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Socrates

Juventus Season 2013-2014

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Joined: 04-Apr-2006
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JUVENTUS 3 - 0 CAGLIARI


Andrea Pirlo (8′)
Fernando Llorente (15′)
Claudio Marchisio (40′)



May 18, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee:‬ Mauro Bergonzi
Attendance:‬ 39344‎



Record breaking Bianconeri
sign off in style


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May 18, 2014

Juventus were 3-0 winners over Cagliari in Serie A on Sunday afternoon at the Juventus Stadium, in the final game of their title winning season.

Goals from Andrea Pirlo, Fernando Llorente and Claudio Marchisio ensured the Old Lady secured all three points and reached the coveted 102 points record in Serie A.

The hosts started the more brightly in the party atmosphere of the Juventus Stadium. Labouring on the ball, Carlos Tevez stole the ball off Davide Astori, but his strike was scooped up comfortably by Marco Silvestri. After eight minutes, the home side were ahead courtesy of more Andrea Pirlo magic. Luca Rossettini fouled Fernando Llorente on the edge of the area and the Italian international’s curling free kick clattered in off the crossbar after the initial save from Silvestri.

After a quarter of an hour, Cagliari’s panicking defense was undone once again. The Sardinians failed to clear the ball from a corner and Llorente tapped home his 16th of the season. As Juventus began taking their foot off the gas, Cagliari sought to trouble Gianluigi Buffon at the other end. Daniele Dessena found himself all alone in the box and forced Buffon into making a quick reaction save. However the lapse in concentration was fleeting as Juventus continued to dominate the match.

Just before half time, the downpour of goals resumed when Llorente flicked the ball up for Claudio Marchisio, who took it on the turn and blasted it past Silvestri on the half volley in spectacular fashion. Minutes later the overworked Cagliari goalkeeper got down brilliantly to parry away Kwadwo Asamoah’s fierce long shot before the whistle signaled half time.

At the restart, Cagliari did their very best to get on the scoresheet, and thought they would be helped when Rubinho replaced Buffon at half time, but the Brazilian proved just as stubborn. Goal scorer Llorente also made way for Pablo Osvaldo, for what could be his last Juventus appearance. The Sardinians wanted desperately to halt the hosts flood of goals, and in fact succeeded in doing so, holding a contented Juventus team to the final whistle. Celebrations followed the final whistle as Juventus broke the points record in Serie A.

Antonio Conte bows out the season in the best possible fashion, earning the club it’s third consecutive title with just two defeats all season. With speculation rife over the Italians future, it’s unclear where he will be next season, but for now he will be content in celebrating Juventus’ success.

Ivo Pulga closes the season on a sour note with this the third consecutive defeat for his Cagliari team. President Massimo Cellino may not be the club’s owner the next time these two meet, but fans will feel it’s the right direction to be heading in. Daniele Conti’s future is similarly unclear ahead of what should be a routinely difficult transfer window for the Rossoblu.


http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

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JUVENTUS 3 - 0 CAGLIARI


Andrea Pirlo (8′)
Fernando Llorente (15′)
Claudio Marchisio (40′)



May 18, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee:‬ Mauro Bergonzi
Attendance:‬ 39344‎



Juventus Complete 102-Point
Season, Break European Record


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May 18, 2014

This was exactly the way a lot of us wanted Juventus to get to 102 points on the season — beating up the opposition. If it was over before halftime, it was over when the players entered the dressing room for their short break between halves. First Andrea Pirlo did Andrea Pirlo things from a free kick situation, then it was Fernando Llorente, and finally Claudio Marchisio scored one hell of a goal to put the game away before halftime even arrived.

And with it, Juventus made some history. Not a surprise seeing as that seems like a staple of Antonio Conte's reign as Juve manager. Most points ever in a single season? Yeah, 102 points got them there. A perfect 19 for 19 on their home soil at Juventus Stadium? Done that, too.

A season filled with plenty of history got the send off it deserved — a little bit more entered into the lengthy tradition of this great club we root for week after week, month after month.

That's a pretty good reason why it was impossible for Andrea Agnelli and his new beard to wipe the smile off his face during the course of the 3-0 win. Hell, I'd have a hard time not smiling while being at the stadium in that kind of festive atmosphere. Turin had a reason to celebrate — and that's exactly what they did.

I feel pretty safe in saying it was a thumbs-up-worthy season. And I'm glad Stephan agrees.


Random thoughts and observations

• I appreciate Cagliari completely forgetting how to defend. It made the game that much better.

• Fernando Llorente's final stats for the 2013-14 season: 34 games (29 stats), 16 goals, five assists. I'd say that's a pretty good year for a guy who was basically strapped on the bench for the entire season 12 months ago.

• It was impossible to go five minutes without the crowd singing something in appreciation of Antonio Conte. And it was just as impossible of Conte not to recognize it. The rumors will continue to swirl about Conte's future until something official actually does happen because that's what the Italian press is good at doing no matter what the truth is. But I pose this question: If you saw Conte celebrating on the sideline towards the end of the match, did that really look like a guy who is leaving the club in a short amount of time? Antonio Conte wanted to party just as much as anybody there.

• Carlos Tévez didn't get the 20th league goal of the season that he so rightfully deserved, but I don't care. Being named Juve's Player of the Season was a great honor, and there really was nobody better than Carlitos this year. And unlike a lot of his teammates, he'll have a bunch of time this summer to rest up. Yeah, Tévez-related expectations are going to be high next season. There's no doubt about that.

• More Juventus children. Bring them out all the time.

• Better goal, Marchisio or Pirlo? As much as I love Pirlo's, the spin move from Principino is kinda pulling me in his direction.

• Gigi Buffon gave Mauro Bergonzi a hug before he left the field in the second half. That's class.

• Juventus won 3-0 and Simone Padoin didn't play a single minute. Who knew that was possible.

• But guess who did play? Rubinho! And for the second straight season, he's the only Juventus goalkeeper to not allow a goal during his time on the field. Might be a small sample size, though. We'll investigate and get back to you.

• Juventus finish the season 17 points ahead of second-place Roma. Remember about a month ago when people were saying the Scudetto race might be back on? Yeah, so much for that.


http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

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JUVENTUS 3 - 0 CAGLIARI


Andrea Pirlo (8′)
Fernando Llorente (15′)
Claudio Marchisio (40′)



May 18, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee:‬ Mauro Bergonzi
Attendance:‬ 39344‎



Juventus seal record
European points haul


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May 18, 2014

Ivo Pulga said it would be difficult. Cagliari’s coach may have adopted a defeatist attitude coming into the game, but we cannot accuse him of not being a realist. Juventus, playing at home and desperate to break records, controlled the match and won 3-0 to kick-start the celebrations in Turin. Nineteen games played at home in the Juventus stadium, 19 games won with 106 goals scored over the course of the season; Antonio Conte has created a winning machine, and for that the fans are grateful.

A record-breaking season, Juventus finished having amassed 102 points in the league, 17 points ahead of second-place Roma. It's the highest any team has managed in Europe’s top five leagues and certainly more than Inter’s 97 points -- the record the Nerazzurri broke in 2007.

Playing in a stadium prepared to celebrate and with a coach applauding the fans that held "Con te" banners, a play on words that means "with you," Cagliari were always going to struggle. Defending poorly, it took the champions of Italy only eight minutes to break the deadlock and score when Andrea Pirlo delivered another one of his perfect free kicks that troubled Marco Silvestri.

It was a day to celebrate the brilliance of the coach, the strength of the captain, Gianluigi Buffon, who pulled off some excellent saves, and the chemistry between the two forwards who helped turn this Bianconeri side into an efficient team. Conte’s squad was one that created but rarely finished well. With Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente up front, their ability to work well together, exploit space and hold the ball up has made all the difference this season. Eight shots on target, three goals scored.

Overall, the Spaniard has managed 18 goals this season while Tevez has netted 20 times in all competitions. Their understanding continues to develop and today we saw the brilliant Llorente dummy, the layoffs and the perfect touches while the Argentine moved around to take up excellent positions. It’s a shame he took one too many touches, overcomplicating his chance for a goal, but his work off the ball, the constant running and the hard work has turned him into a Juve hero this season, one Conte is grateful to have.

Yet while the forward line is remarkably better than it has been in previous years, it’s the midfield that continues to dazzle. Claudio Marchisio, with his excellent skill and breathtaking intelligence, scored the third, but it’s Paul Pogba who entertains the masses while Pirlo can always be relied upon for moments of magic, especially when offered the chance to take a free kick.

The fluidity, the passing, the composure shown today is what makes this Italian side so exciting to watch. The way they rotate the ball, looking for the spaces to exploit, coupled with Cagliari’s inability to provide a stern test, allowed them the win, but let us not forget that winning mentality. While Roma stopped fighting once they realised certain targets were beyond them, the Old Lady continued chasing victories despite having secured the title. Nothing satisfies her appetite.

Once the three goals were scored and the points secured, the party atmosphere took over in the stadium. The staff started to put on the T-shirts emblazoned with the figure "102" and the crowd chanted. Conte was overwhelmed with the show of support, the players each noting his excellence when talking to the media. He in turn thanked them for achieving this milestone. Juventus didn’t just win Serie A, they demolished it.


http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

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JUVENTUS 3 - 0 CAGLIARI


Andrea Pirlo (8′)
Fernando Llorente (15′)
Claudio Marchisio (40′)



May 18, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee:‬ Mauro Bergonzi
Attendance:‬ 39344‎



Player Ratings


Goal took in the action in Turin as the Bianconeri surpassed 100 points
for the season with a routine victory on the final day of the Serie A campaign.


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May 18, 2014

Juventus

Gianluigi Buffon - Made an excellent save on Pinilla and was subbed off to a standing ovation in the second half.

Martín Cáceres - Did not have a whole lot to do at the back and pushed forward into the midfield lines for a lot of the game.

Leonardo Bonucci - Defended well against the threat from the opposition, which was few and far between.

Angelo Ogbonna - Shepherded the dangerous Ibarbo into harmless areas more than once in a solid display.

Stephan Lichtsteiner - Motored up and down the right flank providing decent support.

Paul Pogba - Provided good moments in both halves of the field, testing Silvestri more than once.

Andrea Pirlo - Opened the scoring with a wonderful free kick and was composed on the ball throughout.

Claudio Marchisio - Scored his side's third with a lovely piece of control and a sumptuous volleyed finish.

Kwadwo Asamoah - Had quite a few accurate cracks at goal from long range, proving a real menace for the keeper in the first half.

Carlos Tévez - Held the ball up well, but try as he might, he was often frustrated in his attempts to get a shot off.

Fernando Llorente - Set up Marchisio's goal with a good piece of control after slotting in one himself from close range. Always a threat from the knockdown.


Substitutions

Rubinho - Solid in goal off the bench.

Pablo Daniel Osvaldo - Did not have much of a chance to score.



Cagliari


Marco Silvestri - A string of fine saves kept the score down as he showed his athleticism.

Davide Astori - Subbed off at the break after being torn left and right by the home side.

Gabriele Perico - Could not handle Asamoah down the left hand side and was left struggling.

Luca Rossettini - Did not fare a whole lot better than Astori in central defence, losing out in a few aerial battles.

Danilo Avelar - Blocked Tevex once or twice, but was suspect positionally on more than one occasion.

Daniele Conti - Did not have much of a say in the game through midfield as he was run off the park.

Andrea Tabanelli - Hardly had a meaningful touch of the ball and was no match for his Juve counterparts.

Daniele Dessena - Gave up possession regularly in a torrid game for him.

Andrea Cossu - A few decent moments in the attacking third, including one where he held the ball up for a great Pinilla chance.

Mauricio Pinilla - Had two decent openings, not least one in the first half where he was one on one with Buffon, but saw his shot saved.

Víctor Ibarbo - His direct running caused a few problems early on, but he drifted to the periphery of proceedings as time wore on.


http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

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JUVENTUS 3 - 0 CAGLIARI


Andrea Pirlo (8′)
Fernando Llorente (15′)
Claudio Marchisio (40′)



May 18, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee:‬ Mauro Bergonzi
Attendance:‬ 39344‎



Juventus success hard to repeat - Pirlo


The Bianconeri ended the season by breaking yet another record and the veteran
admits they have set a difficult bar to surpass in seasons to come.


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May 18, 2014

Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo says it will be difficult for the club to replicate their achievements this season after setting a new European points record on Sunday.

The midfielder scored a free-kick as the Turin giants beat Cagliari 3-0 on Sunday to take their points tally for 2013-14 to 102.

Juve were crowned champions for a third successive year several weeks ago and Pirlo admitted their success in recent years will be difficult to replicate.

We wanted to win today to reach 100 points and we’ve done it. We’ve broken every record and we’re really happy to be celebrating," he told Sky Sport Italia.

"Given Roma's strength, it’s been a difficult campaign, but we’ve picked up an awesome number of victories.

"It’s been an extraordinary season, it will be tough for our record to be beaten. We broke all records and it will be hard to repeat this."

However, speculation continues to surround the future of coach Antonio Conte after he revealed his willingness to discuss other 'projects' and Pirlo is keen to see the situation resolved sooner rather than later.

"Conte deserves credit for a big part of our successes," Pirlo added.

"I have never seen it before that the fans were chanting the coach's name. I hope his future will be resolved soon."


http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

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JUVENTUS 3 - 0 CAGLIARI


Andrea Pirlo (8′)
Fernando Llorente (15′)
Claudio Marchisio (40′)



May 18, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee:‬ Mauro Bergonzi
Attendance:‬ 39344‎



Garcia: 'Juventus run unique'


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May 18, 2014

Rudi Garcia was still content with Roma’s season, despite a third consecutive defeat, and hailed “unique” Juventus.

The Giallorossi tested out several new faces for the 1-0 loss against Genoa this afternoon.

Juventus shattered European records with 102 points in a single season and a perfect home record.

“We won’t see a leader like that again for a very long time, as going over 100 points is unique. Next season is a new term, we have to be concentrated and the club also wants to make a competitive squad.

“In Germany and Spain there are few teams after the first couple who can really challenge for the title or even the Champions League. In Italy there are Juventus, Roma, Napoli, Milan, Inter and Fiorentina, plus always a surprise element.

“Serie A is very competitive, so we need to make sure we are able to challenge in Serie A as well as the Champions League.”


http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

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JUVENTUS 3 - 0 CAGLIARI


Andrea Pirlo (8′)
Fernando Llorente (15′)
Claudio Marchisio (40′)



May 18, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee:‬ Mauro Bergonzi
Attendance:‬ 39344‎



Juve Scudetto party cut short


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May 18, 2014

Gigi Buffon lifted the Serie A trophy, but Juventus celebrations were cut short by a pitch invasion.

The squad was called out one by one and their names chanted by the crowd after today’s 3-0 victory over Cagliari.

Antonio Conte was the penultimate man out and given a standing ovation by the fans, who called for him to stay on.

Captain Buffon lifted the trophy to the sky, the Bianconeri’s third in a row, but the planned run round the pitch with the silverware was cut short by a pitch invasion.

The Curva Sud burst its banks and sent stewards flying, sending players, their wives and children running into the tunnel.

It was also reported that Carlos Tevez was particularly angry at being manhandled by over-enthusiastic fans.

The party therefore had to continue in a sedate manner inside the locker room, as milk replaced champagne with players holding their kids.

Meanwhile, the ultras were seen trying to break apart the goal mouth to take home souvenirs from the Juventus Stadium.

Juventus will now go through the city streets in an open-top bus.


http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

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JUVENTUS 3 - 0 CAGLIARI


Andrea Pirlo (8′)
Fernando Llorente (15′)
Claudio Marchisio (40′)



May 18, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee:‬ Mauro Bergonzi
Attendance:‬ 39344‎



People will remember this
Juventus for years - Conte


The Italian champions finished the season with 102 points and a perfect
home record in Serie A and their coach is delighted with their achievements.


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May 18, 2014

Juventus coach Antonio Conte believes his side's exploits this season will be remembered for years to come.

The Turin outfit concluded their Serie A-winning campaign by breaking the 100-point barrier thanks to a 3-0 win over Cagliari, maintaining their perfect home record this term.

The former Siena coach is delighted with his troops and believes they have earned a place in the history books.

"The guys have been special up until now, but they’ve surpassed themselves and what they’ve done is truly extraordinary. I’ll never stop thanking them," he is quoted as saying by the club's official website.

"Now we’ll all celebrate together because we’ve achieved a historic goal, toppling record after record: 102 points, 19 wins from 19 at home, the best attack and best defence.

"People will be speaking about this Juventus side for a long time to come.

"We had strong rivals in Roma but managed to maintain our ferocious mentality, continuing to win even when we had achieved Scudetto success. Only a special group would have been able to pull it off."


http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

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JUVENTUS 3 - 0 CAGLIARI


Andrea Pirlo (8′)
Fernando Llorente (15′)
Claudio Marchisio (40′)



May 18, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee:‬ Mauro Bergonzi
Attendance:‬ 39344‎



Juventus vs. Cagliari:
6 Things We Learned


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May 19, 2014

Juventus kicked off their final match of 2013-14 safe in the knowledge that the Serie A title was already assured. The Bianconeri have been in incredible domestic form throughout the campaign and have certainly enjoyed a season to remember.

With a new record points tally set last week, very little motivation remained for the squad, yet they still ran out 3-0 winners against their overwhelmed opponents. Cagliari proved no match for the all-conquering champions, able to provide little resistance to the Turin giants.

Over the following pages are six lessons to be taken from the game.


This Juventus Is Truly 1 for the Ages

Having already bettered Inter's record points tally, Juventus have raised the bar significantly this term. Victory here took them to a staggering 102 points, a total that could stand for quite some time, and they can look to their imperious home form as a major factor.

The win over Cagliari meant the Bianconeri are now the only team to ever record a perfect campaign on their own soil, winning an incredible 19 of 19 matches at Juventus Stadium. That dominance bodes well for next season, and few teams will relish a trip to Turin in 2014-15.


Antonio Conte Puts All the Credit on His Players

Antonio Conte has enjoyed a remarkable three seasons at Juventus, winning the title in each campaign and setting countless records along the way. The coach is quick to defer to his players however, quickly praising them to Sky Italia once the final whistle blew against Cagliari, telling them (via FootballItalia):

“The players were special with three straight titles and a record of points, but they surpassed themselves because 102 points will be very tough to beat.

I will never stop thanking them. I tried to pull them to the end, but it wasn’t hard to get them going really. I continually thank them, as over three years they have been incredible.”


But the Players Thank the Coach

While he may believe it is those on the field who are responsible for Juve's success, Antonio Conte's players are happy to hand him the plaudits. Speaking to Sky Sport Italia, Andrea Pirlo thanked the coach, telling them how he had transformed the club's fortunes.

"This was an extraordinary campaign and crowned by this victory,” the midfielder said (via Football Italia). "Much of the credit for these trophies goes to Conte, as he picked up a team fresh from finishing seventh twice and won three Scudetti in a row.”


And so Do the Supporters

The prospect of Conte leaving Juventus, via Matthew Scott of Goal.com, has dominated the headlines in recent weeks, with serious questions asked about how long he will remain with the club. Against Cagliari, the Bianconeri supporters would leave no such uncertainty about their faith in the 44-year-old coach.

As the second half began, the fans behind one goal unveiled a huge banner with a picture of Conte’s face and the phrase: "Without you we won’t go far...Because you are the best and have Juve in your heart!!!"


Focus Will Now Shift to Transfer Talk

With the season over, talk about potential transfer targets is likely to dominate the news, and that is certain to be the case with Juventus. Always linked with a plethora of new signings, the Bianconeri collapsing in the Champions League could see a shift in focus and players arriving to fill that tactical shift.


http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

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JUVENTUS 3 - 0 CAGLIARI


Andrea Pirlo (8′)
Fernando Llorente (15′)
Claudio Marchisio (40′)



May 18, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee:‬ Mauro Bergonzi
Attendance:‬ 39344‎



Teams of the century:
100 points and more


Juventus completed the Italian season with an awesome final total of 102 points;
UEFA.com meets the only other sides who have made it to three figures in a European top flight.


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May 19, 2014

Having ended the campaign with a mighty 102 points, Juventus have become only the fourth club to finish a European top-flight season with a three-figure points total. UEFA.com meets the members of football's 100 club.

105: Barry Town AFC (Wales 1996/97)
104: Barry Town AFC (Wales 1997/98)


Regarded as the best club side in Welsh league history, player-manager Gary Barnett's side lost only one of their 40 league games in 1996/97, and remained undefeated throughout all 38 fixtures in the following campaign. "We had an incredible squad of players during that era," reflected Barnett, whose side also won two League Cups and a Welsh Cup during that purple patch. "The passion we had, the team spirit we had – it was unbelievable." Barry ended both seasons with an extraordinary +103 goal difference - strikers Tony Bird and – later – Eifion Williams were prolific, but Barry's defence was equally proficient – their late goalkeeper Mark Ovendale set a record by not conceding in over 1,000 minutes of league football, while defender Gary Lloyd became the first – and to date only – player from the league to be called-up to the Welsh national team.


103: Celtic FC (Scotland 2001/02)

The Hoops pulled out all the stops as they claimed a second consecutive Scottish Premier League title under Martin O’Neill, losing just one game all season, and conceding only 18 goals. Strike partners Henrik Larsson (29) and John Hartson (19) racked up a mighty 58 league goals between them. "Martin spent good money at a time when the club needed to spend money," said current Celtic manager Neil Lennon, who was a key midfielder in O'Neill's side. "It was a terrific team, exceptional actually – probably the best since the [Lisbon] Lions [who won the European Cup in 1967]."


102: Juventus (Italy 2013/14)

Juventus's 3-0 final-day defeat of Cagliari Calcio set a new benchmark in Serie A, outstripping the record of 97 set by FC Internazionale Milano in 2006/07. The Bianconeri won 33 of their 38 games, including all 19 at Juventus Stadium – another Serie A record. "Our target was to win the Scudetto, but once we had it in our pockets, we tried everything to reach this incredible amount of points," said coach Antonio Conte. "I think it will be very hard to beat this record." Rudi Garcia, whose AS Roma side finished 17 points back in second, concurred: "They did something unique this season. Honestly, I don't think we will see a team passing the 100-point mark again in the near future."


100: Real Madrid CF (Spain 2011/12)

"It was hard winning league titles in Portugal, England and Italy, but this was the hardest of them all," is how former Madrid coach José Mourinho summed up the achievement of leading the Merengues to their first championship in four years. "This was truly one to celebrate." If it seemed difficult to the coach, then his side certainly made it look easy, scoring 121 goals (including 46 for Cristiano Ronaldo) and finishing nine points clear of FC Barcelona as they took their 32nd Liga title, and becoming the first Spanish side to rack up a century of points.


100: FC Barcelona (Spain 2012/13)

Tito Vilanova’s Barcelona matched Madrid's record within a season, starting as they meant to go on with 18 wins and a draw in their first 19 games. Having scored 50 in the previous campaign, Lionel Messi scored 46 – including, for the first time, at least one against all of the other sides in the league. "There are some records we won't be able to break, like being league leaders from the first to the last week of the season," Vilanova said, a little nonplussed after leading the club to their 22nd crown. "But after everything we've come through, I think we should be pleased."


http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

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JUVENTUS



Juventus’ season in Review –
Domination and Despair


May 21, 2014

It’s been a long and wild season for Juventus. In Serie A, they dominated amidst a record breaking Scudetto winning season. This is despite Roma having one of the best seasons in their club history.

Meanwhile in Europe things were less easy. Juve fell out of the Champions League group stage, and then made it to the Europa League semi-final where they fell just short of beating Benfica. The end of the season was then clouded by speculation over whether or not Antonio Conte would stay with Juventus. Spoiler alert: he did. Just as I wrote he would last week.

This season also saw some interesting changes in the strengths and weaknesses – relatively – of the side. The arrivals of Fernando Llorente and Carlos Tevez gave Juve two very talented strikers, and the goals flowed – at least in Serie A. The changes in Juve’s build up play were subtle, but this was the best Juve attack we have seen in years. Though we also saw the declines of Fabio Quagliarella and – to a lesser extent – Sebastian Giovinco and Mirko Vucinic as important parts of Juve’s attack. Finally, we also saw a reduced need for the midfielders to score goals, as Tevez and Llorente were scoring them by the dozen.

Speak of the midfield, the dynamic there shifted as well. Arturo Vidal, in my opinion one of the best players in the world, had a poor season by his standards. He wasn’t bad, but he wasn’t brilliant every match as we’ve come to expect. However, Paul Pogba continued his rise – in fact he led the team in appearances. It was due to Pogba that Juve were able to seamlessly move forward despite Vidal’s dip in form, though of course much credit is due to Claudio Marchisio and Andrea Pirlo. Pirlo, though not the end all be all of the Juventus attack like he was two years ago, had yet another great season with Juve, and his free kicks bailed Juventus out in numerous situations.

Then there is the defense, which is supposed to be Juve’s biggest strength. The defense did not start the season off very well, but they regained form – in Serie A – and managed to only get better in the league as the season went on. In fact, even when Andrea Barzagli was injured late in the season, Martin Caceres filled in and Juve kept a run of clean sheets. While that was a highlight – and Martin Caceres named himself as Barzagli’s eventual replacement – I can’t ignore Juve’s defensive woes in Europe.

Time and time again, they fell victim to a late goal after taking the lead, or a silly defensive error led to a goal that should not have been. Say what you will about formation and Antonio Conte’s ability as a manager, but the defensive woes in Europe have been under-looked compared to other aspects of the team’s play. However, the starting wingbacks had another stellar season, and Kwadwo Asamoah truly excelled down the stretch. Speaking of which…


Player of the Season

It’s a tie – between Kwadwo Asamoah and Carlos Tevez. Tevez was a revelation, not only did he score but he worked hard all over the field, hassling opponents and closing them down. He even broke his European scoring drought, even if it took until almost the very end. His form in Serie A was sensational, it was a nice upgrade from having a rotating cast of strikers who sometimes scored. I honestly do not know how Juve were able to win two Scudetti without a striker on the level of Tevez or Llorente. Tevez decided so many matches for Juve, and even if he didn’t score he was always contributing to the side’s total effort with his defensive work and help in the build up play.

Then we have Asamoah. He had been a fine wing back his first season with Juve, but just that. He started off slowly, playing well but not amazingly, until exploding in 2014. He had a fantastic run in the first three months of 2014, and he hasn’t looked back since. I had thought that perhaps Juve would need an upgrade in the left back or left wing back department, but Asamoah’s growth has proven me very wrong.


Goal of the Season

Many options for this one. Pirlo had a number of free kicks that decided games – including the one versus Genoa – and Tevez and Llorente both scored their fair share of game winning late goals. However, I’m going with flair for this one. When Juve played Napoli in November, they scored early via Llorente. They stayed in control, and Pirlo added a second goal later on. It was a standard Juve beat down of a Serie A side, until THAT Pogba goal. Pogba received a pass, flubbed the first touch – thus launching the ball in the air – and then volleyed the ball in for a fantastic goal. It was some beautifully fast thinking by Pogba, and it showed what he is capable of at any moment.



Best and Worst Signings

This is a tough decision. On the one hand, Tevez was huge for Juve this year. On the other, Dani Osvaldo was quite the bargain! Just kidding, Tevez is my choice for best signing. Fernando Llorente deserves a shout, but more so for the fact that he was signed on a free. Tevez only cost 12 million euros – compare that to the price Milan paid for Alessandro Matri – and he has re-invented both himself and Juve’s attack.

I will stress that this is mostly due to the money spent – but – Angelo Ogbonna. He could very well develop into a strong centerback, but he had an inconsistent first year at Juve and the club spent 13 million euros on him. Time will tell for this signing, but in the meantime it has to be Juve’s worst this season.

That’s all for this year folks, until September.


http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

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JUVENTUS

Serie A Pts..P.. W.. D. L. F.. A
1st ... 102. 38. 33. 3. 2. 80. 23

Coppa Italia: Quarter-finals / Team rating: 10 / Top scorer: Tevez (19)

Europe: Champions League group stage, Europa League semi-finals



The history makers


Antonio Conte’s Juventus did what no-one at the club had managed to do in 80 years and
win three consecutive Scudetti. Luca Cetta recaps another successful season for the Bianconeri.


May 21, 2014

A third Scudetto, won in record-breaking fashion, has etched Antonio Conte’s warriors into Juventus folklore. It proved a devastating Bianconeri side, one which swept away all challengers placed before them. The Old Lady defeated each one of its Serie A rivals, most both home and away. They were irresistible in front of the vocal Juventus Stadium support, winning every game – a League record.

Conte spoke at length in pre-season about the possibility of doing what no other Juventus side had done since the 1930s and win three Championships in a row. To continue the progression in Europe was also important, but the Coach’s primary focus was domestic.

While Conte talked of creating history, questions were asked about whether Juve would be motivated for another long haul. With a number of challengers – Napoli welcomed a number of new faces, Fiorentina strengthened and there were rebuilds at Inter and Roma – how would the Bianconeri fare? Gianluigi Buffon warned of the task ahead: “It won’t be easy to reclaim our title. In fact, this year will be even harder than the previous two.”

Their work in the transfer window went some way to alleviating those questions. They finally secured the ‘top player’ in attack when Carlos Tevez joined from Manchester City. Tevez showed he was up to the challenge ahead, taking the No 10 shirt left vacant by Alessandro Del Piero. “In truth I feel absolutely no pressure. I don’t think about the shirt number at all,” he quipped.

Giuseppe Marotta completed another shrewd piece of business in acquiring Fernando Llorente on a free transfer. “Our most important objective is to win a third consecutive title,” the new signing said. Angelo Ogbonna crossed the Turin divide to strengthen the defence. Making way were Alessandro Matri to Milan and Emanuele Giaccherini to Sunderland.

Juve started ominously, crushing Lazio in the Super Cup. An amazing six-minute spell in the second half had the Bianconeri four goals to the good by the hour mark and primed for the challenge ahead.

Tevez was on target in Rome and followed it up with a debut League goal, netting the winner against Sampdoria. Lazio were lambs led to the slaughter again, this time in Turin, a 4-1 result and Again the Argentine scored.

Juve’s winning start was halted by Inter, but they remained unbeaten until the Week 8 visit to Florence. Along the way were wins against Verona, Chievo, Torino and Milan. Not always convincing, but a near perfect start. However, it wasn’t enough to occupy top spot. In the early stages Juve had to contend with a record-setting Roma and the new-look Partenopei.

Further questions were asked following an astonishing afternoon on the banks of the River Arno. Juventus had not lost in Florence since 1998 and looked set to continue that run when Tevez and Paul Pogba scored. They may even have forged further ahead, but an amazing 15 minute spell washed away 15 years of purple pain. Giuseppe Rossi’s hat-trick and Joaquin’s goal inflicted a first defeat on the Champions.

Juventus recovered domestically, enjoying a long winning run, but attention turned to the faltering Champions League campaign. A stuttering start could not be recovered and amid a snowstorm and two-day affair with Galatasaray, Juve were eliminated. That was a failure, but the Bianconeri roared on in Serie A. From Fiorentina to the winter break Conte’s men won all nine matches, conceding just once. This included victory over Napoli, as Llorente started to get in on the scoring act.

That set up a New Year showdown with Rudi Garcia’s Roma. The previously unbeaten Giallorossi were brushed aside with an emphatic 3-0 result. If unbeaten Roma could not stand up to Juve, who would? Yet Conte wasn’t taking anything for granted. “I am only ever moderately satisfied until we achieve our targets, so this remains a stepping stone, but nothing definitive. There’s an entire second half of the season to go and we must do well.”

The Bianconeri showed their human side with draws at Lazio and Verona, but then returned to winning ways. Tevez sealed another Derby della Mole triumph, while he and Llorente were on target at gallant Milan. “These are three very important points, but we’ve got to be very careful,” Buffon noted, with Roma still within touching distance.

A series of slender triumphs followed, as Juventus mixed domestic duty with Europa League progress. Single-goal wins against Fiorentina, Genoa and Catania were matched by Juve’s passage to the last eight. These games were won through moments of individual brilliance, such as Andrea Pirlo’s sumptuous free-kick at Genoa. It led Conte to declare Juventus ‘50 per cent Champions of Italy’.

Their 22-game unbeaten run eventually came to an end against Napoli. The Stadio San Paolo continues to haunt Juve, now without a win there in 14 years. As they marched to the last four of the Europa League –only to be denied a home final by Benfica – wins against Livorno, Udinese, Bologna and Sassuolo put Juve within reach of that historic achievement they craved.

“I believe that a fundamental shift was the victory at Genoa with the last minute goal from Pirlo,” Giorgio Chiellini commented, “and then perhaps that win in Udine, because it was one of the last occasions in which Roma could have hoped we would drop points.”

In the end, they won it while watching on television. As Roma faltered in Catania, out came the champagne bottles in their Turin hotel. Juventus were crowned Champions even before taking the field against Atalanta. They finished the season with victories over the Bergamaschi, Roma and Cagliari.

Juve’s final tally of 102 points set a new record, breaking Inter’s 97-point mark from 2006-07. They also won 33 games this term, another record. It left Conte to honour his players: “These lads tore up records upon records and people will talk about this Juventus side for a long time to come.”

An incredible Juve, one which proved their domestic supremacy. As Andrea Barzagli summed up: “The first Scudetto? Surprising. Second? Confirmation. Third? Devastating.”


The Coach - Antonio Conte

Antonio Conte stressed in pre-season his main aim was to create Juventus history. He wanted to match Carlo Carcano and the 1930s golden era and did just that. The former Bianconeri captain oversaw a dominant outfit and will look to lead them to greater heights next season and beyond.


Player of the Year - Carlos Tevez

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The Argentine joined from Manchester City and was immediately hailed as the ‘top player’ Juventus had craved. He assumed responsibility of the No 10 shirt and lived up to the tradition of past greats with a fine season. Tevez has become a fan favourite thanks to his committed performances and goals.


Did you know?

- Juventus became the first team in Serie A history to win all home matches, completing a 19 from 19 Juventus Stadium clean sweep.

- With 102 points, Juventus not only broke the Serie A record for most points in a season, but also joined Real Madrid, Barcelona and Celtic in claiming more than 100 points in a term from major European leagues.

- Juve’s 12-game winning run from October through to January set a new club record for most consecutive victories.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

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Season Review: Juventus

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May 21, 2014

Domestically, this has been Juventus' best ever season. Breaking records, Juve amassed more points than any other team have managed in Europe's top five leagues. Undefeated at home, they scored 80 goals overall and conceded only 23. As far as Serie A goes, the Old Lady was imperious.

In Europe, the Bianconeri harbour regrets. Their Champions League exit was humiliating for a side that, at the very least, had the means to qualify out of their group, but their lethargy at the start of the season impeded their progression.

When it came to the Europa League, mental and physical exhaustion took its toll on a side that relies on intensity to secure wins. Yet they cannot complain since domestic success was the priority.

Star Pupil: Carlos Tevez

Statistically, one must acknowledge the impact Carlos Tevez has had on the side, even if Arturo Vidal is the man who makes Juventus tick. The Argentine's hard work off the ball coupled with his technique has allowed the side to be more efficient.

Wearing the number 10 shirt, Tevez coped with the pressure and immediately understood the soldier mentality at the club. He fought for the wins, developed his understanding with Fernando Llorente and improved the overall quality of the side's play in the final third.

Top scorer with 19 goals and seven assists, he is ambitious, creative and lethal and now the proud winner of Juve's "Player of the year" award.

Detention: Angelo Ogbonna

Unlike most teams, it's incredibly difficult to pick "the worst" player at Juventus simply because they all contributed to this unprecedented success. However, as a new arrival that cost the club a large sum of money, Ogbonna has not lived up to expectations.

Erroneous, panicked and tense, the composure one requires at the highest level is missing while it seems he is still uncomfortable with the team’s style of play. However, his potential is evident and this is only his first season. With a little continuity and continued belief, Ogbonna will undoubtedly grow into his role and better demonstrate his skills.

Teacher's notes:

What can we say about a coach who created history with Juventus and can count on the support of all the Bianconeri fans around the world? His ability to motivate and develop players is what makes Antonio Conte a truly remarkable coach and one the club will hope to retain.

Effectively rotating a side so that they could cope with the heavy schedule, he has created a team that play entertaining and attacking football, yet they are defensively strong to secure results. While he has faltered in Europe despite the talent in the team, demanding better men to challenge effectively, one cannot reasonably claim the tactician is not the best Italy has seen in a long time.

Final Grade: A

Only the Champions League exit prevents this year's from one that deserves an A+. A record-breaking season domestically, from next year the focus will be on performing better in Europe to progress both on a sporting level as well as to develop the brand worldwide.

While the team is capable of more than they actually managed, the squad must be bolstered to allow for various tactics. Greater mobility at the back as well as better quality in the wide areas is important to raise the level of play while an intelligent forward would be icing on the cake -- someone capable of making the right runs or of pushing opposing defences back to create room for midfield insertions.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

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Juventus Sets New Serie A Points
Record to Nab 3rd Straight Scudetto


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May 22, 2014

With a dominant 3-0 win over Cagliari on Sunday, Juventus reached 102 points on the season, setting a new Serie A record, per Sky Sports (via FoxSports.com). The dominant performance was especially notable given that Juventus had already clinched their third straight Scudetto two weeks earlier.

Juve won their 32nd title in club history back on May 4 when AS Roma lost 4-1 at Catania. Nevertheless, the Bianconeri finished the season on a high note, winning all three games after capturing the title, including a 1-0 victory over Roma at Stadio Olimpico on May 11.

While Juventus had an excellent domestic season, they failed to make it out of the group stage in the UEFA Champions League. Playing in tough Group B, Juventus finished third behind Spanish side Real Madrid and Turkish club Galatasaray.

However, their finish did qualify them for the Europa League, where they ultimately made it to the semifinals before losing to Portuguese club Benfica. Making matters worse, the Europa League final was held at Juventus Stadium in Turin.

On the plus side, manager Antonio Conte, who was rumored to be leaving the club this summer, will return next season with the goal of winning a fourth consecutive title.


http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

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Juventus Season Review 2013-14 : Records Tumble In Front Of

The Bianconeri Juggernaut


A look back at the record-breaking campaign of the Bianconeri
as they captured their 32nd Scudetto.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCoZHR16yew


May 26, 2014

Another great season for Juventus concluded with them winning the Scudetto for the third consecutive year. The relentless threat posed by Roma kept them on their toes throughout the season but in the end Juventus proved too strong for the chasing pack. The defence was in top form once again having conceded only 23 goals all season. With only two losses in league play and a perfect 19-0-0 record at home, it seems that Juventus will not stray far from the pinnacle of Serie A in the years to come. A high-octane attack has produced 80 goals, led by Carlos Tevez (19) and Fernando Llorente (16), along with Chilean international midfielder Arturo Vidal (11). There were minor hiccups along the way, away defeats to Fiorentina and Napoli being amongst the notable ones but ultimately, it was another convincing league display from the Italian giants.

Given their devastating league form, Juventus’ Coppa Italia performance was quite a disappointment. They strolled past Avellino in the round of 16 but once again were knocked out in Rome, this time by Roma. Gervinho settled the contest with a well-taken goal in a tightly contested match.

Juventus faced Lazio in the Supercoppa Italiana at the start of the season. They lifted their first silverware of the season with a comprehensive 4-0 thrashing which was a sign of things to come for their rivals in Italy.This was their sixth triumph equalling AC Milan’s record.

Things were a lot different in Europe, though. For the second season in a row Juventus got off to an unconvincing start. They failed to register a win in their first four games, wasting numerous chances in front of goal and making some criminal mistakes which cost them dearly. Needing only one point in their last game at Turkey, Juventus were shown the door by former Inter Milan star Wesley Sneijder who grabbed the winner in the 87th minute. Even though the pitch in which the game was played was not suitable for a match of that magnitude yet Juventus have only themselves to blame for not getting the points on board in what was a pretty straightforward group. Interestingly, Juventus recorded the second highest number of shots on goal in the group stages of the Champions League this season.

Juventus were demoted to the Europa league and it might have been a consolation for some of the fans had they won a continental trophy after a gap of almost 15 years. They started the campaign by professionally seeing off Turkish club Trabzonspor before narrowly edging out Fiorentina in a closely fought encounter in Florence. Juventus reached the semifinals thanks to an unconvincing victory over a very young Lyon side. But they could not proceed further as they agonizingly lost 2-1 to Benfica over the two legs. Juventus failed to break down a resolute Benfica defence in the second leg and lost the opportunity to play the final in their own backyard.


The Coach: Antonio Conte

Recall the time Juventus were in when Antonio Conte was appointed. They endured back-to-back seventh-place finishes. The objective set to him by the club in Year One was to get Juventus back into the Champions League, in the second year it was to challenge for the Scudetto and in the third year to win the title. A hattrick of titles in these three years was beyond the imagination of any Juve fan. Yet he achieved the unthinkable which has led him to question himself - Can this team do any better? A shrewd tactician who has transpired his grit amongst his players, Conte has the maximum respect from his troops. Although criticized sometimes for his lack of turnovers in league games, the contract renewal of Juventus manager is the absolute priority this summer for the Juventus board as they look to build on their successful domestic campaigns to mount a challenge in Europe. His celebrations after goals show passion and a deep involvement with his comrades. Players often run across the field to greet Conte after a goal. Conte, an inspirational figure on the pitch during his playing days, never accepts defeat and he has instilled the same spirit in his players.


Finally the strikers come good

Arriving amidst the customary skepticism usually associated with a free signing, Llorente went through a period of extreme difficulty, as the heavy workloads seemed to take a toll on him both physically and mentally. Just when it seemed that he would join the flops like Amauri and Boriello, El Rey Leon turned the corner. With the confidence of his coach and teammates Llorente stepped up to the plate and his injury time winner against Udinese was a decisive moment in his first season in Italy. He was a reference point for the team and his 18 goals this season marked an excellent debut campaign for the Spaniard. A prima punta which was missing since the departure of David Trezeguet, Fernando Llorente is not ‘only beautiful’ but pretty effective in front of goal as well.

Grit, determination, leadership and sacrifice for the team – Carlos Tevez did it all for Juventus. A model professional who faced numerous questions for inheriting the iconic number 10 jersey, Tevez looked like a seasoned customer in his first season in the peninsula. And to think that he had arrived with the reputation of the bad boy, Tevez did not get involved in any sort of controversies and missed only four games this entire season. Twenty goals and eight assists plus the relentless chasing down of opponents, coming back to help out his defence and fighting for each and every ball, Tevez was a buzzing influence in every game he was involved in. His teammates were full of praise for his attitude on the pitch and Carlitos himself has recently declared Juventus as his ‘new home’. Voted the MVP of this season by the Bianconeri fans, Tevez will look to enjoy his summer holidays before continuing his journey with the Old lady.

Pablo Osvaldo joined on a free loan from Southampton and began well by scoring two goals in his first two starts. Unlucky not to add any more thanks to some dubious offside calls, Osvaldo would score the winner against his former club Roma in the Stadio Olimpico. Time will tell whether his stay would be made permanent though Osvaldo did not impress that much during his six month stay.


Record breaking campaign

◾ Juventus have won 33 games this season – a new record in Serie A.
◾ The Bianconeri have won all 19 home games this season – 57 points from home games beating Milan’s 55 points in 2005-06
◾ 14 away wins this season equalling their own previous record set in 1940.
◾ Juventus have beaten every opponent at least once this season- never happened before in Serie A.
◾ Juventus have scored in every single match this season except the 2-0 loss at Naples – first time ever in Serie A.
◾ 12 wins in a row from 9th round to the 20th, Juve’s previous best was 10 during 1931-32.
◾ Scoring 88 goals in 43 consecutive games- a new record in Serie A.
◾ Juventus kept 22 clean sheets this year. A seasonal record over the top five European leagues.
◾ Juventus have 102 points this season; surpassed the previous one (97 points) set by Roberto Mancini’s Inter in 2006/07. Highest number of points in a major European league.


Some individual accolades

◾ Win against Atalanta was the 100th victory for coach Antonio Conte (in all competitions).
◾ Antonio Conte has equalled Mourinho’s record of 83 wins in three years.
◾ Carlos Tévez and Fernando Llorente , along with Ciro Immobile and Alessio Cerci , are the pairs of the most prolific attack of this Serie A (35 goals).
◾ Tévez has won the championship in all nations in which he played: Argentina, Brazil, England and Italy.
◾ Gianluigi Buffon did not concede a goal for 745 minutes between October and December 2013: sixth longest streak by a goalie in the history of Serie A.He made 86 saves in 33 games this season.
◾ Fernando Llorente has the highest number of headed goals this season in Europe’s top five leagues (7).
◾ Fernando Llorente is the highest scoring Spanish player ever in Serie A.
◾ Andrea Pirlo has won the league title in the last four seasons : one with AC Milan and three with Juventus.
◾ This season, Pirlo scored six goals: all direct free kick .
◾ Arturo Vidal is the highest scoring midfielder in Serie A having scored 18 in league and cups.
◾ Stephan Lichtsteiner had eight assists this season- highest for a defender.


Best Player –Carlos Tevez

Despite having won successive Scudetti going into this season, Juventus no doubt possessed a weakness in attacking department. Alessandro Matri was the top-scorer with just 10 goals in 2011-12, while Mirko Vucinic topped the charts with only 13 last season.This all changed with the arrival of Carlos Tevez from Manchester City at a bargain price of just €9 million. Domestically, the Argentine has been absolutely unstoppable – forming a productive partership with fellow new arrival Fernando Llorente.Nineteen Serie A goals tell only half the story for a player who has found the net, assisted, run, relentlessly pressed and fought for every ball from the first whistle to the last. He has fitted seamlessly in Conte’s system – his spectacular long range strike versus AC Milan at San Siro perhaps his highlight of highlights.The only black mark against Tevez was his failure to break his five-year European scoring drought until the semi-final Europa League game against Benfica. But that should not disguise what a brilliant campaign the 30-year-old has had.


Best Goal –Paul Pogba (Juventus 3-0 Napoli)

A goal of unbelievable quality from the Frenchman as he planted an unstoppable volley past the hapless Pepe Reina. The first touch was a bit shaky to say the least but the aplomb with which the dropping ball was smashed into the net was simply a sight to behold.



Defining moment – Pirlo stunner against Genoa

Under the cosh for most of the match and seemingly hanging on for a solitary point, Juventus would have counted themselves lucky to get a point out of their game against Genoa but Andrea Pirlo had other thoughts on his mind. He stepped up to take a freekick from 30 yards out of Mattia Perin’s goal with just seconds remaining at the Luigi Ferraris. A superb hit into the top right corner of the Genoa goal sparked wild touchline celebrations which showed how vital those three points were. This was a pivotal moment in the league which was ultimately decisive in favor of Juventus.


Top Five Best Individual Performances

◾ Fernando Llorente (Juventus 2-0 Livorno)
◾ Carlos Tevez (Juventus 4-0 Sassuolo)
◾ Arturo Vidal (Juventus 4-1 Lazio)
◾ Gianluigi Buffon (Genoa 0-1 Juventus)
◾ Paul Pogba (Juventus 1-0 Bologna)


Top Three Team Performances

◾ Juventus 3-1 Inter
◾ Milan 0-2 Juventus
◾ Lazio 1-1 Juventus


Flop of the season : Angelo Ogbonna

Much was expected from the ex-Torino captain after his big money move in the summer. But so far Ogbonna has failed to live up to the high expectations from him. Comfortable on the ball and very confident while moving forward, Ogbonna lacks the game reading skills and subsequently has been caught out on a number of occasions most notably against Lazio when he lost sight of Klose behind him which led to the dismissal of Buffon in goal. Ogbonna has to step up his game next season to justify his price-tag. He was a squad player and he rarely impressed in the 16 games he appeared in. But it must be kept in mind that Leonardo Bonucci had a similar first season at Juventus. Ogbonna has plenty to improve but it would be a mistake to discard him this early.


Catastrophic moment of the season

With just three minutes left on the clock, a flick on from Didier Drogba set through Wesley Sneijder who expertly placed the ball in the back of the net with the help of the inside post. A heartbreaking moment for the Juve fans which no doubt has slightly overshadowed the record breaking campaign of the Bianconeri. Keeping aside the debates regarding European experience and budgets, this Juventus team is capable of doing much better and surely this early exit at the hands of a team who only finished second in the Turkish league was a very bitter pill to swallow.

Most Disappointing Performance of the season (Napoli 2-0 Juventus)

Absolutely toothless display from Conte’s men who lacked ideas and were second best in every area of the pitch. Only the heroics of Gigi Buffon gave the scoreline a respectable look. It was definitely a night to forget for the champions.


Youth Report

Extremely positive season for a number of co-owned players of Juventus who most likely will be a part of the main team within the next couple of years.

Ciro Immobile (Torino): 22 goals, 3 assists, Capocannoniere – Phenomenal.

Domenico Berardi (Sassuolo): 16 goals, 6 assits – Star in the making.

Manolo Gabbiadini (Sampdoria): 8 goals, 4 assists, tactically sound – Impressive.

Honorable mentions : Richmond Boakye (Elche), Nicola Leali (Spezia), Simone Zaza (Sassuolo), Daniele Rugani (Empoli) and Fausto Rossi (Real Valladolid).


Lessons for next season

The disappointment of missing out on a continental silverware took the sheen off an extraordinary domestic campaign and while Juventus will lament their elimination at the hands of Benfica and Galatasaray, the thought that 2013-14 has been anything other than a success for the Bianconeri is pretty disrespectful. Juventus lifted the Scudetto for a third consecutive time, an achievement they have only managed once in their history way back in the 1930s which meant Antonio Conte has done something which neither Giovanni Trapattoni nor Marcello Lippi managed during their trophy-laden years with the club. Supporters and observers demand and expect La Madama to contest the latter stages of the Champions League, but it must be kept in mind that this is Conte’s third year in the job. And also it is only the second campaign of his career where he has needed to balance domestic and continental obligations.Doubts remain over his choice of formation, with the 3-5-2 criticized as unsuited to challenge in Europe.

Juventus will enter next season with similar insight into what is required of them at the highest level, and they will be expected to contest much longer in the Champions League. This year’s group-stage exit was hugely disappointing. To do so they may yet need one more attacking option such as Barcelona’s Alexis Sanchez who can make the difference in the final third against a team as resolute as Benfica were in Turin. Manchester United’s Nani has also been linked with the club while their co-ownership in Sassuolo starlet Domenico Berardi hints that the club management are looking at this type of a player. Delivering one (or even two) of those should be Beppe Marotta’s main priority this summer. They will also benefit from having their star forward Carlos Tevez enjoying a summer off. Strike partner Fernando Llorente struggled in the early part of the season but he has flourished since, adding 18 goals of his own and forming an excellent tandem with Tevez, which bodes well for next season. Their performance in Europe may have been extremely disappointing this season, but the experience, combined with having Tevez and Llorente together and another attacking option to come, should make 2014-15 an even better year for Juventus.





http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

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Juventus 2013-14 Season In Review:
The Goalkeepers


May 27, 2014

I sit down after every season and think the same thing: "What the hell haven't I said about Gigi Buffon that I have already put down on the keyboard three or four times already?" It's the inner monologue of a Buffon-obsessed writer, you could say. But at the same time, when dealing with such a legendary figure, it's hard to think of new things to say when so much attention has been throw in his direction.

I throw this out there: A season ago, Juventus 24 goals in Serie A. This season? They allowed 23 goals.

Without looking it up online and going solely off of your own memory, would you have believed that Juventus' defense was statistically better this past season compared to a year ago? I wouldn't have thought so as all those memories of Juve allowing stupid goal after stupid goal the first three months of the season roll back into my mind. But a big reason as to why Juventus' defense allowed on fewer goal in Serie A this season was the play of one guy.

Yeah, Buffon.

As much as it makes us rage and scream whenever one of Juve's defenders screw up, it's pretty nice knowing that there's the GOAT laying there in waiting to pick up his teammate. And Buffon was again damn good in a record-breaking season for Juventus. Not that should surprise us at all. It's Gigi Buffon we're talking about here.


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Gianluigi Buffon - 8


I like stats, so I'm just going to throw this one out there.


Saves made in the 2011-12 season: 79

Saves made in the 2012-13 season: 75

Saves made in the 2013-14 season: 87


A couple saves here and there isn't that big of a deal. But when you are forced to make a good number of saves one season compared to last, then something is up.

Buffon is never going to make as many saves as other goalkeepers in Serie A simply because of how good the players who are in front of him are. There's a reason why Juve have had the best defense in Italy for three seasons in a row, and a big reason for it is because of the likes of Giorgio Chiellini, Leonardo Bonucci, Andrea Barzagli, Martin Cáceres and Angelo Ogbonna.

But would you say that Juventus' defense was better this season — especially the first couple months of the year — compared to the previous two under Antonio Conte? I'm not so sure of that. And that's why Buffon had much more to do than in previous seasons.

More shots faced, more shots needing to be saved. It was the third straight year that Juve statistically had the best defense in all of Serie A, but they also had a decent amount of hiccups.

The consistent player in all of it was Buffon, who is heading to the World Cup on really, really good form. He stayed completely healthy for the second straight season, playing in 47 games in all competitions. Not exactly something you might expect out of a goalkeeper who is entering his late 30s, but this is San Gigi we're talking about here, so...

Just another stellar season from the best we've ever seen. Never change, Gigi. Never change.


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Marco Storari - 6.5


I like stats, so I'm just going to throw this one out there.

In the last two — count it, TWO — seasons, Marco Storari has played all of 16 games in all competitions. That's in Serie A, the Coppa Italia, the Champions League and the Europa League. We know Storari hasn't played in the Champions League and Europa League, so that leaves only domestic competitions.

Even with the lack of playing time the past couple of years, Storari has continued to be one of the most reliable backup goalkeepers in European football. His contract is up this summer, but seeing as he seems perfectly happy to be Buffon's backup, there's no reason to think Storari will choose to play elsewhere next season.

And who doesn't like seeing Storari frustrate the hell out of Roma every time he plays against them? So much fun. Just don't ask him for a high five afterwards. We gotta work on that, Marco.


Rubinho - s/v

One appearance, no goals allowed, plenty of unibrow. They call this "The Rubinho Special" around Turin.

Could this be the last we've seen of the man who sports a unibrow so proud in a Juventus goalkeeper jersey? Who knows. Juve could either bring him back for another year as the No. 3 goalkeeper, sign another veteran keeper who knows that he's barely going to play because of who is in front of him, or give an opportunity to a younger player — Nicola Leali, maybe? Laurentiu Branescu, perhaps? — to learn under Buffon and Storari.

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Serie A 2013/2014 Season Review:
Juventus Triumph Once More


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May 28, 2014

Serie A season ended expectedly with defending champions Juventus retaining their crown for the third time. Although there were many ups and downs overall, at the end, Conte proved once more why he is so revered by millions worldwide.

The season started with Roma running away with the competition. With 10 victories in the first 10 matches, it seemed Garcia had found a magic formula. Roma defeated everyone and everything in their path but as the season progressed, they found their adventurous journey come to a stuttering halt. Roma avenged their Coppa Italia defeat to Lazio in their first derby of the season. Their progress was halted by injuries to key player, most notably Strootman, who is going to miss the World Cup due to his ACL tear. Where Roma’s form dipped, Juventus took flight. Although they started the season a little sluggishly, Juventus proved their mettle as time progressed. A successful transfer window saw the arrival of Ogbonna, Tevez and Llorente while they dumped Matri to Milan and Giaccherini To Sundeland. While Milan took up Matri gleefully, claiming that their youth product has come home, they were quick to realize their folly and he was shipped off to Fiorentina during the winter transfer window.

This season Juventus set the Serie A record for the most points in a season, breaking the 100-point barrier on their way to the top. Although they were stunned by Fiorentina, who recorded their first victory over Juventus at Florence since 1998, they had their eyes set on the Serie A crown right from the word go. After defeating the erstwhile undefeated Roma during New Year, the rest of the teams suddenly took notice of them and realized how strongly they have to play against Juventus. Conte rightfully led the club to their third successive Serie A crown, although they exited the Europa League quite bitterly. Milan had a horror season and rightfully, they have been named as the most disappointing team of the season. After finishing third last year, much was expected from the red half of Milan, who staged an amazing comeback during the second half of the previous season.

However, internal turmoil wreaked havoc in their setup as Barbara Berlusconi suddenly claimed superiority over Galliani. With rumors of Galliani leaving the hierarchy, a semblance of stability appeared at Milan when he was forced to stay and an arrangement was drawn up on their roles at the club. Change of managers did the team no good, as they realized how much this team has fallen in the recent years. From the days of Nesta to Thiago Silva to now Constant, the Milan back-line is a horror story for one of the erstwhile powerhouse of Europe. Although they have still hung on to their “most successful club in the world” tag, it is only a matter of time before they lose that too.

Out of favor coach Benitez found a home at Napoli and in his very first season in charge, led the team to the third place in the Serie A table. The loss of Cavani to PSG led to the arrival of Higuain and Callejon from Real Madrid and Pepe Reina from Liverpool. A loss of impetus in the middle of the season saw them drawing matches more than usual. However, all in all, Benitez had indeed settled in well with Napoli and the next season will surely see them challenging for the crown. Mazzarri left Napoli for Inter and although for some portions of the season, it seemed that they might be a contender for the Champions League spot, Inter faded away only to rise strongly during the ending rounds of the season. Elsewhere, Donadoni led Parma to the sixth position in the league. An amazing run of 17 unbeaten matches saw them climb the table faster than any other team. Amazingly, their steak was started and ended by Juventus – while a loss to Juventus started their unbeaten run, it was the same team who ended the streak. The relegation battle saw Sassuolo, Catania, Bologna and Livorno fighting for survival. At the end, it was the team in green who managed to stay afloat for a second successive season.


Capocannoniere

Ciro Immobile (Torino)


Immobile was a hit when he led Pescara to promotion two seasons back. However, when given the first-team opportunity last to lastJuventus season, he failed to deliver the goods. When Torino acquired Immobile at the start of this season, they were unaware of what they were getting in him. 22 goals later, he is one of the most-sought after players in Serie A, reportedly on his way to Dortmund once the World Cup ends. In only a single season, Immobile proved his detractors wrong with intelligence and movement in front of goal. The 24-year-old is a hot property now and the transfer market will surely throw up some interesting bids for the Italian.


Most Valuable Player

Carlos Tevez (Juventus)


Tevez’s arrival from Manchester City to Juventus took a detour via Milan. Although it was rumored that Galliani had a previous dialogue with the Argentine, he failed to make the right move at the right time. While Milan ended up with duds in the transfer market, Juventus gleefully accepted Tevez as one of their own and even bestowed on him the number 10 jersey, left empty by none other than Del Piero. Tevez not only embraced that jersey with both hands, he proved beyond doubt that he was a striker Conte was searching for. Although Immobile overtook the Argentine in the overall goal tally, no player had a greater impact on the Serie A title race than this Argentine. Often he single-handedly turned a match on his own with either his goals or by setting up his team mates for scoring. He has been an instant hit at the Juventus stadium and with him not playing the World Cup, he will surely be more hungrier for the next season.


Team of the season

Buffon (Juventus); Chiellini (Juventus), Benatia (Roma), Lucarelli (Parma); Pogba (Juventus), Vidal (Juventus), Pjanic (Roma), Cerci (Torino), Cuadrado (Fiorentina); Tevez (Juventus), Immobile (Torino)

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Juventus 2013-14 Season In Review:
The central defenders


May 28, 2014

Angelo Ogbonna - 7

When Juve's interest in Ogbonna first surfaced in late 2012, I was in two minds. The major thoughts were positive and focused upon my opinion — shared by many others — that he was one of the best up-and-coming defenders in Serie A. Strong in the challenge, capable in the air and a good reader of the flow of a game, yet more importantly, he could pass. A worthy potential addition to the ranks, but surely he was not yet strong enough to depose any of our commanding rear-guard triumvirate.

Alongside this voyage around my vodka addled synapses was a nagging squeal in the shadows, which sounded something like 'Sorensen.' The young Dane has impressed mightily when thrust into the limelight under the charge of the ill-fated Gigi Delneri. Far from overawed by any occasion, the Iceman acquitted himself so very well indeed that I have since harbored steady eagerness to see him return to the ranks.

I reasoned when Juve finally did sign Ogbonna, that it was a chance lost for the Dane and concluded that the €13 million invested was for the future, not present. For of all the players to succumb to rotation, the CBs are the least affected. Only injury or suspension could give Angelo the chance to shine and truly make his mark. And there was also a certain Martin Cáceres to consider.

As expected, the defender was used sparingly throughout the season, generally deputizing for Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci where his natural talents fit with the most ease into our tactical system. Sixteen starts in all competitions gave us only a blinkered view of what he could bring to the team, for he was never given the chance to truly bed into the starting line-up. And with this in mind, I see his first campaign in our colors as one of moderate success.

There were no shocking performances, just a couple of outings where he seemed out of synch with his comrades. His efforts were solid. His passing measured and accomplished and he proved a worthy back-up to the established players in the team.

Composure and stability are welcome in any back-line and what more could we expect of Ogbonna without the chance to play a lengthy number of consecutive games and build his match sharpness. A defender should be judged first and foremost on his ability to defend, and on that measure, the newcomer to the ranks was satisfactory. At times he gave me the impression that his major aim was to avoid any glaring errors. Keep it simple. Keep the ball moving and win the challenges. We are used to decent pace in Chiellini's position, for the big fella can certainly gallop. Perhaps it would be fair to say that Ogbonna brings more class on the ball to the role, but I cannot see him challenging for a starting spot yet in either the left CB or libero position. He has more accomplished concentration than Bonucci, yet his passing range has yet to show itself as more than sensible and trustworthy, with the libero position demanding more.

His solely defensive stats for the season need explaining. Whilst he ranks lower than those in front of him in the pecking order for tackles and interceptions made per game, this can be explained partly by his marking ability and reading of the game. Through use of intelligent positioning he does not need to make as many tackles as players who take longer to sense trouble. This is a very important skill for any player, especially so for a defender. His pace also adds value to the sharp footballing brain, for his legs allow him to reach the optimum area of the pitch more swiftly than others in the back-line.

Whilst at Torino, Ogbonna demonstrated value in a flat back four as well as a similar 3-5-2 to what has come to be our mainstay on the formation board. At the very least, we now have a strong alternative to Chiellini and a player whose passing accuracy is always useful. Twenty-six years old is young for a center back and the assumption must be that he can still develop further. In what capacity, it is tricky to tell, for he appears to have no major weaknesses, going about his business with tidiness and steely determination.

Given the top drawer quality of the players around him and our prospective change to a 4 man back line, it is tough to determine whether his opportunities to impress will improve or lessen. We must assume that if two spots are available for the centre-backs the ideal starters will be Chiellini and Barzagli, both vastly more experienced and more developed players. In fact the more I think of those two at the back, alongside Lichsteiner and a classy LB, the more excited I become. This would leave Ogbonna as the natural back-up to Chiellini, and Bonucci...potentially vying with Caceres for the back-up role to Barzagli. Unless the former Torino man is given a roll of the dice in the left fullback position.


Leonardo Bonucci - 7

Some say that we make our own luck, but does it therefore follow that we also make our own misfortune? There is sense to the adage from both ends of the spectrum...

Big Leo has often been criticized for his inopportune lapses in concentration as well as succumbing to the odd own goal. He has improved dramatically over these last three seasons. His tackling and positioning especially seem to have progressed to a top drawer level. He has been tasked with engaging a gruelling path of metamorphosis from Bonucci to Sammer.

By and large, Bonucci has done well. Yet that old habit of day-dreaming when an opponent is within range and sniffing out an opportunity with his enemy snout simply refuses to die.

Conte deploys him in a libero role. Yet Big Leo is equipped to fight, to battle, to throw himself in front of danger. Asked to provide creative endeavour from the back, he is not naturally blessed with dribbling talent or flair. He does his best, which is all we can ask. However, it must be said that he is ill-suited to the role we ask of him, and it shows when we face quality opposition.

Bonucci is a player who I like to use as an example to validate my lack of value in the WhoScored statistics. We can see his high amount of tackles, interceptions, passes and clearances per game. However, until there is a measure for 'mistakes that led to a clear cut opportunity or goal for the opposition.' I am hesitant at making any assertions based solely or largely upon those stats. I prefer to use what my eyes and the mind attached to them register. And with this measure, I see Bonucci as a better player than when we signed him, but still plagued by those momentary lapses of unerring focus which can prove the difference between success and failure for the team as a whole.

I would like to see how he fares in a back four. I must state, however, that I have seen enough of his libero impersonations to conclude that he is not meant for the role. Which is not intended to cast aspersions on his all round defensive ability, moreover, it is to suggest that we ask too much of him.

The role he occupies in Antonio Conte's system and starting lineup is to create the play from the back. Others tasked with a comparable responsibility are expected merely to find the nearest player, whereas Big Leo must take the ball forward and look for runners in the final third. As well as perform the duties of sweeper, mop up at the back, cut out forward foraging of The Enemy.

I see no need to delve into his numbers for the season. Suffice to say, Bonucci has played whenever fit, tackled hard and effectively, yet his lack of constant focus remains a problem and if this season has proven anything, it is that there is no place at the top level for a three man defence employing a muscle-man stopper as a libero.

As for his future...

We are all assuming that there will be a move to a rearguard back four. Which implies Chiellini and Barzagli as our starters in the center back role. It is possible that given the chance, and tasked with solely defensive duties, Big Leo could prosper. However, given the lack of opportunities afforded to Caceres, and his deployment focused in the CB area, this would put us in a situation where Bonucci is battling for the deputy Barzagli role against the Uruguayan.

To return to my adage focus...two is company, three is a crowd. If Conte considers Cáceres as a viable option as a fullback on either flank, then Big Leo is decent enough for the center back challenge. If not, one of the two must surely depart.


Giorgio Chiellini - 8

At 29 years of age, Giorgio is reaching his prime as a center back. His season was one of the kind of solidity and strength we have become accustomed to over the years during which we have been blessed with his presence in our colours.

Whilst he may not have the ball control of David Luiz, or the composure and inert leadership abilities of Luisao, when it comes to his ability as a stopper, there are few in the game near his level let alone superior. It is fair to say that of the three mainstays at the back, Chiellini has been forced to work the hardest in order to accommodate Conte's passing game. Intelligent, adventurous distribution does not come naturally to the towering rearguard stalwart.

Reliable, offering good pace, brilliant in the tackle. Nothing new there for any seasoned Juventino. The only issues to be found with Chiellini - and these are far outweighed by his magnificent defensive output - are two fold.

Firstly, his tendency to grapple in the area at set pieces is cause for concern as we aim to venture deeper into European competition. He often treads a gossamer thin line between conceding a penalty and persuading the referee that wrapping his arms around an opponent or tugging on his shirt is merely six of one, half a dozen of the other.

The second area which must be mentioned is his work in the final third. He is capable of making his presence felt at offensive set pieces through his height and immense physicality. However, whenever I see him drive forward with the ball at his feet he shows the composure of a hippo.

These are small matters. The former can be improved somewhat, the latter is dead on the vine. A return to a back four will bring out the best in Chiellini, allowing him to concentrate on what he does consistently at a world class level; defending.


Andrea Barzagli - 8

Andrea has been the most important cog in our defensive chain over the last three seasons. His timing, composure and intelligence time and time again cause opponents to be shut out from the first till the last whistle.

His importance to the squad was conspicuous through his absence due to injury in early February. For several games during Andrea's stint in the treatment room, our defense succumbed to uncomfortable moments of disarray. The match against Verona is testament to my conclusion that Barzagli is our key player at the back. We could not simply stick in his place a rusty Cáceres, who was in dire need of match sharpness, and expect to maintain our strength at the back.

The difference he makes during those rare times when we are put under concerted pressure is enormous, for his feathers are incredibly hard to ruffle. With Big Leo prone to momentary lapses in concentration and Chiellini often bombing forward with scant control of the ball and liable to gift possession to the opposition at any moment, Barzagli is the much needed calming presence across the back-line. It is rare to see him startled or found in a situation where an opponent is out of reach of his sharp mind and capable lower paws.

When fit, and his fitness will become an issue as he continues to age (he is now 33), he is invariably excellent. One of the most important, yet least lauded signings of our beautiful triple Scudetto winning run.

I would like to see us purchase a player of a similar mould. Both Masi and Rugani are apparently well equipped with a similar calmness, both on and off the ball, yet neither will likely be given the chance at Juve until they have been blooded elsewhere in the top flight (much to the chagrin of the BWRAO version of Marotta!).

The more natural leaders a team has in their ranks the better, and whilst Chiellini is a pure warrior who will fight fang and claw to the death, winning the war 9.99999 times out of 10, it is Barzagli who I see as the defensive leader.

Martin Cáceres - 7

There was one positive alone to take from the injury suffered by Barzagli in February. And that was the moderately lengthy first team opportunity afforded to Cáceres. The Uruguayan has long been a fan's favorite due to his passion, latin locks and energy, yet has found it impossible to stake a claim for a starting berth given the fine injury-free form of our first choice centre-backs.

Finally given the chance to play regularly, and gather match sharpness, we began to see what Martin could offer. His positional sense and aerial ability remain awkward at times, but his ability to mark and tackle with precision gets better by the game.

To call the latter part of the season a breakthrough period seems odd, yet it was his first chance for many moons to find his rhythm and show us what he is made off. Clearly he has grinta in abundance, but I am not convinced that we are getting the best out of his talents by using him as a centre-back.

In the past I have seen him perform brilliantly (for us) as a right fullback. For his country he is a regular left fullback. He likes to venture forward, has great pace and high stamina. Our prospective change to a rear four seems to restrict his chances at starting in the middle, yet at the same time increase the chances of his involvement as a fullback, which is where I feel he could truly prosper.


Conclusion

Apologies for the repetition as I have more than touched upon the following in snippets earlier on in this mammoth appraisal of our central defenders, but I cannot leave this report alone until I have broached the future of the players under my gaze.

Given our interest in wide attacking talent it seems right to assume that the evolution of our tactical system is set to step up a gear. I have long been critical of our usage of a formation which has as its pivot at the back a third centre-back. Which in our case is generally Bonucci.

We are hard pressed to find an elite team operating in Europe which deploys a similar formation. Admittedly our 3-5-2 morphs during the course of a game into 3-3-4 and 3-4-3. However, the rear-guard fulcrum remains the same. Bonucci is tasked with a mixture of libero and sweeper duties. He is expected to step out of defense and look for long passes. Essentially move from CB to regista. This is not at all his natural game.

The system leaves us very strong defensively but lacking a player further up the field whose talents shine with the ball at his feet. It is not mere co-incidence that very few top teams adopt a similar system. For the vast majority of our rivals for a place at the royal table employ a back four for good reason, namely the extra man found further up the field.

Big Leo is not a libero. He is a stopper. He cannot weave his way forward like Beckenbauer, nor drive forward with dynamism like Sammer. The libero role seems defunct in the modern game at the highest level, which is where we seek to find ourselves.

Conte sacrifices an offensive player for a defensive player every-time he opts for the 3-5-2. Our troubles seem focused on scoring goals, not conceding goals. Adding a player potent in the final third for a player highly capable in the defensive third may make us more vulnerable defensively, yet also adds hugely to our offensive options and ability to break down tough opponents. The more players comfortable on the ball and able to do something clever with the ball, the greater our chances of breaking down troublesome opponents.

If we do move to a flat back four, it leaves two CB places. Chiellini and Barzagli appear the first choice. With Ogbonna an able deputy at LCB and Bonucci the same for the RCB role.

It is always ideal to have two quality players challenging for each role. Which leaves Cáceres, who is a very solid candidate for a left flank fullback role. Both Chiellini and Ogbonna can also play there, with the former Torino man more aptly suited. With quality higher up the field on the left flank, we need not purchase as a necessity a specialist left fullback when we have options within our current squad. Kwadwo Asamoah can also perform competently as a left fullback.

Cáceres has shown in the past that he is comfortable on the right flank, which potentially means we can dispense with Isla or sample his deployment as a right winger. Perhaps his ship has already sailed at Juve...

Suffice to say, I feel we can move to a flat back four without forking out millions of EUROS for new players.

The only facets we lack in our defensive department are leadership and composure. Which none of the present offering has in spades other than Barzagli. Perhaps this is the spark for the rumour fires regarding Paletta??

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Juventus 2013-14 Season In Review:
The Wingbacks


May 29, 2014

This latest installment of the Season In Review takes a look at the players that are so important to Antonio Conte's preferred 3-5-2 system, the wingbacks. Some provide amazing energy and width, as well as solid defensive work. Others, more of the latter than the former. A potential switch to 4-3-3 next season could be interesting for these players but here are the ratings for 2013-14.


Stephan Lichtsteiner - 7

The Swiss international continued his solid displays at right wingback this season. An area where we saw significant improvement was in his final distribution, as he had eight assists in Serie A this season (compared to two last season). He also got on the score sheet on two occasions — which isn't a bad return either for a wingback.

One downside to Lichtsteiner's season may have been his performances in Europe this season where he would perhaps liked to have had more of an impact. Granted, injury and rotation had a part to play in this as he missed some important Champions League games at the end last year through injury and Conte gave Isla a chance in the Europa League.

All of the rumours in the press this post season are that Conte is going to bring in players to allow Juventus to play a 4-3-3 formation for next season. This can only be good news for Lichtsteiner as it will allow him to revert to his more natural position. Having said that, he is more than comfortable on the right of a 3-5-2 at this point so will have no problem switching between roles.

The 30-year-old’s current contract with the Bianconeri is set to expire in June 2015 and he has indicated that he his hoping to sign an extension. Juventini will rejoice at this as The Swiss Express has been one of the clubs most consistent performers since he arrived in 2011.

Kwadwo Asamoah – 7.5

Asamoah has really cemented his place in the side this season as one of Juve's most consistent performers both domestically and in Europe. The Ghanaian international scored two goals in Serie A this year and had three assists.

The statistics might not show it, but some of his best performances this season came in the Europa League as game after game he displayed very impressive pace, strength, dribbling and attacking play as well as coping very well defensively when called upon.

This is all the more impressive when you consider Asamoah arrived at the club as a central midfielder, a position we have rarely had a chance to see him prove himself such is the array of talent and depth available to Conte there.

Looking to the future, as mentioned previously the possible use of a 4-3-3 for some games next season could provide some interesting opportunities for Asamoah. He could potentially play on the left of that middle three or as proved against Real Madrid this season he can also fit in as a left full back in a back four.

This tactical versatility will ensure that Kwadwo will continue to be a pivotal part of the Juve side of the future and the best news of all is that he is still only 25 years old.


Mauricio Isla – 6.5

The 2013-2014 season was definitely an improvement on the previous season for the Chilean international which would not have been difficult. Although Isla did not exactly set the world alight, he did prove to be a good back up option for Lichtsteiner — especially in the Europa League where he probably put in some of his better performances this year.

Having said that, he has been nowhere near the level of performance he displayed with Udinese and, at this stage, it is difficult to say if he will get a chance to reach that level again with Juventus.

On the plus side, he is still only 25 years old, so a lot will depend on him staying injury free and proving to Conte that he can once again reach the heights of his Friuli days. Isla should start for Chile in the World Cup next month, so this can only do his confidence good and it might go some way to getting him back to his best form.

Federico Peluso – 6.5

When the player in front of you from a selection standpoint (Asamoah) is having his best season in a Juve shirt, it is going to be difficult to have any major impact on your clubs season.

Peluso's appearances have been limited to a support role, but when he has played, he has proved solid if not spectacular. Defensively he is not a bad option to have in the squad but going forward he offers very little.

With the potential move to 4-3-3 it would be difficult to see him having more than a support role yet again next season as Asamoah, Ogbonna and Chiellini would also be ahead of him in the pecking order for that left back position.

Depending on where the transfer is kitty is prioritized having Peluso as a squad player going forward won't have any huge impact on Juve's season. He'll continue to do a job if required.

Simone Padoin - 6

Padoin more or less continued his role in the side from the previous season. i.e. being one of Antonio Conte's favourite subs. He made 15 substitute appearances in total this season and from a manager's perspective he is probably the type of guy you want in your squad.

You know he is going to give 100 percent every time he comes on. Is he going to change the course of a game? No. But if you're in a position that you just want to steady the game and get someone who will provide you with a solid if uninspiring performance then Padoin is your man.

If Juventus are to make a step up in Europe, it is the likes of Padoin that will need to be upgraded. Only time will tell if the Conte love for 'not so super sub' Padoin continues.

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Juventus 2013-14 Season In Review:
The Central Midfielders


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May 31, 2014

The Old Lady's midfield has been one of the best fixtures of the Antonio Conte era. Sure, Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini have been a rock at the back, and this year, Carlos Tévez and Fernando Llorente led the most prolific attack in the Serie A. But the midfield has been the engine that keeps everything ticking.

So, without further ado, let's see how our central midfielders have done this season.

Paul Pogba - 7.5

Last year, we discovered Paul Pogba as he slowly carved a place in the starting lineup. This year, he was probably one of the first names in Conte's line-up. Pogba scored seven goals and had seven assists. He also is our highest ranking player in WhoScored. He seemed slow and complacent between February and April probably due to exhaustion. Psychologically and physically this has been the most demanding season for the Frenchman. With this experience I am excited to see what he can do next year. Let's just hope Raiola leaves him be for a while.

Simone Padoin - 6.5

Padoin continues to see minutes in black and white despite his lack of natural talent. He started eight games and came on 13 times as a substitute in Serie A. Why you ask? Because Conte knows what he is going to get. Padoin works hard, runs hard and will take a bullet for Conte if needed be. Also, whether you like it or not, he was instrumental in Juve getting 102 points this season (Juve 1-0 Atalanta).

Andrea Pirlo - 7.5

His impact directing Juve's game has been steadily decreasing after his first season. It may be because since the 2011-12 season, he has been heavily marked. With that being said, his impact and contribution to the Old Lady has been equally as impressive as his first season. With six goals, this season has been Pirlo's highest scoring since joining Juve. More importantly, he has done this while playing 14 games less than the 2012-13 season and 10 games less than the 2011-12 season.

Arturo Vidal - 8.0

For me, Arturo Vidal was the best midfielder of the season. Sure, his impact decreased towards the end when his knee was busted but despite this he could always be counted on. Even with a bad knee and less than impressive performances towards the end of the season, Vidal scored three more goals than last year. I don't know how he ranks with respect to other midfielders in Europe, but he has to be one of highest scoring central midfielders around. Add to that his 4.1 tackles and 1.2 interceptions per game as his defensive contributions. It is no surprise that most rich teams will be looking for his signature. It is also no surprise that Marotta has confirmed Vidal as an integral par of the team.

Claudio Marchisio 7.0

Claudio had an interesting season. Without a doubt, his confidence received a hit when he noticed a 20 year old kid that had been in the club for one year had displaced him. By the end of the season, Pogba had played an extra 1200 minutes (that is over 13 full games) than Marchisio. In a more personal note, Claudio scored four goals this season compared to the six last season and the 10 the season before that. The trend is the same with regards to assists. With that being said, Claudio was his good ol' reliable self. Without being as dominating as in the past he helped close down the team when needed. It is no surprise that Conte trusted him to shut down Real Madrid's wing in the biggest game Juventus played all season. The bench time may have done Claudio well as his performances have been improving as of late. The goals against Sassuolo and Cagliari are a clear example that Il Principino has not lost his amazing technical ability. I look forward to seeing a renewed Claudio Marchisio next year.

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Juventus 2013-14 Season In Review:
The Strikers


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Jun 4, 2014

ven a year later, the feeling is still very new. After years of turmoil, rebuilding, and average/streaky strikers, Juventus played one full season with two amazing strikers leading the charge. Can you believe it?

And boy did they lead this team. Juve fans had been longing for two match-deciding forwards for a long time and this year they finally got what they were waiting for, at least in Serie A. The partnership that Tevez and Llorente formed up front was a true representation of what and who Juventus is in 2014. A hard-working team that is patient, prepared, and one of the most dedicated teams in Europe. Conte's work with Tevez and Llorente was the epitome of hard work paying off.

There were others that helped the charge up front of course, but the beauty and the beast were the main attacking duo to will Juventus to glory this season. Here's how yours truly, the ever-generous BWRAO player rating keeper, would rate the attackers for the 2013/2014 season:

Carlos Tevez - 8.0

For how young Tevez is, there was already plenty of turmoil in his career before he showed up at Vinovo last summer. His quality was never brought into doubt, however. He was, for Serie A, a top-class striker who had all the qualities to bag 20 goals for a well-oiled machine like Juventus. Carlitos ended the Serie A season at 19 goals in 34 games, in third place for the Capocannoniere title behind Ciro Immobile with 22 and Luca Toni (yes, that's right, the ancient Luca maafuckin Toni) with 20. He also led the league in most shots on goal (54) and notched 7 assists in Italy.

Aside from all the goals and stats, Tevez proved himself to be one of the hardest working attackers I've ever watched and was a relentless pitbull on the pitch every time he stepped on it in a Juve shirt. The expectations for him were high, and he not only matched them but successfully established an incredibly high reputation for himself. A fantastic first season for Carlitos in Torino — I wish him only more success in the years to come.

Fernando Llorente - 7.5

Standing tall but trailing only slightly behind Tevez is the magnificently beautiful Spaniard, Fernando Llorente. We've all but forgotten the time it took El Rey Leon to adapt to Juventus' game at the start of the season, as he's become such a staples choice up front ever since. The arrival of Llorente had many facets to it — his ability to score goals was certainly important, but the way Conte used the Spaniard for the flow of Juve's attack really transformed him into a key figure in our starting 11. Llorente worked hard, learned, and responded well to the pressure to go on and notch 16 goals and 5 assists in 34 games. His headers were so good he made Lichtsteiner look like a capable crosser. He scored key goals in key moments and similarly to Tevez, was sorely missed when not on the pitch. Both of our starting strikers will have to improve in Europe next year — especially Tevez — but now that it's all said and done for this season, they sure had a great one.

Fabio Quagliarella - 6.5

The drop off in games played, goals scored, and overall quality is massive from the newly acquired duo of Llorente and Tevez to the rest of Juve's strikers. While injuries did their thing throughout the season, it really goes to show the massive need we had for strikers that can actually score goals on a consistent basis. Fabio Quagliarella was on the verge of leaving Juventus on several occasions, yet in the end ended up scoring two goals in four games during our measly Champions League run, as much as any other striker this season. In the league, his performance was quite awful, notching just one goal in 17 games, most of which he came on as a substitute. I highly doubt we'll see Fabio in a Juventus jersey for one more season, though he's always been somewhat of an interesting back up with his unpredictability.

Sebastian Giovinco - 6.5

I know there's been a lot of hate towards the Atomic Ant from Juve supporters throughout the years (me included), but this year I saw flashes of what Giovinco can be at Juventus if all the stars aligned for him. Not saying it will ever happen, in fact the chances are slim, but in all the garbage minutes Giovinco was given he was a bit more decisive with his play, a bit sharper, even if only slightly. Don't get me wrong, he had a very average season other than that goal against Milan, but if Conte finally switches to a 4-3-3 next year he can prove to be a valuable option on the attacking wing. That is, if he stays in Juventus, which I think he will.

Mirko Vucinic - 6

Poor Mirko spent most of the season benched, injured, or getting shipped off to Inter only to be brought back into the team after a collapsed transfer. Last year, he was a key figure for Juventus while this season his impact was minimal at best. I doubt he'll stick around for much longer.

Dani Osvaldo - 6

Came on loan mid-season as a backup and was seemingly more of a locker room spirit addition than a highly-valuable asset on the field. He is undoubtedly talented, but did very little to force Marotta's hand to splurge around $20 million for his outright ownership. That said, he did get that meaningless yet season-stamping goal against Roma at the end of the season.


All in all, Juventus made a huge jump in quality when it comes to our strikers last summer. Players like Llorente and Tevez were needed for years and now that they are finally here, we certainly reaped the benefits from it. As we try to bridge the gap between Juventus and the world class teams like Bayern and Real Madrid, we must continue to improve on this level. One more great striker to create healthy competition is crucial, especially if Conte is to continue to use the 3-5-2 for the majority of games during a season. Whether that will be a young talent like Morata or a seasoned veteran with plenty left in the tank, we cannot get complacent with the duo of Llorente and Tevez to lead us to glory on all fronts next season.

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