Juventus Season 2014-2015

[Socrates 7962]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

1 - 3

Ivan Rakitić (4')

Álvaro Morata (55')

Luis Suárez (68')
Neymar (95')

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Juventus suffer Champions League
heartache, but the future is bright

Jun 7, 2015

Juventus' choreography before tonight's final featured a pair of hands reaching for the Champions League trophy. They were within touching distance but, alas, came up short. The accompanying slogan underneath "Fino alla Fine" -- "Until the End" -- did not foreshadow a fairytale ending: Juventus were not destiny's team.

The road to Berlin might have been the same -- it even passed through Dortmund -- as it was for the team's 2006 World Cup winners, Gianluigi Buffon, Andrea Pirlo and Andrea Barzagli. Juventus got ready in the same dressing room as Italy, their fans congregated in the same end of the Olympiastadion, and The White Stripes' "Seven Nation Army", the anthem of that triumph, played before kickoff. But the omens were red herrings.

Juventus couldn't do to Barcelona what Milan had achieved in 1994, when they upset the odds to beat Johan Cruyff's "Dream Team", despite the absence of centre-backs Alessandro Costacurta and Franco Baresi, a parallel of sorts with the Bianconeri's loss of Giorgio Chiellini to injury in the run-up to this game.

Instead, their painful tradition in European Cup finals continued. This was the sixth defeat in eight for Juventus and their fourth in a row in these showpieces games. No club -- Bayern Munich and Benfica have been beaten finalists five times -- has had to climb the stairs as often to receive a runner-up medal before descending to watch the winners' lift the trophy. "Unfortunately, Juve's history in this competition isn't good," Claudio Marchisio sighed.

Barcelona were overwhelming favourites to claim their fourth Champions League title in nine years, and they lived up to expectations, even if they played in fits and starts. There is no shame in losing to them, and Juventus weren't humiliated. Far from it, in fact; this was a respectable defeat.

Juventus and their fans were under no illusion as to the size of the task awaiting them. Marcello Lippi no less believes this Barcelona team to be the best in history, while Leonardo Bonucci acknowledged tat Juventus are a "step below" the Catalans. Buffon felt his team had a 35 percent chance of winning and hit the nail on the head when he insisted Lionel Messi is an alien playing among humans.

If there was sympathy for Chiellini before the game -- the defender was consoled in training Friday by Pavel Nedved, who missed Juventus' last final through suspension in 2003 -- hearts immediately went out to the team's goalkeeper and captain.

Buffon had lost on penalties to Milan 12 years ago, and even if he believes this wasn't his last chance, time is ticking on the 37-year-old's chances of winning the one medal missing from his collection.

A world-class save to deny Dani Alves after 13 minutes, then another from Luis Suarez at the beginning of the second half to keep the score 1-0 offered a reminder that, unlike his great contemporary Iker Casillas, he has yet to enter a decline.

Without Buffon, Barca would have been out of sight. Instead, Alvaro Morata, a scorer in both legs against Dortmund and former club Real Madrid, equalised in his personal clasico. It was regrettable that Juventus conceded at the time when they were enjoying their best moment in the game.

Buffon, for whom this arguably meant most, was left disheartened by defeat. "I really did believe," he said. On the eve of the game he had echoed coach Max Allegri in rejecting the line iterated by the papers in Italy that whatever happened after Juventus qualified for the semifinals for the first time since 2003, their campaign in Europe would merit consideration as a success. They weren't here to be tourists or sacrificial victims, the goalkeeper said. As a winner, he and his team hadn't come this far just to lose.

But when the pain subsides, Buffon will surely come around to the journalists' take on matters, for Juventus have so much to be proud of. Italian football should be proud of them too, and their season can't be considered anything other than a success. No rotten tomatoes will be thrown when they touch down at Turin's Caselle airport. Instead, they will be welcomed back with applause.

No one expected them to reach the Champions League final at the beginning of the season. No Italian team had gotten there since Inter back in 2010, and group stage exits in back-to-back World Cups had contributed further to a gloomy assessment of the state of Serie A.

Antonio Conte resigned from Juventus because he thought that, without heavy investment, it would be years before a team made it so far again. Downbeat about the league and mindful of The Old Lady's recent disappointments in Europe, many shared that impression and didn't believe it was about to change when Max Allegri was appointed his replacement.

Upon clinching the Scudetto, Bonucci recalled how the season "started in chaos". Nevertheless, Juventus and their coach have surprised everyone and so nearly matched Inter's achievement of five years ago.

After clinching a fourth straight Scudetto with a record four games to spare, they won an unprecedented 10th Coppa Italia to do the double for the first time since 1995 and, next season, will become the first team to wear a silver star on their shirts to commemorate the achievement.

They return to Turin not with the cup, but with 100 million in TV and prize money. It's an amount they would have earned from Paul Pogba's sale, which means they don't have to sell the midfielder.

If the player does wish to leave -- and there is a sense he might not want to risk putting his place in France's Euro 2016 squad in jeopardy by moving somewhere and not settling -- then the cash already banked, and the new contract they got him to sign means they are in strong negotiating position.

Edinson Cavani, Mario Mandzukic and Axel Witsel seem ready for Juventus to come calling, should anyone else, such as a homesick Carlos Tevez, decide to leave. Meanwhile, Paulo Dybala, one of Europe's most wanted, has already signed and was in attendance in Berlin, while the free transfers of Neto and Sami Khedira are expected to be made official next week.

Juventus' financial power isn't the only thing that has grown this year. Their attraction has too, particularly with their definitive re-establishment as a force in Europe. "Today Juventus' appeal is notable," general manager Beppe Marotta told Il Corriere della Sera. "There was a time when players like [Antonio] Di Natale turned us down. Today players come running."

One who is seriously contemplating leaving, however, is, apparently, Andrea Pirlo, whose tears at the final whistle were interpreted as being indicative of a farewell. Asked if that really were the case, Marotta said: "I hope not."

However, talk of a move to New York City has grown in recent days, and though the midfielder might yet go back on his mooted decision to leave, just like he did to retire from the national team, it would represent the end of an era if he departed.

Pirlo's arrival four years ago represented a turning point for Juventus and opened this cycle of success. He is still decisive in Serie A, as has been shown by the no-look passes, free-kicks and that last-minute winner in the Turin derby.

He is irreplaceable, and the closest player in terms of comparison, Marco Verratti, doesn't appear to be a realistic target. But Marchisio, Juventus' most consistent midfielder this season, whose back-heel in the buildup to Morata's goal underlined his class, has done well in the role, even if he has interpreted it differently.

Juventus's management handled Conte's succession excellently and can be trusted to move the team on post-Pirlo, should that be required. The next aim is to emulate the Juventus of the 1930s and the Grande Torino of a decade later and win five Scudetti in a row, while also ensuring cup runs in Europe are a rule, not an exception, normal not abnormal.

"History says Juventus must always -- or almost always -- get at least to the semifinals of [the Champions League]," Buffon said this week. "We also feel great responsibility because we know that if things go well, we've done something great. But it's almost business as usual for Juventus. A month and a half later, we're back to work for the new season."

Life goes on at Juventus, who have a lot to look forward to. Morata, a symbol of the bright future, believes they will be back. "This is a great squad, a great family, and we must continue working hard," he said. "This team has no limits. It can win the Champions League, and the directors are working to build an even stronger side."

[Socrates 7962]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

1 - 3

Ivan Rakitić (4')

Álvaro Morata (55')

Luis Suárez (68')
Neymar (95')

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Allegri: Juventus can build on great season

The coach was quick to set his side a new target after their
3-1 defeat to Barcelona in the Champions League final on Saturday.

Jun 7, 2015

Massimiliano Allegri hopes Juventus' run to the Champions League final will help them establish themselves as one of the top teams in Europe over the next few years.

Juve put up a valiant fight in Berlin, only to be undone by Barcelona's attacking power as Luis Enrique's men ran out deserved 3-1 winners.

The Turin giants will have to be content with the Serie A and Coppa Italia crowns at the end of a wonderful season, and Allegri hopes there will be more to come.

He told Sky Italia: "We were naive on the Barca goals but we fought until the end. It was a fantastic season and I cannot say anything negative about my team.

"We risked a lot and had several chances. But when you play against great players, you sometimes think you're in control and when you think you have it, the opponents score.

"Maybe we can do some things better but we played the game until the end. Now we want to establish ourselves among the best eight European teams.

"The first objective is, as always, to win Serie A and the Coppa Italia. The Champions League remains a dream."

[Socrates 7962]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

1 - 3

Ivan Rakitić (4')

Álvaro Morata (55')

Luis Suárez (68')
Neymar (95')

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Arturo Vidal struggles as Juventus
suffer Champions League final defeat

Jun 7, 2015

Juventus' hopes of winning the Champions League and clinching the first Treble in club history were dashed as Barcelona emerged victorious in Berlin.

Juve started well and later had their best spell of the game to equalise in the second half but could not take other opportunities that presented themselves, while the midfield -- Claudio Marchisio apart -- struggled to contend with Barcelona.


Player Ratings

Gianluigi Buffon, 8 -- He made some errors, but Juventus stayed in the match largely because of the heroic saves made by the goalkeeper. Still to be counted on for his experience, agility and exceptional understanding of the game.

Stephan Lichtsteiner, 6 -- Simply wasn't good enough in closing down Neymar but he improved, attempting to offer alternatives on the right flank. After all, it's his work that led to the Juve goal.

Andrea Barzagli, 6 -- Always professional and reliable but he was still not at his peak condition. Filled in admirably for the injured Giorgio Chiellini.

Leonardo Bonucci, 6 -- He struggled to contain Barcelona's attack and was guilty of looking overwhelmed, yet his tactical intelligence and mature mind helped him navigate the daunting task as well as he could. He tried to limit the potential of Barca's talented front line.

Patrice Evra, 6 -- He reacted slowly for Barcelona's second goal, but nonetheless, his experience proved important in such a match and he even strode forward with confidence in the second half.

Paul Pogba, 6 -- He can still hold on to possession better than most, but his decision-making continues to frustrate onlookers. A decent performance in which he strode ahead with conviction to exploit space, but this player has to develop more next season.

Andrea Pirlo, 6 -- Far from inspirational, he was practically invisible. Could not defend, no geometric passes that unleashed his forwards and many minor mistakes, the deep-lying midfielder has been far from his brilliant self in Europe this season.

Claudio Marchisio, 7 -- Rarely a foot wrong by the midfielder who led his teammates and blocked several dangerous runs from Barcelona's players. His timing was impeccable and his contributions to both phases of the game were invaluable.

Arturo Vidal, 5 -- He was overly eager, reckless and nearly sent off. The Chilean's deep desire to exhibit his talent led to a poor performance void of any composure. He fouled needlessly and excessively and was culpable on Barca's first goal.

Alvaro Morata, 7 -- Predatory by nature and wonderfully instinctive, he's always on hand to exploit mistakes and jump on opportunities, scoring the goal that gave the Bianconeri temporary hope.

Carlos Tevez, 6 -- Not his usual magical best but he handled the ball better than most. Unable to exert his usual influence though it was from his shot that Marc-Andre ter Stegen pushed the ball to Morata for the equaliser.


Substitutes:

Roberto Pereyra, NR -- Replaced Vidal with 11 minutes left but was unable to make an impression.

Fernando Llorente, NR -- Brought on for Morata in the 85th minute to add a physical presence but made little impact other than one pass that set up a Tevez shot.

Kingsley Coman, NR -- Replaced Evra in the 89th minute with Juventus desperately seeking an equaliser.

[Socrates 7962]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

1 - 3

Ivan Rakitić (4')

Álvaro Morata (55')

Luis Suárez (68')
Neymar (95')

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Neymar: Juventus proved they are a top team

Following Saturday's Champions League final win over the Bianconeri,
the Barcelona forward has praised the quality in the Scudetto holders' ranks.

Jun 7, 2015

Barcelona star Neymar has praised the "great" quality of Juventus, despite beating the Italian champions 3-1 in Saturday's Champions League final.

The Bianconeri pushed the Catalans close for much of the clash in Berlin, with Alvaro Morata equalising 10 minutes into the second half after Ivan Rakitic's fourth-minute opener.

However, Luis Suarez and Neymar saw off any shock result in the Scudetto and Coppa Italia holders' favour with goals in the final third of the game, securing a treble for Barca.

Neymar, who netted the final goal with the last kick of the game deep into second-half stoppage-time, was jubilant with how the Liga and Copa del Rey champions added a third trophy to their collection in 2014-15.

"Juventus are a great team with great players," he told Sky Sport. "We played our game, though, and in the end we came out winners.

"I'd like to thank first of all the team and the coach. This triumph is also dedicated to all of our families."

After a brief breather to celebrate the Champions League triumph, Neymar will link up with Dunga's Brazil squad as they compete in this summer's Copa America in Chile.

The 23-year-old was one of the stars of the World Cup in Brazil last year until his injury ruled him out for the remainder of the tournament at the quarter-final stage.

Neymar bounced back this campaign to record 39 goals in 50 games for Barca and, in the process, become the first-ever player to score and win in Champions League and Copa Libertadores finals.

[Socrates 7962]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

1 - 3

Ivan Rakitić (4')

Álvaro Morata (55')

Luis Suárez (68')
Neymar (95')

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Allegri: 'Proud of Juve'

Jun 7, 2015

Max Allegri was “proud of this team and our fans” after Juventus lost the Champions League Final to Barcelona.

The Bianconeri had levelled the scores with Alvaro Morata, but Luis Suarez and Neymar sealed the 3-1 result in Berlin.

“Once the game had ended, I thanked the team for both this season and their performance in that match,” explained the Coach in a Press conference.

“The performance was one of real depth, of character and technique. When you play against the best, you think the game is in hand, but someone always squirms away.

“From the bench I thought we’d go on to win it. They got away from us on a counter, as there are three extraordinary counter-attacking strikers and we paid the price.

“The only thing we were missing was to go 2-1 up when we had the upper hand. We could’ve done better on the first goal, but Finals are never closed after four minutes. We had patience and created our chances.

“There is disappointment at the defeat, but the team did what it had to do. We emerge from this with more self-belief and awareness of what we can achieve.

“We will improve as time goes on in European games, keep raising the bar. Of course, it won’t be a Final every year.”

Juve had been hoping for the Treble, but fell at the final hurdle after a fourth consecutive Scudetto and the Coppa Italia.

“It’s a heavy blow for everyone. You can’t always win in football and the trouble with a Final is you don’t get the chance to try again straight away.

“The enthusiasm that there was before the Final, the movement that has been revived in Europe this season, I think Italian football ought to thank Juve.

“The fans showed great civility by applauding the players anyway and I am happy about that. I’m also glad the supporters appreciated our season with their reaction online.”

[Socrates 7962]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

1 - 3

Ivan Rakitić (4')

Álvaro Morata (55')

Luis Suárez (68')
Neymar (95')

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Llorente: 'Juve better than Barca'

Jun 7, 2015

Fernando Llorente felt “at times Juventus were better than Barcelona” in the Champions League Final.

The Bianconeri lost 3-1 in Berlin last night, but had cancelled out an early Ivan Rakitic goal with Alvaro Morata and conceded from Luis Suarez against the run of play.

“We did not start the match the way we wanted to and Barça scored straight away, but then we played well and at times were better than Barcelona,” Llorente told Sky Sport Italia.

“We stayed in the game, had the chance to go in front and it’s a pity, as we should’ve made the most of that really positive spell.

“We are in any case happy, as it has been a magnificent season.”

Juve still did the Double, winning a fourth consecutive Scudetto and their first Coppa Italia for 20 years.

[Socrates 7962]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

1 - 3

Ivan Rakitić (4')

Álvaro Morata (55')

Luis Suárez (68')
Neymar (95')

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Juventus played just like Barcelona - Trapattoni

The former Bianconeri boss was proud of the attacking style
the club adopted in Saturday's Champions League final defeat to Barcelona.

Jun 7, 2015

Giovanni Trapattoni believes nobody would have noticed the difference between Juventus and Barcelona had the two sides swapped shirts during the game.

A thrilling encounter saw Barca run out 3-1 winners, but the game was a close affair throughout as Massimiliano Allegri's side looked to play the Catalans at their own game.

Ivan Rakitic put Luis Enrique's men in front early on, but Alvaro Morata equalised in the second half as the Italians roared back into the game.

However, Luis Suarez then made it 2-1 before Neymar added a third deep into injury-time, but former Juve boss Trapattoni says his old club can hold their heads high.

"Had their shirts been exchanged, at no point would you have noticed Barcelona were Juventus," he said after the game.

"It was a great game but credit to Barcelona, they are worthy champions. It was a shame Juve went behind so soon to Rakitic's goal but they responded with personality."

Juve goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon was partly at fault for Barca's second after parrying Messi's initial shot into the path of Suarez but Trapattoni said any criticism would be unfair.

"Gigi has held up Juve in the most delicate moments so it would be unfair to single him out. I'm really sorry for Juventus and Italian football but we gave a good demonstration.

"There is no denying that some of Barcelona's technical performers made the difference, but Allegri prepared for the challenge really well."

Juve midfielder Andrea Pirlo broke down in tears after the game and Trapattoni offered his sympathy to a player he knows well from his World Cup-winning Italy side of 2006.

"I give applause to all, especially my old comrades Buffon and Pirlo, who deserved victory more than anyone.

"I'm sorry to see Andrea in tears, but we know that this is the law of sport. His tears are very loving, like mine in South Africa. You know at a certain age success might not now be repeated."

[Socrates 7962]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

1 - 3

Ivan Rakitić (4')

Álvaro Morata (55')

Luis Suárez (68')
Neymar (95')

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Juventus 1-3 Barcelona: Juve finish with a loss,
but also with their heads held high

Jun 7, 2015

Going into the Champpions League final against Barcelona, I knew it was going to be tough. And although I wanted to win it, it was equally important that if Juventus lost, they would walk away proud. In the last few years there has been too many comments about Calciopoli, too many comments about match fixing, too many comments about catenaccio. Those needed to be replaced by comments about an up-and-coming team, comments about good management, comments about good football, and comments about a bright future.

Now that it is all said and done, I am proud of Juventus and what they have accomplished. Juventus lost to a formidable opponent, one that beat the champions of Italy, England, France, and Germany en route to winning the Champions League. And despite their greatness, they certainly didn't appear to be miles ahead of this Juventus.

Juventus will not have the Champions League badge on their shirt next season, but they can rest assured that next time they take on Europe, they will be respected by any opposition they face.


MATCH SUMMARY

(Forgive me if the summary is short or if I missed key moments. I generally write while I watch, but this game was too important, too nerve wracking to have pen and paper by my side.)

The first two minutes started well. Juventus were pressing Barcelona very hard and forcing their defense to mistakes. However, in the blink of an eye, Barca went up front in less than five minutes. A quick play on the left hand of the pitch left Rakitic unmarked in the box to put Barca ahead.

Barca had more opportunities during the first half but Juventus also created some chances. After the end of the first 45 minutes, there was a feeling that Juventus could score at least one more goal.

Juventus started the second half strong, and ten minutes into it they were rewarded with a goal. Marchisio passed to Lichtsteiner with a beautiful back-hell who then setup Tevez to take a shot against Ter Stegen. The rebound fell to Morata who made it 1-1. In the words of Tre, now we had a game. Juventus continued to press hard and a few chances of their own and at that point the game could go either way. Unfortunately for anyone wearing black and white, the game went Barca's way against the run of play. A somewhat similar play in Juventus' half meant Buffon gave away a rebound that Suarez finished with ease.

The drama will not end there. A few minutes later Neymar scored the third of the night but was ruled out as a handball. At that point I started to believe that Juventus had it in them to score a second goal but it wasn't to be. In the end, after more than 95 minutes of play, Neymar scored from a counter attack to make it 1-3. A scoreline that is probably too generous for the reigning European champions.


LE PAGELLE

Buffon 8.0 Man of the match for me. In the first half he pulled off a save that would have made it 2-0 for Barcelona. I hope he gets another stab at the big eared trophy.

Lichtsteiner 7.0 He was poor in the first half but grew a lot in the second half. He was in part responsible for Juventus' equalizer.

Barzagli 7.0 He did well at the back and close Barca's players well.

Bonucci 7.0 Same as Barzagli. One of the best defenders in the world at the moment.

Evra 7.0 Good defensively and offensively. With some of his crosses, it makes you wonder what could have been if Llorente was substituted a little earlier in the match.

Marchisio 7.5 Dat back-heel. He had a few chances from outside of the box. Had one of them dipped a little sooner we could've had a different story.

Pirlo 7.0 From the comments in the previous thread I know many of you thought he was poor. I on the other hand thought he did well. Sure he lost some balls but he also had a few passes that could have opened up the game. I really hope he stays one more year.

Pogba 6.0 I thought he was poor for what he has to offer. With that being said, this is the biggest game of his career, and at 22 he is gaining much needed experience at the top level.

Vidal 6.5 His first half was too rushed. It looked like he was there to hack players rather than tackle them. He settled towards the end of the first half until he was substituted.

Tevez 6.5 He was instrumental for the goal but he tried to do too many things by himself. A pass to one of his teammates towards the end of the match might have been enough to tie the match for the second time. With that being said, had he scored on one of those chances I would have been giving him a much higher rating.

Morata 7.0 Don't know what to write about him. He has scored a lot in Champions League but I would have liked to see more effort in defense. Just like Pogba, this experience will help the young Spaniard to grow.


Allegri 7.0 The question was not if Juventus could stop Barca from scoring, but if Juventus could score as many goals as Barca, or more. The team handled going 1-0 down well (better than Bayern and others) and were able to make it all level after the break. Sure, Pirlo could have been benched in favour of Pereyra and that might have changed the game. We'll never know.


CONCLUSION

Juventus showed that they are a serious up-and-coming team. Although they lost, they worried Barca for many minutes in the second half. There isn't much left to say, besides that this has been one great season and as Marotta said, this is a starting point to build upon.

[Socrates 7962]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

1 - 3

Ivan Rakitić (4')

Álvaro Morata (55')

Luis Suárez (68')
Neymar (95')

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

VIDEO: Fans welcome Juve home

Jun 7, 2015

Juventus were greeted at the airport in Turin at 3am by almost a thousand cheering fans after the Champions League Final.

Although the Bianconeri lost 3-1 to Barcelona, their flight back from Berlin was welcomed by a stadium-style crowd of singing ultras.

The players and Coach Max Allegri were visibly touched by the scenes, which are rare in Italy for a defeated team.

It has still been a remarkable campaign, winning the fourth consecutive Scudetto and taking the Coppa Italia for the first time in 20 years.

Since the last Champions League Final in 2003, Juve had been demoted to Serie B and returned to the top.

This was their fourth consecutive Final defeat, whereas Barcelona have won their last four in a row.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wd-hh2KvdUg

[Socrates 7962]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

1 - 3

Ivan Rakitić (4')

Álvaro Morata (55')

Luis Suárez (68')
Neymar (95')

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Juventus now belong with Barcelona, Madrid
& Bayern - can they stay with the elite next season?

The Bianconeri just fell short in Berlin but have proven this season that
they are among the best teams in Europe. The job now will be sustaining it next term.

Jun 7, 2015

Juventus are domestic double champions and were knocking on the door of a treble in the Champions League final until Neymar's injury time clincher for Barcelona in Berlin ultimately sealed their fate.

The challenge? To get better.

No Juventus supporter in their wildest dreams could have envisaged the type of season they've had, in Europe at least, following the upheaval at the club last summer. Antonio Conte, the man who shook the Old Lady of Italian football from her slumber in winning three consecutive Scudetti, left Turin in a blaze of controversy. Replacement Masimilliano Allegri was seen as a stop-gap, yesterday's man as a result of his recent underwhelming history at AC Milan.

Juventus might not have the best players in Europe, Barcelona do, but they have something very close to the best team. There is an identity and a shared sense of purpose running through their ranks from Gianluigi Buffon, through the backline that knows each other inside out, to a multifaceted midfield and a sharp strike force. The problem is, at the highest level, they are still not quite there. There is no great shame in that at this stage of their development.

The club themselves would never have expected to make it this far following two dismal campaigns in a row in the Champions League under Conte but Allegri has the team ahead of schedule. There is a gradual curve of improvement in any team and, with players as young as Paul Pogba and Alvaro Morata, that holds as true for Juve as it does for any other side. They have blazed a trail this season.

Things, though, are changing at Juve and expections must now rise inside the club as much as they will rise outwith. The club is on secure financial footing and will earn more cash from their Champions League participation than any other club in the competition.

Big-money transfer objectives can again be realised; Paulo Dybala has already been added at considerable expense. The €32 million man signed from Palermo has a happy knack of finding Serie A nets but is, as yet, totally unproven on the continent. Allegri must conjure a way of making sure he hits the ground running.

Dybala's arrivial means compatriot Carlos Tevez will leave thus summer or next with a spell at hometown club Boca Juniors in the offing.

The fact they can blow their budget on one big player, however, does not mean Juve will lose any of the sense in the market they gained in the recent fallow years. Sami Khedira will shortly be confirmed a Juventus player, following in the recent Juventus tradition of pedigree free signings like Pogba and Andrea Pirlo.

The Italian midfield veteran had tears in his eyes after the final whistle in the Olympiastadion with the suggestion being that his race is run after failing to match his European triumphs at Milan with Juve. MLS beckons with Khedira ready to step into the breach.

There is still the future of Pogba to decide. Juventus very much hold the cards on any deal with Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain known to be interested. Once upon a time, Zinedine Zidane left Turin for Madrid at great expense. They bought Gianluigi Buffon, Lilian Thuram and Pavel Nedved with the transfer fee. It would not be beyond sporting director Giuseppe Moratta to conduct a similar campaign in the summer should the right players come available.

There is no guarantee over the future of Arturo Vidal either; a decent Copa America campaign on home turf in Chile would also attract the interest of plenty more clubs around Europe in this window.

You would not exactly describe this season as the Max Allegri revolution but he has certainly helped Juventus kick on. The pieces slotted together; they won Serie A at a canter and a first Coppa Italia in 20 years. In the Champions League they were much better given their ability to adapt formations and strategies by the game and sometimes by the minute.

There would, already, be few reasonable gamblers backing against Juve to retain their domestic crown next season by some considerable distance. No one else comes close in that championship. What this season's Champions League campaign proved is that Juve have taken a decisive step out of the confines of Serie A and catapulted themselves back into an elite band of European teams which includes Barcelona, Real Madrid, PSG and Bayern Munich.

They beat one this season and gave the other a close match in this final. That is the company in which they now belong. Next season the job is sustaining it.

[Socrates 7962]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

1 - 3

Ivan Rakitić (4')

Álvaro Morata (55')

Luis Suárez (68')
Neymar (95')

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

'Pogba very poor but Messi an artist' - Bryant,
Romario and the world reacts to Barcelona's triumph

Goal rounds up the best social media snippets as footballers past and present (and even
a few celebrities who haven't played the game) passed verdict on Juventus vs Barcelona.

Jun 7, 2015

The European football season came to a gripping end as Barcelona triumphed 3-1 over Juventus in Saturday's Champions League final.

Typically one of the most-watched events of the entire sporting calendar, the highly-anticipated clash in Berlin was no different as a host of famous faces passed verdict on social media channels as the match played out at the Olympiastadion.

Recently retired former Manchester United centre-back Rio Ferdinand was convinced that Ivan Rakitic's goal four minutes in had wrapped up the European trophy for Luis Enrique's men.

Rio Ferdinand ✔@rioferdy5
#uclfinal game over

One of the biggest talking points of the first half was Arturo Vidal's rash tackling and ex-Germany international Arne Friedrich was among those who suspected a red card was in store for the midfielder unless he tweaked his attitude.

Arne Friedrich ✔@arnefriedrich
What did #Vidal eat before the game. Raw meat? Would be impressed if he can finish the game.

Although Gianluigi Buffon drew some criticism for his basic parry into the path of Luis Suarez to score Barcelona's second goal, the Juve goalkeeper was excellent between the sticks until that point. After Alvaro Morata had equalised for Massimiliano Allegri's men, Champions League winner Edwin van der Sar gave a glowing verdict of the Italian shot-stopper's efforts.

Edwin van der Sar ✔@vdsar1970
What a turn around in this game and great saves from @gianluigibuffon so far!

Another goalkeeping legend who lifted the European trophy while on Old Trafford's books is Peter Schmeichel and the great Dane had no doubts about the irrepressible quality in Barca's ranks.

Peter Schmeichel ✔@Pschmeichel1
Barcelona masterclass. Congratulations absolutely brilliant.

In Brazil, former Camp Nou forward Romario was thoroughly enjoying Barca's performance...

Romário Faria·
É campeão!!! Orgulho de ter vestido essa camisa!

[Socrates 7962]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

1 - 3

Ivan Rakitić (4')

Álvaro Morata (55')

Luis Suárez (68')
Neymar (95')

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Juve so close to greatness

Juventus were defeated in the Champions League final, but
Gaby McKay feels that shouldn’t detract from a fantastic season.

Jun 7, 2015

“Battling is the culture of this team, the club and our history,” Juventus goalkeeper Gigi Buffon said earlier this season. “It’s part of our DNA.”

In the end, Juventus went down swinging. Many had expected the Italian champions to call on the spirit of catenaccio and seek to frustrate Barcelona, but two of the Blaugrana’s three goals came on the break.

Ultimately Juve found the Catalan side a bridge too far, their iron will eventually cowed by a team which just had too much. However, as Buffon predicted in the build-up, the Old Lady were “not lambs to the slaughter.”

When Ivan Rakitic opened the scoring after just four minutes, it was clear Juventus were rattled. The following 15 minutes saw wave after wave of Barça attacks, with Buffon pulling off an extraordinary save from Dani Alves. If he is to end his career without winning the Champions League, it will not be for lack of trying.

Slowly but surely, the Bianconeri began to take a foothold in the game. Buffon was again at his brilliant best to deny Luis Suarez, before Alvaro Morata put his side in dreamland.

A lovely backheel from Claudio Marchisio released Stephan Lichtsteiner down the right, who kept his head to find Carlos Tevez in the box. The Argentine’s shot was parried by Marc-Andre ter Stegen, but Morata was on hand to tap the rebound into the gaping goal.

Suddenly, the pendulum had swung. Where previously Barcelona had knocked the ball about with ease, now touches were heavy, passes too strong. Morata headed over the Blaugrana bar, Tevez sent a curling effort over and Paul Pogba tested Ter Stegen from the edge of the box.

Just when it seemed they were in the greatest danger, Barça played their trump card in the shape of Lionel Messi. The Argentine dribbled toward Buffon’s goal, the ball glued to his feet. A quick shot was well stopped by the ‘keeper, but no-one was on hand to stop Suarez making it 2-1.

A sucker punch. In the game’s most crucial spell, the Italian champions were undone by the sheer quality of their opponents’ front-three.

Still Max Allegri’s men did not surrender, though in truth they were largely restricted to half-chances. A final Hail Mary ball forward in extra time saw the ball break to substitute Pedro, who slipped it to Neymar, and the Brazilian sealed the result.

“The only thing we were missing was to go 2-1 up when we had the upper hand.”Allegri reflected after the match. In the crucial phase, his side had been undone by a better team. There is no disgrace in that.

No-one in a black and white shirt could be accused of failing to give their best, in the end Juventus’ best was just not quite enough. The hard work, quality and sheer will-to-win which had taken them to Berlin was in evidence again, but it wasn’t sufficient to get the better of an extraordinary Barça side.

The defeat sees Juve’s season end on a flat note. Andrea Pirlo may never pull on the famous stripes again. Buffon may be destined to end his career without lifting that famous trophy. But one game should not detract from the team’s achievements this year.

A silver star will adorn the Turin giants’ shirts next season, having secured their 10th Coppa Italia. Serie A was comfortably under lock and key for a fourth consecutive year. The work now begins for a fifth.

The final stick used to beat Juventus and Italian football was rendered useless this term, as Allegri’s side strode confidently into the Champions League Final. In the end they came up short, but this is not the end of the road, merely another step along it.

Eight seasons after battling with the likes of Rimini in Serie B, the resurrection is complete. Juve have shown they can compete with Europe’s top sides again, even if the continent’s best team and the world’s best player ultimately proved too much.

Bianconeri legend Giampiero Boniperti once declared “winning is not important, it’s the only thing that matters,” an ideology the club carries with it to this day. However, as the sting of defeat fades, the Old Lady can reflect on a fantastic season. Their fans certainly did, flocking to the airport at 3am to welcome the squad home like heroes.

The most important victory is always the next one, and though club football’s top prize ultimately eluded them, Juventus will dust themselves down, and try again next year. It’s in their DNA.

[Socrates 7962]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

1 - 3

Ivan Rakitić (4')

Álvaro Morata (55')

Luis Suárez (68')
Neymar (95')

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Maldini: 'No Juve regrets'

Jun 7, 2015

Paolo Maldini believes Juventus “should have no regrets” about their Champions League Final with Barcelona.

The Bianconeri were beaten 3-1 in Berlin, though the final result was harsh.

“Juventus should have no regrets and really could not have done more,” Maldini told Sky Sport Italia.

“They put in a great performance. There was suffering at the stat, mainly due to the experience and quality of the Barcelona players, but Juve proved themselves to be a real team.

“They were able to get the game back on track, but when you have that much quality against you, it only takes a moment for the breakthrough.

“Leo Messi is the best player in the world and the only one who could come close to Diego Armando Maradona for all he’s done over the years. From what I’ve seen, he has perhaps overcome Maradona.

“Neymar and Luis Suarez are phenomenal and their statistics speak for themselves. Barcelona have already made history and with this squad are destined to shatter every record.”

At the final whistle it was veteran Andrea Pirlo – Maldini’s former Milan teammate – who seemed the most upset.

“It was a shame, but he probably realised this was his last chance to win the Champions League again. He is a great champion and from today a new adventure begins.”

Pirlo is expected to leave Juventus and end his career in New York with the MLS.

[Socrates 7962]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

1 - 3

Ivan Rakitić (4')

Álvaro Morata (55')

Luis Suárez (68')
Neymar (95')

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Juventus leave fans feeling proud
with spirited performance in final

Jun 7, 2015

#ProudofJu was the hashtag circled by Juventus and their fans, for so few supporters can be as grateful as those supporting the Old Lady. A beautiful season, two glorious trophies and a tremendous performance in the Champions League final that at times terrified Europe's best club, Barcelona, Juve deserve the plaudits and the gratitude of their many fans.

Achieving so many of their objectives, with style and honour, Juventus and their squad spirit accomplished great feats this season. It is indeed another European final lost, but considering the objective was to simply reach the quarterfinals of this competition, head coach Massimiliano Allegri and his men can be proud of their performances, their audacious belief and the fight that existed within the many individuals in the squad that made this team a beautiful unit.

Juve fans thought it was written in the stars: A club that hails from a superstitious country, there was something about the year and the location of the stadium. It's been 30 years since the Heysel Stadium disaster while three of the men on the pitch in last night's match were there in 2006, celebrating Italy's World Cup triumph. This was Juve's time, their year and their chance for true resurrection.

Alas, when faced with a side with such unbelievable quality, perhaps it was unfair to expect so much. Yet the feeling is that Juventus were capable of an even better performance.

Arturo Vidal has been immense in so many European nights this season, yet it was his mistake that allowed Ivan Rakitic to score the opening goal in the first four minutes. Rather than drop their heads, the Bianconeri worked hard to regain their shape and began to play as they know how, using their physicality in midfield and disturbing Barca's fluidity in midfield.

With the Catalans' beautiful frontline kept at bay, Alvaro Morata and company worked on producing several shots on goal to demonstrate the ambitions of this team. Spitting in the face of every cliche ever noted on Italian clubs, this wasn't a Juventus side content with merely parking the bus, but one that chased the goal. Without goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon pulling off the miraculous saves that only he can make despite his age, the Old Lady believed, as did their super midfielder Claudio Marchisio, who produced an excellent chance for goal just before halftime.

Playing with less fear in the second half, Juventus looked for the goal without losing their defensive discipline and it finally came when Marchisio again initiated a beautiful move that involved a back heel flick to send Stephan Lichtsteiner on his way. With Carlos Tevez shooting, it was Morata and his speedy reaction who got the equaliser that gifted his teammates hope.

It was then and exactly then that we saw how tremendous the Bianconeri style of play really is when they believe and play to expectations. Fluid, accurate and cohesive, it was their turn to overwhelm the opponent, winning back possession with vigour to relentlessly launch another offensive movement that intimidated the opponent. Some marvellous attacking patterns accomplished, Juventus wasted several chances before their eagerness to win the match cost them defensively, allowing Luis Suarez to grab the Blaugrana's second via a counterattack.

The Bianconeri may be a complete and well-balanced team but they are simply not as complete as the opponent. This Barcelona side isn't one that simply maintains possessions and attempts to score, but one that can score via a set piece, a counterattack, from a header, from long shots -- whatever it takes. To summarise, this is a squad that has combined technical ability with cynical intensity, perfecting every route to goal.

At times, the limitations of a team must be accepted and despite a well-executed game plan and excellent moments, Juventus simply didn't have enough to stop the wealth of talent that exists within the Barca set up. Talented and loaded with experience, the Catalans knew how to exploit Juve's mistakes and took advantage of their opponent's offensive determination to score at a time they looked most vulnerable. That is the symbol of a true champion.

In time, Juventus will learn and better perfect their performances in these big matches, but there is simply no room for criticism here. They made life difficult for Barcelona and demonstrated what worthy challengers they were and exactly why they had reached the final.

Andrea Pirlo's tears can never be forgotten for he really believed in the win, while it's also difficult to swallow the disappointed face of the great Buffon. These are champions that always deserve to be rejoicing yet while Pirlo didn't have the impact he would have liked, others have shown how far they have developed and how much further this Juve can grow if it continues to invest as wisely.

It's not simply a question of buying the best but of picking individual characters that create the great harmony that has led to so many trophies. Men well-versed in the spirit of sacrifice, Juventus have grown and shown themselves to be a side worthy of prestige and capable of the highest honours when working together and trusting in their own ability.

For that fans must thank the management and the great Allegri. Alongside the warriors on the pitch, this club have resurrected what was once perceived as a fallen giant, taking them from Serie B to Berlin by staying true to their philosophy and their intelligent business sense. A name synonymous with success, the Old Lady is back and she's here to stay. #ProudofJu

[Socrates 7962]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

1 - 3

Ivan Rakitić (4')

Álvaro Morata (55')

Luis Suárez (68')
Neymar (95')

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Buffon: Juventus Kept Dignity
Despite Barcelona Defeat

Jun 7, 2015

Juventus captain Gianluigi Buffon insists that his side maintained their dignity despite the 3-1 defeat to Barcelona in the Champions League final.

The Bianconeri became the first team to finish as runners-up for a record sixth time in the history of the competition, but the goalkeeper believes they were playing against the best team in the world.

“It was not a bad night,” the 37-year-old told reporters following his arrival in Florence to join the Italy national team training camp at Coverciano.

“I think there were many positive things, not least that we have not lost any dignity and that we played a great match against the strongest team in the world.

“There are no regrets because we played as well as possible, but were against a phenomenal team from one to 11.”

Buffon also admitted that he was unsure about the future of teammate Andrea Pirlo after the midfielder was in tears at the final whistle in Berlin.

“I have talked about all sorts of things with Pirlo, but not his future,” he continued.

“His tears were those of a man that was sorry about losing a major final.”

[Socrates 7962]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

1 - 3

Ivan Rakitić (4')

Álvaro Morata (55')

Luis Suárez (68')
Neymar (95')

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Cruyff: Messi saved Barcelona against Juventus

The Dutch legend argued the Argentine had been instrumental in the
Champions League final despite not scoring or setting up any goals.

Jun 7, 2015

Johan Cryuff believes Barcelona could not have beaten Juventus 3-1 in the Champions League final without their talisman Lionel Messi showing off the selfless aspects of his game.

Messi was expected to show up decisively in the Berlin final but failed to score, while Ivan Rakitic, Luis Suarez and Neymar all found the net as Juventus even managed to shut the Argentine down for long spells of the game.

But Cruyff argued it was the other side of the four time Ballon d'Or winner that the world witnessed on Saturday, with his work and sacrifice for the team being fundamental to the Catalans' eventual success.

"It was a fun Champions League final to watch, also because Barcelona and Juventus both played as we all expected," the Dutchman, who won the European Cup with Barca as coach, wrote in De Telegraaf.

"With his style of play, Messi relieved his team. Against Juventus, you could see how he works at Barcelona.

"You didn't see him participate in a lot of moves, but just check how often he put pressure on his direct opponent and won back ball posession. How many free-kicks did he win?"

[Socrates 7962]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

1 - 3

Ivan Rakitić (4')

Álvaro Morata (55')

Luis Suárez (68')
Neymar (95')

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Del Piero: ‘Sorry for Pirlo, Buffon’

Jun 7, 2015

Former Juventus striker Alessandro Del Piero feels sorry for Gianluigi Buffon and Andrea Pirlo after their Champions League final defeat.

Del Piero was part of the last Bianconeri side to triumph in the competition in 1996 and believes the two Italian veterans proved their worth in the competition.

“Pirlo’s tears were heartbreaking,” he said at the Golf Cup charity event in Fiano Torinese.

“Him and Buffon have won so much, most significantly the World Cup in Berlin, and I was sorry for their defeat but they have proved they are champions on and off the pitch.

“Being able to take part in the final is something beautiful, to go and play there is the best.”

[Socrates 7962]

5 Key Factors to Take Juventus
to Serie A Title Glory in 2015/16

Jun 14, 2015

Juventus will enjoy this summer; the Turin giants are able to reflect on a campaign that saw them collect only the third league-and-cup double in club history, adding a remarkable run to the Champions League final for good measure.

With a few weeks away to recharge their batteries, Massimiliano Allegri and his players will return to pre-season training in mid-July looking to continue their success into 2015/16. Doing so will provide the squad and coach with a huge challenge, chasing a historic fifth successive league title and seeking a similarly deep run in Europe’s elite club competition.

Over the following pages are five key factors that will help them achieve those aims.


Freshen Up the Squad

Resting on one's laurels has long been an issue for teams enjoying sustained periods of success, and Juventus appear to be fully aware of the importance of avoiding that. The club has already announced the signings of two new players for next season, players who should improve competition for places in Allegri’s starting XI.

The Bianconeri have paid €32 million for Paulo Dybala, clearly impressed by a striker who netted 13 goals for Palermo last season. Sami Khedira will arrive for free once his contract with Real Madrid expires, and he will add to an already impressive array of midfielders.


But Keep the Old Faces

While new faces bring added impetus, Juventus also need to ensure their key figures from last season remain with the club. Talk of exits for Paul Pogba, Carlos Tevez and even Andrea Pirlo has surfaced in recent weeks, relayed by Football Italia, but the Bianconeri would do well to hold onto all three this summer.

Each has been integral to their recent success, and they would all be hugely difficult to replace. Tevez has been the team’s leading scorer in each of the last two seasons, while Pogba has the potential to become one of the world’s very best players.

Pirlo can already claim to have reached that level, and despite his advancing age, he remains a central figure in Turin.


Continue Developing Young Players

While a number of aging players, such as Gigi Buffon, Andrea Pirlo and Patrice Evra, remain vitally important to the team, Juventus are also fortunate to be able to call upon a raft of talented youngsters each and every week.

The likes of Alvaro Morata, Stefano Sturaro and Roberto Pereyra have each proved to be important members of the squad, and it is essential they continue to improve if the Bianconeri are to sustain their success.


Guard Against International Hangovers

Last summer, Arturo Vidal rushed back from knee surgery to compete at the World Cup. The hurried return undoubtedly affected his club form. The Chilean had no such concerns heading into this summer's Copa America, but Juventus must ensure he—along with Carlos Tevez—is given chance to recover from his international outings in South America.

Both Vidal and Tevez are key figures for the Bianconeri, and having them at their best when the new season gets underway will be essential.


Continued Tactical Evolution

One of the key contributions made by Massimiliano Allegri in 2014/15 was the shift away from the 3-5-2 formation. While the coach often returned to it as a defensive tactic, his evolution of the team saw them look much more comfortable with a four-man defence.

That saw every member of the side pick up the pace and focus, and a similar change over the coming months could do the same. Making minor tweaks to the shape and style of play will not only keep the squad at their sharpest, but it would also keep opponents off guard and not allow Juventus to become predictable.

[Socrates 7962]

Juventus 2014-15 Season Ratings: The Goalkeepers

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/6/23/8777723/juventus-2014-15-season-ratings-the-goalkeepers-gianluigi-buffon-marco-storari

 
Jun 23, 2015

If you are a Juventus supporter, there might not be a single thing more enjoyable than watching Gianluigi Buffon celebrate his teammates doing something great. He is, at the age of 37 years old, still the same old cat playing the position at the highest of ability. World-class ability, I might add, and he does so with the same kind of energy and passion he did a decade or two ago.

Based on what we know and how the 2014-15 season played out, Buffon had plenty of reasons to celebrate. Take, say, the moments after Juventus advanced to the Champions League final with a 1-1 draw against Ream Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu. That's Buffon Celebration Level at about 100 out of 10 right there.

Of course, Juventus' defense — led at the back by the ever-stalwart Buffon — was a big reason for European success and a fourth straight Serie A title.

In the past three seasons, Juventus has allowed 24, 23 and 24 goals in Serie A, respectively. Even with a change in manager, change in formation and plenty of potential issues along the way, that's damn good consistency for a unit that still struggled with the simple things from time to time. Was Juventus' defense better than it was a season or two ago? The stats say they were pretty much equal to one another, but the eye test might not tell you the same thing.

No matter how you or I feel about how Juventus' defense played throughout the season, I feel safe in saying this: The man wearing the No. 1 jersey was just as good as ever. Yes, still one of the best as he hits his late-30s. That's no joke.

That's the way it's been for years and, until further notice, how it will continue to be. When you've got one of the best to ever play the game still producing at the highest level at this age, you throw logic right out the window.


Gianluigi Buffon - 8.5

When I wrote last season's ratings, I threw some stats at you. The main one, as you will see if you click the link, was how many saves Buffon made in his three seasons with Antonio Conte as Juventus' manager. He played in pretty much the same amount of games, and it provided a pretty good representation of how Juventus' defense took a bit of a step back one season ago.

This season, however, Buffon made all of 63 saves in 33 Serie A starts. That's an average of just about two per game, and far from a blistering rate or anything close to it. Nicola Leali, on loan at Cesena from Juventus, made 90 saves in 28 games, Mattia Perin made 120 saves in 32 games played. And they weren't even close to the league leader, Atalanta's Marco Sportiello, who made an astonishing 152 saves (an average of over four per game).

Buffon was never going to make as many saves as those three goalkeepers because he was never going to face as many shots as them. We're talking about the best defense in the league compared to a couple of the worst. For all the injuries (Andrea Barzagli, Martin Cáceres, etc.) and players out of form for most of the season (Giorgio Chiellini), Buffon only faced 83 shots on target all season long. Sportiello, on the other hand, faced 208.

And just like last season, the consistent force was Buffon.

The amount of saves Buffon did make will make it seem like he didn't have much to do. But when you look at the quality of saves he had to make — both in Serie A and the Champions League — it's hard to say anything other than he was one of Juventus' best players once again this season. And in the rare case where he was needed to carry the defense more than usual, like in the latter stages of the Champions League, he was up to the task.

Not that it's much of a surprise, really. This is Gigi Buffon we're talking about here.


Marco Storari - 7

It's hard to appreciate a backup goalkeeper sometimes because we see so little of them when everything goes according to plan, but Marco Storari certainly does deserve some appreciation. That's simply because when he's played, he's done as well as anybody could really ask of him.

Just like about every other year outside of his first season at Juventus, Storari was basically the official Coppa Italia goalkeeper and sparingly used in Serie A. He appeared in five Serie A games this season — most of which came when Allegri rested Buffon after Juventus wrapped up the Scudetto with plenty of time to spare. (And yes, that includes in the Derby d'Italia where he pulled off this crazy double save against Inter.)

And that's the beauty of Storari being Juve's backup goalkeeper. He's reliable as can be despite not appearing in games for weeks or months at a time.

I hope he comes back for a sixth season with Juventus. But if Storari, who turned 38 in January, decides to go elsewhere, I won't be mad at all. He's earned the right to go wherever he wants and do whatever he wants to do.


Rubinho - s/v

We saw even less of Juventus' famed unibrow. That's probably a good thing.

With Neto expected to be arriving on a free transfer this summer and Storari's contract status for next season still relatively uncertain at this point, who knows if Rubinho will return to Juventus for another no-appearance-yet-win-a-Scudetto tour of duty. If he doesn't, we'll always have the good times, my friend.

[Socrates 7962]

Juventus 2014-15 Season Ratings: The Fullbacks,
The Wingbacks, The Wide Men

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/6/24/8793417/juventus-2014-15-season-ratings-fullbacks-lichtsteiner-evra-asamoah-padoin

 
Jun 24, 2015

Looking back on a season of wholesale change and no small bit of success, many of the key contributions came from wide areas. Whether playing in a four- or five-man defense, Juventus' core of wide men offered boundless energy, pinpoint crossing, and defensive rigor. With experience, versatility, and great nicknames like Uncle Pat, The Swiss Express, and The Padoin, it certainly feels a long time since we were choosing between Marco Motta and Zdeněk Grygera at right back.

The wingbacks, or fullbacks in a back four, are the guys running the flank for 90 minutes, asked to mark skilled attackers at one end and provide attacking width at the other. It is a role for robots, really, with no time for human failings like fatigue and inattention. While other positions get nicknames from the high arts, things like "Pinturicchio" or "l'Architetto," or fiction — "Superman," among many others — fullbacks get named after trains.

Cafu was "Il Pendolino," named after the high speed "swaying" trains. Our own Stephan Lichtsteiner, a one-time hero on the other side of Rome, earned his "Swiss Express" nickname in much the same way. But whoever has stepped into the breech on either side of Juventus' central defense this term could lay claim to their own train route, such has been the consistency of the group's performance. Anyway, on to the particulars.


Stephan Lichtsteiner - 8

What more can be said of the Swiss Express? A constant down the right flank since he joined from Lazio, this year the 31-year-old played more Serie A minutes than all but four Juventus players: goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, center back Leonardo Bonucci, midfield all-rounder Claudio Marchisio. and attacking inspiration Carlos Tévez. Our Lichtsteiner is nothing if not fiery, and only a couple bans for card accumulation, as well as the red against Torino, kept him from accumulating even more minutes down the right.

A vital component to many parts of Juventus' game, Lichtsteiner's constant presence in attack gives the midfielders and forwards a wide option, with Andrea Pirlo particularly in sync with the dynamic movement of the former Grasshoppers man. Over and over the system of movements would repeat, a Conte trademark that was maintained by Allegri. Ball from the left to Pirlo, then Pirlo drops it into the box for Lichtsteiner.

It was the move that created the first goal in the Juventus Stadium, and right through to the current day defences are powerless to stop it. With just a bit more luck on his final ball, the right-back could have contributed even more than his three goals and six assists. It was a career year for the fullback, who remains under-appreciated as one of Europe's best.

His finest performance came in the 7-0 thrashing of Parma, contributing a lovely goal and dishing out two assists.


Patrice Evra - 7.5

"Uncle Pat" came back to Italy this past summer, signing for Juventus after eight trophy-laden years in the red of Manchester United. At 34 years old, Evra was seen by many to be in decline, unable to match the bursts of younger players and, perhaps most of all, a symbol of the old, Ferguson-era team that needed moving on. Fortunately for Juventus, Patrice settled on Turin for a late-career renaissance.

Initially competing with Kwadwo Asamoah for playing time in the 3-5-2 of the early part of the season, Evra showed that he was more than up for the challenge. While not offering the midfielder skillset that makes Asamoah such a threat when he comes in off his flank, Evra offered a traditional wide presence, always looking to get to the bye line and drill crosses in.

For all his physical tools, however, it would be no exaggeration to say that Evra's biggest impact on the team has been psychological. The man has won the Champions League, and been to the late stages time and time again. He has faced Lionel Messi, played with and against Cristiano Ronaldo, left the final in tears of pain and tears of joy. He offers a depth of experience that few players in the world can match, and that kind of assurance, on the biggest nights, is invaluable.

On a personal level, it is not Evra's best season, with somewhat disappointing returns of four assists and just one goal. It was on the defensive side though that Evra did his best work on the field, shutting down his side along with Giorgio Chiellini, and based on the overwhelming success of the team, he was clearly doing something right.

Perhaps the greatest compliment that can be paid to Uncle Pat, on the basis of this season, is that without him, his calm and experience and assuredness, it is very hard to imagine Juventus making the Champions League final. All that and the man's not afraid to C-walk.


Simone Padoin - 6.5

The Padoin once again racked up the appearances for Juventus this season, playing on both sides of defense, in a three or a four, and even popping up in central midfield. Contributing four assists as well as consistent, positionally sound play, Padoin has proven himself a valuable squad member, even if he's not the one you want starting the biggest games.

Best along the right flank, this season Padoin was mostly filling in on the left. He still managed to assist a fellow fullback, Lichtsteiner in the 3-0 win over Cesena, but was playing in central midfield at the time.


Kwadwo Asamoah - s/v

The Ghanaian international started the season well, alternating with Evra on the left flank and deputizing in midfield, with the team hoping to cover for his absence during the African Cup of Nations in January. Unfortunately, injury struck, with damaged knee cartilage requiring surgery and a long layoff.

Finally returning for the Coppa Ialia-Scudetto double celebration game against Napoli, hopefully next season will see much more of the talented left-footer.


Rômulo - s/v

Brought on the "Marotta Special" of a loan-with-option-to-buy, the Brazilian fullback-turned-central midfielder started the season as Allegri's first-choice backup to Stephan Lichtsteiner. After an excellent season at Hellas Verona playing in midfield, the Brazilian was also given chances in the engine room, however never got going in either position due to lingering injury troubles.

Only given three starts, one in midfield and two on the right flank, Juventus supporters have not seen much of Rômulo since joining. With his playing rights likely returning to Hellas, hopefully next season will be one of rebirth for Rômulo, who at 28 may sadly have lost his only shot at a big club.


Paolo De Ceglie - s/v

Everyone's favorite Ashton Kutcher look-alike returned from Parma as the financial waves crashed over the Gialloblu bow. Taking his station on the left, like always, the youth product showed once again that he can probably be a decent Serie A player, just not at Juve.

Paolino got another start in Bianconero to add to his C.V., if nothing else, turning out in the 1-0 win over Palermo and then entering as a sub against Cagliari as the season wound down. All the best Paolino, maybe it didn't turn out like you had hoped, but we'll always remember when you were the best we had.

[Socrates 7962]

Juventus 2014-15 Season Ratings: The Centerbacks

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/6/26/8849861/juventus-2014-15-season-ratings-the-centerbacks-bonucci-chiellini-barzagli-caceres-ogbonna

 
Jun 26, 2015

Winning teams have one characteristic — a strong defense. Juventus are of course no exception and for the fourth consecutive year, Juventus had the best defensive record in the peninsula, and one of the best defenses in Europe. This is even more impressive considering that Juventus moved from a 3-man defense to a 4-man defense during the season.

So, without further ado, here are the rankings:


Leonardo Bonucci - 7.5

In my opinion, this was the year that Bonucci became a world-class defender. The times in which he held on to the ball for one touch too many, or that he tried to dribble past one too many players is gone. With that being said, he was still a huge source of creativity for the team.

Bonucci played the most minutes of any Juventus player (3,015) averaging 59.2 passes per game. For the record, his number of passes is fourth highest after Andrea Pirlo, Claudio Marchisio and Giorgio Chiellini. Unsurprisingly, he is the one playing the most long ball after Pirlo (5.5 for Bonucci and 7.9 for Pirlo). This creative output was instrumental in breaking Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League. Max Allegri opted to bypass the midfield and create scoring opportunities from the back starting with Bonucci.

This year, Bonucci was also a big-game player when it came to scoring goals. His four goals came against: Roma, Milan, Lazio, and Fiorentina (in the Coppa Italia). He scored the winning goal against Roma when the game seemed to end in a draw. Against Milan, he scored the goal three minutes after Luca Antonelli equalized. He certainly knows how to carry the team when things are not going as expected.


Giorgio Chiellini - 7.5

Another monster at the back. If there was ever a player that would make Montero proud, it would be King Giorgio. He is that player that makes you think twice whether you want to venture into that side of the pitch. He is the fourth player with most tackles (2.1 per match) in the team and the player with most interceptions (2.6 per match). He also has the most clearances and blocks (tied with Bonucci) in the team.

In the attacking department, Chiellini is not as prolific as Bonucci, however, his only goal came in the Coppa Italia to draw Juventus level against Lazio.

Although Andrea Barzagli did fine against Barcelona, I will always wonder what could have happened if Chiellini was fit to play the Champions League final. i guess we'll never know.


Andrea Barzagli - 7.5

Although his time on the field was limited by a nagging injury, when Barzagli was on the pitch his presence was felt. He only played a total of 770 minutes in Serie A, likely because of his injury and because of the change in formation to a four-man defense.

With that being said, when Barzagli stepped onto the pitch I had a sense of peace that things were going to work out just fine. His positioning and reading of the game made it easier for him to return to good form despite his lenghty injury.


Martin Cáceres - 6.5

What could be Martin Cáceres' season without injuries? Every year he gets into some decent form he ends up getting injured. I really hope that next year he will be able to have an injury free season to see what is truly capable of doing. Regardless, this was not his season. He had just about as many minutes as Barzagli and is now expected to recover sometime this summer.

His versatility made him a starter under Allegri for the first three matches of the season. During that time he did quite well specially in the first match of the season against Chievo Verona. He also was a starter in Juventus' first Champions League match of the season against Malmo. But then injuries started, first a hamstring injury which will sideline him until January. Once he recovered from this injury he was back as a starter for the whole month of January and then his second injury came. A malleolar fracture would see Cáceres miss the rest of the season from early March onwards.

His offensive output in his limited playing time was one goal against Napoli. He also scored a goal against Chievo Verona that will be later ruled as an own goal.

With Daniele Rugani's impending arrival, it is very likely that this will be Cáceres' last season as a center back and that Allegri will try him as a fullback in the future. I just hope that he can have a full season without lengthy injuries to finally see what his real contribution can be.


Angelo Ogbonna - 5.5

This could have been Ogbonna's season. He had plenty of time to adjust to the club and its mentality. He had plenty of opportunities to challenge for a spot and make it his own. He had plenty of chances to put in an impressive performance in the Coppa Italia and show that he can at least play the games before or after Champions League matches. Instead, he did nothing of the sort.

Do you know how many minutes Ogbonna played this season? Go ahead, take a guess. I would have said between 800 and 1,000 minutes. No, he played a whooping 2,060 minutes (25 Serie A matches, 4 Coppa Italia, and 1 Champions League). Why I think he played so little? Because he was so ineffective. I don't remember a solid game, an impressive performance, I can't even remember a solid tackle or an impressive clearance.

Quite the opposite, I mostly remember him for his casual jogging when Juventus played against Fiorentina in the first leg of the Coppa Italia semifinal. This display of laziness was the final nail in the coffin. I for one would be glad to make any money we can and ship him elsewhere. I wouldn't be surprised if he is a hit in England.

From what I've seen of Rugani, he will have no problem displacing Ogbonna farther down the pecking order. This of course would be great for the youngster as he may see close to 2,000 minutes of play time next season if he can be as "good" as Ogbonna was this season.


Luca Marrone - s.v.

No minutes, no rating.

[Socrates 7962]

Juventus 2014-15 Season Ratings: The Midfielders

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/6/29/8858849/juventus-2014-15-season-ratings-the-midfielders-marchisio-pogba-vidal-pirlo-pereyra

 
Jun 28, 2015

As we continue to recap this season just passed, we take a look at the performance of the team's engine room. Juventus' midfield, for a long time considered one of the best in the game, played its own significant part in the team's achievements this past season.

Despite changes to the coaching staff, in personnel, in formations and tactical setups, the performance of the midfield was consistent throughout the season and provided an apt springboard for the successes at both ends of the pitch.

Here's how each midfielder stacked up this season.


Claudio Marchisio - 8

Arguably the most consistent of Juventus' performers, Il Principino was a constant and key midfield presence in what turned out to be a historically successful season. This wasn't his best season in terms of goal scoring — his three goals falling way short of his personal best of ten in the 2011/12 season — but his overall contribution made it one of his overall best. Due to injuries to fellow midfielders Andrea Pirlo and Paul Pogba, Marchisio was deployed in different positions, whether in a diamond midfield or as part of a midfield three in a 3-5-2/5-3-2. This was the season where we saw Claudio exhibit another, previously underrated, facet of his game — his deep-lying playmaker abilities. Asked to play this position because of Pirlo's absence due to injury, poor form or getting rested, Marchisio often excelled in the role, displaying great vision and a useful range of passing that made the aforementioned Pirlo's absence less hard felt.

Obviously he is not yet at the level of Il Maestro, but with a move to Major League Soccer looking all but certain for the veteran regista, Juve fans must be comforted that a ready-made replacement already exists within the current team.

It's difficult to pick out one outstanding game or contribution for Marchisio this season, but I quite enjoyed his backheel that took the FC Barcelona defence completely by surprise in this season's Champions League final. We know how that play ended...


Paul Pogba - 7.5

This was the season where Paul Pogba cemented his place as one of the brightest and most sought after young talents in the world game.

In the mold of most of Juve's midfielders, Pogba adds a silky, skillful flair to his all-action game. Despite his young years, he has time and time again taken games over and gotten results for Juventus. He had his best goal scoring season in 2014-15, with eight goals from his midfield position in the league. For a player of his skill, one would have liked or maybe expected more than just three league assists (five overall). This is another area of his game that needs improvement.

Despite the clear upward trajectory of his career, Pogba still tends to drift out of games too often and needs to be more consistently effective in his game — especially in the Champions League, where he has only one goal in his career so far. He also has a propensity to "show off," which he has been told off for by manager Max Allegri this season. One would expect with some more experience at the top level, and as he becomes more mature, these kinks in his game will be worked out.

After another season which has seen the young French midfielder continue to improve, the rumour mill is already in overdrive, with FC Barcelona already openly registering their interest in the player and using his name as a pawn in their regular presidential campaign games. Both the player and most tellingly the club have move quickly to squash rumours of any possible transfer negotiations. However, given who his agent is, it's always wise to take that with a pinch of salt. While this writer is fairly confident that Pogba will be a Juve player for at least one more season, I'll still be wary of Mino Raiola's wiliness until the European transfer window slams shut on September 1st (come on, we know he's not going to Russia or Romania, right?).

He's scored a number of beautiful goals this season — and some beautiful almost goals. My favourite memory involving Pogba, however, was this one with him and Allegri having a friendly skill competition in training. It was great fun to watch, and one of those instances that made me a bigger fan Mister Allegri.


Arturo Vidal - 7

Following on from a summer of constant transfer rumours of a move away from the Juventus Stadium, the self-proclaimed "best midfielder in the world" continued his career in black and white, much to the joy of Gobbi — and the chagrin of "Mancs" — everywhere. That collective smile soon transformed to furrowed brows, as King Arturo had an inconsistent and poor start to the 2014-15 — especially by his lofty standards. Seemingly still struggling to recover from his knee injury at the end of the previous season, the Chilean put in below-par performance after below-par performance throughout the first three months of the season.

Despite this, Vidal still amassed a credible five goals in Serie A by the Christmas break. He was much less prolific in the Champions League, however, where he went goalless and even missed a potentially key penalty against Olympiakos; in the end that penalty miss was irrelevant, as Juventus just made it to the last 16.

The new year seemed to bring an improvement in form. Vidal even admitted himself that the break had done himself some good, with him finally getting some rest after a hectic 2014. From February onwards, it was like we were watching the old Vidal again. He put in imperious performances in the Champions League knockout stage, being key to Juve's progression against Borussia Dortmund, AS Monaco — where he put away the tie-winning penalty with aplomb — and Real Madrid. His headed goal against Sampdoria won Juventus their fourth Serie A title in a row.

His performance in the Champions League final was less impressive, unfortunately, and he was lucky not to get himself sent off. However, his second half of the season improvement was enough to make his overall season's performance acceptable.

Now, another summer of transfer rumors await, but more than likely, the start of the 2015-16 season will see Arturo Vidal continue with Juventus.


Andrea Pirlo - 6.5

The classy Italian veteran had a mixed season plagued by injury and indifferent form. Playing only twenty league games, Pirlo notched up four goals and five assists — the latter statistic his lowest in his Juventus tenure. In all competitions, his stats are only improved by one goal more — a brilliant free kick against Olympiakos in the Champions League.

Pirlo was still very useful this season, regularly directing play and spraying passes all over the pitch. The main disappointment this season was just how much he showed his age at times. More and more he got caught in possession and slowed the game down a bit too much. He became less of a protagonist.

Undoubtedly brilliant when on his game, regardless of his advanced years, but it was a notable positive that Juventus did not seem to struggle when the player was out of the team. Seemingly aware of his waning powers, Pirlo has reportedly decided to call it a day on his Juventus career and make a lucrative move to Major League Soccer and New York City FC. All the best to him in New York and in the rest of his playing days. One sub-par season will not erase his general brilliance at Juventus — nay, his entire career.


Roberto Pereyra - 6.5

Signed on what has been described here as a "Marotta Special" (a loan-with-option-to-buy), the young Argentine midfielder was brought in to add depth to a midfield that offered little in terms of quality outside of the starting MVP2. Admittedly, this writer was not particularly excited by Pereyra's signing; I viewed him as nothing more than a poor man's Vidal (down to the hairstyles). However, to my pleasure, Pereyra did prove to be more than just that. A competent midfielder with skill and an ability to make plays, the one area where improvement is definitely needed is his finishing. He scored six goals in all competitions this season, with Verona being his favourite victim — including this beauty in the last game of the season — but given some of the chances he got, he should have scored more.

Regardless, he impressed enough to convince Beppe Marotta to take up his option with Udinese and purchase him outright. He also made his debut with the Argentine national team this season, and can currently be seen playing for La Albiceleste at the Copa America.

All in all, job done in his debut season for "El Tucumano."


Stefano Sturaro - 6

The young midfielder, dubbed "the new Gattuso" by some, was brought into the Juventus fold in the winter transfer window. His early Juventus career was pretty much a nonevent; a few minutes off the bench here and there, where he failed to impress. However, Sturaro really made his mark when played as a tactical wild card by Max Allegri in the first leg of the Champions League semifinal versus Real Madrid. Allegri threw everyone off by deciding to leave (the player expected to start) Roberto Pereyra on the bench and start Sturaro on the left side of his diamond midfield, playing Arturo Vidal being the strikers. Real Madrid was not expecting this, and were not able to adjust to counter this move by Allegri. Sturaro, for his part, put in a great shift for about an hour before being substituted. His highlight of the game — nay, highlight of his season — was this brilliant last ditch challenge on James Rodríguez's goal-bound header, getting enough of a deflection to take it onto the crossbar. This turned out to be a key play in the entire tie, and in the end was an important play which led to Juve's progression to the final in Berlin.

Oh, he also did this against Napoli (I never saw Gattuso do something like that, though).

A decent showing by the young Italian in his first six months at the club. Next season should hopefully see some more playing time and development for the young mediano.


Simone Pepe - s/v

The oft-injured winger played a bit part role this season, as has been the case since the 2011-12 season. Making a total of twelve appearances in all competitions, Simone scored one goal (a penalty in Juve's last home game against Napoli) and assisted on one goal.

Despite his decreasing minutes on the pitch, Simone has been reportedly a constant positive presence in the Juventus dressing room. And that is something that priceless. After confirming his exit from Juventus, as his contract has come to an end this summer, I'm sure he will be missed by his now former teammates.

Here's to Pepe doing what he does at another one of Serie A's clubs in the near future.


Mattia Vitale - s/v

The teenager, promoted from the Primavera squad, made the bench for a number of games before finally making his league debut in the loss away to Parma in April. He only made two appearances, but one can see some ability there. One to watch for the future? Maybe. Hopefully he can be a rare promotion from the youth to the senior team in the future.


Luca Marrone - s/v

The perma-injured former Italian under-21 international captain, Marrone did not make a single appearance this season. A proposed move to La Liga side Cordoba in January fell through due to a failed medical. We had such high hopes for Luca, and at twenty-five, he still has some of his best playing years ahead of him. But will he actually get to play those out though?

[Socrates 7962]

Juventus 2014-15 Season Ratings: The Strikers

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/6/30/8856737/juventus-2014-15-season-ratings-the-strikers-tevez-morata-llorente-matri-coman

 
Jun 30, 2015

Leaving aside Max Allegri’s phenomenal ability of conveying his tactical ideas in the game of every single player who wore the Bianconeri colours this season, the main reason for Juventus’ surge towards a fourth consecutive Scudetto, the long-awaited 10th Coppa Italia and the Champions League final in Berlin was probably the force of the group — the way in which, through dedication and hard work, Juventus functioned as a family.

In order to compete at the very top level, however, football will require a fair amount of moments of individual brilliance. The difference between two great teams rigorously prepared tactically will be made in a fraction of a second by a long-range screamer, a sublime through ball to break the defence or a dazzling piece of skill just inside the area, finished off with a goal.

This writer will have to concede, despite his fondness for teamwork and defending, that those are the moments with the greater power of leaving a mark on the memory of tifosi all around the world. Alessandro Del Piero’s superb last minute first-time volley against Fiorentina in 1994 , his doppietta at the Santiago Bernabeu, Pavel Nedved’s masterfully-placed strike with the outside of his boot against Ajax, or — perhaps surprisingly for some but of the utmost importance — Alessandro Birindelli’s perfect cross for Marcelo Zalayeta’s extra-time winner at the Camp Nou.

This campaign made no exception and such wonderful moments seasoned the journey to make it truly unforgettable. And in the majority of the cases, the strikers were to be blamed for the sudden jolts of adrenaline the supporters received. If Serie A was a long road in which everyone had their say, the knock-out stages of the Coppa and especially the Champions League were the parts in which individuals stood out. Carlos Tévez and Alvaro Morata scored nine of Juventus’ 10 goals in the eliminatory phase of the Champions League, while Alessandro Matri was one of the main protagonists of the Coppa Italia triumph.

Point is, Juventus’ attack worked. And it worked throughout the season — regardless of who played from the start. Many thanks and all that!

Now, let the ratings begin.


Carlos Tévez: 9

It was just like a hurricane — came out of nowhere, destroyed everything in its way, laughed in the face of mothers and babies crying, and then moved on, leaving behind damages and casualties of all sorts. The two years Tévez spent in Turin have passed in the blink of an eye but it is fantastic how much one can accomplish in such a negligible amount of time.

Before you even managed to close your eyes, Tévez had already scored 19 goals in his first Serie A season — a slight improvement for Juventus from the previous 2012/13 one when top goalscorers in the league were Mirko Vucinic and Arturo Vidal with 10 goals each — 19 (NINETEEN!) behind the leader at the time Edinson Cavani.

And by the time you have opened your eyelids, El Apache had already topped that performance by a goal, scored seven in the Champions League, the decisive penalty against Colombia that took Argentina in the Copa América semifinals and confirmed his move to his beloved Boca Juniors, the club where he started poaching ‘em goals as a young Carlitos.

The best player of the season — and the season before — Tévez has been the epicentre of Juventus’ tormenting attacks. Never giving up and always working for the team, the Argentine was one of the players who re-established the winning DNA within the Bianconeri ranks. Any more superlatives describing his attitude and fantastic talent would be redundant.

It is worth remembering, however, some of his surreal goals scored in black & white this season, like the majestic opener that silenced the Yellow Wall at the Westfalenstadion... (excuse the silly soundtrack)


Alvaro Morata: 7.5

The Juventus adventure did not start brilliantly for Morata. Third–choice goalkeeper Rubinho experienced an individual career-best moment when everybody was talking only about him ... about him colliding with and injuring Morata in one of the Spaniard’s first training sessions. Almost two months on the sideline, combined with the necessity of adapting to a new culture, lifestyle, an altogether different type of football and different training methods, made it hard for the then 21-year-old to play his best football.

But these issues only made Morata’s situation very similar to the one Fernando Llorente found himself in just a year before and, just like his compatriot, Morata had a terrific impact on the second part of the season, quickly developing a great attacking partnership with Tévez.

Decisive goals in the Coppa Italia and Champions League made from Morata a man for big occasions, although his young age, joined by the desire to prove himself and the limited amount of playing time registered at the top level were factors for his incandescence and, sometimes, inability to negotiate situations as required — hence the several yellow and red cards.

As he is just 22, Morata has the potential to be the perfect striker for many years to come and his winning mentality is proving just that. "I didn’t even take the medal. I don’t have silver medals at home," said Morata after losing the final in Berlin. The upcoming season, a duo with Paulo Dybala will be thrilling to watch.

Deal with it.


Fernando Llorente: 6.5

Oh, the big man, The Lion King. How very different from the prolific striker of the previous season. His usually ferocious roar was nothing more than a feeble meow of a toyger ... a toyger cat.

Somehow, Llorente registered 31 games in Serie A — a surprising 25 as a starter — scoring seven goals in the process. It is worth to add two of these goals came in the 7-0 thrashing of Parma. But it wasn’t just the lack of goals or the fact that the Spaniard created a lot fewer chances for his teammates than he used to. Llorente was not himself. The lack of confidence on the pitch was something of a mystery — especially after the fantastic football played in the second part of the last season.

It is hard to explain how or why a once prolific goal scorer is suddenly losing his touch. Perhaps the addition of Morata to the striking force had a negative influence on him somehow, although Llorente’s good friendship with his compatriot — and the rest of the team, in fact — was all over social media throughout the year.

Despite all that, Allegri had faith in Llorente and counted on him on several occasions, in which the striker did his best — definitely not at the spring 2014 level, but decent enough for Juventus.


Alessandro Matri: 6.5

Coppa Italia hero. A great man in the locker room. A part of the core group of players with a strong bond between them, who have been at the club when the Andrea Agnelli adventure started to deliver fantastic results. And a wonderful man.

Matri rejoined Juventus in January on loan as a backup striker, after he has been sold to Milan in the summer of 2013 for €11 million. All in all, another great piece of business from Beppe Marotta.

Making only five appearances in Serie A and two in the Champions’ League, Matri was content with his role on the bench. Even more, in the two games played in Coppa, he managed to score against Fiorentina in semi-finals and the winning goal against Lazio in extra-time of the final, to deliver the trophy in Turin.

What else would you expect from him? The perfect backup.


Kingsley Coman: 6

The 19-year-old Frenchman had a decent first season with Juventus, under the close tutelage of Allegri and Patrice Evra — who received a free hand from Coman’s father to discipline the youngster whenever needed.

Agile, skilful and showing real pace down the wing, Coman was involved in 14 Serie A games — starting five — and in all Coppa Italia matches, excepting the final. His strike against Verona was, hopefully, a sign of things to come but right now, Coman needs more playing time than Juventus can offer.