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Buffon can pip Messi to the Ballon d'Or, says Cruyff The Dutchman has acknowledged the forward's displays towards the end of the campaign but feels the Italian has been more consistent. Jun 9, 2015 Juventus' Gianluigi Buffon is more deserving of the Ballon d'Or than Lionel Messi, according to Johan Cruyff. Cruyff, himself a three-time winner of the prize, believes the Italian has had a more consistent year, despite losing to Messi's Barcelona in the Champions League final. "Messi is playing very well, but what counts when it comes to winning the Ballon d'Or is the whole year and Buffon is definitely a possibility for the prize in 2015," the 68-year-old shared to Tuttosport. "He's been a great goalkeeper for years now. But Juventus have so many great players. I'm also thinking of Pirlo, Vidal, Pogba and Morata. I especially appreciate the organisation the club boasts. "Replacing Pirlo will be hard, because his game is so unique. They'll need to find someone entirely similar. Toni Kroos has excelled in that position, but he belongs to Real Madrid. "If they can't find a direct replacement, they'll have to evolve their style. The important thing is not to look back." Still, Cruyff believes the Bianconeri have the strength in depth to start over once their iconic midfielder leaves and fully expects them to replicate their European feats of last season sooner rather than later. "Juventus played as they should have [in Saturday's 3-1 final defeat to Barcelona] with personality and organisation, and managed a goal, though Barcelona are also very strong and showed it again. "Juventus will have more chances to win it again. They got to the final this year, after several years of playing good football. It's something that is positive for all of Italian football."

Llorente Linked With La Liga Return Jun 8, 2015 Sevilla are interested in taking Juventus striker Fernando Llorente back to La Liga this summer. The Spaniard, who formerly played in La Liga with Athletic Bilbao, is facing increased competition for places at the Bianconeri after Juventus announced the signing of Paolo Dybala from Palermo. According to Tuttosport, the Andalusians will tempt Juventus with a bid of around €8 million for the forward, a sum that would result in a healthy profit for the Old Lady as Llorente arrived in Turin as a free-transfer. Sevilla finished fifth in La Liga, but can provide Llorente with Champions League football courtesy of qualifying for the group stages of next season’s competition due to their second successive Europa League title. Llorente scored nine goals in 45 appearances as Juventus won both Serie A and the Coppa Italia, before narrowly losing out on a historic treble to Barcelona in the Champions League final.

Boca: ‘Tevez, it’s up to you’ Jun 8, 2015 Boca Juniors President Daniel Angelici says a return for Juventus striker Carlos Tevez ‘depends on his own will’. The 31-year-old has made no secret of the fact he would like to end his career with the club he supported as a child, with speculation he could return this summer. “The return of Tevez from Juventus depends entirely on his own will,” Boca’s official Twitter account quotes Angelici as saying. “The doors of the club are open. It would be a dream, but we’ll have to see if it’s one that can be realised. “It depends more on the player than the club.”

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA 1 - 3 Ivan Rakitić (4') Álvaro Morata (55') Luis Suárez (68') Neymar (95') FINAL Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M. Olympiastadion, Berlin Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey) Del Piero: ‘Sorry for Pirlo, Buffon’ Jun 7, 2015 Former Juventus striker Alessandro Del Piero feels sorry for Gianluigi Buffon and Andrea Pirlo after their Champions League final defeat. Del Piero was part of the last Bianconeri side to triumph in the competition in 1996 and believes the two Italian veterans proved their worth in the competition. “Pirlo’s tears were heartbreaking,” he said at the Golf Cup charity event in Fiano Torinese. “Him and Buffon have won so much, most significantly the World Cup in Berlin, and I was sorry for their defeat but they have proved they are champions on and off the pitch. “Being able to take part in the final is something beautiful, to go and play there is the best.”

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA 1 - 3 Ivan Rakitić (4') Álvaro Morata (55') Luis Suárez (68') Neymar (95') FINAL Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M. Olympiastadion, Berlin Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey) Cruyff: Messi saved Barcelona against Juventus The Dutch legend argued the Argentine had been instrumental in the Champions League final despite not scoring or setting up any goals. Jun 7, 2015 Johan Cryuff believes Barcelona could not have beaten Juventus 3-1 in the Champions League final without their talisman Lionel Messi showing off the selfless aspects of his game. Messi was expected to show up decisively in the Berlin final but failed to score, while Ivan Rakitic, Luis Suarez and Neymar all found the net as Juventus even managed to shut the Argentine down for long spells of the game. But Cruyff argued it was the other side of the four time Ballon d'Or winner that the world witnessed on Saturday, with his work and sacrifice for the team being fundamental to the Catalans' eventual success. "It was a fun Champions League final to watch, also because Barcelona and Juventus both played as we all expected," the Dutchman, who won the European Cup with Barca as coach, wrote in De Telegraaf. "With his style of play, Messi relieved his team. Against Juventus, you could see how he works at Barcelona. "You didn't see him participate in a lot of moves, but just check how often he put pressure on his direct opponent and won back ball posession. How many free-kicks did he win?"

'Champions League final marks new Juventus era of success' - Agnelli The club chief congratulated Massimiliano Allegri's men on their surprise run to Berlin but insists that there is even more to come from the Old Lady. Jun 8, 2015 Juventus president Andrea Agnelli believes the club's appearance in the Champions League final to be a sign of greater things to come. The Bianconeri had been on the cusp of completing a superb treble last season, winning their fourth consecutive Scudetto along with the club's 10th Coppa Italia while beating Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid on the road to Berlin. Consequently, even though Juve were beaten 3-1 by Barcelona in the Champions League final, Agnelli believes that the Old Lady is now back where she belongs, mixing it with the game's elite. “Looking back at Juve’s history in Europe, I think we’ve returned to the level where we all want to be," the 39-year-old told assembled reporters at a press conference. "My aim is to ensure that the team continues to grow and remains competitive. I'd like to thank [coach] Massimiliano Allegri for the way he's come in and taken over at the helm in a historic period for Juve. "The Champions League Final is our starting point for the future. After the matches against Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid, we were able to play an open game against Barcelona. "We certainly leave with some mixed feelings about the match in Berlin. We put in a fantastic performance and it bodes well for the future. “But it’s obvious that when you play in the final of the Champions League you play to win it, like with any match that Juventus plays." The Italian champions have already been busy reinforcing for the next campaign, signing Paulo Dybala for €40 million and just missing official confirmation of Sami Khedira's free transfer to Turin.

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA 1 - 3 Ivan Rakitić (4') Álvaro Morata (55') Luis Suárez (68') Neymar (95') FINAL Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M. Olympiastadion, Berlin Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey) Buffon: Juventus Kept Dignity Despite Barcelona Defeat Jun 7, 2015 Juventus captain Gianluigi Buffon insists that his side maintained their dignity despite the 3-1 defeat to Barcelona in the Champions League final. The Bianconeri became the first team to finish as runners-up for a record sixth time in the history of the competition, but the goalkeeper believes they were playing against the best team in the world. “It was not a bad night,” the 37-year-old told reporters following his arrival in Florence to join the Italy national team training camp at Coverciano. “I think there were many positive things, not least that we have not lost any dignity and that we played a great match against the strongest team in the world. “There are no regrets because we played as well as possible, but were against a phenomenal team from one to 11.” Buffon also admitted that he was unsure about the future of teammate Andrea Pirlo after the midfielder was in tears at the final whistle in Berlin. “I have talked about all sorts of things with Pirlo, but not his future,” he continued. “His tears were those of a man that was sorry about losing a major final.”

Pirlo: 'Not tears of goodbye' Jun 7, 2015 Andrea Pirlo assured his tears after the Champions League Final were not “a goodbye to Juventus.” There have been numerous reports that his visible upset at the 3-1 defeat to Barcelona were a sign of his imminent departure towards New York and the MLS. “Were my tears a goodbye to Juventus? No, they were for the defeat,” Pirlo told Sky Sport Italia. “It is the kind of opportunity that I will rarely get again.”

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA 1 - 3 Ivan Rakitić (4') Álvaro Morata (55') Luis Suárez (68') Neymar (95') FINAL Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M. Olympiastadion, Berlin Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey) Juventus leave fans feeling proud with spirited performance in final Jun 7, 2015 #ProudofJu was the hashtag circled by Juventus and their fans, for so few supporters can be as grateful as those supporting the Old Lady. A beautiful season, two glorious trophies and a tremendous performance in the Champions League final that at times terrified Europe's best club, Barcelona, Juve deserve the plaudits and the gratitude of their many fans. Achieving so many of their objectives, with style and honour, Juventus and their squad spirit accomplished great feats this season. It is indeed another European final lost, but considering the objective was to simply reach the quarterfinals of this competition, head coach Massimiliano Allegri and his men can be proud of their performances, their audacious belief and the fight that existed within the many individuals in the squad that made this team a beautiful unit. Juve fans thought it was written in the stars: A club that hails from a superstitious country, there was something about the year and the location of the stadium. It's been 30 years since the Heysel Stadium disaster while three of the men on the pitch in last night's match were there in 2006, celebrating Italy's World Cup triumph. This was Juve's time, their year and their chance for true resurrection. Alas, when faced with a side with such unbelievable quality, perhaps it was unfair to expect so much. Yet the feeling is that Juventus were capable of an even better performance. Arturo Vidal has been immense in so many European nights this season, yet it was his mistake that allowed Ivan Rakitic to score the opening goal in the first four minutes. Rather than drop their heads, the Bianconeri worked hard to regain their shape and began to play as they know how, using their physicality in midfield and disturbing Barca's fluidity in midfield. With the Catalans' beautiful frontline kept at bay, Alvaro Morata and company worked on producing several shots on goal to demonstrate the ambitions of this team. Spitting in the face of every cliche ever noted on Italian clubs, this wasn't a Juventus side content with merely parking the bus, but one that chased the goal. Without goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon pulling off the miraculous saves that only he can make despite his age, the Old Lady believed, as did their super midfielder Claudio Marchisio, who produced an excellent chance for goal just before halftime. Playing with less fear in the second half, Juventus looked for the goal without losing their defensive discipline and it finally came when Marchisio again initiated a beautiful move that involved a back heel flick to send Stephan Lichtsteiner on his way. With Carlos Tevez shooting, it was Morata and his speedy reaction who got the equaliser that gifted his teammates hope. It was then and exactly then that we saw how tremendous the Bianconeri style of play really is when they believe and play to expectations. Fluid, accurate and cohesive, it was their turn to overwhelm the opponent, winning back possession with vigour to relentlessly launch another offensive movement that intimidated the opponent. Some marvellous attacking patterns accomplished, Juventus wasted several chances before their eagerness to win the match cost them defensively, allowing Luis Suarez to grab the Blaugrana's second via a counterattack. The Bianconeri may be a complete and well-balanced team but they are simply not as complete as the opponent. This Barcelona side isn't one that simply maintains possessions and attempts to score, but one that can score via a set piece, a counterattack, from a header, from long shots -- whatever it takes. To summarise, this is a squad that has combined technical ability with cynical intensity, perfecting every route to goal. At times, the limitations of a team must be accepted and despite a well-executed game plan and excellent moments, Juventus simply didn't have enough to stop the wealth of talent that exists within the Barca set up. Talented and loaded with experience, the Catalans knew how to exploit Juve's mistakes and took advantage of their opponent's offensive determination to score at a time they looked most vulnerable. That is the symbol of a true champion. In time, Juventus will learn and better perfect their performances in these big matches, but there is simply no room for criticism here. They made life difficult for Barcelona and demonstrated what worthy challengers they were and exactly why they had reached the final. Andrea Pirlo's tears can never be forgotten for he really believed in the win, while it's also difficult to swallow the disappointed face of the great Buffon. These are champions that always deserve to be rejoicing yet while Pirlo didn't have the impact he would have liked, others have shown how far they have developed and how much further this Juve can grow if it continues to invest as wisely. It's not simply a question of buying the best but of picking individual characters that create the great harmony that has led to so many trophies. Men well-versed in the spirit of sacrifice, Juventus have grown and shown themselves to be a side worthy of prestige and capable of the highest honours when working together and trusting in their own ability. For that fans must thank the management and the great Allegri. Alongside the warriors on the pitch, this club have resurrected what was once perceived as a fallen giant, taking them from Serie B to Berlin by staying true to their philosophy and their intelligent business sense. A name synonymous with success, the Old Lady is back and she's here to stay. #ProudofJu

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA 1 - 3 Ivan Rakitić (4') Álvaro Morata (55') Luis Suárez (68') Neymar (95') FINAL Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M. Olympiastadion, Berlin Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey) Maldini: 'No Juve regrets' Jun 7, 2015 Paolo Maldini believes Juventus “should have no regrets” about their Champions League Final with Barcelona. The Bianconeri were beaten 3-1 in Berlin, though the final result was harsh. “Juventus should have no regrets and really could not have done more,” Maldini told Sky Sport Italia. “They put in a great performance. There was suffering at the stat, mainly due to the experience and quality of the Barcelona players, but Juve proved themselves to be a real team. “They were able to get the game back on track, but when you have that much quality against you, it only takes a moment for the breakthrough. “Leo Messi is the best player in the world and the only one who could come close to Diego Armando Maradona for all he’s done over the years. From what I’ve seen, he has perhaps overcome Maradona. “Neymar and Luis Suarez are phenomenal and their statistics speak for themselves. Barcelona have already made history and with this squad are destined to shatter every record.” At the final whistle it was veteran Andrea Pirlo – Maldini’s former Milan teammate – who seemed the most upset. “It was a shame, but he probably realised this was his last chance to win the Champions League again. He is a great champion and from today a new adventure begins.” Pirlo is expected to leave Juventus and end his career in New York with the MLS.

Bartomeu: Barcelona want Pogba The club are banned from signing players until 2016, but have admitted their interest in the Juventus midfielder. Jun 7, 2015 Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu has revealed the club want to sign Juventus star Paul Pogba. The Catalans are currently banned from signing players until 2016 after breaking rules regarding the acquisition of youth players. However, that hasn't stopped them from pressing forward with recruitment plans ahead of next year, with Pogba top of their list. Bartomeu told Telefoot: "It is true that Pogba is a leading target of ours and obviously we are interested, but I can't say anything more. We are forbidden to recruit players until January, so I can't talk about it." Pogba was on the losing side in Saturday night's Champions League final as Barcelona triumphed 3-1 over Juve in Berlin. But in light of reports claiming that could well have been his last game for the Bianconeri, Juve CEO Giuseppe Marotta insisted he would remain at the club. "Juventus wants to win the Champions League next season and Pogba is an important player. He will be here next season for sure, 100 per cent. Pogba, meanwhile, offered little response to the rumours in the aftermath of the game, adding: "I don't even think about anything else while I'm at Juve. It's nice to be asked but I'm not going to stop working for my club."

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA 1 - 3 Ivan Rakitić (4') Álvaro Morata (55') Luis Suárez (68') Neymar (95') FINAL Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M. Olympiastadion, Berlin Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey) Juve so close to greatness Juventus were defeated in the Champions League final, but Gaby McKay feels that shouldn’t detract from a fantastic season. Jun 7, 2015 “Battling is the culture of this team, the club and our history,” Juventus goalkeeper Gigi Buffon said earlier this season. “It’s part of our DNA.” In the end, Juventus went down swinging. Many had expected the Italian champions to call on the spirit of catenaccio and seek to frustrate Barcelona, but two of the Blaugrana’s three goals came on the break. Ultimately Juve found the Catalan side a bridge too far, their iron will eventually cowed by a team which just had too much. However, as Buffon predicted in the build-up, the Old Lady were “not lambs to the slaughter.” When Ivan Rakitic opened the scoring after just four minutes, it was clear Juventus were rattled. The following 15 minutes saw wave after wave of Barça attacks, with Buffon pulling off an extraordinary save from Dani Alves. If he is to end his career without winning the Champions League, it will not be for lack of trying. Slowly but surely, the Bianconeri began to take a foothold in the game. Buffon was again at his brilliant best to deny Luis Suarez, before Alvaro Morata put his side in dreamland. A lovely backheel from Claudio Marchisio released Stephan Lichtsteiner down the right, who kept his head to find Carlos Tevez in the box. The Argentine’s shot was parried by Marc-Andre ter Stegen, but Morata was on hand to tap the rebound into the gaping goal. Suddenly, the pendulum had swung. Where previously Barcelona had knocked the ball about with ease, now touches were heavy, passes too strong. Morata headed over the Blaugrana bar, Tevez sent a curling effort over and Paul Pogba tested Ter Stegen from the edge of the box. Just when it seemed they were in the greatest danger, Barça played their trump card in the shape of Lionel Messi. The Argentine dribbled toward Buffon’s goal, the ball glued to his feet. A quick shot was well stopped by the ‘keeper, but no-one was on hand to stop Suarez making it 2-1. A sucker punch. In the game’s most crucial spell, the Italian champions were undone by the sheer quality of their opponents’ front-three. Still Max Allegri’s men did not surrender, though in truth they were largely restricted to half-chances. A final Hail Mary ball forward in extra time saw the ball break to substitute Pedro, who slipped it to Neymar, and the Brazilian sealed the result. “The only thing we were missing was to go 2-1 up when we had the upper hand.”Allegri reflected after the match. In the crucial phase, his side had been undone by a better team. There is no disgrace in that. No-one in a black and white shirt could be accused of failing to give their best, in the end Juventus’ best was just not quite enough. The hard work, quality and sheer will-to-win which had taken them to Berlin was in evidence again, but it wasn’t sufficient to get the better of an extraordinary Barça side. The defeat sees Juve’s season end on a flat note. Andrea Pirlo may never pull on the famous stripes again. Buffon may be destined to end his career without lifting that famous trophy. But one game should not detract from the team’s achievements this year. A silver star will adorn the Turin giants’ shirts next season, having secured their 10th Coppa Italia. Serie A was comfortably under lock and key for a fourth consecutive year. The work now begins for a fifth. The final stick used to beat Juventus and Italian football was rendered useless this term, as Allegri’s side strode confidently into the Champions League Final. In the end they came up short, but this is not the end of the road, merely another step along it. Eight seasons after battling with the likes of Rimini in Serie B, the resurrection is complete. Juve have shown they can compete with Europe’s top sides again, even if the continent’s best team and the world’s best player ultimately proved too much. Bianconeri legend Giampiero Boniperti once declared “winning is not important, it’s the only thing that matters,” an ideology the club carries with it to this day. However, as the sting of defeat fades, the Old Lady can reflect on a fantastic season. Their fans certainly did, flocking to the airport at 3am to welcome the squad home like heroes. The most important victory is always the next one, and though club football’s top prize ultimately eluded them, Juventus will dust themselves down, and try again next year. It’s in their DNA.

Buffon: 'Juve, three more years' Jun 7, 2015 Gianluigi Buffon believes Juventus tried their best and wants 'another three years' with them. The veteran goalkeeper was unable to repeat the Berlin victory at the World Cup in 2006 as the Bianconeri lost the Champions League final to Barcelona 3-1. “There was a moment in which I allowed myself to believe in the epic feat,” he admitted to Tuttosport. “We couldn't finish it off because certain qualities emerged, not because we didn't try hard enough. But we proved that we're quite comfortable at these levels. “It's a shame, but I know how to handle the moments of happiness and disappointment that sports will give you. “We started out as the underdogs, but we shouldn't have any regrets over this final.” The 37-year-old was also asked about his future, as some of Juve's icons look like they could leave the club this summer. “I want to keep myself at these levels for at least three more years. “Then I'll draw the blinds. I hope I'll have fulfilled at least one more dream by then.”

Juventus will spend big this summer - Marotta The club are already preparing for another assault on Europe next season following Saturday's Champions League final defeat. Jun 7, 2015 Beppe Marotta says Juventus will spend "whatever it takes" to launch another assault on the Champions League next season following Saturday's 3-1 defeat to Barcelona. The club struggled in Europe under Antonio Conte but have re-emerged as a force in the competition under Massimiliano Allegri this term, while winning Serie A and the Coppa Italia. Juve have already completed the €32 million signing of Palermo forward Paulo Dybala and Marotta revealed more signings could well be on the way. "It's a great satisfaction to have come this far, but the defeat won't stop us," said Juve's CEO. "We are ready to do whatever it takes to improve a team that's already important." Ivan Rakitic put Barcelona 1-0 up early on in Berlin before Alvaro Morata's second half equaliser, but goals from Luis Suarez and Neymar saw the Catalans win the treble and extinguish Juve's hopes of achieving the same feat. However, the Bianconeri had a strong case for a second half penalty after Paul Pogba went to ground following a tussle with Dani Alves, only for the referee to wave play on, and Marotta admits he felt his side were hard done to. "Everyone saw where we started from. This season is extraordinary regardless of the result. And it was a shame because Pogba should have had a penalty - but we won't make excuses." Defeat also means it is now 19 years since the Bianconeri last won the competition in 1996, having also tasted defeat in the 2003 final at the hands of AC Milan.

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA 1 - 3 Ivan Rakitić (4') Álvaro Morata (55') Luis Suárez (68') Neymar (95') FINAL Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M. Olympiastadion, Berlin Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey) 'Pogba very poor but Messi an artist' - Bryant, Romario and the world reacts to Barcelona's triumph Goal rounds up the best social media snippets as footballers past and present (and even a few celebrities who haven't played the game) passed verdict on Juventus vs Barcelona. Jun 7, 2015 The European football season came to a gripping end as Barcelona triumphed 3-1 over Juventus in Saturday's Champions League final. Typically one of the most-watched events of the entire sporting calendar, the highly-anticipated clash in Berlin was no different as a host of famous faces passed verdict on social media channels as the match played out at the Olympiastadion. Recently retired former Manchester United centre-back Rio Ferdinand was convinced that Ivan Rakitic's goal four minutes in had wrapped up the European trophy for Luis Enrique's men. Rio Ferdinand ✔@rioferdy5 #uclfinal game over One of the biggest talking points of the first half was Arturo Vidal's rash tackling and ex-Germany international Arne Friedrich was among those who suspected a red card was in store for the midfielder unless he tweaked his attitude. Arne Friedrich ✔@arnefriedrich What did #Vidal eat before the game. Raw meat? Would be impressed if he can finish the game. Although Gianluigi Buffon drew some criticism for his basic parry into the path of Luis Suarez to score Barcelona's second goal, the Juve goalkeeper was excellent between the sticks until that point. After Alvaro Morata had equalised for Massimiliano Allegri's men, Champions League winner Edwin van der Sar gave a glowing verdict of the Italian shot-stopper's efforts. Edwin van der Sar ✔@vdsar1970 What a turn around in this game and great saves from @gianluigibuffon so far! Another goalkeeping legend who lifted the European trophy while on Old Trafford's books is Peter Schmeichel and the great Dane had no doubts about the irrepressible quality in Barca's ranks. Peter Schmeichel ✔@Pschmeichel1 Barcelona masterclass. Congratulations absolutely brilliant. In Brazil, former Camp Nou forward Romario was thoroughly enjoying Barca's performance... Romário Faria· É campeão!!! Orgulho de ter vestido essa camisa!

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA 1 - 3 Ivan Rakitić (4') Álvaro Morata (55') Luis Suárez (68') Neymar (95') FINAL Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M. Olympiastadion, Berlin Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey) Juventus now belong with Barcelona, Madrid & Bayern - can they stay with the elite next season? The Bianconeri just fell short in Berlin but have proven this season that they are among the best teams in Europe. The job now will be sustaining it next term. Jun 7, 2015 Juventus are domestic double champions and were knocking on the door of a treble in the Champions League final until Neymar's injury time clincher for Barcelona in Berlin ultimately sealed their fate. The challenge? To get better. No Juventus supporter in their wildest dreams could have envisaged the type of season they've had, in Europe at least, following the upheaval at the club last summer. Antonio Conte, the man who shook the Old Lady of Italian football from her slumber in winning three consecutive Scudetti, left Turin in a blaze of controversy. Replacement Masimilliano Allegri was seen as a stop-gap, yesterday's man as a result of his recent underwhelming history at AC Milan. Juventus might not have the best players in Europe, Barcelona do, but they have something very close to the best team. There is an identity and a shared sense of purpose running through their ranks from Gianluigi Buffon, through the backline that knows each other inside out, to a multifaceted midfield and a sharp strike force. The problem is, at the highest level, they are still not quite there. There is no great shame in that at this stage of their development. The club themselves would never have expected to make it this far following two dismal campaigns in a row in the Champions League under Conte but Allegri has the team ahead of schedule. There is a gradual curve of improvement in any team and, with players as young as Paul Pogba and Alvaro Morata, that holds as true for Juve as it does for any other side. They have blazed a trail this season. Things, though, are changing at Juve and expections must now rise inside the club as much as they will rise outwith. The club is on secure financial footing and will earn more cash from their Champions League participation than any other club in the competition. Big-money transfer objectives can again be realised; Paulo Dybala has already been added at considerable expense. The €32 million man signed from Palermo has a happy knack of finding Serie A nets but is, as yet, totally unproven on the continent. Allegri must conjure a way of making sure he hits the ground running. Dybala's arrivial means compatriot Carlos Tevez will leave thus summer or next with a spell at hometown club Boca Juniors in the offing. The fact they can blow their budget on one big player, however, does not mean Juve will lose any of the sense in the market they gained in the recent fallow years. Sami Khedira will shortly be confirmed a Juventus player, following in the recent Juventus tradition of pedigree free signings like Pogba and Andrea Pirlo. The Italian midfield veteran had tears in his eyes after the final whistle in the Olympiastadion with the suggestion being that his race is run after failing to match his European triumphs at Milan with Juve. MLS beckons with Khedira ready to step into the breach. There is still the future of Pogba to decide. Juventus very much hold the cards on any deal with Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain known to be interested. Once upon a time, Zinedine Zidane left Turin for Madrid at great expense. They bought Gianluigi Buffon, Lilian Thuram and Pavel Nedved with the transfer fee. It would not be beyond sporting director Giuseppe Moratta to conduct a similar campaign in the summer should the right players come available. There is no guarantee over the future of Arturo Vidal either; a decent Copa America campaign on home turf in Chile would also attract the interest of plenty more clubs around Europe in this window. You would not exactly describe this season as the Max Allegri revolution but he has certainly helped Juventus kick on. The pieces slotted together; they won Serie A at a canter and a first Coppa Italia in 20 years. In the Champions League they were much better given their ability to adapt formations and strategies by the game and sometimes by the minute. There would, already, be few reasonable gamblers backing against Juve to retain their domestic crown next season by some considerable distance. No one else comes close in that championship. What this season's Champions League campaign proved is that Juve have taken a decisive step out of the confines of Serie A and catapulted themselves back into an elite band of European teams which includes Barcelona, Real Madrid, PSG and Bayern Munich. They beat one this season and gave the other a close match in this final. That is the company in which they now belong. Next season the job is sustaining it.

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA 1 - 3 Ivan Rakitić (4') Álvaro Morata (55') Luis Suárez (68') Neymar (95') FINAL Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M. Olympiastadion, Berlin Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey) VIDEO: Fans welcome Juve home Jun 7, 2015 Juventus were greeted at the airport in Turin at 3am by almost a thousand cheering fans after the Champions League Final. Although the Bianconeri lost 3-1 to Barcelona, their flight back from Berlin was welcomed by a stadium-style crowd of singing ultras. The players and Coach Max Allegri were visibly touched by the scenes, which are rare in Italy for a defeated team. It has still been a remarkable campaign, winning the fourth consecutive Scudetto and taking the Coppa Italia for the first time in 20 years. Since the last Champions League Final in 2003, Juve had been demoted to Serie B and returned to the top. This was their fourth consecutive Final defeat, whereas Barcelona have won their last four in a row. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wd-hh2KvdUg

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA 1 - 3 Ivan Rakitić (4') Álvaro Morata (55') Luis Suárez (68') Neymar (95') FINAL Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M. Olympiastadion, Berlin Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey) Juventus 1-3 Barcelona: Juve finish with a loss, but also with their heads held high Jun 7, 2015 Going into the Champpions League final against Barcelona, I knew it was going to be tough. And although I wanted to win it, it was equally important that if Juventus lost, they would walk away proud. In the last few years there has been too many comments about Calciopoli, too many comments about match fixing, too many comments about catenaccio. Those needed to be replaced by comments about an up-and-coming team, comments about good management, comments about good football, and comments about a bright future. Now that it is all said and done, I am proud of Juventus and what they have accomplished. Juventus lost to a formidable opponent, one that beat the champions of Italy, England, France, and Germany en route to winning the Champions League. And despite their greatness, they certainly didn't appear to be miles ahead of this Juventus. Juventus will not have the Champions League badge on their shirt next season, but they can rest assured that next time they take on Europe, they will be respected by any opposition they face. MATCH SUMMARY (Forgive me if the summary is short or if I missed key moments. I generally write while I watch, but this game was too important, too nerve wracking to have pen and paper by my side.) The first two minutes started well. Juventus were pressing Barcelona very hard and forcing their defense to mistakes. However, in the blink of an eye, Barca went up front in less than five minutes. A quick play on the left hand of the pitch left Rakitic unmarked in the box to put Barca ahead. Barca had more opportunities during the first half but Juventus also created some chances. After the end of the first 45 minutes, there was a feeling that Juventus could score at least one more goal. Juventus started the second half strong, and ten minutes into it they were rewarded with a goal. Marchisio passed to Lichtsteiner with a beautiful back-hell who then setup Tevez to take a shot against Ter Stegen. The rebound fell to Morata who made it 1-1. In the words of Tre, now we had a game. Juventus continued to press hard and a few chances of their own and at that point the game could go either way. Unfortunately for anyone wearing black and white, the game went Barca's way against the run of play. A somewhat similar play in Juventus' half meant Buffon gave away a rebound that Suarez finished with ease. The drama will not end there. A few minutes later Neymar scored the third of the night but was ruled out as a handball. At that point I started to believe that Juventus had it in them to score a second goal but it wasn't to be. In the end, after more than 95 minutes of play, Neymar scored from a counter attack to make it 1-3. A scoreline that is probably too generous for the reigning European champions. LE PAGELLE Buffon 8.0 Man of the match for me. In the first half he pulled off a save that would have made it 2-0 for Barcelona. I hope he gets another stab at the big eared trophy. Lichtsteiner 7.0 He was poor in the first half but grew a lot in the second half. He was in part responsible for Juventus' equalizer. Barzagli 7.0 He did well at the back and close Barca's players well. Bonucci 7.0 Same as Barzagli. One of the best defenders in the world at the moment. Evra 7.0 Good defensively and offensively. With some of his crosses, it makes you wonder what could have been if Llorente was substituted a little earlier in the match. Marchisio 7.5 Dat back-heel. He had a few chances from outside of the box. Had one of them dipped a little sooner we could've had a different story. Pirlo 7.0 From the comments in the previous thread I know many of you thought he was poor. I on the other hand thought he did well. Sure he lost some balls but he also had a few passes that could have opened up the game. I really hope he stays one more year. Pogba 6.0 I thought he was poor for what he has to offer. With that being said, this is the biggest game of his career, and at 22 he is gaining much needed experience at the top level. Vidal 6.5 His first half was too rushed. It looked like he was there to hack players rather than tackle them. He settled towards the end of the first half until he was substituted. Tevez 6.5 He was instrumental for the goal but he tried to do too many things by himself. A pass to one of his teammates towards the end of the match might have been enough to tie the match for the second time. With that being said, had he scored on one of those chances I would have been giving him a much higher rating. Morata 7.0 Don't know what to write about him. He has scored a lot in Champions League but I would have liked to see more effort in defense. Just like Pogba, this experience will help the young Spaniard to grow. Allegri 7.0 The question was not if Juventus could stop Barca from scoring, but if Juventus could score as many goals as Barca, or more. The team handled going 1-0 down well (better than Bayern and others) and were able to make it all level after the break. Sure, Pirlo could have been benched in favour of Pereyra and that might have changed the game. We'll never know. CONCLUSION Juventus showed that they are a serious up-and-coming team. Although they lost, they worried Barca for many minutes in the second half. There isn't much left to say, besides that this has been one great season and as Marotta said, this is a starting point to build upon.

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA 1 - 3 Ivan Rakitić (4') Álvaro Morata (55') Luis Suárez (68') Neymar (95') FINAL Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M. Olympiastadion, Berlin Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey) Juventus played just like Barcelona - Trapattoni The former Bianconeri boss was proud of the attacking style the club adopted in Saturday's Champions League final defeat to Barcelona. Jun 7, 2015 Giovanni Trapattoni believes nobody would have noticed the difference between Juventus and Barcelona had the two sides swapped shirts during the game. A thrilling encounter saw Barca run out 3-1 winners, but the game was a close affair throughout as Massimiliano Allegri's side looked to play the Catalans at their own game. Ivan Rakitic put Luis Enrique's men in front early on, but Alvaro Morata equalised in the second half as the Italians roared back into the game. However, Luis Suarez then made it 2-1 before Neymar added a third deep into injury-time, but former Juve boss Trapattoni says his old club can hold their heads high. "Had their shirts been exchanged, at no point would you have noticed Barcelona were Juventus," he said after the game. "It was a great game but credit to Barcelona, they are worthy champions. It was a shame Juve went behind so soon to Rakitic's goal but they responded with personality." Juve goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon was partly at fault for Barca's second after parrying Messi's initial shot into the path of Suarez but Trapattoni said any criticism would be unfair. "Gigi has held up Juve in the most delicate moments so it would be unfair to single him out. I'm really sorry for Juventus and Italian football but we gave a good demonstration. "There is no denying that some of Barcelona's technical performers made the difference, but Allegri prepared for the challenge really well." Juve midfielder Andrea Pirlo broke down in tears after the game and Trapattoni offered his sympathy to a player he knows well from his World Cup-winning Italy side of 2006. "I give applause to all, especially my old comrades Buffon and Pirlo, who deserved victory more than anyone. "I'm sorry to see Andrea in tears, but we know that this is the law of sport. His tears are very loving, like mine in South Africa. You know at a certain age success might not now be repeated."

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA 1 - 3 Ivan Rakitić (4') Álvaro Morata (55') Luis Suárez (68') Neymar (95') FINAL Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M. Olympiastadion, Berlin Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey) Llorente: 'Juve better than Barca' Jun 7, 2015 Fernando Llorente felt “at times Juventus were better than Barcelona” in the Champions League Final. The Bianconeri lost 3-1 in Berlin last night, but had cancelled out an early Ivan Rakitic goal with Alvaro Morata and conceded from Luis Suarez against the run of play. “We did not start the match the way we wanted to and Barça scored straight away, but then we played well and at times were better than Barcelona,” Llorente told Sky Sport Italia. “We stayed in the game, had the chance to go in front and it’s a pity, as we should’ve made the most of that really positive spell. “We are in any case happy, as it has been a magnificent season.” Juve still did the Double, winning a fourth consecutive Scudetto and their first Coppa Italia for 20 years.

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA 1 - 3 Ivan Rakitić (4') Álvaro Morata (55') Luis Suárez (68') Neymar (95') FINAL Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M. Olympiastadion, Berlin Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey) Allegri: 'Proud of Juve' Jun 7, 2015 Max Allegri was “proud of this team and our fans” after Juventus lost the Champions League Final to Barcelona. The Bianconeri had levelled the scores with Alvaro Morata, but Luis Suarez and Neymar sealed the 3-1 result in Berlin. “Once the game had ended, I thanked the team for both this season and their performance in that match,” explained the Coach in a Press conference. “The performance was one of real depth, of character and technique. When you play against the best, you think the game is in hand, but someone always squirms away. “From the bench I thought we’d go on to win it. They got away from us on a counter, as there are three extraordinary counter-attacking strikers and we paid the price. “The only thing we were missing was to go 2-1 up when we had the upper hand. We could’ve done better on the first goal, but Finals are never closed after four minutes. We had patience and created our chances. “There is disappointment at the defeat, but the team did what it had to do. We emerge from this with more self-belief and awareness of what we can achieve. “We will improve as time goes on in European games, keep raising the bar. Of course, it won’t be a Final every year.” Juve had been hoping for the Treble, but fell at the final hurdle after a fourth consecutive Scudetto and the Coppa Italia. “It’s a heavy blow for everyone. You can’t always win in football and the trouble with a Final is you don’t get the chance to try again straight away. “The enthusiasm that there was before the Final, the movement that has been revived in Europe this season, I think Italian football ought to thank Juve. “The fans showed great civility by applauding the players anyway and I am happy about that. I’m also glad the supporters appreciated our season with their reaction online.”

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA 1 - 3 Ivan Rakitić (4') Álvaro Morata (55') Luis Suárez (68') Neymar (95') FINAL Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M. Olympiastadion, Berlin Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey) Neymar: Juventus proved they are a top team Following Saturday's Champions League final win over the Bianconeri, the Barcelona forward has praised the quality in the Scudetto holders' ranks. Jun 7, 2015 Barcelona star Neymar has praised the "great" quality of Juventus, despite beating the Italian champions 3-1 in Saturday's Champions League final. The Bianconeri pushed the Catalans close for much of the clash in Berlin, with Alvaro Morata equalising 10 minutes into the second half after Ivan Rakitic's fourth-minute opener. However, Luis Suarez and Neymar saw off any shock result in the Scudetto and Coppa Italia holders' favour with goals in the final third of the game, securing a treble for Barca. Neymar, who netted the final goal with the last kick of the game deep into second-half stoppage-time, was jubilant with how the Liga and Copa del Rey champions added a third trophy to their collection in 2014-15. "Juventus are a great team with great players," he told Sky Sport. "We played our game, though, and in the end we came out winners. "I'd like to thank first of all the team and the coach. This triumph is also dedicated to all of our families." After a brief breather to celebrate the Champions League triumph, Neymar will link up with Dunga's Brazil squad as they compete in this summer's Copa America in Chile. The 23-year-old was one of the stars of the World Cup in Brazil last year until his injury ruled him out for the remainder of the tournament at the quarter-final stage. Neymar bounced back this campaign to record 39 goals in 50 games for Barca and, in the process, become the first-ever player to score and win in Champions League and Copa Libertadores finals.

Marotta 'hopes Pirlo and Tevez stay' Jun 7, 2015 Beppe Marotta admits Andrea Pirlo and Carlos Tevez might’ve played their final games for Juventus, “but I hope not.” The director spoke to Sky Sport Italia and Mediaset after the 3-1 Champions League Final defeat to Barcelona in Berlin. “I compliment the squad and Coach Massimiliano Allegri, as this was the final act of an extraordinary season. We played with honour and credit against a very strong opponent. “This group started a few years ago and reached the Champions League Final after four consecutive Scudetti. Next term we hope to do even better.” Pirlo was in tears at the final whistle and some believe it could be goodbye ahead of a transfer to America’s MLS. “I hope not,” said Marotta. “Andrea is an icon of Italian football and has become an icon of Juventus too. I think his tears are understandable for a player who gave us such strong emotions over the years and it’s only right he should feel those emotions too. “Now the season is over, from tomorrow we will begin meetings with the players who are subject to transfer speculation. “It’s not easy to replace Pirlo. We have some eclectic players like Claudio Marchisio, while Allegri is capable of finding other alternatives. “As you know, in midfield we are in contact with Sami Khedira and I cannot announce his arrival until it is made official after certain deadlines. He’ll boost an already more than satisfying midfield.” Another who might be moving on this summer is Tevez, who made no secret of his desire to play for Boca Juniors again. “The desire of the player is the predominant aspect in these situations, so we’ll talk to Tevez and see what he wants to do. “I heard his agent’s comments, we have great respect for Tevez and want to keep him. We hope he wants to remain, but we must be prepared for anything. “He has given so much to Juventus and I hope he can continue.” However, when it comes to Paul Pogba, Marotta shut down the speculation sparked by agent Mino Raiola. “His position is different. Pogba has a multi-season contract, is growing year on year and we need quality players to improve the team. “In this case, the desire of the club is predominant over that of the player. Our rapport is excellent, we don’t want to sell him, there are no negotiations and we have no intention of starting any.”

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA 1 - 3 Ivan Rakitić (4') Álvaro Morata (55') Luis Suárez (68') Neymar (95') FINAL Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M. Olympiastadion, Berlin Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey) Arturo Vidal struggles as Juventus suffer Champions League final defeat Jun 7, 2015 Juventus' hopes of winning the Champions League and clinching the first Treble in club history were dashed as Barcelona emerged victorious in Berlin. Juve started well and later had their best spell of the game to equalise in the second half but could not take other opportunities that presented themselves, while the midfield -- Claudio Marchisio apart -- struggled to contend with Barcelona. Player Ratings Gianluigi Buffon, 8 -- He made some errors, but Juventus stayed in the match largely because of the heroic saves made by the goalkeeper. Still to be counted on for his experience, agility and exceptional understanding of the game. Stephan Lichtsteiner, 6 -- Simply wasn't good enough in closing down Neymar but he improved, attempting to offer alternatives on the right flank. After all, it's his work that led to the Juve goal. Andrea Barzagli, 6 -- Always professional and reliable but he was still not at his peak condition. Filled in admirably for the injured Giorgio Chiellini. Leonardo Bonucci, 6 -- He struggled to contain Barcelona's attack and was guilty of looking overwhelmed, yet his tactical intelligence and mature mind helped him navigate the daunting task as well as he could. He tried to limit the potential of Barca's talented front line. Patrice Evra, 6 -- He reacted slowly for Barcelona's second goal, but nonetheless, his experience proved important in such a match and he even strode forward with confidence in the second half. Paul Pogba, 6 -- He can still hold on to possession better than most, but his decision-making continues to frustrate onlookers. A decent performance in which he strode ahead with conviction to exploit space, but this player has to develop more next season. Andrea Pirlo, 6 -- Far from inspirational, he was practically invisible. Could not defend, no geometric passes that unleashed his forwards and many minor mistakes, the deep-lying midfielder has been far from his brilliant self in Europe this season. Claudio Marchisio, 7 -- Rarely a foot wrong by the midfielder who led his teammates and blocked several dangerous runs from Barcelona's players. His timing was impeccable and his contributions to both phases of the game were invaluable. Arturo Vidal, 5 -- He was overly eager, reckless and nearly sent off. The Chilean's deep desire to exhibit his talent led to a poor performance void of any composure. He fouled needlessly and excessively and was culpable on Barca's first goal. Alvaro Morata, 7 -- Predatory by nature and wonderfully instinctive, he's always on hand to exploit mistakes and jump on opportunities, scoring the goal that gave the Bianconeri temporary hope. Carlos Tevez, 6 -- Not his usual magical best but he handled the ball better than most. Unable to exert his usual influence though it was from his shot that Marc-Andre ter Stegen pushed the ball to Morata for the equaliser. Substitutes: Roberto Pereyra, NR -- Replaced Vidal with 11 minutes left but was unable to make an impression. Fernando Llorente, NR -- Brought on for Morata in the 85th minute to add a physical presence but made little impact other than one pass that set up a Tevez shot. Kingsley Coman, NR -- Replaced Evra in the 89th minute with Juventus desperately seeking an equaliser.

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA 1 - 3 Ivan Rakitić (4') Álvaro Morata (55') Luis Suárez (68') Neymar (95') FINAL Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M. Olympiastadion, Berlin Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey) Allegri: Juventus can build on great season The coach was quick to set his side a new target after their 3-1 defeat to Barcelona in the Champions League final on Saturday. Jun 7, 2015 Massimiliano Allegri hopes Juventus' run to the Champions League final will help them establish themselves as one of the top teams in Europe over the next few years. Juve put up a valiant fight in Berlin, only to be undone by Barcelona's attacking power as Luis Enrique's men ran out deserved 3-1 winners. The Turin giants will have to be content with the Serie A and Coppa Italia crowns at the end of a wonderful season, and Allegri hopes there will be more to come. He told Sky Italia: "We were naive on the Barca goals but we fought until the end. It was a fantastic season and I cannot say anything negative about my team. "We risked a lot and had several chances. But when you play against great players, you sometimes think you're in control and when you think you have it, the opponents score. "Maybe we can do some things better but we played the game until the end. Now we want to establish ourselves among the best eight European teams. "The first objective is, as always, to win Serie A and the Coppa Italia. The Champions League remains a dream."