Socrates

INTER - JUVENTUS - MATCHDAY 8 Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan Referee: Paolo Valeri Icardi: 'Juve perfect to come back' http://www.football-italia.net/74349/icardi-juve-perfect-come-back? Oct 15, 2015 Inter striker Mauro Icardi says he came to Inter 'to win everything', and believes Juventus are 'perfect to come back' to first place. The Nerazzurri need to bounce back after making one point in two games before the break, and this Sunday's Derby d'Italia against the Bianconeri provides them with a special opportunity. “I married Inter with only one objective in mind: winning everything,” he told Il Secolo XIX. “This is a glorious club but they're emerging from years in which they didn't win anything. “When I signed my extension until 2019 I fixed my mind on bringing the club back where it belongs.” Icardi also discussed the terrible 4-1 defeat to Fiorentina in Week 6, who have now kicked them out of first place. “We changed our way of playing, then everything immediately went wrong. “There was the penalty, the red card for Miranda, I tried interfering with their game but to no effect. It was their night. “Now the Bianconeri are perfect to come back. “Nobody in Italy expected them to start off this way, but we'll see where they are at the end. Pirlo, Vidal and Tevez were their pillars and they're definitely feeling their absence. “Dybala? We could have played together at Inter, then Juventus signed him. This means he has great quality, which you'll see soon... but hopefully not on Sunday!” http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

INTER - JUVENTUS - MATCHDAY 8 Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan Referee: Paolo Valeri Juve: Pogba, Khedira, Marchisio in http://www.football-italia.net/74347/juve-pogba-khedira-marchisio? Oct 15, 2015 Juventus will be able to count on their starting midfield trio of Paul Pogba, Sami Khedira and Claudio Marchisio against Inter. The succession of injuries in the Bianconeri's midfield kept Coach Max Allegri from ever fielding all of his stars simultaneously. According to Sport Mediaset, the 'Magnificent Three' should all be available for this Sunday's Derby d'Italia, the potentially decisive match against Inter. The main doubts relate to Pogba, who returned from international duty with an ankle sprain. While sources are optimistic that he will make it, his presence is still not certain. http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

INTER - JUVENTUS - MATCHDAY 8 Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan Referee: Paolo Valeri Icardi: 'Maybe Juve fear me' http://www.football-italia.net/74342/icardi-maybe-juve-fear-me? Oct 15, 2015 Mauro Icardi looks forward to the 'special game' of Inter-Juventus, while wondering: 'Are they afraid of me?' The Derby d'Italia is the highlight of Week 8 in Serie A, and the 22-year-old will be entasked alongside Stevan Jovetic with breaking down the Bianconeri defence. “It's a special game,” he told La Stampa. “I wonder if at Juve they are afraid of me? “Do I always score against the Bianconeri? I started scoring when I was a kid and I never stopped. Should I do that now?” Icardi was then asked about his lifestyle and his alleged reputation as a 'bad boy'. “Appearances deceive. In life I always did things my own way and in the end I was right. “Now I enjoy the delight of a wonderful extended family and I have everything I desired: four beautiful children and football.” http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

INTER - JUVENTUS - MATCHDAY 8 Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan Referee: Paolo Valeri Jovetic: 'Could have joined Juve' http://www.football-italia.net/74339/jovetic-could-have-joined-juve? Oct 15, 2015 Inter star striker Stevan Jovetic reveals he was close to signing for Juventus back when Antonio Conte was the Coach. The Montenegrin will be expected to carry his team in the Derby d'Italia between the two Italian giants this Sunday. “During Conte's times I was very close to Juve. There was interest, that's certain enough. “They called my agent, though I never spoke with Conte myself. In the end I stayed at City. “I have no regrets, though a thousand things happened that didn't allow me to play at my best. My experience in Manchester was fantastic. “I lost one week's worth of training but I'm feeling good and I'll be ready by Sunday." JoJo then discussed the dark moment of his past injury. “I broke my cruciate ligament at the age of 20 and that was the worst moment in my career. That's when you see who your true friends are. “I always knew that I was going to come back stronger than I was before.” http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

Juventus defender Andrea Barzagli to retire from Italian national team after Euro 2016 http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/10/15/9534959/juventus-defender-andrea-barzagli-to-retire-from-italian-national Oct 15, 2015 If you like watching Andrea Barzagli play in a Juventus jersey, the same can probably be said whenever he throws on an Azzurri kit. However, your chances to see The Great Wall play with Italy are getting smaller and smaller as the international friendlies or, in this case, competitive matches go by. It's not because it's some injury situation that is forcing any of this. This is by choice. And also because Barzagli will be 35 years old the next time Italy takes part in a major tournament. "I'll leave the Azzurri after the Euros," Barzagli revealed in an interview with Sky. "It's right to give younger players a chance. I think I'm lucky to still be in the national team at 34-35. "Andrea Pirlo and Gigi Buffon are another category of player. Personally I'm just lucky to be in the national team this year and next year." (Source: Football Italia) Seeing how he's in his mid-30s and has had plenty of injury troubles of the last couple of years, Barzagli stepping aside from the international side of the equation totally makes sense. He can clearly play at a very high level. He's proven that once again this season both domestically and in the Champions League. The good thing is that he's stepping aside on his own terms, not because he's been forced to do so after months and months of injuries like we might have thought would be the case this time last year. And, in theory, if Juventus renew his contract any further, then the workload for one of the game's most underrated defenders goes down a pretty good amount. Same goes for the risk of injury, which we know with Barzagli — and every other player — is ever present. And let's be honest, if Barzagli steps aside, then it creates and opportunity for one of Italy's talented young defenders. Maybe somebody like, I dunno, Daniele Rugani. Yeah, a Barzagli-for-Rugani swap doesn't sound like a bad thing at all — whether it's at Juventus in a year or two, or on the Italian national team.

INTER - JUVENTUS - MATCHDAY 8 Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan Referee: Paolo Valeri Kondogbia key to Inter Milan's success in Derby d'Italia vs. Juventus http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/internazionale/110/blog/post/2663123/kondogbia-key-to-inter-milans-success-vs-juventus-in-derby? Oct 14, 2015 As the corner looped out to the edge of the box, Maicon controlled the ball on his right knee, dinked it over the onrushing Amauri, took one more touch on the same knee and then blasted the ball past Gianluigi Buffon from 20 yards out. Inter fans will remember this day, and not just because of this goal. They will identify April 2010 as the last time they beat Juventus at home (2-0 on that day). Five-and-a-half years later, the two will face off in the Derby d'Italia on Sunday night, and Roberto Mancini has not forgotten Inter's five-match winless streak at the San Siro against Juve. Speaking to reporters as he attended the National Culture Awards in Montefeltro, the Inter coach noted that beating Juventus would be "a nice boost" for his team. Mancini is aware of the weight this rivalry carries and the controversies it can give rise to. Who can forget the clash from the 1997-98 season when referee Pietro Ceccarini denied Ronaldo a penalty for what seemed like a foul on him by Mark Iuliano. The memory of this has stuck firmly in the minds of the 'Interesti'. Inter could open up an 11-point gap if they manage to beat the Bianconeri and this would give the Nerazzurri faithful reason to believe that their demolition at home to Fiorentina was a one-off. Juventus may have conceded in 10 of their last 11 league games and may have also have had their worst start to a season since 1980-81, but they cannot be taken lightly. Ironically, in the aforementioned season, they won the league and they will be hoping that their last victories against Sevilla and Bologna have signalled a turning point. The Old Lady will certainly be hoping that this is the case, while at the same time thinking that the Nerazzurri's mauling to the Viola and draw against Sampdoria shows that Inter's season is stalling. Mancini's focus is on Geoffrey Kondogbia, who suffered a minor injury against Sampdoria. Kondogbia is expected to be fit and ready to play, and so Mancini will be hoping that his most expensive signing can put in a stellar performance against the Turin giants. One of the most enthralling duels in the Derby d'Italia will be the battle in the midfield between Kondogbia and Paul Pogba. The Bianconeri midfielder is also expected to overcome an injury to play and this titanic clash is certainly something that won't be missed. It is certainly a game that could be won and lost in midfield as both teams have lacked fluidity and creativity this year, despite their various degrees of success in transition. Juventus have been arguably too "Pogba-centric", especially in the early games and have relied too much on the youngster carrying the team while the new players adapt. Inter, on the contrary, have perhaps not been as "Kondogbia-centric" as they should, with the ex-Monaco man offering up indifferent performances. Kondogbia has managed to work well with Felipe Melo in certain games and has made the Nerazzurri midfield look secure. The Frenchman has, however, not performed the "box-to-box" midfielder role he managed to do so well at Monaco. It is this reading of the game and dynamism that he is still yet to find at Inter. Perhaps it is confidence, but the frustrating thing for Mancini must be that if Kondogbia just believed more in his own ability, he would be a bigger asset to the team. Despite the form of Juventus, a win in the Derby d'Italia will be enormous for the Nerazzurri, whether from a confidence or a points perspective. Their season, without exaggeration, may be shaped by this result. This is not a game where style will be important; it is all about the result and if Kondogbia can overcome his compatriot in battle in the middle, then Inter stand a good chance of winning. http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

Serie A - 8^ Giornata Andata - 18-10-2015 (ore 20:45) INTER - JUVENTUS - Domenica, 18 ottobre 2015 - ore 20:45 Stadio Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) - Milano Arbitro: Paolo Valeri Confronti ufficiali 224 - 164 (Serie A) - 29 (Coppa Italia) - 27 (Campionato a gironi) - 2 (Campionato di guerra) - 1 (Supercoppa Italiana) - 1 (Spareggio Coppa Europa Centrale) Vittorie Juventus 101 - 78 (Serie A) - 13 (Coppa Italia) - 8 (Campionato a gironi) - 1 (Campionato di guerra) - 1 (Spareggio Coppa Europa Centrale) Pareggi 55 - 41 (Serie A) - 7 (Coppa Italia) - 7 (Campionato a gironi) Vittorie Inter 68 - 45 (Serie A) - 9 (Coppa Italia) - 12 (Campionato a gironi) - 1 (Campionato di guerra) - 1 (Supercoppa Italiana) Goals Juventus 322 - 238 (Serie A) - 45 (Coppa Italia) - 36 (Campionato a gironi) - 2 (Campionato di guerra) - 1 (Spareggio Coppa Europa Centrale) Goals Inter 279 - 195 (Serie A) - 35 (Coppa Italia) - 46 (Campionato a gironi) - 2 (Campionato di guerra) - 1 (Supercoppa Italiana) Inter - Juventus a Milano Serie A Confronti ufficiali 82 Vittorie Juventus 22 (L'ultima il 16.05.2015, 1-2) Pareggi 26 (L'ultimo il 14.09.2013, 1-1) Vittorie Inter 34 (L'ultima il 16.04.2010, 2-0) Goals Juventus 91 Goals Inter 129 Giocatori con più presenze e goals contro l'Inter a Milano 14 presenze Boniperti Giampiero 13 Furino Giuseppe 13 Scirea Gaetano 12 Del Piero Alessandro 12 Varglien I Mario 11 Bettega Roberto 11 Causio Franco 11 Conte Antonio 11 Gentile Claudio 11 Zoff Dino 5 goals Sivori Omar Enrique 3 Anastasi Pietro 3 Baggio Roberto 3 Boniperti Giampiero 3 Ferrari Giovanni 3 Hansen John 3 Trezeguet David Sergio 2 Bettega Roberto 2 Charles John William 2 Colombo Umberto Ultimi confronti diretti 03.10.2010 Serie A Inter-Juventus 0-0 13.02.2011 Serie A Juventus-Inter 1-0 29.10.2011 Serie A Inter-Juventus 1-2 25.03.2012 Serie A Juventus-Inter 2-0 03.11.2012 Serie A Juventus-Inter 1-3 30.03.2013 Serie A Inter-Juventus 1-2 14.09.2013 Serie A Inter-Juventus 1-1 02.02.2014 Serie A Juventus-Inter 3-1 06.01.2015 Serie A Juventus-Inter 1-1 16.05.2015 Serie A Inter-Juventus 1-2 Giocate 10 - Vittorie Juventus 6 - Pareggi 3 - Vittorie Inter 1 - Goals Juventus 15 - Goals Inter 9 da juworld.net http://www.goal.com/it/tables/serie-a/13

Evra: 'Juve just need time' http://www.football-italia.net/74325/evra-juve-just-need-time? Oct 14, 2015 Patrice Evra described the “heart-breaking” decision to quit Manchester United and the “enormous pressure” at Juventus. The France international sat down with RMC Sport to discuss his career and the move to Turin after eight years in Manchester. “It was a family issue. It’s hard to talk about it now. It was heart-breaking, but I made that choice for my family. I don’t want to talk about the details. “Manchester United did not want me to leave, but before the end of the season, I explained that I had to leave. It was the right choice.” Evra won the Scudetto, Coppa Italia and reached the Champions League Final with Juve, but they’ve started the new Serie A season with problems. “People are used to seeing us win. There is enormous pressure here. We lost three big players and big personalities, Andrea Pirlo, Arturo Vidal and Carlos Tevez, but that’s not the problem. The new players must adapt to training and adapt to being at a big club. We just need time.” He was asked about his future and potential switch to Major League Soccer or return to France. “I am not a magician, so I don’t know what will happen in the future. In life, you never know. If I do move on, it won’t be to just take the money and run. That would be useless. “I want to continue as long as my body tells me it can.”

INTER - JUVENTUS - MATCHDAY 8 Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan Referee: Paolo Valeri Felipe Melo injury scare http://www.football-italia.net/74319/felipe-melo-injury-scare? Oct 14, 2015 Inter midfielder Felipe Melo skipped training with a muscular problem, but is optimistic he can face Juventus on Sunday. The Brazilian did not take part in today’s session due to a slight muscular problem. However, Sky Sport Italia claim it was mainly as a precaution and he should be ready to start against Juve. Since arriving from Galatasaray on transfer deadline day, Melo has been a key figure in the Nerazzurri midfield. It is also an opportunity to face one of his former clubs. http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

INTER - JUVENTUS - MATCHDAY 8 Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan Referee: Paolo Valeri Ravanelli Urges Supporters To Be Patient With Team http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/10/former-juventus-striker-urges-supporters-to-be-patient-with-team/? Oct 14, 2015 Former Juventus forward Fabrizio Ravanelli says the club’s fans must allow time for the Bianconeri to get things right this season. The Old Lady have had a frustrating start to their league campaign and as a result find themselves in 12th position in Serie A, but Ravanelli believes supporters must be calm about the team’s performances. Speaking to radio program I Laziali Sono Qua, Ravanelli called for calm about Juventus’ imbalanced fortunes so far this term. “You can’t always win,” Ravanelli told Elle Radio. “The Bianconeri has changed so much and it takes patience. “In the Champions League, beating Manchester City and Sevilla, the club has proven to be effective. “Some issues have conspired against Allegri’s team, but after four consecutive league titles you can not fault a team like Juventus, which has proven itself capable of surviving even the failures. “The winner does not cling to excuses. “When things go wrong, you know where you are wrong and fix it.” Asked about this weekend’s derby between Inter and Juventus, Ravanelli believes it’s a good opportunity for his former team to find their form again. “Inter-Juventus may be the occasion for the Bianconeri to find direction,” continued Ravanelli. “The Nerazzurri now have more to lose than Allegri’s team.” http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

INTER - JUVENTUS - MATCHDAY 8 Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan Referee: Paolo Valeri Barzagli: ‘Juventus must not lose’ http://www.football-italia.net/74318/barzagli-‘juventus-must-not-lose’? Oct 14, 2015 Andrea Barzagli warns Juventus can’t afford to lose the Derby d’Italia with Inter on Sunday. The Bianconeri have started the season poorly and are currently 12th in Serie A, eight points behind the Nerazzurri. “If we want to have a bit of hope we definitely have to come out of the game undefeated,” Barzagli told Sky. “At the same time, we’re still at the beginning of the season so it’s still early. Eight points is a big gap for Inter though, and if they get a result if would be a problem for us. “They started very strongly, so they will be a very difficult team for us to beat, and we’ll have to prepare to the maximum. “We’ve had two good games [against Sevilla and Bologna], but I think we can still improve. "I think we have to improve some small defect that we have, because we’re conceding more than you normally would considering the number of shots on our goal. “That means we’re lacking something on the pitch that we had before, so I think there’s still a lot to do and we shouldn’t be deceived by these two victories. “I think when you’re defending it’s not just about the physical side, but also the mental one. You have to be constantly focused, not conceding a metre to your opponents. “Of course, the defensive balance doesn’t just depend on one position, but how the whole team moves. “The players in front of us have to give us a hand, just as the attacking play also depends on us defenders.” Barzagli then discussed some of the new arrivals in Turin this summer. “Cuadrado has impressed us with his personality. He always wants the ball. He’s working very well, as we all are, and that’s an important starting point. “Rugani? Daniele is very professional, he turned up for pre-season before all of us, he’s studying the veterans, and he has the advantage of being very attentive. “He’s promising, as are all our young players. It will be an important season for him, in future he’ll take charge of this Juve.” http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

Barzagli to retire from Italy after Euro 2016 The Juventus defender has announced that he will retire from international football after the tournament in France next year, though will continue to play club football. http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/4961/international-football/2015/10/14/16320372/-? Oct 14, 2015 World Cup-winning defender Andrea Barzagli is to retire from international duty with Italy after Euro 2016. The 34-year-old has 52 caps to his name, having debuted against Finland in November 2004, and featured in Italy's final Euro 2016 qualifier against Norway on Tuesday. Antonio Conte's men sealed their place at the competition with a 3-1 win over Azerbaijan three days earlier and the tournament is due to be Barazgli's last in an Italy shirt. "I'll leave the Azzurri after the Euros," Barzagli told Sky Sport24. "It's right to give the younger players a chance." The Juventus man featured twice as Italy won the World Cup in Germany nine years ago while he also helped the country to the final of the European Championship in 2012, where they were beaten by Spain.

Atletico Madrid want Juan Cuadrado http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/chelsea/transfer-talk/news/report-atletico-want-juan-cuadrado_252372.html Oct 14, 2015 Atletico Madrid are reportedly interested in signing Chelsea midfielder Juan Cuadrado, who is currently on loan at Juventus, in the January window. The Colombian international joined Chelsea from Fiorentina in January, but he struggled to make his mark in England and was sent on a season-long loan to Juventus in the latter stages of the summer transfer window. It is understood that Juve want to turn the loan deal into a permanent transfer, but according to AS, Atletico boss Diego Simeone is preparing to hijack the deal due to his long-term appreciation of the 27-year-old's talents. Cuadrado, who played every minute of his country's run to the quarter-finals of the 2015 Copa America, has already made eight appearances for Juve this season.

Frey: ‘Too much pressure on Pogba’ http://www.football-italia.net/74307/frey-%E2%80%98too-much-pressure-pogba%E2%80%99? Oct 14, 2015 Chievo defender Nicolas Frey believes Juventus’ Paul Pogba “should be allowed to grow more peacefully.” The French midfielder has come in for criticism for his early form this season, and his compatriot believes he’s struggling under the weight of expectation. “How was Pogba when I played against him?” Frey considered in an interview with Goal. “Honestly, not good. You can see that he’s not calm. I have no doubt he’ll become a top player, his qualities are obvious, and he did great things last season. “But I think he’s had too many responsibilities thrust on him, and he’s struggling under the weight of that. “Everyone expects a lot from him, both for Juve and the national team, but we mustn’t forget he’s only 22. “I think he should be allowed to grow more peacefully.”

Understanding the Mistakes Massimiliano Allegri Made in 1st Part of Season http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2578336-understanding-the-mistakes-massimiliano-allegri-made-in-first-part-of-season? Oct 14, 2015 There is little doubt that the 2015/16 campaign did not begin well for Juventus, the reigning Serie A champions mounting a poor defence of the title they won so comfortably last season. Indeed, having finished a staggering 17 points ahead of their closest challengers, it was somewhat odd to see the Bianconeri struggling. Losing three times in their opening six matches, coach Massimiliano Allegri had already overseen as many league defeats this term as he did in the whole of his first year with the club. Despite the drastic overhaul of the playing squad, he came under much criticism and scrutiny, as his historic achievements were quickly forgotten. "Allegri is lost: We cannot go on like this!" proclaimed TuttoSport the morning after the most recent of those losses (h/t Football Italia), the Turin-based newspaper believing the coach had steered his team off course as they fell to an impressive Napoli. While questioning the ability of the man who led Juventus to only the third league and cup double in the club's history—not to mention a first Champions League final in over a decade—is clearly hyperbolic, Allegri was not blameless. OptaPaolo ✔ @OptaPaolo 5 - Max Allegri is the fifth Italian manager to reach the Champions League Final after Capello, Lippi, Ancelotti and Di Matteo. Early in the season, with his options limited by a mounting injury list, he opted to field Simone Padoin in the centre of his three-man midfield. While a willing servant and hard-working player, the limitations of the former Atalanta man were exposed in that role, with both Udinese and AS Roma taking advantage. Perhaps fielding him was an attempt to shield younger players such as Paul Pogba and Stefano Sturaro from criticism, knowing that the veteran midfielder could handle the criticism that came his way. Clearly, Allegri had not asked him to be the playmaker, but the 31-year-old failed to protect the defence, and the coach soon found an alternative. Indeed, once the likes of Hernanes and Mario Lemina arrived, Padoin found himself excluded from the Champions League squad, per the club's official website. During the game at the San Paolo—which Napoli emphatically won despite the 2-1 scoreline—Juan Cuadrado was omitted from the starting XI, which should perhaps be counted as another error by the coach. It is, of course, impossible to know the health and fitness of the Colombian, but without him, the Bianconeri lacked an incisive attacking edge. The former Fiorentina and Chelsea man has been a constant threat since moving back to Serie A, and benching him against the Partenopei undoubtedly hurt Juventus. "We want to leave alibis aside, but certainly the calendar is packed, and with so many injuries, we're never able to field the same XI," director general Beppe Marotta told Sports Mediaset before that outing (h/t Football Italia). "The coach is put in a difficult position and cannot choose his favoured lineup." Thankfully, that encounter appears to have been something of a nadir for the team, who have since experienced a dramatic upturn in both fortune and performances. With his squad finally returning to full health, Allegri was able to name an unchanged side for meetings with Sevilla then Bologna, and the results speak for themselves. A 2-0 win over the Spanish side was followed by a 3-1 victory over the Felsinei, the coach using a fluid 4-3-3 system that negated the fact both Stephan Lichtsteiner and Martin Caceres were unavailable. They must now look to continue that positive form, as Allegri himself noted in a recent interview with Sky Sport Italia as he looked ahead to this weekend's meeting with bitter rivals Inter at San Siro. "To win the Scudetto, we need consistent results, which is something we've struggled with so far this season in Serie A," he said, per Football Italia. With the lessons learned from those early errors, three points against the Nerazzurri would represent progress and show that Max Allegri and Juventus are far from "lost."

INTER - JUVENTUS - MATCHDAY 8 Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan Referee: Paolo Valeri Inter Defender Talks Up Crucial Game Against Juventus http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/10/inter-defender-talks-up-crucial-game-against-juventus/? Oct 13, 2015 Inter left-back Alex Telles wants to beat bitter rivals Juventus in the upcoming Serie A meeting in order to make the fans happy. The ex-Galatasaray player said he is happy because this will be a crucial week for Serie A, and wants the Nerazzurri to remain focused. “We are working hard for this game, it is a game we must win,” the Brazilian told fcinternews.it. “It is a week in which the league can change a lot, it is an important week. “We must stay focused because it is a crucial game. “My message for the fans is that we will work hard, focus on the game and on winning.” Telles concluded saying the team were keen to defeat the reigning Scudetto holders. “We want to win against Juventus for ourselves and for our fans.” Inter are currently second with 16 points, two behind leaders Fiorentina, whilst Juventus, who visit the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on Sunday night are 12th with eight points. http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

Spurs try to poach Juve director Paratici http://www.football-italia.net/74287/spurs-try-poach-juve-director? Oct 13, 2015 Juventus director of sport Fabio Paratici reportedly turned down several offers from Tottenham Hotspur. The right-hand man to director general Beppe Marotta is one of the figures behind Juve’s revival and four consecutive Serie A titles. According to Calciomercato.com, Premier League club Tottenham tried to poach Paratici on several occasions. He had already been linked over the summer, but another proposal reportedly came in over the last few weeks. However, Paratici rejected every offer, including a huge wage rise. Spurs see Paratici as the ideal replacement for another Italian director, Franco Baldini.

INTER - JUVENTUS - MATCHDAY 8 Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan Referee: Paolo Valeri Caceres returns to Juventus squad after car crash ban The Uruguay international, who slammed his Ferrari into two parked cars in Turin on September 29, will be available to face Inter at San Siro on Sunday. http://www.goal.com/en/news/723/serie-a/2015/10/13/16285802/-? Oct 13, 2015 Juventus have cleared Martin Caceres to resume first-team duties after suspending the defender for his involvement in a car crash last month. The Uruguay international lost control of his Ferrari just after midnight on September 29 and collided with two parked cars and a bus stop . Caceres, whose agent Daniel Fonseca admitted had been slightly over the legal alcohol limit for driving, escaped unhurt but he was fined €1,000 by Juve and indefinitely suspended from all first-team activities. However, the Bianconeri confirmed to ANSA on Tuesday that the former Sevilla man has been given the green light to rejoin Massimiliano Allegri's squad ahead of Sunday's Serie A clash with Inter. Caceres' availability is a major boost for the Italian champions, who have been rocked by the loss of Stephan Lichtsteiner for an indefinite period of time, after the Switzerland wing-back was forced to undergo an emergency heart procedure. http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

Juventus accelerate for Cuadrado? http://www.football-italia.net/74265/juventus-accelerate-cuadrado? Oct 13, 2015 Juventus could fast-track the redemption of Juan Cuadrado, in case Chelsea change their manager. The Colombian is on loan from the English side, having failed to break into the team at Stamford Bridge under Jose Mourinho. However, following a poor start to the season, Mourinho is perhaps not as untouchable as he once was, and SportMediaset is linking Atletico Madrid Coach Diego Simeone with the job if the Portuguese leaves. The news outlet believes Simeone is a big admirer of Cuadrado, so the Bianconeri could look to do a deal to bring him to Turin permanently in the January transfer window. The season-long loan does not included a buy-out clause, but it’s thought Mourinho would be willing to do a deal for the Colombian international.

INTER - JUVENTUS - MATCHDAY 8 Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan Referee: Paolo Valeri The return of the real Juventus Juventus have resembled the walking wounded, but after recovering players from injury Luca Cetta expects the Bianconeri to start the climb up the table. http://www.football-italia.net/74263/return-real-juventus? Oct 13, 2015 Immediate reactions weren’t encouraging. In some discomfort as he lay prone on the turf, Alvaro Morata was stretchered from the field. Initial speculation pointed to potentially a month on the sidelines. The scenario echoed that of Claudio Marchisio last season, originally ruled out for at least six months following a knee injury picked up on Italy duty. That sparked a furore between Antonio Conte and his former employers. Fortunately for Juve, the midfielder was back in a matter of weeks. Like in March, reports of a long-term issue weren’t one Juve were hoping to read. So all concerned could breathe a sigh of relief when it was announced Morata had suffered only heavy bruising to his leg. With a crucial Derby d’Italia looming it was a welcome statement. Injuries have been the theme of the season. After a raft of summer changes, Massimiliano Allegri was not helped by having players sidelined. Never has the Coach had a full strength team available. It was hard enough to adjust following a number of summer arrivals and departures through the Vinovo gates. Having to piece together a team exacerbated the problem. Only once has Allegri named an unchanged line-up, as the side which downed Sevilla backed up to defeat Bologna. Morata wasn’t the only worry over the international weekend, the injury crisis not aided by Paul Pogba suffering an ankle injury. Meanwhile, a thigh concern saw Roberto Pereyra pull out of Argentina’s shock loss to Ecuador. Injuries have contributed to Juve’s lowly standing in Serie A – currently 12th on eight points from seven matches. But that’s not the only reason. The Bianconeri failed to convert domination into goals against Udinese, Chievo and Frosinone. They’ve also shown a soft centre defensively. According to WhoScored.com only Fiorentina have conceded fewer shots per game in Serie A, yet Juve have conceded eight times. It has put pressure on the Coach, who last season went so close to claiming an historic treble. Slowly the infirmary is emptying. Pogba left Les Bleus training to return to Turin and both he and Morata are undergoing extra training sessions to be ready for the trip to Milan. “Working flat out to be ready for Sunday!” Morata wrote on Twitter with an accompanying photo taken at Vinovo. “The injuries we’ve been dealing with are nothing in particular. I’m fairly confident they’ll both be available against Inter,” Allegri declared. In addition, Marchisio and Stefano Sturaro have returned to training after missing recent outings. They join two players who only just traversed the comeback trail. Sami Khedira made his debut for the Turin giants versus Sevilla and then scored against Bologna. Kwadwo Asamoah returned in the latter. All four will be up for selection. Meanwhile, Mario Mandzukic is close to taking the field again. Finally, Allegri is working with something resembling his best team. The only major concern remains Stephan Lichtsteiner. He has started his recovery from surgery following breathing problems, but will be unavailable in the upcoming weeks. Yet the situation will be alleviated as Martin Caceres returns from his club-imposed exile. With Allegri getting the wounded back out into the trenches, now we will see the ‘real’ Juventus. It’s an important period of the season for the Old Lady, especially given leaders Fiorentina are 10 points clear. After stuttering through the opening months, the Bianconeri need consistency, something Allegri has acknowledged: “To win the Scudetto we need consistent results, which is something we’ve struggled with so far this season in Serie A. Therefore we need to be consistent, because a victory away to Inter followed by two defeats renders the win pointless.” The action comes thick and fast throughout the remainder of October, which also includes the Derby della Mole and third Champions League outing versus Borussia Monchengladbach. Overall, there are five games in 14 days. It can help shape their season prospects. That Allegri has recovered most of his squad is vital. In some respects the season starts now for Juventus. They know they cannot afford to keep dropping points. The Bianconeri have lost as many times in eight matches as they did in 38 last term. But with a full deck to play with, Allegri can show his real hand. This is the time for Juventus to flex their muscles. http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

Juventus defender Patrice Evra ageing 'like a bottle of wine' http://www.espnfc.co.uk/juventus/story/2660558/juventus-patrice-evra-ageing-like-a-bottle-of-wine? Oct 13, 2015 Patrice Evra says he feels as strong as ever as he sets his sights on winning more trophies with Juventus and the national team rather than bringing his career to a comfortable conclusion. The Juventus defender is not afraid of the competition he faces for his place both on club and country level with France, saying instead that this is inspiring him to bring out the very best as the years go by. "I thrive on healthy competition," he told Radio Monte Carlo. "I feel like a bottle of wine -- as the years pass, I get better and better. "This is also why I am able to put the younger players at ease, even though they know that I'm not going to leave them even a crumb because I know I don't get any preferential treatment and if I'm not good enough, one of them will take my place." Evra feels he would still have been first choice at Manchester United had he not asked to leave last year. "It's still hard to talk about it, but one day -- when my career's over -- I'll be able to speak more openly about it," the French full-back added. "I came to Turin above all for my family, because at Manchester they had inserted a clause in our agreement which changed the situation considerably. It really annoyed me. "I don't regret this move, which in the end has proven to be more than positive." Evra won Serie A and the Coppa Italia with the Bianconeri last season, as well as playing in his fourth Champions League final. The first of those was in 2004 with Monaco, a club he does not see himself returning to as he is happy at Juventus. "My aim is to keep on winning with Juventus and the national team, particularly since we're the host nation [at Euro 2016]," he said. "I'm happy in Serie A, even if it was more a coincidence that I ended up in Turin than a choice. "I'm a sportsman who has competition in my blood and I am not interested in money. I really cannot see myself returning to Monaco one day for a golden pension. Of course you can never know what might happen in life and I could also go back to Ligue 1, but that's not on the agenda right now. "Many times I hear people saying I should just be taking things easy and being happy at my age, but while my body and my head are still fine, I'm going to keep on playing. I never look to the past, but always to the future. For as long as I am still motivated, I will keep putting my boots on and not pinning them up."

Why Sami Khedira Is the Glue to Keep Juventus Together and on Track to Glory http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2578548-why-sami-khedira-is-the-glue-to-keep-juventus-together-and-on-track-to-glory? Oct 13, 2015 When Juventus signed Sami Khedira on a free transfer at the start of the summer transfer window, alarm bells went off among some fans. Juve already had one of the—if not the—best midfield units in the world that featured the core group of Claudio Marchisio, Arturo Vidal, Andrea Pirlo and Paul Pogba and quality depth in Roberto Pereyra and Stefano Sturaro. The Germany international—winner of league titles in two countries, a Champions League and a World Cup—was not the kind of player one signed to be a depth piece. Juve chief executive Giuseppe Marotta knew something the fans didn't. The move proved to be prescient. The unexpected departures of Pirlo (to MLS) and Vidal (to Bayern Munich) quite suddenly took away the soul of the unit, and instantly made Khedira an integral part of the new-look midfield along with Marchisio and Pogba. And now, after only two games in a Juventus shirt, the 28-year-old has shown that he might be the key player in the side. When both Marchisio and Khedira missed significant time in the early months of the season, it was clear that the team wasn't equipped to respond. Sturaro, Simone Padoin and new arrivals Hernanes and Mario Lemina had their moments—particularly Lemina, who, at times, looks like a younger version of Vidal—but for the most part they looked out of sync. Constant lineup changes didn't help their ability to develop chemistry. But the most notable—and most damaging—effect of their absence concerned Pogba. Saddled with the overwhelming expectations of both his projected price tag and his new No. 10 shirt, Pogba, 22, overcompensated for the absence of the two veterans. He tried to do everything, almost as though if he could be spectacular enough, one goal might be worth two. He was pressing, and it was hurting the team. One would think Hernanes, 30, might be the kind of veteran presence that could calm the young Frenchman, but his form varied as much as his position, from adequate to downright awful. Pogba pressed harder. The team suffered more. Then came September 30, and Juve's big Champions League match at home against Sevilla. After stealing a surprise victory at Manchester City to start the group, a win over the two-time defending Europa League champions would give the Turin club a win against both of their main group rivals and put them in the driver's seat in a tough group. The big news of the day: The return of Khedira from the leg injury he suffered in preseason. It may have been a watershed moment for the Bianconeri's season. Khedira's presence instantly brought stability to the midfield. He made his presence felt with a perfectly timed sliding challenge in his own penalty area to snuff out a well-worked free-kick sequence. WhoScored tracked his pass-completion percentage at only 76.5, but he made three key passes and his positioning in midfield was so good that he rarely had to make a tackle in his 75 minutes on the field. Even more important, though, was the effect he had on Pogba and Hernanes. Each had their best game of the season. Hernanes picked himself up after a thoroughly horrid game against Napoli and completed 85 percent of his passes. Pogba simply looked better. His passes were sharper. His dribbling was more controlled, allowing him to pull the quick, nifty moves he has always used to slip by defenders in the attacking third. He defended with poise and grace. Most importantly, his decision-making was vastly better, foregoing the Hollywood ball to make the smart play. The poise Khedira brought to the team carried over to the weekend. Bologna took a shock lead after five minutes, but rather than succumb to panic as they had done in similar situations against teams they should beat, they remained calm and quickly bossed the game. An equalizer came after half an hour when Khedira supplied Alvaro Morata with a cross, and the Spaniard returned the favor to his old Real Madrid teammate in the second half when he dropped in a cross for the German to head home. Khedira's mere presence has seen Juventus turn in their two best performances of the season. Even though his playing time at Real had steadily decreased over the last few years—due to both competition and injury—he slotted into the lineup almost seamlessly and brought a calming effect to a team that seemed to be totally out of sync. That type of leadership is vital to any winning team, and Khedira has brought it in spades. When combined with Marchisio—who returned to training on Thursday and is on track to return this weekend against Inter—the Juventus midfield could begin approaching the status they had in the heyday of the MVP midfield under Antonio Conte. Juventus may be 10 points back at this point in the season, but the season is still young and they have a lot of games against teams above them yet to play. They play the majority of their big games in the return leg of the season on the road. While no one is talking about the Scudetto at this point in the season, it certainly cannot be ruled out. Even if league glory finally eludes them, there is the Champions League to consider. Juventus reached the final last season and have eschewed their usual slow start in the group stage, instead notching consecutive wins against their biggest competition. If things go right, they could wrap up the top spot in the group with a game or two to spare—which would allow them to refocus on climbing up Serie A before the winter break. Khedira's experience would be even more important as Juventus gets deeper into European competition. Real Madrid has reached the semifinals in each of the last five seasons, and Khedira has been there for all of them, including their victory over Atletico Madrid two years ago. For a team with big ambitions in Europe, that experience is worth its weight in gold. The only outfield player with such extensive experience of deep European competition Juve had last year was Pirlo. Replacing that isn't easy, but Marotta has found a man who can do that. With Khedira seemingly settled into the midfield and Marchisio returning shortly, Juventus can again field an incredibly talented midfield that will take the pressure off Pogba and make the younger midfielders behind them better. Given the effect the Khedira has already had on the team, it's no stretch to say that he will be a key player as Juventus quests for more silverware this season.

INTER - JUVENTUS - MATCHDAY 8 Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan Referee: Paolo Valeri Juan Jesus: ‘Winning all that matters’ http://www.football-italia.net/74242/juan-jesus-‘winning-all-matters’? Oct 12, 2015 Inter defender Juan Jesus says “all that counts is winning” against Juventus “no matter the score”. The Derby d’Italia will be contested at San Siro on Sunday, with the Nerazzurri winless at home to their great rivals since 2010. “It will be a great match, it’s the Derby d’Italia,” the Brazilian told Inter Channel. “The Coach [Roberto Mancini] will prepare us in the best way for the match. We can win at San Siro. Juve need points, but we need them even more to make up for the [4-1] defeat to Fiorentina. “The important thing is to win, no matter the score. If it’s 1-0 or 2-1, all that counts is winning.” http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

INTER - JUVENTUS - MATCHDAY 8 Sunday, October 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM Giuseppe Meazza Stadium - Milan Referee: Paolo Valeri Juventus duo Paul Pogba and Alvaro Morata could face Inter despite injuries http://www.espnfc.co.uk/juventus/story/2659188/juventus-duo-paul-pogba-and-alvaro-morata-could-face-inter? Oct 12, 2015 Paul Pogba and Alvaro Morata could both play for Juventus when they visit Inter Milan at the weekend, despite picking up injuries while away on international duty. France midfielder Pogba picked up an ankle injury and missed his side's friendlies, while Spain forward Morata suffered a blow to the leg in the win over Luxembourg. Morata was sent to Turin for tests amid fears he could have fractured his leg, but a statement on the official Juventus website said he had only suffered bruising. "The striker's condition will continue to be monitored over the coming days in order to assess the best course of action for his return to training," the statement said. Morata, writing on Twitter, said: "It's not going to be a month [out], nor four. I'm working hard to be back at my best for Sunday." Álvaro Morata ✔ @AlvaroMorata Ni un mes ni cuatro... Trabajando a tope para estar listo el domingo!!! The news is a boost for Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri, who may now be able to field his strongest team to face Inter as they continue to recover from a tough start to the season. "To win the Scudetto you need a continuity with your results, which we've not yet had," he said at a round table event in Pisa, reported by Il Corriere della Sera. "If you win in Milan but then lose your next two, that win in Milan's worthless. "We've had a full squad available since Sept. 10 and I think that we're doing really well now. We've been together for 20 days and I'm pleased with the way the lads are working, considering all the difficulties we had. "I think our aim has got to be to get to March in the best condition possible to be able to play for our chances in the league as well as in the Champions League, because we need to get through and play a great Champions League campaign." Juve trail second-placed Inter by eight points after seven games. http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127