Socrates

Sami Khedira signing at Juventus could be key - Massimiliano Allegri http://www.espnfc.co.uk/juventus/story/2529691/sami-khedira-signing-at-juventus-could-be-be-key-allegri? Jul 21, 2015 Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri hopes Sami Khedira can lift the Serie A club to the next level as they look to be competitive in the Champions League once again next season. Juve clinched a fourth straight Serie A title last season but fell at the final hurdle in Europe as they were beaten 3-1 by Barcelona in the Champions League final. The Old Lady were league winners by 17 points but ahead of the 2015-16 campaign their rivals AC Milan and Inter Milan have both invested heavily in the transfer market this summer in a bid to cut the gap, while Lazio, Roma and Napoli hope to be in contention. Allegri, though, feels the addition of Khedira could be essential, telling news conference: "He seems like a little kid on the first day of school. "He's in great shape because he's been training over the summer and he's really enthusiastic -- it's contagious. "Sami really wants to win back what he lost last season [when he did not play regularly for Real Madrid]. He's a huge, strong and charismatic signing for us. He's shown great professionalism. You know, in terms of experience we've got all we need. I'm really pleased with this project." Allegri's squad has undergone an overhaul this summer, with Andrea Pirlo and Carlos Tevez already gone and Arturo Vidal set to follow, and with Khedira, Mario Mandzukic and Paulo Dybala arriving. "In a way, we are right back at square one again," he said. "What we did up to June 6 is already history. Juve must not now drop out of the top eight in Europe again. We are not going to shed our role as favourites for the Scudetto either. "Our rivals are all working well in the transfer market. Inter have strengthened a lot, Milan are making good moves and we've got to watch out because the Milan teams are the most dangerous in a title race compared to other sides who may not be as experienced at these levels. "In general, I'm expecting a much more even and extremely difficult season. Roma already had a strong squad and they are right in the middle of their transfer dealings now. "I'm also curious about Napoli as they are changing players and also their style of play. Yes, it's going to be a great season and I'm working on laying the foundations for another new cycle for Juve with at least another four years at the top, starting with the Supercoppa on Aug. 8. "With this club and with these players, anything's possible."

Allegri: Juventus remain title favourites but watch out for AC Milan & Inter The Bianconeri have lost some key performers, including Andrea Pirlo and Carlos Tevez, but the coach has been buoyed by the quality of their replacements. http://www.goal.com/en/news/10/italy/2015/07/20/13744722/-? Jul 20, 2015 Massimiliano Allegri insists that Juventus remain the favourites to win this season's Scudetto - but admits that the title race could be a whole lot closer this time around. The Bianconeri romped to a fourth consecutive championship triumph last term, finishing 17 points clear of second-placed Roma. Allegri is expecting a stronger challenge this term, particularly in light of the spending sprees at AC Milan and Inter, but he feels that Juve remain the team to beat in Italy - despite the summer departures of Andrea Pirlo and Carlos Tevez, and imminent exit of Arturo Vidal. "Juve remain title favourites, but watch out for the two Milan teams this year - they're always dangerous," the 47-year-old coach told reporters on Monday. "Inter and Milan have both strengthened and are capable of challenging for the title, as are Roma and Napoli. "Next year's Serie A title race will be a lot more open." Juve have already snapped up Sami Khedira, Simone Zaza, Paulo Dybala and Mario Mandzukic ahead of the new season - and Allegri is happy with the quality of the new arrivals, believing that the Bianconeri boast a squad capable of continuing their domestic dominance. "Everything we've achieved thus far is now consigned to the history books," the former Milan boss added. "We start again from scratch. "Once the transfer window shuts we'll have around 10 players born between 1991 and 1996. A wise move for the future. "Two top internationals have joined us and we've also brought in promising youngsters with a bright future. "We've brought in players with great international pedigree and maintained the leadership in the dressing room. "Juve has the chance to build a side that can also stand out for the next four to five years."

Allegri Believes Inter And AC Milan Will Fight For Title http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/07/juventus-coach-believes-inter-and-ac-milan-will-fight-for-title/? Jul 20, 2015 Massimiliano Allegri believes both Milan cubs will challenge Juventus for the Scudetto in the 2015/16 season. Inter finished 8th last season while Milan were in 10th both over 30 points behind Serie A winners Juventus but Allegri is adamant Juventus will have a tough task retaining their title. “The two Milan club will fight for the title.” Allegri said at a press conference “Rome will be strong and Napoli will be challenging. “I think we are favourites as we still have a strong team “One thing is certain, we will not have an easy defence of our title. “Khedira is in superb condition and he has great enthusiasm for the game. “He is a fantastic guy who has shown great charisma and professionalism already during his time at the club. “He wants to win the Champions League again after winning the trophy with Real Madrid.

Marotta: Vidal leaving Juventus for Bayern Munich The Chile international is on the verge of sealing a €40 million switch to the Allianz Arena but Mario Gotze is not moving in the other direction. http://www.goal.com/en-za/news/4682/transfer-zone/2015/07/20/13743982/-? Jul 20, 2015 Juventus director general Giuseppe Marotta has confirmed that midfielder Arturo Vidal is leaving the club. Bayern Munich have agreed a €40 million transfer fee with the Bianconeri for the Chile international, who joined the Old Lady from Bayer Leverkusen in 2011. Vidal played a key role in Juve's revival, helping the Turin outfit win four successive Serie A titles and reach the final of last season's Champions League. However, Marotta has now admitted that the 28-year-old is now set to become the fourth big name to leave the Italian champions this summer. "Vidal has expressed his desire to embark on a different experience, just like [Angelo] Ogbonna, [Carlos] Tevez and [Andrea] Pirlo," the Bianconeri official told reporters on Monday. With Vidal on his way to Bavaria, speculation is intensifying that Juve will attempt to persuade Bayern to part company with Mario Gotze, while there has also been talk of a move for Schalke's Julian Draxler. However, Marotta is keeping his cards close to his chest, adding: "Gotze is a Bayern player and we are not in talks for him. "As for Draxler? I don't know who'll arrive at Juventus; we only know the kind of player we want. "The first aim is to have our squad complete and ready for the start of the new season. "It's our duty to maintain our trend of success by reinforcing a winning model. "Our aim is to a) equip the boss with a competitive squad and b) ensure the balance sheets are kept in good order. "We're happy that we've lowered the average age of the squad. We're already a competitive side. "We'll plug the odd gap in the squad if and when the right opportunity arises."

Allegri: ‘Juventus want trequartista’ http://www.football-italia.net/69460/allegri-%E2%80%98juventus-want-trequartista%E2%80%99? Jul 20, 2015 Juventus Coach Massimiliano Allegri confirms the club are in the market for an attacking midfielder. The Bianconeri have been heavily linked with the likes of Mario Gotze, Julian Draxler and Oscar, and the tactician confirms they are seeking a player in that role. “The club is trying to find a player with with attacking quality, who can raise the technical level of this team which already has so many good players,” Allegri explained in a Press conference alongside Giuseppe Marotta. “In that role you need a very technical player, but at the same time we have to make sure we don’t upset the balance of the team. “The most important thing is what the market offers, we’re considering what we can get, and especially what we need. “We have clear ideas at this point. The first step is to get a more offensive player, then we’ll see.” The former Milan Coach also discussed the departure of some key figures from last season, but believes there are adequate replacements for the likes of Carlos Tevez and Andrea Pirlo. “Pirlo left as a champion, who did extraordinary things for Juventus, elsewhere in Italy and for the national team, so I think Italian football is losing a player who is unlikely to ever be replaced. “A player with his qualities is difficult to find, but life goes on. Andrea has made a choice for him, and I think for his future now he’s no longer a young lad. “I was very pleased to see him this morning and say hello to him before he goes to America for his new adventure. “In regard to the players we’ve lost, in addition to their technical qualities, it’s normal that we have to discuss their influence in terms of their personality. “But those who came in… [sami] Khedira played at Real Madrid for five years, [Mario] Mandzukic is a top-level player in Europe, and some young lads have come in who have great qualities. “Let’s not forget that the captain [Gigi Buffon] has stayed, [Leonardo] Bonucci has stayed, [Giorgio] Chiellini has stayed, [Claudio] Marchisio has stayed, and the same goes for [simone] Padoin. “They’re all important players in the squad with big personalities. [Patrice] Evra is the same. I’m happy, we have time between now and August 31, and the club has time on the transfer market to refine the team.”

‘Juventus must complete squad’ http://www.football-italia.net/69457/%E2%80%98juventus-must-complete-squad%E2%80%99 Jul 20, 2015 Juventus director general Giuseppe Marotta admits ‘we know we have to complete the squad as soon as possible’. It has been a summer of change in Turin, with Arturo Vidal likely to follow Carlos Tevez and Andrea Pirlo out of the club, while Paulo Dybala, Mario Mandzukic, Simone Zaza, Sami Khedira and Daniele Rugani have come in. “Hopefully the new season will go along the lines of the previous one,” Marotta said in a Press conference. “In terms of the transfer market, clearly things are in full-swing. We know we have to complete the squad, that’s the first objective in our mind, and we’re working to do that as quickly as possible.”

Marchisio Misses Start Of Pre-Season Through Illness http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/07/juventus-midfielder-misses-start-of-pre-season-through-illness/? Jul 20, 2015 Juventus midfielder Claudio Marchisio will not join up with his team-mates for pre-season as originally scheduled due to the midfielder being sidelined by the flu. The Bianconeri’s international players had been scheduled to return to training on July 20 to start pre-season ahead of the 2015-16 season. However, the Italy international will not be present as according to Sky Sport Italia he has called in sick and no return date has yet been placed for Marchisio’s return to full fitness. Marchisio was an important part of the Old Lady’s success last season; making 47 appearances in all competitions. Marchisio’s value to the side is expected to increase following the departure of Andrea Pirlo for New York City FC and the Juve youth product signed a five-year contract at the start of July.

Pirlo returns to Juventus to wish former teammates luck http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/the-toe-poke/65/post/2528817/pirlo-returns-to-juventus-for-good-luck-wishes? Jul 20, 2015 With the Juventus players reporting to the club's training base for the first day of preseason training on Monday morning, a special VIP guest dropped by for a surprise visit. For the first time since setting sail for New York City FC last month, Andrea Pirlo returned to the Vinovo training centre to wish his former Juve colleagues and coaches luck for the challenging season ahead. Unsurprisingly, word spread quickly that Il Maestro was back in the building, with a gaggle of his ex-teammates queueing up to welcome him back to Turin. JuventusFC ✔@juventusfc In bocca al lupo anche a te per la nuova stagione con il @NYCFC. Class act all the way, that man.

Raiola: ‘Pogba depends on Juventus’ http://www.football-italia.net/69452/raiola-%E2%80%98pogba-depends-juventus%E2%80%99? Jul 20, 2015 Mino Raiola, the agent of Paul Pogba, admits a transfer to Barcelona or elsewhere ‘depends on Juventus’. The Bianconeri have already knocked back an €80m bid from Barcelona for the French international, though Raiola insisted any suitors would first have to speak with him. However, in a brief statement to Spanish newspaper Sport, the agent seems to strike a more conciliatory tone. “Is Pogba unsellable?” Raiola considered. “That depends on Juventus.” The newspaper speculates that the player’s representative may be seeking to win an improved contract for his client. Pogba only signed a new deal with the Bianconeri last October, which is scheduled to run until 2019 and will earn him €4.5m per season. Sport believes that Raiola is angling for that to be increased to around €6.5m, in the knowledge that the likes of Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain would be willing to offer even more as a salary should Pogba wish to leave the Old Lady.

Bartomeu wins Barcelona election http://www.football-italia.net/69401/bartomeu-wins-barcelona-election Jul 19, 2015 Josep Bartomeu has won the Barcelona Presidential election ahead of Joan Laporta, which could affect Paul Pogba’s future. Incumbent patron Bartomeu enjoyed a comfortable victory with 54.63% of the vote compared to Laporta's 33.03%. He beat Laporta into second place and will be President for the next six years. This could have a knock-on effect for the transfer market, as Laporta has a strong rapport with Pogba’s agent Mino Raiola. “If Laporta wins the Barcelona Presidential election, there’d be a high chance of Pogba ending up at Barcelona,” Raiola told EFE this week. Juventus have been adamant they won’t sell Pogba anyway, but this does make it less likely Raiola will push him towards Camp Nou. However, there were also reports that Bartomeu's plan was to get Pogba in 2016.

Allegri Releases His Own Personal App http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/07/juventus-coach-allegri-releases-his-own-personal-app/? Jul 19, 2015 Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri entered the world of technology by creating his own personal application specifically designed to benefit football coaches across the globe. The tailor-made app – Mr Allegri Tactics – will be dedicated to the work of the tactician and will help with the planning of training sessions, as well as having the ability to monitor each of their players. “Football was born as a game of passion, commitment and action,” said the 47-year-old in a video published on Youtube. “But over the years this has changed and evolved. “Today we must also consider technology, communication and sharing.” He continued: “All of these aspects are also applied to the critical role of the coach.” “The ambition is to make Mr Allegri Tactics a virtual meeting point for all different coaches in every country and of every level.”

Llorente Set To Return To Spain http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/07/juventus-striker-set-to-return-to-spain/? Jul 19, 2015 Juventus striker Fernando Llorente looks set to move to Real Madrid. The Bianconeri forward looks to be surplus to requirements next season following the recent arrivals of Simone Zaza, Paulo Dybala and Mario Mandzukic to the Juventus Stadium and could seek more playing time elsewhere, and a return to Spain looks the most likely option. Tuttosport reports that Los Blancos are keen on bringing in the 30-year-old as a replacement for Karim Benzema, whose days at the Santiago Bernabeu appear numbered. The deal between both parties is expected to be completed over the coming seven days. Llorente moved to Italy from Spanish La Liga club Athletic Bilbao in 2013 and has scored 27 goals in 90 games with La Vecchia Signora, as well as winning the Serie A twice and the Coppa Italia during his time in Turin.

'Barcelona will pursue Pogba if Luis Enrique wants' The Blaugrana have already failed with one bid to land the France international but are open to the possibility of making a second offer. http://www.goal.com/en/news/11/transfer-zone/2015/07/19/13715252/-? Jul 19, 2015 Barcelona board member Jordi Mestre says that the club will consider making another move for Juventus ace Paul Pogba should Luis Enrique say so. The Blaugrana launched a bid to land the France international last month but their €80 million offer was rejected by the Bianconeri. However, with Josep Maria Bartomeu having secured another term as president on Saturday, speculation is now rife that Barca will now turn their attention back to bringing the 22-year-old to Camp Nou. "If the coaching team ask for Pogba, we will study it," he told Cadena COPE. "In principle, the squad for next season is finished. "But if Luis Enrique asks for some reinforcement somewhere, the door is open." Barca are currently serving a Fifa-imposed, year-long transfer ban related to the movement of players under the age of 18 but they can still make new signings and then register them in January. The Catalans have already signed Arda Turan from Atletico Madrid and Aleix Vidal from Sevilla.

Comparing Juventus' 2015 Summer Transfer Moves to Their Serie A Rivals http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2525810-comparing-juventus-2015-summer-transfer-moves-to-their-serie-a-rivals? Jul 19, 2015 While the last four years have undoubtedly been enjoyable for Juventus supporters, the two most recent Serie A seasons have been something of a procession for the Turin giants. From the moment AS Roma’s 2013/14 challenge collapsed in late October, there was never any real doubt that the Bianconeri would lift the title each time. The emphatic nature of those victories—finishing some 17 points ahead of their nearest rival each year—has finally seen Italian football move with a sense of urgency this summer. Milan, Inter, Fiorentina and Napoli have each begun major overhauls both on and off the field, hoping they can mount a more credible push at the top of the table next time around. In addition, both AS Roma and city rivals Lazio—who finished second and third respectively last term—have retained their star players and hope a year of stability will help them close the gap to Massimiliano Allegri’s all-conquering side. The Giallorossi have added Spanish midfielder Iago Falque, the 25-year-old having impressed with Genoa in 2014/15 as he bagged 13 goals and three assists, as well as also securing a permanent deal for Radja Nainggolan, who had been co-owned by Cagliari. He was arguably the club’s best player last season, and sealing that deal should be huge for them, though AS Roma surely have much more work to do on the market before they can hope to be taken seriously as title challengers. On the other side of the Italian capital, Lazio are preparing for their Champions League play-off fixture, bringing in Dutch defender Wesley Hoedt and former Barcelona midfielder Patric to add depth to their squad. Fiorentina—having dealt with the tumultuous exits of coach Vincenzo Montella and star player Mohamed Salah—are likely to have a year of rebuilding under new boss Paulo Sousa. They should welcome striker Giuseppe Rossi back into the team and will hope the Italian will be able to lift them higher than the fourth-placed finish they have registered for three consecutive seasons. Last year saw them finish above Napoli, with the southern club floundering somewhat under Rafael Benitez, who has since been replaced by Maurizio Sarri. Having enjoyed much success with Empoli, the coach will hope to replicate the energetic and attractive style he brought to the Tuscan minnows at the Stadio San Paolo. A number of players have been linked, with Udinese midfielder Allan believed to be the closest to a move, having been in transfer negotiations for weeks, per Football Italia. While the sweeping changes of that quartet of clubs leave something of a question mark over their immediate futures, the landscape of Milanese football has shifted dramatically. Like Clarence Seedorf before him, Filippo Inzaghi has been fired by Milan, with yet another highly recognisable former player taking his place on the bench. After an impressive campaign with Sampdoria last season, Sinisa Mihajlovic will now be looking to revive the fortunes of a Rossoneri side which limped to a woeful 10th place finish in 2014/15. In order help him to achieve that, Silvio Berlusconi has finally opened his chequebook once again, buoyed by the sale of a 48 per cent stake in the club to Thai businessman Bee Taechaubol. The two parties issued a statement earlier this month which read (h/t Football Italia): "The draft agreement, which will be examined in detail, assures control of the club remains in the hands of president Silvio Berlusconi and Fininvest, which will hold a majority share of 52 per cent. The consortium represented by Mr Taechaubol will acquire a minority stake of 48 per cent." The Rossoneri have embarked on a major spending spree, bringing in midfielder Andrea Bertolacci from Roma, Shakhtar Donetsk striker Luiz Adriano and Carlos Bacca from Sevilla. Quite how all those pieces will fit together remains to be seen, and it will be interesting how Mihajlovic sets about inspiring a turnaround in the red and black half of the city. Across town, however, Roberto Mancini is simultaneously hoping to restore Inter to the level of success they enjoyed in his first spell with the club. The former Manchester City boss arrived after the sacking of Walter Mazzarri last November, but he is now firmly settling back in to life with the Nerazzurri. The club have arguably been the most active of all Italian sides, picking up midfielder Jonathan Biabiany from Parma, Atletico Madrid defender Joao Miranda and full-back Martin Montoya from Barcelona. In addition, Inter have also signed Geoffrey Kondogbia from AS Monaco, a move which caused a major rift with Milan who had also made a move for the 22-year-old midfielder. That bidding drove the price up to €40 million, but the player himself explained the situation earlier this week, revealing some interesting details shared between himself and Rossoneri CEO Adriano Galliani as he spoke to French newspaper L’Equipe (h/t Football Italia): The truth is that I spoke to Milan, but never in my life have I said yes to Adriano Galliani, The Rossoneri offered me more, but Mancini made a difference. The two clubs know what happened, and they know what they offered me. Milan know that their offer was better financially, but I didn’t make my choice based on that. Kondogbia undoubtedly improves Inter’s hopes immeasurably, but those six rival clubs will still be comparing their work to that being done in Turin ahead of the new campaign. The Bianconeri moved quickly this summer, agreeing deals for Paulo Dybala, Sami Khedira and Mario Mandzukic before the transfer window had actually opened. They have since signed Sassuolo striker Simone Zaza and secured Roberto Pereyra—who spent last season on loan at Juventus—on a permanent deal. Yet it is the departures rather than arrivals that will lend hope to the clubs below them, with Andrea Pirlo and Carlos Tevez having already moved on. Losing that duo—who were undeniably the creative spark behind the team as discussed here—is bad enough, but it seems Arturo Vidal may also be on his way out of Turin. As reported by BBC Sport, the Chilean midfielder appears close to agreeing a move to Bayern Munich, robbing Allegri of a third big star in just a few short weeks. How the coach copes with that will be central to Juve’s continued success, but it certainly draws the gap between the league's transfer market activity into focus. The attack will need to make up for the loss of Tevez—who scored 50 goals in 96 games during his two-year stint—and will rely on Dybala, who is arguably the most important of their new arrivals. That point was discussed in depth in this previous column, but the Argentinian joins Alvaro Morata, Mandzukic and Zaza in what is still likely to be Serie A’s most prolific attack. Bertolacci and Kondogbia are two headline-grabbing deals, but Khedira will still feature alongside Kwadwo Asamoah, Paul Pogba and Claudio Marchisio in what remains the division’s strongest midfield. Supported by Pereyra, Stefano Sturaro and Simone Padoin, Allegri has a wealth of options, and the same is undoubtedly true in defence. Angelo Ogbonna has joined West Ham United, and Juve will likely need a left-back to support Patrice Evra if they hope to contend on three fronts once again. The players who have left will be missed, and Fiorentina, Inter, Lazio, Milan, Napoli and Roma should be proud of the work they have done, but once again Juventus appear to have the advantage. That is as true on the transfer market as it is in the league table, a combination which should lead Allegri and the Bianconeri to a fifth consecutive Serie A crown in 2015/16.

Mourinho: I like Pogba, but Chelsea are good enough without him The manager is a long-term admirer of the Juventus midfielder but has faith in his Premier League title winners in the face of a long list of others suitors. http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2892/transfer-zone/2015/07/18/13702852/-? Jul 19, 2015 Jose Mourinho has confirmed he is interested in Paul Pogba but is happy to use his current squad rather than pursue the Juventus star. The manager has been a long-term admirer of the midfielder, pinpointing the France international as a key target for Chelsea over a year ago, but faces competition for his signature from a number of Europe's top sides. Mourinho, who has added just loanee Radamel Falcao and goalkeeper Asmir Begovic to his squad so far this summer, feels Pogba would boost any team but remains confident in the collective strength of his squad. "Pogba is not to put pressure on people," Mourinho says. "Pogba is one of the top players in the world. Pogba goes to any team and improves that team automatically. If he stays at Juventus, Juventus will be very strong again. If he goes somewhere else he will improve immediately a team. This is not our case. "We are changing Cech for Begovic, we are changing Didier for Falcao and we are changing kids by other kids. I think everybody has an interest in Pogba. But there are things you can do and things you cannot do. I love the Eiffel Tower but I can't have the Eiffel Tower in my garden. I can't even have the Eiffel Tower of Las Vegas."

Trezeguet: Mandzukic Will Be An Important Player For Juventus http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/07/trezeguet-mandzukic-will-be-an-important-player-for-juventus/? Jul 18, 2015 Former Juventus striker David Trezeguet has hailed Mario Mandzukic, insisting the new arrival will be an ‘important player’ for the club. The 29-year-old Croatian international arrived from Atletico Madrid last month after just one season in La Liga, and will have a tough task of replacing former talisman Carlos Tevez. “He’ll be an important player for us, one that we believe very much in,” Trezeguet, now an ambassador for the Bianconeri, told Sky Sport Italia. “He really wants to do well here and become a protagonist for the squad.” Trezeguet installed himself as a club legend due to his goal-scoring exploits for the Old Lady, scoring 171 goals in 318 appearances, during 2000-2011.

Dybala: I Can Play Like Zidane For Juventus http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/07/dybala-i-can-play-like-zidane-for-juventus/? Jul 17, 2015 Juventus forward Paulo Dybala has said that he can emulate how icon Zinedine Zidane played for the club. Argentine Dybala opted to inherit the Bianconeri’s number 21 shirt – left vacant after Andrea Pirlo’s departure – and he says he has no qualms about following in the legendary duo’s footsteps for the Turin giants. “At Juventus this shirt has had players like Zidane,” said the youngster, acknowledging the history of his employers. “Can I play as a playmaker like Zizou? It’s a role that I had in Argentina. “The coach of the first team put me up front at Palermo and I scored them more goals. “I can play attacking midfielder or striker.” Dybala scored 13 Serie A goals last season for Palermo, a key factor in his €32 million switch to Juventus last month.

Paolo Rossi: Juventus Have The Strength In Depth To Regain Scudetto http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/07/rossi-juventus-have-the-strength-in-depth-to-regain-scudetto/? Jul 17, 2015 Former Juventus forward Paolo Rossi believes that the Bianconeri have the strength to regain their Serie A title next year despite the improved squads of Inter and AC Milan. The 58-year-old has discussed the transfer business of each side and has stated that the Nerazzurri will be the closest competitors to Juve. “Inter have completed the signing of Kondogbia and Juve have got Paulo Dybala,” Rossi told Mediaset. “The Argentine is a great talent and a player I like very much. “Bacca is also a good acquisition for Milan. “Despite this, I still believe that Juve remain the favourites for the title as they have the strong habit of winning. Inter will be their closest challengers.” Rossi has also analysed The Old Lady’s chances in the Champions League next season as well as the potential return of Zlatan Ibrahimovich to Italy. “In Europe Juve will be among the last eight in the competition,” the former Milan striker continued. “Then after that it all depends upon the squad and the various conditions. “As for Ibrahimovich, a team consists of more than just one player.”

Mario Mandzukic targets Champions League with Juventus 'idol' Buffon http://www.espnfc.co.uk/story/2526159/mario-mandzukic-eyes-juve-european-glory-with-idol-buffon? Jul 17, 2015 Mario Mandzukic admits one of the greatest aspects about his move to Juventus is the opportunity to play alongside childhood hero Gianluigi Buffon, and is targeting Champions League success in Turin. Mandzukic, 29, has beaten Buffon before, scoring in Bayern Munich's defeat of Juventus in the quarterfinals of the Champions League three seasons ago. Now the Croatia international will only be facing the Italy goalkeeper in training after signing from Atletico Madrid for €19 million, but is relishing the prospect of being in the same side as the 37-year-old. "He is my idol since when I was a kid," Mandzukic said at a news conference in Turin. "I've told him this many times when I spoke to him." The former Wolfsburg and Bayern striker revealed that he followed the club for many years before being given the opportunity to join them this summer. "Juventus are a fantastic club that I have long admired for their track record of winning titles, so this has been a straightforward decision," he told the club's official website. "The side boasts many excellent players and they are the best team in Italy." Mandzukic is eyeing success in Europe after the Bianconeri reached last season's final, only to be beaten by Treble winners Barcelona. "Nobody expected Juventus to reach the final and doing so was a demonstration of a job well done by the manager and players," Mandzukic added. "They were unfortunate to lose in the end, but it represents a good omen for this season, as we bid to regroup and finally lift the trophy. "Juventus are an awkward side to play against. Previous matches count amongst the most difficult I have ever played. I am delighted now to be a part of this team and to not have to face them again." Mandzukic will wear the No. 17 shirt for the Bianconeri -- the same worn by David Trezeguet.

Juve deny Marotta-Raiola rift http://www.football-italia.net/69309/juve-deny-marotta-raiola-rift? Jul 17, 2015 Juventus deny that director general Beppe Marotta ever attacked agent Mino Raiola's statements and play down the controversy. The prominent agent claimed yesterday that Barcelona would have to speak to him, rather than to the Bianconeri, if they hoped to sign Paul Pogba. The site of Spanish newspaper El Mundo Deportivo published some statements by Marotta this morning that came down heavily on the agent, suggesting a clash between the club and the agent. But according to Sky Sports Italia, Juventus are now disclaiming the controversy, as Marotta apparently never said anything to El Mundo Deportivo. Sky Sports speculates that the Spanish outlet simply reformulated some old quotes by Marotta.

Why Paulo Dybala Is the Most Important Summer Signing for Juventus http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2523368-why-paulo-dybala-is-the-most-important-summer-signing-for-juventus? Jul 17, 2015 The pre-season preparations are firmly underway for Juventus, with players beginning to report for duty ahead of the forthcoming campaign. There are, however, a number of familiar faces missing, Andrea Pirlo and Carlos Tevez having already moved on, with Arturo Vidal seemingly set to follow suit, as reported by BBC Sport. There are also some new signings, of course, with the Turin giants having worked quickly to secure replacements for those departing stars. Mario Mandzukic and Simone Zaza will look to match the Argentinian’s incredible scoring record, while the expectation surrounding Sami Khedira was discussed at length in this previous column. Yet despite two of that trio having tasted Champions League glory with their former clubs, Paulo Dybala is the one summer addition the Bianconeri arguably need the most from. He is certainly the most expensive, with the official club website noting they had paid Palermo no less than €32 million, with a further €8 million in potential add-ons. He spent his first day at the training ground on Tuesday this week, with a press conference held a day later to introduce him to the media, as the player himself explained what he expected from the move. “Playing for a great club like Juventus represents an important step for me,” Dybala said per the official Juventus website. “I hope to develop both as a player and as a person and to become a key member of the team.” Clearly, having made such a substantial investment, the Bianconeri will expect the same from the man who will be pulling on the No. 21 shirt in 2015/16. One of the main things the side needs from Dybala is the creativity both Pirlo—who previously wore that same number—and Tevez brought to the side. That duo led the team in terms of key passes last season, with statistics from WhoScored.com showing they averaged 2.2 and 1.9 respectively in that category. It is telling that the same source shows the next highest tally among the first-team regulars was Paul Pogba, with just 1.4 such passes per game. Figures from Squawka.com show Tevez led the club in terms of overall chances created with 61, but there is hope Dybala can make up for that shortfall. The 21-year-old notched 10 assists last term, a league-high mark and a number better than any Juventus player managed in 2014/15, where Claudio Marchisio managed a total of six to lead the current squad. According to WhoScored, Dybala made an average of 1.7 key passes in his 34 appearances, and the graphic below highlights his impressive ability to create opportunities for others compared to his new team-mates. His former coach Beppe Iachini has warned against expecting too much of the striker, who netted 13 goals last term. “He has to find a way to wait for his chance at Juventus, to show he deserves a chance and to play when he gets that chance,” the Palermo boss when Tele Radio Stereo asked him about the move (h/t Football Italia). “At a higher level, playing for a top team, you have to know how to wait, and take advantage of moments, of chances,” Iachini continued. Thanks to that high price tag, however, there will likely be intense pressure placed upon his shoulders, and as the heat grew at that inaugural press conference, Dybala was forced to wipe away a few beads of sweat as he went on to say that Juventus was “the perfect club to start winning things.” When the spotlight falls upon him in the forthcoming campaign, the Bianconeri will hope he steps up to help them do just that, and Paulo Dybala is arguably the man they will rely upon most to fill the void left by those high-profile departures.

'Roma? Juventus still stronger' http://www.football-italia.net/69303/roma-juventus-still-stronger? Jul 17, 2015 Former Inter midfielder Esteban Cambiasso favours Juventus over Roma, while stressing that Milan and Inter need the Champions League. The triplete winner is the Argentinian player with the greatest number of trophies after Lionel Messi, and when asked who the favourites were to win next year's Scudetto, his answer was unambiguous. “Juventus,” he said. “Those who won the title the previous year are always in pole position. “Next to them I see Roma. It's no accident that they came second for two seasons in a row. “In the Champions League, Juventus started having faith after their victory in Dortmund [3-0 against Borussia Dortmund], that was the turning point. “Even though they lost [the final] against Barcelona, it was an unforgettable season for them. “I'm not highly affected by the idea of the clubs from Milan being in the hands of foreign owners. “But it's really strange for me to see Inter and Milan both away from European competitions, especially in the year when Milan hosts the Champions League final.”

'Juve owns Pogba, not Raiola' http://www.football-italia.net/69302/juve-owns-pogba-not-raiola? Jul 17, 2015 Juventus director general Beppe Marotta comes down hard on agent Mino Raiola, asking clubs to ignore him over Paul Pogba. The influential agent made a bold statement yesterday, claiming precedence on the possible deal to bring Pogba to Barcelona. “First Barcelona will have to negotiate with me, then with Juventus, but they can do so,” he said. It seems his argument did not go down well with Marotta, who contradicted it with no half measures. “Those who want Paul will have to negotiate with Juventus, not with Mino Raiola, who is only his agent,” he told El Mundo Deportivo. “We've been negotiating with Barcelona for months, from one club to the other, in a serious and transparent manner. “This is the right way to do business between two teams that have so much history and importance in the world of football. “The situation is clear between Juventus and Barcelona since the meeting we had in Milan with their director of sporting institutional relations, Albert Soler, and my friend Ariedo Braida. “Barcelona made a serious and concrete offer, but we rejected anyway.”

Mario Mandzukic says it was an easy decision to sign with Juventus this summer http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/7/16/8976329/juventus-mario-mandzukic-introductory-press-conference-shirt-number Jul 16, 2015 As we can easily figure out, Mario Mandzukic is not a direct replacement for Carlos Tévez simply because of what kind of strikers each of them are. However, there's no denying that the 29-year-old Mandzukic will be looked upon to be one of the main goal-scoring threats in a couple of months and the next few years going forward just in the same way Tévez was the past two seasons. Juventus continued its week of introductory press conferences on Thursday afternoon. #DybalaDay has transitioned nicely into #KhediraDay, and now, amidst rumors of one of Juve's best signings in recent memory heading out the door, we got to enjoy #MandzukicDay. (I personally feel like Rubinho was robbed of one a few years ago, by the way.) And, of course, there was yet another jersey number to reveal, with Mandzukic being the first summer signee going with a number a lot of people actually thought he would pick when he first signed with Juve a few weeks back. Ah, Mario, you've become predictable already! JuventusFC ✔@juventusfcen .@MarioMandzukic9 is all smiles at the start of his adventure in black and white. A Juventus prima punta wearing the No. 17 once again. Excuse me while I have some feelings here, people. (And no, it's not because that jersey number was worn by Paulo De Ceglie, Eljero Elia and Armand Traore in recent years. Just stop thinking that right now.) Yes, Mandzukic is the best player — by a considerable margin, too — to wear the No. 17 jersey since the days of David Trezeguet celebrating goals in the arms of Alessandro Del Piero. (FEELINGS!) There was no way he was going to get the No. 9 he wore last season in Spain due to a certain Álvaro Morata being around, so Mandzukic went went the next best thing — the same number he wears with the Croatia national team. Mandzukic said his affinity for Juventus has grown over the years and that the decision to sign with the four-time defending Serie A champions. And, whether it was for a laugh on top of the seriousness, Mandzukic added that not having to play against Juventus also factored in his decision to trade in the red and white stripes of Atlético Madrid for those lovely black and white ones our beloved Old Lady features. JuventusFC ✔@juventusfcen .@MarioMandzukic9: "Juventus are used to winning and lifting trophies. I hope I'm able to do my bit to help maintain this tradition." Amen, Mario. We're hoping that tradition continues, too.

Mandzukic: I didn't want to face Juventus any more! The Croatian has admitted he is delighted by the fact that he no longer has to deal with the Bianconeri's brilliant backline. http://www.goal.com/en-za/news/4682/transfer-zone/2015/07/16/13645172/-? Jul 16, 2015 Mario Mandzukic says he joined Juventus because he didn't want to have to play against the Serie A champions any more. The former Atletico Madrid attacker faced the Bianconeri twice in the Champions League last term before agreeing to move to Turin this summer for a fee that is expected to rise to €19 million. Mandzukic revealed at his official unveiling that Juve captain Gianluigi Buffon played a key role in his decision, but added that he was mainly fed up of having to deal with the Bianconeri's famed defence. "Before coming here, I spoke with Buffon and I told him that he was my idol since I was a kid," the 29-year-old told reporters on Thursday. "But Juventus are the best team in Serie A. They are used to winning and lifting trophies. I hope I am able to do my bit to help maintain this tradition. "My reason for joining Juve was simple: they're a great team and it was an easy decision to make. "It's always difficult to play against Juve. The games against have been the most difficult in my career. "My decision was also borne of this: I no longer wanted to have to play against them!" Juve have lost two men who played a key role in last season's run to the final of the Champions League, with Andrea Pirlo moving to MLS side New York City and Carlos Tevez returning to boyhood club Boca Juniors. However, Mandzukic believes the duo will be adequately replaced by the Bianconeri, who have already brought in Simone Zaza, Paulo Dybala and Sami Khedira. "Pirlo and Tevez are extraordinary players and any squad would miss them," the ex-Bayern Munich man added. "But as some leave, others will arrive. Juve think always of the future. There are already new reinforcements. I wish and hope that we remain as strong as last season."