Socrates

Juventus Striker On Sevilla Radar http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/08/juventus-striker-on-sevilla-radar/? Aug 1, 2015 Spanish club Sevilla are reportedly interested in Juventus striker Fernando Llorente, as an impending exit for the 30-year-old gathers pace. The Spaniard has spent two seasons with the Bianconeri, winning two Serie A titles, but looks let to leave Italy in search of a new club. Reports coming from Sky Sport Italia suggest a La Liga side in the shape of Sevilla could be his next destination. The current Europa League holders are looking for a new man to partner forward Kevin Gamiero following the exit of Carlos Bacca to AC Milan and the injury that had occurred to Ciro Immobile during a pre-season friendly with Watford. No current negotiations between the clubs have been made public, so current potential suitors such as Manchester United and Arsenal, are both leading the way to acquire his signature. Llorente has featured in 65 league games for Juventus, scoring a total of 23 goals since arriving in 2013.

Player Ratings: Marseille 2-0 Juventus http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/08/player-ratings-marseille-2-0-juventus/? Aug 1, 2015 Juventus were defeated 2-0 by Ligue 1 outfit Marseille on Saturday afternoon at the Stade Velodrome. Despite their valiant efforts, the Bianconeri failed to cause a great deal of trouble for keeper Steve Mandanda, and were eventually condemned to defeat after two late goals either side of the half time whistle by Romain Alessandrini and Abdelaziz Barrada. Marseille Steve Mandanda – 6 – Aware - Largely untroubled for the most part of the game, the French goalkeeper made routine saves and showed good instinct to claim the ball in the air. Brice Dja Djedje – 7 – Sprinter - Constantly running all over the field to help out his team, Dja Djedje was a non-stop workhorse. Teamed up well with Alessandrini on the right hand side, providing some nice link play. Karim Rekik – 6 – Ox - The young centre-back made some crucial interventions and displayed good technique and holding skills while on the ball. Nicolas Nkoulou – 6.5 – Rock - Much like Rekik, Nkoulou slid in numerous times to ensure that no threat would ensue, additionally cleared the danger whenever needed. Some smart dribbling and passing topped off a more than comfortable game for him. Benjamin Mendy – 6 – Eager - Deployed in a more advanced role by coach Marcelo Bielsa, Mendy excelled and was able to storm his way up the left flank in order to cross the ball in for his team-mates. His touch did let him down once or twice, though the pitch’s conditions certainly didn’t help. Stephane Sparagna – 6 – Forceful - The 20-year-old is being gradually added into the first team by Bielsa and if this game is anything to go by, then it’s no surprise why. Sparanga made himself known with some crunching tackles and allowed no room for the attackers to pass him. Mario Lemina – 6 – Grit - Lemina got into his fair share of scraps during the game, but proved to be essential in the Marseille midfield. He was able to win the ball back at a moments notice and distribute it to the wings. Florian Thauvin – 6.5 – Stylish - The French winger was almost untouchable whenever he had the ball at his feet as he darted in between the Juve midfielder and defence. His tidy dribbling and accurate passing proved a threat on a lot more than one occasion. Abdelaziz Barrada – 7 – Dazzling - Another player in attack that displayed great flair and good vision, Barrada like Thauvin dribbled his way around the pitch, though wasn’t afraid to get stuck into a few tackles. Eventually rewarded for his efforts with a nice goal towards the end of the game. Romain Alessandrini – 7.5 – Speed demon - Alessandrini certainly turned on the afterburners for this match as he tore past Patrice Evra on the right hand side. But it wasn’t just his pace that proved a nuisance to the Juve defence as he caused trouble with his fancy passing and whipping shot. Scored a beauty from near the half-way line in the first half as he caught Buffon off his line. Michy Batshuayi – 6.5 – Smart - The Belgian provided a constant danger for the Juventus back-line and was unfortunate not to get on the scoresheet. Substitutes Bouna Sarr – 6.5 – Impressive - The new Marseille signing gave the Velodrome even more to cheer about, as he picked up where Alessandrini left off with his silky skills and blistering pace. Lucas Ocampos – 6 – Useful - Immediately after his introduction the Argentine showed his enthusiasm by storming through on goal with Batshuayi. His neat touches and surprising defensive contribution were all pleasing to the eye. Juventus Gianluigi Buffon – 6 – Shame - Made some great saves throughout the match, beating the ball away from danger. However all his work was let down after wandering off his line for the first goal. Stephan Lichtsteiner – 4 – Reckless - Committed himself to silly challenges which eventually led to his sending of, albeit rather indirectly. Instead of staying quiet and accepting his reckless actions, Lichtsteiner decided to argue with the referee, before heading for an early shower. Leonardo Bonucci – 6 – Decent - Didn’t leave too much room for error in terms of tackling, though on occasions would push too far up field leaving Buffon somewhat exposed. Martin Caceres – 6 – Steady - Comparable to Bonucci, made sensible tackles though would often be caught upfront. Patrice Evra – 5.5 – Recked - Picked apart by Alessandrini like a vulture on a carcass. He performed well in holding up the ball and passing it around, though when it came to keeping up with his man, his age began to show. Claudio Marchisio – 5.5 – Quiet - Poor by his standards, passed the ball around but had little else to had to the game. Sami Khedira – N/A – Injured - Looked comfortable on the ball and even had a weak shot at goal, but his appearance was brought to an end early on with an unfortunate injury. Paul Pogba – 7 – Steamroller - Juventus’ stand out player this match, Pogba was the architect of all their attacks. His superb skill and passing abilities went unrewarded, though he came agonisingly close to equalising with a free-kick. Roberto Pereyra – 6.5 – Swift - Moved well on the ball and linked up smartly with team-mates. Alvaro Morata – 5.5 – Frustrated - Should have buried a chance in the opening moments of the game, but skied his volley. From then on little went the Spaniard’s way. Mario Mandzukic – 6 – Lacking - Faired slightly better than his fellow forward, though was unable to get into the box a lot. A cracking shot at goal in the second half went just wide. Substitutes Stefano Sturaro – 5.5 – Jelly legs - Preferred to spend most of his time on the floor rather than helping his team. Paulo Dybala – 6.5 – Active - Came on in the second half and added the extra desire that Juve had been lacking. Norberto Neto – 5.5 – Steady - Handled the ball well, couldn’t have done much on Barrada’s goal. Kingsley Coman – 5.5 – Unimpressive - Added little to the game. Mauricio Isla – 5 – Disappointing - Juve were crying out for him to get into the action and help, but his introduction proved fruitless. Simone Zaza – N/A Daniele Rugani – N/A

Allegri: Juventus Must Improve Ahead Of Lazio Clash http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/08/allegri-juventus-must-improve-ahead-of-lazio-clash/? Aug 1, 2015 Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri believes his side need to improve in certain areas after yet another pre-season loss. The Serie A 2014/15 champions looked below par during their 2-0 friendly defeat to French side Marseille and despite defending his team’s performance, Allegri believes more work needs to be done ahead of their Supercoppa Italian clash against Lazio. “I’m happy with the reaction of the team during the match,” Allegri said after the game. “We played well in the first 20 minutes and we had a good shape. “However we suffered on the counter attack, which is how we conceded the two goals. “We need to improve the conditions and quality of our game. Though I knew this would be a difficult match as Marseille are much further ahead than us in terms of preparation. “Now we have a whole week in which we need to train, though the workload wont be as heavy as the previous two weeks.” In addition to the loss, Juventus suffered another blow as marquee singing Sami Khedira picked up an unfortunate injury to his leg during the course of the game. “I’m sorry for Khedira, he’s just come back after such a long period of inactivity only to suffer this new injury. “He was doing so well and now we’ve lost an important player for the Supercoppa.”

Marseille 2-0 Juventus: Bianconeri Preparations Take Yet Another Damaging Blow http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/08/marseille-2-0-juventus-bianconeri-preparations-take-yet-another-damaging-blow/? Aug 1, 2015 Juventus were beaten 2-0 by Ligue 1 side Marseille in a friendly at the Stade Velodrome on Saturday afternoon, as the French outfit lifted the Trophee Robert Louis-Dreyfus Smart play from both sides provided numerous opportunities throughout the game, yet it was the home team who capitalised on their chances with a goal either side of the half-time whistle from wingers Romain Alessandrini and Abdelaziz Barrada. Juventus opened the match in fiery style and almost came close to an opener twice within the first five minutes. A stinging pass from Paul Pogba set new signing Mario Mandzukic through on goal, only for the Croatian international to be cruelly denied by the swift Nicolas Nkoulou. Alvaro Morata was gifted a golden chance from the resulting corner after a poor clearance, however he only managed to fire high and wide from five yards out. The Bianconeri continued to press high and dominate proceedings, with the next chance of the game falling to Sami Khedira, however poor finishing spurned yet another opportunity. The French side began to grow in confidence in a period which saw successive shots from outside the box, one of which hammered against the post as Alessandrini tried his luck. Marseille’s first clear cut chance didn’t arrive until ten minutes later however, when Florian Thauvin forced Gianluigi Buffon into a diving save. The first half looked set to end goalless though a moment of magic from Alessandrini saw his side go into the break ahead, as he spotted Buffon off his line and duly chipped the Italian from over 30 yards out. The action was not to end just there however, as Juve full-back Stephan Lichtsteiner was shown an avoidable red card just minutes before the end of the first 45 minutes for dissent. Marseille came close to doubling their lead early on in the second half through a sweetly struck volley by defender Benjamin Mendy, though Buffon came to Juventus’ rescue beating the ball wide. Pogba was then presented with the perfect chance to equalise for Juve with a free-kick inches outside of Steve Mandanda’s box, however the Frenchman’s strike could only hit the outside of the post. The introductions of youngsters Paulo Dybala and Simone Zaza failed to earn the visitors a way back into the game that they so desperately sought after, with Barrada putting the result beyond doubt with a neat volley in the dying minutes. The loss means Juventus have now lost two of their last three friendly matches.

Marseille 2-0 Juventus: Alessandrini and Abdel sink Scudetto holders Stephan Lichtsteiner saw red in the first half as Massimiliano Allegri's 10 men slumped to defeat against Marcelo Bielsa's charges, who looked the better side. http://www.goal.com/en-gb/match/olympique-marseille-vs-juventus/2040250/report Aug 1, 2015 Juventus endured a night to forget in the south of France as the Serie A champions slumped to a 2-0 friendly defeat at the hands of Marseille. A mis-hit cross from Romain Alessandrini and a late volley from Abdel Barrada ultimately proved the difference between the two sides, but Juve also lost Sami Khedira to a hamstring injury and Stephan Lichtsteiner to a senseless red card. Khedira, a close-season signing from Real Madrid, was carried off on a stretcher clutching his hamstring after just 25 minutes and the Germany international looks likely to miss next week's Supercoppa Italiana clash with Lazio in China. The 28-year-old could also be a doubt for the start of the Serie A season at the end of the month, which would be a huge blow for the Turin club as they aim to retain their league title. Moments after Khedira's premature departure, Alessandrini's ball in from the right eluded Gianluigi Buffon to give the hosts the lead and shortly before the break, Lichtsteiner managed to earn himself a straight red for dissent. With the start of the Ligue 1 season just a week away, Marseille looked understandably sharper and fitter than the Italian champions and almost doubled their advantage early in the second half, Benjamin Mendy forcing a fine close-range save from the overworked Buffon. Juventus, in contrast, created precious little in terms of clear-cut chances, although French star Paul Pogba did strike the frame of the goal with a stunning free kick on 68 minutes and received a standing ovation from the home fans when he was substituted moments later. Abdel then sealed the win for the home side shortly before the end with a spectacular volley, much to the delight of the majority of the 60,000-plus crowd in the Stade Velodrome. But if it was a grim night for Juve then it was an ideal final pre-season hit-out for Marcelo Bielsa's men, who will head into next week's Ligue 1 opener against Caen with a real spring in their step.

Juve fall apart in Marseille http://www.football-italia.net/70429/juve-fall-apart-marseille? Aug 1, 2015 Juventus lost 2-0 to Olympique Marseille, but even worse Stephan Lichtsteiner saw red and Sami Khedira was stretchered off. This was the Bianconeri’s final friendly before the Italian Super Cup against Lazio in Shanghai next Saturday. Over 64,000 were in the Stade Velodrome for the fifth edition of the Robert Louis Dreyfus trophy, but Giorgio Chiellini, Andrea Barzagli and Fernando Llorente were out injured. Roberto Pereyra made his summer debut after Copa America duty and replaced Paulo Dybala in the trequartista role. It was a strong start, as Paul Pogba’s through ball saw Mario Mandzukic roll across for Alvaro Morata, his pass cut out by a desperate sliding tackle. From the resulting corner, Pogba’s header was cleared off the line by Romain Alessandrini and Morata blasted over. Khedira should’ve scored after 10 minutes when clear on goal, but prodded a weak effort straight at Steve Mandanda. Florian Thauvin nodded on to the upright, but was offside at the time, and Gigi Buffon was at full stretch to palm away an Alessandrini curler. Bad news for the Bianconeri, as after 25 minutes Khedira suddenly pulled up clutching his hamstring and was stretchered off. It’s his second muscular injury of the summer and he’s highly unlikely to face Lazio next week. Marseille took the lead almost by accident, as Alessandrini misplaced his cross from the right, but the ball looped over a surprised Buffon into the far top corner. Before the break Buffon was alert to palm away a Thauvin deflected chip after sending Lichtsteiner to ground. The tension got to Lichtsteiner, who said something he clearly shouldn’t have to the referee and was shown a straight red card. It’s remarkable to get sent off for dissent in a friendly, but the Swiss international achieved it. After the restart, Buffon was again ready on a smart Benjamin Mendy volley, but being down to 10 men Juve were more focused on defending than going forward. Nicolas Nkoulou nodded over, but Pogba was so unlucky not to equalise on 67 minutes when his free kick bounced off the upright with Mandanda rooted to the spot. Michy Batshuayi surged forward from midfield to drill just wide and Sarr fired over, while Simone Zaza single-handedly almost harassed the Marseille defence into giving away a goal. In the final stages, the French side did double their lead with Abdelaziz Barrada. A poor Mauricio Isla clearance was volleyed into the ground and past Neto into the far bottom corner. Marseille 2-0 Juventus Scorers: Alessandrini 35 (M), Barrada 84 (M) Olympique Marseille: Mandanda; Djadjédjé (Aloe 87), Rekik, Nkoulou, Mendy; Sparagna (Romao 66); Barrada, Lemina; Thauvin (Ocampos 66), Batshuayi (Nkoudou 87), Alessandrini (Sarr 54) Juventus: Buffon (Neto 55); Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Caceres (Zaza 77), Evra (Isla 64); Marchisio, Khedira (Sturaro 26), Pogba (Rugani 69); Pereyra (Padoin 46); Mandzukic (Coman 69), Morata (Dybala 55) Sent off: Lichtsteiner 45 (J)

Sami Khedira leaves Juventus' friendly against Olympique Marseille with hamstring injury http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/8/1/9084543/sami-khedira-injury-juventus-olympique-marseille-serie-a Aug 1, 2015 It looks as though we have another injury to worry about, boys and girls. Juventus midfielder Sami Khedira had to leave Saturday's friendly against Olympique Marseille after just 25 minutes thanks to a hamstring injury he picked up while sprinting back on defense. Khedira, who was signed on a free transfer from Real Madrid this summer, grabbed at his right hamstring moments after stretching out his leg trying to stop a pass from a Marseille player and subsequently falling to the ground in a heap of pain. Khedira was visibly upset as he was loaded onto a stretched and carried off the field. I'd be frustrated, too, if I were him. Or maybe it's more than that. Khedira will certainly undergo tests in the next day or two to evaluate the severity of the injury. Speculating about injuries can drive you absolutely bonkers at times, but by the first impression of how Khedira reacted to it in the minutes after his hamstring went twang, his status for next weekend's Italian Super Cup against Lazio in Beijing is definitely up in the air. And if that's the case, he will join Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini — both of which have picked up thigh injuries in the past week — on the injury list heading into the Supercoppa and the beginning of the 2015-16 Serie A season. Of course, with Arturo Vidal now wearing the all-red Bayern Munich kit, Khedira's importance in the starting lineup is an obvious one. Could this injury open the door for somebody like Stefano Sturaro? That's who came on for him in the first half against Marseille, so it's possible. And if Max Allegri prefers to use Roberto Pereyra as a No. 10 right now, then Sturaro will certainly step into Khedira's place alongside Claudio Marchisio and Paul Pogba in the center of the midfield. But I guess this is all speculation at this point. Once the actual medical tests happen and there's something posted on Juventus' website about it, we just have to sit around and wait. Hopefully Khedira's absence isn't all that much longer than the time it takes to hear about what happened to his hamstring.

Sami Khedira Injury: Updates on Juventus Star's Leg and Return http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2496327-sami-khedira-injury-updates-on-juventus-stars-leg-and-return? Aug 1, 2015 Not long after his summer move from Real Madrid to Juventus, Sami Khedira picked up a leg injury against Olympique Marseille in a pre-season friendly just after halfway through the first half. He was stretchered off holding his hamstring, and Stefano Sturaro was subbed in following the injury, Juventus revealed. "It’s a pity about Khedira's injury." Massimiliano Allegri said, via Juventus. "He was doing well and we’ve lost an important player for the Super Cup." Italian media reports state Khedira will be out a month, ruling him out of the aforementioned Italian Supercup against Lazio and also the beginning of the Serie A season, via FIFA.com. Unfortunately, the player's absence has become a regular occurrence over the years. Khedira is yet to complete an entire season without missing matches through injury, having picked up 20 injuries prior to his latest, as reported by Transfermarkt.com. It's a huge shame, too, because his combination of combativeness, grace on the ball and clever distribution could be huge for Juve's chances of success. Khedira made just three starts and eight substitute appearances in La Liga last season, per WhoScored.com. One year before, he managed 12 starts and one performance from the bench. The 2009-10 season with Stuttgart was the last time Khedira made over 20 starts throughout a domestic campaign. Juve boss Massimiliano Allegri will have known the risks involved when signing the player. Khedira will no doubt be anxious to establish himself in the side. As ever, Khedira will now focus on regaining his fitness and form. It doesn't seem as if he will ever be completely injury free, as when he's gained momentum in the past, further problems have arrived. This stop-start battle with sharpness is what eventually led to him leaving Los Blancos without the fanfare a top-class player deserves.

JUVENTUS - LAZIO - FINAL ITALIAN SUPERCUP Saturday, August 8th, 2015 - 01:00 P.M. Shanghai Stadium, Shanghai Referee:‬ Luca Banti Lazio train in Shanghai http://www.football-italia.net/70422/lazio-train-shanghai? Aug 1, 2015 Lazio are already training in Shanghai ahead of next Saturday’s Italian Super Cup against Juventus. That showdown is on August 8 and the first trophy of the 2015-16 campaign in Italy. The Aquile already flew in last night and were greeted by 100 local fans at the airport. They had their first training session for two hours in Shanghai today. Filip Djordjevic was left to train separately due to a bruised ankle, but Ravel Morrison, Stefan de Vrij and Stefan Radu all worked with the rest of the squad. This suggests they are fully recovered and can start next week against Juve.

Bonucci: 'Juve stronger than setbacks' http://www.football-italia.net/70421/bonucci-juve-stronger-setbacks? Aug 1, 2015 Leonardo Bonucci said Juventus “must be stronger than these setbacks” against Lazio in the Italian Super Cup. The Bianconeri go to Shanghai without first choice defenders Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini due to muscular injuries. “They are certainly a big loss, both on and off the field, but we must be stronger than these unexpected setbacks because we are Juventus and we have to win,” Bonucci told Sky Sport Italia. “We are working hard, putting fuel in the tank to be in the best condition to play Lazio for the Italian Super Cup on August 8. “The new players are settling in very well, we’ve got an experienced figure like Mario Mandzukic who will be useful in major competitions, while the youngsters are embracing the Juventus mentality.” Bonucci was speaking at the Stade Velodrome ahead of today’s friendly against Olympique Marseille.

Line-ups: Marseille-Juventus http://www.football-italia.net/70419/line-ups-marseille-juventus? Aug 1, 2015 Paul Pogba, Sami Khedira, Mario Mandzukic and Alvaro Morata start as Juventus visit Olympique Marseille in a pre-season friendly. This is the Bianconeri’s last test before facing Lazio in the Italian Super Cup in Shanghai next Saturday. It kicks off at the Stade Velodrome at 19.00 CET. Max Allegri is without Fernando Llorente, Kwadwo Asamoah, Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini. The two centre-backs are ruled out for three weeks, so will also miss Lazio. The alternative back four is tested out today with Leonardo Bonucci and Martin Caceres in the middle. It is the first game in the squad for Mauricio Isla and Roberto Pereyra, who were involved in the Copa America and therefore had later vacations. Pereyra is thrown straight into the starting XI as a trequartista behind Mandzukic and Morata. Evidently the Spaniard has been forgiven after Allegri criticised his “bad attitude” when hauling him off 25 minutes into a friendly against Lechia Gdansk. Olympique Marseille: Mandanda; Djadjédjé, Nkoulou, Rekik, Mendy; Sparagna; Barrada, Lemina; Thauvin, Batshuayi, Alessandrini Marseille bench: Pele, Aloe, Romao, Thauvin, Ocampos, Nkoudou Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Caceres, Evra; Marchisio, Khedira, Pogba; Pereyra; Mandzukic, Morata Juventus bench: Neto, Rubinho, Audero, Isla, Zaza, Coman, Padoin, Dybala, Rugani, Sturaro, Vitale, Parodi, Tello, Cerri, Vadala

JUVENTUS - LAZIO - FINAL ITALIAN SUPERCUP Saturday, August 8th, 2015 - 01:00 P.M. Shanghai Stadium, Shanghai Referee:‬ Luca Banti Milinkovic: 'Ready for Lazio-Juve' http://www.football-italia.net/70406/milinkovic-ready-lazio-juve? Aug 1, 2015 Sergej Milinkovic-Savic said Lazio “perhaps paid too much” to Genk for his contract, but he hopes to play Juventus in the Super Cup. The midfielder had been ready to sign for Fiorentina when the move suddenly collapsed at the last moment, but will now join Lazio for €9m plus bonuses. “I am very happy with my transfer to Lazio,” the 20-year-old said to Belgian reporters. “The club spent a lot of money on me, perhaps too much. I wasn’t even considered to be worth that much when I won the Under-20 World Cup with Serbia. “Today I went to the Chinese embassy to get a visa, on Monday I will be in Rome for a medical and to sign the contract, then I’ll leave for Shanghai.” Lazio are already in China ahead of the Italian Super Cup clash with Juventus next Saturday. If all goes well, Milinkovic-Savic could make his Aquile debut in that game.

JUVENTUS - LAZIO - FINAL ITALIAN SUPERCUP Saturday, August 8th, 2015 - 01:00 P.M. Shanghai Stadium, Shanghai Referee:‬ Luca Banti Bonetti: Juventus Can Beat Lazio In Supercoppa Italiana With Weakened Squad http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/08/bonetti-juventus-can-beat-lazio-in-supercoppa-italiana-with-weakened-squad/? Aug 1, 2015 The former Juventus and Dundee midfielder Ivano Bonetti is confident that the Bianconeri can beat Lazio in the Supercoppa Italiana even without the likes of the injured Giorgio Chiellini or Andrea Barzagli. The fixture will be held in Shanghai on August 8 as the league and cup winners Juve take on the Biancocelesti who qualified as Coppa Italia runners-up. “In a one-off game like the Supercoppa against Lazio, Juventus can win without the likes of Chiellini of Barzagli,” said Bonetti to Tuttomercatoweb.com “Above all else, [coach Massimiliano] Allegri’s side is made up of good young players who are motivated and want to demonstrate that they aren’t worth less than the more experienced players.” The former Tranmere Rovers, Genoa and Sampdoria player also spoke about the injuries faced by the Old Lady. “At times these injuries can arrive at the start of the season and be a warning sign but at times these things can happen and not necessarily mean that much,” said Bonetti. The 50-year-old was also asked if he thinks Juve should try to sign Mehdi Benatia from Bayern Munich. “He’s a great defender, absolutely one of the strongest around,” said Bonetti. “I would do everything possible to bring him in. “I would get him without even considering Chiellini’s and Barzagli’s injuries.”

MARSEILLE V JUVENTUS – FRIENDLY MATCH http://www.juvefc.com/marseille-v-juvenus-friendly-match/? Olympique Marseille v Juventus Friendly Match – Saturday, 1st August – 18:00 GMT – Stade Vélodrome Aug 1, 2015 Preview Juventus play their third friendly of the summer against French side Olympique Marseille at the Stade Velodrome. Probable lineup: 4-3-1-2: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Caceres, Evra; Pogba, Khedira, Marchisio; Pereyra; Morata, Mandzukic 4-2-3-1: Mandanda; Djadjedje, Rekik, Nkoulou, Mendy; Lemina, Romao; Alessandrini, Barrada, Thauvin; Batshuayi Juventus squad to face Marseille: Buffon, Isla, Caceres, Pogba, Zaza, Marchisio, Morata, Coman, Mandzukic, Bonucci, Padoin, Dybala, Rugani, Neto, Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Khedira, Evra, Rubinho, Pereyra, Audero, Vitale, Parodi, Tello, Cerri, Vadala.

Juventus name squad for Marseille http://www.football-italia.net/70379/juventus-name-squad-marseille? Jul 31, 2015 Juventus Coach Massimiliano Allegri has named a 26-man squad for the friendly with Marseille, with Roberto Pereyra returning. The Argentinian and Chilean wing-back Mauricio Isla had been given extended leave after their Copa America exertions, but return for tomorrow’s match. Fernando Llorente and Kwadwo Asamoah are still not deemed fit enough to travel to Stade Velodrome, while defenders Giorgio Chiellini and Andrea Barzagli are also injured. Young attacker Kingsley Coman has recovered, however, and will join his teammates for the match in his native France. Juventus squad to face Marseille: Buffon, Isla, Caceres, Pogba, Zaza, Marchisio, Morata, Coman, Mandzukic, Bonucci, Padoin, Dybala, Rugani, Neto, Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Khedira, Evra, Rubinho, Pereyra, Audero, Vitale, Parodi, Tello, Cerri, Vadala.

Juventus Set €12 Million Asking Price For Fernando Llorente http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/07/juventus-set-e12-million-asking-price-for-fernando-llorente/? Jul 31, 2015 Serie A champions Juventus have set an asking price around €12 millions for attacker Fernando Llorente. The former Athletic Bilbao talisman joined the Bianconeri in the summer of 2013 and has since scored 27 goals in 90 appearances in all competitions for the Old Lady. Nevertheless, Tuttosport reports that Juventus have valued the 30-year-old striker between 10 to 12 million euros, but have acknowledged the likelihood that a bid anywhere in between 7 and 8 millions euros could be enough to see the Spanish international depart the Turin club. This latest news comes as Corriere dello Sport reports that Llorente’s agent travelled to London to discuss a potential €12 million move to Arsenal. The North London outfit are reportedly in the market for a new forward, although the 30-year-old striker is said to prefer to move to Real Madrid, with coach Rafael Benitez said to be in the striker. With Llorente’s future at Juventus uncertain, Sevilla, Manchester United and Stoke City are also reportedly vying for the striker’s signature.

Marseille vs. Juventus: Team News & Preview http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2532065-marseille-vs-juventus-team-news-preview-live-stream-tv-info? Jul 31, 2015 Juventus make their third short trip of the summer to Marseille on Saturday, taking on the Provence-based club as they relaunch the Robert Louis-Dreyfus Trophy in honour of their former owner, who died in July 2009. The pre-season contest has been absent from the calendar since the first edition in 2010 due to renovations at the Stade Velodrome ahead of Euro 2016. However, the game will provide a tough test for Massimiliano Allegri’s men given the disparity in how far along each team is in their preparations for the forthcoming campaign. Given that the French league season gets underway just seven days after this meeting, Marcelo Bielsa’s men will be much closer to full fitness than Juventus, who will still be three weeks away from the start of Serie A. With the Bianconeri also set to face Lazio in the Italian Super Cup a week after facing Marseille, the players could be forgiven for having their eyes on the prospect of silverware in China rather than the south of France. Form Guide ES Sahel 1-5 Marseille (Friendly) Fenerbahce 3-1 Marseille (Friendly) Antalyaspor 2-5 Marseille (Friendly) Marseille 1-2 AS Livorno (Friendly) Borussia Dortmund 2-0 Juventus (Friendly) Lechia Gdansk 1-2 Juventus (Friendly) Predicted Formations Marseille (4-3-3): Steve Mandanda; Brice Dja Djadje, Nicolas Nkoulou, Karim Rekik, Benjamin Mendy; Alaixys Romao, Mario Lemina, Bouna Sarr; Florian Thauvin, Romain Alessandrini, Michy Batshuayi Juventus (3-5-2): Gigi Buffon; Daniele Rugani, Leonardo Bonucci, Martin Caceres; Stephan Lichtsteiner, Claudio Marchisio, Sami Khedira, Paul Pogba Patrice Evra; Paulo Dybala, Mario Mandzukic Player to Watch With Arturo Vidal and Andrea Pirlo no longer around, 2015/16 could prove to be a pivotal season for Juve’s Paul Pogba. The club’s remaining midfielders—including the likes of Sami Khedira and Claudio Marchisio—are undoubtedly of high quality, but arguably lack the magic of the two men who have moved on. Pogba most certainly has that magic, and Allegri is likely to hand the 22-year-old much more on-field responsibility this season. The player has proved he is capable of delivering at the highest level, but he will now be called upon to do so on a more consistent basis and raise the quality of his performances once again. There is no better place to start than in his native France, this pre-season match providing an early return home to the country that will host next summer’s European Championships. That is a tournament in which Pogba will hope to shine, and the Paris-born star would likely enjoy giving the Stade Velodrome crowd a taste of what he can do. Key Battle While Juventus will expect much from their new-look midfield, it is in attack where the biggest question marks hang over this team. With the loss of Carlos Tevez—who scored an incredible 50 goals in 96 games for the Bianconeri—Allegri will be fully aware of his side’s need to begin finding the back of the net as quickly as possible. Mario Mandzukic will be vital in achieving that aim, with the Croatian striker looking to find a home in Italy following two quick transfers in succession. Leaving Bayern Munich for Atletico Madrid just 12 months before his move to Juventus, it is important things click for the 29-year-old in Turin. Mandzukic has hit the 20-goal mark in each of the previous three seasons, and he will hope to do so again, making these friendly fixtures important to him. Nicolas Nkoulou will be looking to stop him on Saturday—the Cameroon international defender is becoming increasingly important figure for the Ligue 1 side.

'Fifth Scudetto down to Juve' http://www.football-italia.net/70348/fifth-scudetto-down-juve? Jul 31, 2015 Paul Pogba says winning a fifth consecutive Scudetto is 'only down to Juventus', and swats down rumours of a transfer. The 22-year-old seemed unimpressed by the strengthening of squads like those of Milan and Inter, and he told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport that the Bianconeri's will would make or break their victory. “If we want to, we can win the fifth consecutive title,” he said. “Because we know how things work here at Juventus. “It's only down to us. The Champions League final belongs to the past now, it's got nothing to do with the season that's about to begin. “Coach Max Allegri is right in saying that we have to wipe a clean slate, but if we've been able to win four Scudetti in a row it means we've been used to thinking that way for a long time. “The other top Italian teams have been used to seeing Juventus ahead of everyone else for so long, it makes sense that sooner or later they'll hunger to get back to victory. “They'll have a greater fighting spirit, and for this very reason we have to be more focused and do more.” Finally, the Frenchman was asked whether he would leave Juventus as well. “Vidal did well in going to Bayern, but I'm here and I don't think about the transfer market, only about the pitch. “It's the only thing that matters for me. Am I staying at 100%? You see me, here I am.”

Pogba: 'I'm the new Vidal' http://www.football-italia.net/70347/pogba-im-new-vidal? Jul 31, 2015 Paul Pogba says he can cover Arturo Vidal's former role at Juventus: 'I must show how I've developed'. The sale of Vidal to Bayern Munich, coupled with the departure of Andrea Pirlo to New York City FC, left Juventus shorn of two great midfielders. “We lost some important players,” the Frenchman admitted to La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. “But others have arrived who have great experience. “Besides, we are Juventus and we must always do well.” Pogba was asked whether he fancied himself a trequartista, an offensive playmaker like Arturo Vidal was. “I'm available to do what the Coach asks me, for the good of the team. “I find myself at ease even when playing behind the two strikers, but we'll see what happens over the season. “Can I score as much as Vidal? Why not? I can do that. I hope so for everyone, for myself and for Juventus. “I learnt a lot from Vidal and from Pirlo, they are great players. “Now I must put into practice what they taught me and show how I've developed. “Carlos Tevez also left, but we found other pivotal players. “The team was not revolutionized and we had Khedira and Mandzukic coming in, who are fundamental. “When you change there are always some differences, but we are Juventus and we have a duty to do well.

Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini out 20 days, will miss Italian Super Cup vs. Lazio http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/7/30/9075715/juventus-giorgio-chiellini-injury-italian-super-cup-2015 Jul 30, 2015 While we've seen Juventus' midfield and attack take on a much different look than the season prior, the same can't be said about the best defense in Serie A. Outside of a few minor departures and one of Italy's most talented prospects coming back to base, the names are essentially the same. Except those names are now being hampered by injuries. Aren't these kinds of posts just wonderful? (Don't answer that.) Giorgio Chiellini will miss the next three weeks — and the Italian Super Cup to boot — after suffering a thigh injury early in the first half of Juventus' 2-1 friendly victory over Lechia Gdansk. I'd tell you more about the diagnosis, but I'm not a doctor, so let's just read the official word. From juventus.com: After a morning of gym work and physical exercises on Vinovo's training pitches, Massimiliano Allegri's men followed their usual routine of shifting to a tactical workout with the ball in the afternoon. One player unable to take part in training today was Giorgio Chiellini. After leaving the pitch early in the first half of Wednesday evening's 2-1 victory against Lechia Gdansk, the defender underwent medical examinations which revealed a first grade tear of the rectus femoris in his right thigh. Chiellini is expected to return to competitive action in approximately 20 days, thus ruling him out of the Super Cup in Shanghai on Saturday 8 August. Well, that's just grand. First Andrea Barzagli is ruled out for three weeks, now Chiellini has to deal with the same kind of injury timetable. So, let's just go ahead and try to recap everything here: Juventus sees one of its starting center backs in Chiellini suffer an injury in the second preseason friendly of the summer. But, before that, the man who would have almost certainly replaced Chiellini in the starting lineup over the course of that absence, Barzagli, suffer the same kind of injury in Juve's first friendly a few days earlier. We wanted to see Daniele Rugani, and we're going to now. Just about two weeks into preseason training and Juventus are down to three center backs. We know Leonardo Bonucci and his new contract will start if he's healthy, but the same can't be said for his other two Italian internationals. That 3-5-2 Allegri rolled out on Wednesday, that might not be an option for the time being. It's just Rugani and Martin Cáceres in terms of players who are available in the center of defense for the next three weeks. That's ... not how I envisioned things going as the 2015-16 opened up. Not by a long shot. Maybe we should just put Bonucci, Rugani and Cáceres in some bubble wrap for the time being. That could be a somewhat logical option based on how things are going injury-wise this week. Stupid, stupid injuries.

Chiellini ruled out of Supercoppa The Italy international will be sidelined for 20 days with a thigh problem suffered in Wednesday's pre-season meeting with Lechia Gdansk. http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/3276/serie-a/2015/07/30/14027022/-? Jul 30, 2015 Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini has been ruled out of the Supercoppa Italiana clash with Lazio on August 8 through injury. The Italy international, who missed the Champions League final in May with a calf problem, hobbled off just eight minutes into the Bianconeri's friendly win over Lechia Gdansk on Wednesday. Juve have now confirmed that the versatile centre-half will miss the trip to Shanghai and faces a race against time to be match fit for the Old Lady's Serie A opener against Udinese on August 23. "Giorgio Chiellini did not take part in training [on Thursday], having left the field during the game against Legia after just a few minutes of play," read a statement on the Italian champions' official website. "The exams that he underwent today have shown a grade one lesion on the rectus femoris on his right thigh. "The defender is expected to be out for around 20 days." Chiellini's absence represents a selection headache for Juve boss Massimiliano Allegri, given centre-half Andrea Barzagli will also miss the Supercoppa with a thigh problem.

Chiellini out for three weeks http://www.football-italia.net/70318/chiellini-out-three-weeks? Jul 30, 2015 As feared, Giorgio Chiellini is also out of the Italian Super Cup between Juventus and Lazio due to injury. The defender limped off during the opening stages of their 2-1 friendly win over Lechia Gdansk on Wednesday. Today tests confirmed a first degree lesion to his right thigh. Juve medical staff estimate he will be out of action for around 20 days. That means Chiellini misses the Italian Super Cup against Lazio in Shanghai on August 8. Andrea Barzagli has already been ruled out for three weeks with a muscular problem.

Juve blame Torino for ban http://www.football-italia.net/70315/juve-blame-torino-ban? Jul 30, 2015 Juventus announced they will appeal a partial stadium ban, as they shouldn’t pay for the “failings and inefficiencies” of Torino. The club was today ordered to close the Curva Sud for their season opener against Udinese. This is a reduction of the original two-match closure after a firework was thrown into a sector of Torino fans during the derby on April 26. Juventus hit back with a statement and promised a new appeal to the CONI (Italian Olympic Committee). “Juventus Football Club is greatly perplexed by the decision reached by the FIGC’s Court of Appeal today. “When the perpetrator of the crime was identified and arrested, we were able to demonstrate that the perpetrator was inside the Stadio Olimpico in Turin for an event organised by another club, was not in possession of a ticket and did not appear on the list of Juventus fans present in the visiting supporters section “He was already subject to a ban on attending sporting events (Daspo) and is not a Juventus season ticket holder. “It is thus unclear how the club can be held responsible, even objectively, for the perpetrator’s actions. Juventus and its fans must not be made to pay for the failings and inefficiencies of others. “Juventus Football Club will make recourse to the Italian National Olympic Committee’s Collegio di Garanzia dello Sport (Board of Arbitration for Sport) to contest today’s decision.”

Juventus curva closed for Udinese http://www.football-italia.net/70312/juventus-curva-closed-udinese? Jul 30, 2015 The Curva Sud at Juventus Stadium will be closed for the curtain-raiser against Udinese, but the ban has been reduced. The Bianconeri were handed a two-match closure of the area behind the goal after violence in the derby with Torino on April 26 last season. The appeals court has partially accepted the appeal, reducing the ban to one game, as well as lowering the fine levied on the Old Lady from €50,000 to €30,000. However, the Turin giants will still be without fans for the first match of the new season, though they may look to allow local children to sit in the stand, as has happened after previous closures.

Roma-Juventus moved http://www.football-italia.net/70311/roma-juventus-moved? Jul 30, 2015 The Week 2 clash between Roma and Juventus will be played at 18.00 CET on Sunday August 30, the Lega Serie A has announced. The match is an early-season battle between two sides expected to compete for the Scudetto, and will now be played at 6pm local time at Stadio Olimpico. In addition, the Giallorossi’s Week 1 trip to face Verona will now be on Saturday August 22 at 18.00, with city rivals Lazio playing at 20.45 the same day due to Champions League commitments. Carpi’s Serie A debut will now be a Monday, as their trip to Sampdoria has been pushed back, assuming the Blucerchiati progress in the Europa League. Juventus-Udinese has also been moved, and will now take place on August 23 at 18.00. Bologna-Sassuolo will take the Saturday evening slot in Week 2, with Milan-Empoli the same day at 20.45. Serie A fixture changes: Week 1 Saturday August 22 Verona-Roma [18.00] Lazio-Bologna [20.45] Sunday August 23 Juventus-Udinese [18.00] Monday August 24 Sampdoria-Carpi [20.45] Week 2 Saturday August 29 Bologna-Sassuolo [18.00] Milan-Empoli [20.45] Sunday August 30 Roma-Juventus [18.00]