello returns to the Stadio Olimpico for the first time as coach of Juventus and it is safe to say Francesco Totti will not be rolling out the welcome mat.
Playmaker Totti has engaged in a season-long war of words with Capello since his former coach left the Giallorossi in the summer to take over at Juve, a job switch that Roma fans have likened to treason. Totti has had several negative things to say about Capello since his departure.
In one famous barb, he said: "I think Capello might have planned it on purpose to ruin our season. He even had the gall to take Philippe Mexes for a ride. The day before (Mexes) signed for Juve, he assured the defender a project was in place for this team.
"He can't have reached an agreement in 24 hours. I think he already knew he was leaving Roma long before then, as first he was in talks with Inter before Juve came in. That's Fabio Capello for you."
Capello has always fired back, though. After being accused by Totti of having failed to support Roma's youth players, Capello said: "The youth players trained with us most of the time. If Totti didn't see them, it was because he was already in the changing rooms."
Animosity between the clubs dates back more than three decades, when Juve bought three Roma players, including Capello himself. Roma president Franco Sensi has had bitter public rows with Juventus managing director Luciano Moggi, a Roma executive before joining the Bianconeri in the 1990s.
As for Capello, some Roma fans never forgave him for leaving as a player, even after he led the team to the title four years ago. He also upset Roma supporters by taking Emerson and Jonathan Zebina with him to Turin.
Totti's ire could well arise from the fact that little has gone right for Roma ever since Capello left. They did not progress beyond the first group stage of the Champions League, and in Serie A Roma are seventh - 19 points off joint-leaders Juve and AC Milan.
Roma would love to repeat last year's memorable 4-0 triumph against Juve in order to revive their European ambitions. They have the attacking capability to do it but breaching Juve's defence that has let in just 15 goals in 26 matches won't be easy for the Romans.
Capello will be wary of Roma's attacking trio of Totti, Antonio Cassano and Serie A's top scorer Vincenzo Montella, a player who was relegated to the bench by his former boss last season. Talk about revenge - Montella would love to score against his former boss.
Roma's problems are due largely to their frailties in defence.
The financially-trouble team - the main reason for the exits of Zebina and Emerson - forced the team to sell Walter Samuel to Real Madrid, and Romanian international star Cristian Chivu has also been out for most of the season due to injury.
Juve can ill afford to drop any points now that AC Milan are level on points with them at the top. Midfielder Pavel Nedved, who is still recovering from a head injury, is out for Juventus but David Trezeguet is back to form an attacking trident alongside Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Alessandro Del Piero.
Capello deletes Roma memories
Football Italia
Juventus boss Fabio Capello insists that he will archive his Roman past when he returns to the Olimpico on Saturday night. The tactician led the club to only their third Scudetto in 2001, but has since been labelled as a ‘traitor' following his decision to join rivals Juve last summer.
Capello, plus the ex-Roma duo of Emerson and Jonathan Zebina, are expected to receive a hot reception but the Coach claims he is just focusing on the match.
"I'm concentrating on the game and nothing else," he stated. "I'll have time to think about my past when I'm sitting down on a couch, not when I'm sitting on the bench."
He added: "I'm just thinking about my Juventus side. Everything else is of no interest to me whatsoever. It is a stadium in which I experienced some wonderful things but I'm not expecting anything from the fans. I've had no contact with anyone from Roma and I will sleep peacefully tonight.
"I think I left some good things on a human scale in my five years at the club. I'm satisfied with my work there and I think that I did well."
The Old Lady desperately need a win to maintain their leadership of Serie A, but the side know they'll face a tough test against the Giallorossi.
"They will have some real motivation to do well tomorrow because they are chasing a place in the Champions' League," he added. "They'll want to win. We must stay alert, especially against their trident of Totti, Cassano and Montella, even if a header or a free-kick can often decide these sorts of games."
The tactician, who welcomes back David Trezeguet after illness, was set to field a trident attack but that may now be scrapped after Lilian Thuram picked up a fever.
"Trezeguet will start on the bench and my system will depend on whether Thuram plays or not," he explained. "He has a slight temperature but I think he should be fine. It will be an important game but we are all in good shape."
Squad: Buffon, Chimenti, Bonnefoi; Pessotto, Birindelli, Cannavaro, Zebina, Thuram, Zambrotta, Ferrara; Emerson, Tacchinardi, Camoranesi, Blasi, Olivera, Kapo, Appiah; Zalayeta, Trezeguet, Ibrahimovic, Del Piero.
Juve monitor Luis Miguel
Football Italia
Benfica defender Luis Miguel is still being watched by Italian giants Juventus, according to reports.
Stories in Portugal claim that the right-back is on the club's transfer wish-list after first being noted at Euro 2004. It's widely understood that Juventus had a bid for the player rejected last summer, but they may renew their offer at the end of the season.
A Juventus scout was allegedly present at Benfica's clash with Porto on Monday to again check out the 25-year-old. He may not be the only Benfica player heading for Serie A next season, as fellow defender Luisao should join Inter.
Cassano: I want Capello back
Football Italia
Antonio Cassano has stirred up Saturday's match by confirming his desire to work with Fabio Capello again and slamming Roma's transfer policy. "Of course I miss him like crazy," the Giallorossi starlet told Sky Italia television. "Every day I miss him a little bit more."
This is not the first time that the youngster has professed his admiration for Capello, who walked out on the club this summer to join arch rivals Juventus. Cassano has long been linked with the Turin giants and his presence only intensified the reports of a bid at the end of this season.
"I'll certainly hug Capello before kick-off at the Stadio Olimpico," continued the ex-Bari star. "I know that the fans will stage a protest against him, but I really don't care."
To make matters worse, the Italian international – whose contract expires in 2006 – has also slammed Roma's transfer policy as the reason they are floundering in seventh place.
"The club should have immediately told the city that this was a team that could only aim for a UEFA Cup place. At the absolute most we can push for fourth, but there are no doubts that Juventus, Milan and Inter are a step above."
This interview is set to spark a furore in the Italian Capital ahead of tomorrow's crunch match with the Bianconeri, though he did have kind words for his captain.
"Francesco Totti doesn't need to prove anything to anybody. He is the only one who can turn a game by himself and he'll answer his critics on the pitch."
Juventus make bumper contract offer to Roma's Cassano
Tribal Football
Juventus have tabled a bumper contract offer to the representatives of AS Roma ace Antonio Cassano. On the eve of the much-anticipated clash between the bitter Serie A rivals, its emerged Juve have offered Cassano a £3 million-a-year, five season deal to quit Roma at the end of this season.
Cassano is currently locked in talks over a new deal with Roma, but negotiations are dragging on and the summer transfer window could represent the capital club's best option of getting value for money for a player who can leave on a Bosman in June, 2006.
Juve's offer puts Cassano on similar terms to Roma teammate Francesco Totti and Turin hero Alessandro del Piero - and is far greater than anything cash-strapped Roma can offer.
Juve coach Fabio Capello has been leading the push to prise Cassano away from Roma. The pair enjoy a strong relationship and Cassano has made it known he'd welcome the chance to work again for his former Roma trainer.
