Socrates

Sturaro: I Can Help Juventus But I Can’t Do What Pirlo Does Apr 1, 2015 Juventus midfielder Stefano Sturaro believes that he possesses the quality to help strengthen the Old Lady’s midfield but insists that no one can ever take the place of Andrea Pirlo. The 22-year-old could be given more of a chance to shine on the pitch now that Claudio Marchisio may be out nursing an injury and he admits that while he’ll be looking forward to showcasing his talents, he’s still upset that his team-mate is injured. Sturaro spoke to giornalaccio rosa.it about his opportunity to prove himself in the Juventus squad and commented on his ability to change his position in the midfield, while also praising Juve legend Pirlo. “I have been able to benefit a little from Marchisio’s injury but I’m obviously still disappointed,” said the Italian. “It will be better for all of us if he can be able to play in the Champions League with the team. “I think I can play three different roles in the Juve midfield, although I would never be able to do what Pirlo does. “Nobody in this world can do what he does.”

Allegri: 'My greatest fear at Juventus...' Apr 1, 2015 Max Allegri reveals what his 'greatest fear' was when joining Juventus, and discusses the stadium and tactics. The Bianconeri boss took part in a Q&A session with the supporters, and much of the interview was focused on his experience when joining the club. “When I was first announced as Juventus Coach, I felt very happy, because I knew I was being given the opportunity to win. “But my greatest fear when joining the team was that I wouldn't be able to take a place in the heart of the tifosi, because I promised I'd do that by means of results. “Entering the Juventus Stadium is a unique emotion and I think our first home victory this year was the most important. The stadium is an extra resource for the team and for all of us. “As for our formation, it can change. We can play with three or four defenders and then modify it, but these are just details. “Our best game so far was against Lazio [3-0, November 22].” Finally, Allegri was asked whether he'd forgiven the supporters for their initial scepticism in his regards. “I certainly did. Forgiving was the right thing to do, because I think the reaction of the supporters to my appointment on July 16 was normal. “The month of July saw some very sudden changes for the club. It was only by means of hard work and respect for the tifosi that we did well this season, and now we must finish it at our very best, because we still haven't won anything. “We're not at the end of the championship, much less the Champions League or the Coppa Italia.”

Why Carlos Tevez Was Juventus' Standout Performer in March Apr 1, 2015 March was a superb month for Juventus, the Bianconeri recording some impressive results as the 2014-15 season nears its conclusion for the reigning Italian champions. Holding nearest rivals AS Roma to a draw at the start of the month, Massimiliano Allegri’s men followed that up with league wins over Sassuolo, Palermo and Genoa to open a 14 point lead over the rest of Serie A. That margin virtually guarantees the club will now lift a fourth consecutive domestic crown, and impressive performances in Europe have followed, with a quarter-final clash with AS Monaco awaiting them in April. To reach that stage, Juventus handily dispatched Borussia Dortmund, recording a 2-1 victory in Turin before travelling to Germany where they would register a comprehensive 3-0 win over Jurgen Klopp’s side. The 2012 finalists may not be at their best, but the ruthless efficiency shown by La Madama bodes well for the future, particularly as the likes of Arturo Vidal and Alvaro Morata hit their best form. Netting in both legs against Borussia Dortmund, the Spanish striker has taken his tally for the season to 11 goals in all competitions, quickly supplanting Fernando Llorente as the first-choice striker in Allegri’s 4-3-2-1 formation. Meanwhile, the previously struggling Vidal has slowly begun to perform at the world-class levels shown in his previous three seasons at the club, as discussed in this earlier column. Also crucial to that impressive string of results has been Andrea Barzagli’s comeback from the injuries which have kept him out of the side since last summer’s World Cup. With four clean sheets in his four appearances, the importance of the 33-year-old defender simply cannot be understated, once again adding an assured air to the Bianconeri back line. Yet even the contributions of that trio pale in significance compared to that made by Carlos Tevez, the play of the Argentinian striker essential to every positive performance by Juventus. It started with that 1-1 draw away to AS Roma, the 31-year-old opening the scoring with a beautiful free-kick to hand the visitors a 64th-minute lead. He would then lead from the front in the following two matches, his tireless running and infectious work ethic rubbing off on his team-mates, as the Bianconeri recorded narrow 1-0 wins over both Palermo and Sassuolo. While the goals came from Morata and Paul Pogba, Tevez’s presence was essential in each game and the side looks infinitely more threatening when the former Manchester City captain is on the field. That was never more accurate than in the win over Borussia Dortmund, a game in which Tevez was undoubtedly the key figure, scoring twice and creating the other in Juve’s three-goal victory. Playing the perfect counter-attacking game, Tevez scored with both his shots in the match, while his running was a constant thorn in the side of the German outfit. His excellent form continued in the team’s final March fixture, scoring yet another sublime goal to lift the Bianconeri over a resolute Genoa squad at Juventus Stadium. That strike took his tally for the campaign to 24 in all competitions, while he has also weighed in with a team-high eight assists, displaying an unselfish streak that typifies everything about his play since arriving in Turin in the summer of 2013. He may have missed a penalty in the game with Genoa that would have made the win more comfortable, but he had once again proven to be the difference-maker for Allegri’s side, but after the game the conversation immediately turned to the fact his contract expires next summer. “I am happy here and everyone knows that,” Tevez told Sky Italia shortly after the final whistle (h/t Football Italia). “I don’t want to talk about my future, as I am giving my all for Juventus.” That discussion is likely to continue until he either signs a new deal or leaves the club, and was the topic of this previous column. Nevertheless, with those superb displays to his name, Carlos Tevez was undoubtedly the standout performer for Juventus in March, and deserves huge credit for the impact he continues to have.

Nedved: 'Monaco play best away' Apr 1, 2015 Juventus director Pavel Nedved believes Monaco are 'most dangerous when playing away', whilst he also discusses Spanish interest in Paul Pogba. The Bianconeri will be carrying the hopes of Serie A two weeks from now when hosting Monaco for the Champions League quarter-finals, and their former Ballon d'Or winner gave his perspective in an interview with Spanish publication El Mundo Deportivo. “In the Champions League we could have squared off against much stronger opponents, but we shouldn't underestimate Monaco,” Nedved has considered. “I saw their game against Arsenal and they impressed me. “They're most dangerous when playing away, rather than at home. We cannot depend on the home leg.” When asked which team he would rather not face, Nedved was categorical. “Neither Barcelona nor Bayern. Not on your life. The farther away from us, the better. “They're the best two teams in Europe and the favourites to win this Champions League. They're playing a superior level of football and they're achieving some great results. “Real Madrid are no longer what they were last year, but they deserve great respect. They can change many things over one month.” The 42-year-old was also asked about Pogba, who is being touted for a possible transfer to Barcelona and Real Madrid. “We know that Barcelona and other big clubs want him, but he has a contract with us. As for his injury, while he's a player of the utmost quality, we should not weep over spilt milk. We have a great squad to make up for the loss. “With regards to [Alvaro] Morata, I like what he's doing and I'm glad he was called up for the national team. He can become a champion and he's a really good person as well.”

Inter Volunteer To Return Two Scudetto’s To Juve Apr 1, 2015 Reports have come to light that Inter have stepped forward and volunteered to return the Scudetto which was controversially awarded to them in the 2005-06 season as well as compensate Juventus for the title stripped of them in 2004-05. After Juventus were involved in the infamous Calciopoli scandal in 2006, the club were relegated by the FIGC on top of having their previous two league titles taken from them, one of which was handed to Inter who had only finished third place that year. However, after years of turmoil surrounding the subject, and the Bianconeri’s recent push towards re-claiming their lost titles along with a €443 million lawsuit against the FIGC in hand, inside reports suggest that Inter president Erick Thohir has reached out to both parties in order to find a solution. Thohir is said to have proposed a deal in which he is willing to give back the title that Inter were handed, and in addition to reimburse any losses that the Old Lady suffered from the other Serie A title. Andrea Agnelli, president of Juventus will now reportedly take Thohir up on this offer, and is set to join the fellow businessman in Rome along side Carlo Tavecchio to further discuss the matter. It is conceivable that the deal shall be concluded within the next few days. Happy April Fools Day!

Gervinho: Juventus Are Much Better Than Roma Apr 1, 2015 Roma forward Gervinho has admitted that the Serie A title will now be extremely difficult to win due the difference in quality between themselves and Juventus. The Scudetto is now well out of reach for the Giallorossi as they are 14 points adrift of the Bianconeri, however the Ivory Coast international has reinforced his team’s desire to obtain a place in the Champions League places. “It will be extremely difficult for us to win the league now,” said the 27-year-old when speaking to AfricaTopSports.com “There is a huge difference between us and Juventus but we are going to fight hard to get back into the Champions League.” The 27-year-old has also given his opinion on his Roma team-mate and fellow Ivorian Seydou Doumbia who as so far struggled to make much of an impact at the Stadio Olimpico. “I am not worried about Doumbia, he has experienced a complete change in the type of league football and he needs time to adapt. “It is not going to be easy for him but I know his qualities and what he is capable of. Once he has settled in then he will give us a big helping hand.” Roma currently occupy second place in Serie A although are only one point ahead of their arch rivals Lazio. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Allegri set for Juventus renewal Mar 31, 2015 Massimiliano Allegri and Claudio Marchisio are both reportedly set for new contracts at Juventus when the season ends. The Old Lady are 14 points clear at the top of Serie A, and are still competing in both the Champions League and Coppa Italia. The ownership of the Turin giants has clearly been impressed by this campaign, with SportMediaset reporting that Allegri will be handed a one year contract extension. The former Milan boss’s current deal expires in June of 2016, and the news outlet reports that he will now stay until the end of the following season. Marchisio, meanwhile, will be tied to the club until 2019, effectively ensuring that he’ll end his career in Bianconero. The 29-year-old is a product of the Juventus youth system, and has made almost 300 appearances for the club since making his debut in 2006.

'Juventus could bankrupt FIGC' Mar 31, 2015 Federation President Carlo Tavecchio discusses Juventus’ Calciopoli lawsuit - ‘the FIGC would go bankrupt’. The final verdicts in the long running scandal were handed down by the criminal courts last week, with former Juventus directors Luciano Moggi and Antonio Giraudo acquitted on some charges, but not others. The club is seeking €443m in damages from the Federation in a civil trial, citing loss of income, loss of players and damage to reputation for a scandal in which they believe they were unfairly singled out. “I’ve always had great respect and affection for Turin,” Tavecchio told Tuttosport, a newspaper based in the city. “Turin is also where the Federation was born [in 1898]. I supported Inter… well I no longer cheer for them but you know… however, I’ve always had a soft spot for Torino, for their history and tradition. “Also, I was one of the few Inter fans who weren’t offended when Juve won. “The thing that troubled me, though not personally, is the civil trial by Juventus, claiming €443m. How can that not be a problem? “How can you go to lunch with someone, meanwhile they’re claiming €443m in damages from you? I don’t know how my predecessors did it. “Every time I’ve met with [Juventus President Andrea] Agnelli he’s shown himself to be open to things, but we never went into details. “We waited for the judgement of all levels of the Calciopoli courts. As for the liability action, Juventus have no chance after the Supreme Court ruling. “The matter is closed. For other things, we’ll have to see. “Other teams phoned the referees? It’s one thing to make calls to protest, it’s another to call to make agreements. The judgements are very clear. “You can say that these things have been refuted in criminal law, but in sports it’s another thing. I have thought of everything and more regarding calls to the referees. “The analysis by the Supreme Court shows that there were deliberate actions by the two Juventus directors. “We don’t know the motivations [of the court for its decisions]? Sure, but in the meantime there have been convictions… or rather the statute of limitations came into effect, but the offence took place, from what I've read… “I repeat, two directors from Juve, not from [amateur team] Bordighera. “I’m not trying to block anything, what interests me now is the question of instability. The FIGC would go bankrupt if we gave Juventus that €443m. “I’d rather just shake hands with Juve and tell everyone to tone it down, but I can’t do that. The FIGC has a dignity which we must get back. “We’re servants to everyone, but slaves to no-one. “Even Juventus have an interest [in the FIGC], with their players being in the national team, to set one party apart from everyone is useless. “We just have to get rid of the claim for damages, then there’s nothing stopping us evaluating the rules and arguments that Juve believe should be evaluated. “We are the first to understand that when you win a title on the field you have a right to it. The pre-Calciopoli Juventus did not need to win in court. “[but] I have only one goal, to find an agreement with Juventus on the matter of the appeal [for damages]. Don’t put the cart before the horse. “The big battle is the litigation, not the Scudetti.”

PSG Ready To Offer Cavani And Verratti To Get Pogba Mar 31, 2015 Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly willing to offer Edinson Cavani and Marco Verratti in a bid to entice Juventus to sell star midfielder Paul Pogba. The Paris club have long been rumoured to be of interest of the French international since his explosion on the scene at Juventus, after arriving on a free transfer from Manchester United. While PSG owner Nasser Al-Khelaifi has also spoken to the player about a move to Ligue 1. According to Tuttomercatoweb.com, Juventus are now ready to discuss the possibility of Pogba leaving, and the names said to be going the opposite direction are Cavani and Verratti. It is thought that the Bianconeri have been following the duo for some time, and may begin negotiations should the pair be involved in a deal. A salary of approximately €9-10 million is rumoured to be offered to Pogba should he ultimately decide to return home, a figure that Juventus will not be likely to match.

Claudio Marchisio returns to training just four days after ACL injury scare Mar 31, 2015 I'll just say I didn't expect to be typing out that headline when I originally saw this story developing four days ago. But it's true — well, sort of, I guess. Claudio Marchisio is back training with Juventus. However, on Monday, it wasn't with the big group as the squad slowly gets back to full numbers during the current international break. Marchisio was in the gym working with the Juve trainers and doctors as he begins his recovery from his non-ACL tear injury he picked up while on international duty with the Italian national team late last week. Gym, swim, trim, whatever. Marchisio is doing football-like activities Here's Juventus' official web posting regarding the squad restarting its training regimen on Monday: The Bianconeri, boosted by the returning Paolo De Ceglie and Luca Marrone, were greeted by fitness drills in the beautiful spring sunshine as they endeavour to get in peak physical condition for their upcoming encounter versus the Tuscans. Also among the faces in Vinovo were Arturo Vidal and Claudio Marchisio. Having come back from international duty earlier today, the Chilean joined his team-mate, who was undertaking his own personal regime, in the gym. (Just an interesting side note: No mention of Andrea Pirlo, who was rumored to be one of the other injured players to be returning to training on Monday. Maybe no news equals good news in this sense. We'll have to wait and see on that one.) Ah, Claudio. Your fondness for constant Instagram photos and visual aids keeps us so up to date better than all of the Italy doctors' ability to correctly diagnose a serious knee injury. And we thank you for it. This is the first step in Juve's previously stated "day-to-day" diagnosis. What the exact time table looks like isn't something we know right now, but how many days it takes for Marchisio to get back to training with the main group will give us a really good idea about when he'll be back on the Juventus Stadium field. But this is the first step. And it's a whole lot better than we thought would be happening when this crazy "Marchisio tore his ACL then didn't tear his ACL" injury saga actually began. Isn't it fun? (Well, it's better than Marchisio being out for the next six or eight months, that's for sure.)

Real Madrid interest in Pogba only logical, says Zidane The Madrid Castilla coach has acknowledged they are keeping tabs on his compatriot but does not know whether he will be on the move this summer. Mar 30, 2015 Zinedine Zidane claims it is "only logical" that Real Madrid are keeping a close eye on Paul Pogba's situation at Juventus. The France international, 22, signed a new contract with Juventus until the summer of 2019 back in October but is still continually linked with a move away from the Serie A champions. Clubs such as Manchester United, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and Madrid have all been touted as possible destinations for Pogba and Zidane feels interest in a player of such potential should not come as a surprise. "When we are talking about a player like Pogba, it is only logical Real Madrid are interested in signing him," Zidane told Canal+. "He is a player with immense potential, who still has an important margin for improvement. "He is still young and has an exciting future ahead of him. "Where Pogba will play next season? I don't know the answer to that question. You will have to ask him..." The midfielder, who is currently recovering from a hamstring injury, has been a key figure for Juventus in 2014-15, scoring seven goals in 22 Serie A appearances.

Pirlo returns for Juventus Mar 30, 2015 Andrea Pirlo is set to return to Juventus training this afternoon, after recovering from a thigh injury. The regista had attempted to return for the Champions League Last 16 tie with Borussia Dortmund, but was not deemed ready by medical staff. After a weekend off, those Juventus players not called-up by their national teams will resume training at Vinovo this afternoon, and Calciomercato believes Pirlo will take part. The 35-year-old has been following a personalised training regimen as he works his way back to fitness, but looks set to resume training with his teammates today.

Could Claudio Marchisio actually be fit for Juventus' game against Empoli? Just like we all thought would be the case about 36 hours ago, right?! Mar 29, 2015 After a whirlwind Friday filled with sad feelings, misdiagnosis and subsequently a whole lot of relief, the latest turn in the Claudio Marchisio knee injury-turned-major scare is upon us. And it's thanks to our friends over at Tuttosport, no less. Marchisio won't be out for six or eight months like originally thought, so we know that's great news. But could Marchisio, who has been oh so good this season, be back for Empoli's visit to Juventus Stadium next weekend? That's what Tuttosport is suggesting ... maybe. According to Sunday's edition of Tuttosport, Marchisio will be good to go for the first leg of Juventus' Champions League quarterfinal against Monaco on April 14. But when it comes to Juve's game against Empoli in Turin less than a week from now, that's still to be determined. Max Allegri, understandably, won't even consider rushing the 29-year-old midfielder back from injury. However, if Marchisio is training with the group like some folks in the Italian media suggest, then it will cap off what has been a remarkable four-day period where we've gone from his season being over to thinking Marchisio might actually play in Juventus' first game coming out of the international break. All of this, of course, comes off the back of Juventus announcing late Friday that Marchisio is "day-to-day" and not out for the season like the Italian national team declared earlier in the day. (That was a fun day, wasn't it? And yes, you're still allowed to laugh at the Italy training staff for completely botching that diagnosis.) Maybe that day truly will be Monday when Juventus resumes training. Maybe it's next week after Juventus plays Empoli and starts to prepare for the Coppa Italia second leg against Fiorentina. We just have to wait right now, mainly because that's what happens when somebody's injury is declared day-to-day. So pull up a char and get comfortable, everybody.

Zidane: 'Real Madrid on Pogba' Mar 29, 2015 Zinedine Zidane admitted it’s “logical” Real Madrid would be interested in Juventus starlet Paul Pogba. The 21-year-old France international is currently out injured, but has been valued at around €100m. “I don’t know where he’ll go, so you’d have to ask him that. Currently he’s at Juve,” Zidane told Canal Plus. “Considering his age and potential, I think he can progress even more. When we’re talking about a player like this, it’s logical Real Madrid and other big clubs are interested.” Pogba has also been linked with Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona, Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea. Juventus have repeatedly denied they have any intention of selling the midfielder.

Marchisio in training tomorrow? Mar 29, 2015 Claudio Marchisio is remarkably ready to resume training with the Juventus squad tomorrow and could face Empoli. The midfielder was sent home from international duty on Friday afternoon with a medical report showing a “sub-total lesion” to the anterior cruciate ligament. There were reports he’d be out of action for six to eight months, sparking a furious reaction from Juve and their fans. However, Marchisio underwent another MRI scan in Turin that same evening and that found no lesions to the ligament at all. According to La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport, Marchisio has recovered so quickly from the sprain that he’ll be back in full training with the squad on Monday. He could at this stage even play in Saturday’s Serie A game against Empoli. The confusion over why the two tests showed such different results continues, as the Istituto Fanfani medics insist there is a sub-total lesion in the knee ligament. It won’t stop Marchisio playing, but is something to keep an eye on.

Crocked Juventus Man Marchisio Could Be Back Next Week Mar 29, 2015 Juventus midfielder Claudio Marchisio could return to training next week, as his injury is much less serious than initially anticipated. The 29-year-old midfielder sustained a knee injury while training with the Italian national team on Friday morning, before it was reported that he had torn his anterior cruciate ligament, which would have ruled him out for six months. Fears of a serious injury were, however, later denied by Juventus’ medical staff. According to Tuttomercatoweb, Marchisio could be back in training for the Bianconeri next week, having a slight chance of being available for Juventus’ next Serie A match against Empoli at the Juventus Stadium. However, it is more probable that the midfielder will be back for Juventus’ Coppa Italia semi-final rematch against Fiorentina on April 7. Marchisio has made 27 Serie A appearances this season, netting two goals and assisting another six.

Barcelona look to Llorente Mar 29, 2015 Spanish newspapers claim Barcelona will make a €12m bid for Juventus striker Fernando Llorente. The headline of Catalan paper Sport reads: ‘Surprise transfer’ and lists Luis Enrique’s desire to sign a more physical ‘Henrik Larsson’ type of centre-forward. Llorente is the main candidate with Manchester City’s Edin Dzeko as the alternative. It would be a more than viable idea for all concerned, as Llorente arrived on a free transfer when his contract expired with Athletic Bilbao in June 2013. Juventus would therefore make pure profit by selling him on and it could be in the region of €12m. Tottenham have also shown an interest in swooping for Llorente if they can’t get Simone Zaza from Sassuolo. Llorente has dropped down the pecking order at Juve behind Alvaro Morata, who is also on the front pages of the Spanish papers after scoring his first senior goal. Morata got the winner in a hard-fought 1-0 qualifier against Ukraine on Friday.

Barzagli: 'Juve welcome Conte' Mar 29, 2015 Andrea Barzagli hopes for a “relaxed atmosphere” in Turin against England and slammed Antonio Conte controversy. The Juventus defender spoke to reporters after last night’s 2-2 draw in Bulgaria. “It certainly wasn’t a great performance and we made costly errors in the first half,” said Barzagli. He was also asked about the furious row between Juve and Conte, sparked by the Claudio Marchisio knee injury on international duty. “I think the controversy around Marchisio was basically invented, because Conte’s training sessions are absolutely normal. “The injury Claudio had could’ve happened at any moment. It’s not as if it was a muscular problem.” At first there were fears Marchisio had snapped the anterior cruciate ligament, but later tests showed any lesion was so minimal that he could even resume training in a couple of days. Nonetheless, the tension over this incident sparked a vicious response from Juventus fans against their old Coach, some of them even sending death threats. Barzagli tried to calm the waters ahead of Tuesday’s friendly against England, which will be at the Juventus Stadium in Turin. “I expect a relaxed atmosphere. We must remember the past and I am certain the Coach will be welcomed in the best way.”

Chiellini: 'No more controversy' Mar 28, 2015 Giorgio Chiellini made an appeal to media and Juventus to “surround the Nazionale with positivity and not stir up trouble.” The defender spoke to Rai Sport after a 2-2 draw in Bulgaria, which saw Italy take an early lead, go 2-1 down before the break and snatch a late equaliser through Eder. “We started so well, but then made mistakes, as we knew that counter-attacks were their greatest strengths and we lost two balls to concede two goals in quick succession,” said Chiellini. “I think we showed grit and determination. It’s true we scored late, but we had the chances to get goals much earlier. “Italy have never won in Bulgaria. We were a little naive to concede those two goals and it turned into an uphill struggle, but this side has ideas, fought hard and tried to the end. We were so close to celebrating what would’ve been a deserved victory. “It was a great sign from players like Marco Verratti, Andrea Bertolacci and Eder, who seemed like they had been in the Azzurri for years. “We would’ve liked to celebrate a win and get closer to qualification, but we do get some interesting ideas from this game.” Naturally, he had to be asked about the furious row between Juventus and Antonio Conte, which even saw some fans make death threats. “It was a tormented build-up. This Coach and this team does not deserve to be treated like this. I would like everyone to help this Nazionale grow and nurture it, not constantly stir up controversy. “I was fortunate enough to be a part of this Italy squad, we are starting a new era with a generational shift. If you look at the line-up tonight compared to our last trip to Bulgaria two years ago, you’ll see the difference. “In order to grow together we need help from everyone to look after the side and not try to cause trouble. “Conte has been able to change the inertia of Juventus after two negative years and made history, but he too needs help from the outside. “Now we hope to find a lot of enthusiasm in Turin on Tuesday against England and I send an appeal to the media that this Nazionale needs to grow surrounded by positivity and not negativity.” Conte will be in the belly of the beast on Tuesday, as Italy host England in the Juventus Stadium. “Let’s all appeal that any ‘afters’ from the last few years be put aside for the common good of Italian football. “In club football we have seen improvements already and it’s an important step that we can get closer to England in the rankings for next year. “Now this Nazionale represents the country and ought to be treated as such. I am sure the welcome will be good in Turin. We can’t wait to get out there.”

Claudio Marchisio injury reaction reflects poorly on Juventus Mar 28, 2015 The word to describe the matter is "bizarre." On Friday morning it was revealed that Juventus midfielder Claudio Marchisio had suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury while on international duty and would be out for 6-8 months. The tests were made by the medical staff of the Italian national team, thus sparking controversy. Alleged death threats were made to Italy coach Antonio Conte, who has incurred the wrath of his former club for the injury to a player sorely needed by Juve at this crucial stage of the season. Later on in the evening, Juventus announced that Marchisio's injury is not as serious as once feared and the player could in fact be back in training in a "matter of days." The club's statement read as follows: "The 29-year-old then underwent an MRI scan on his right knee this evening. The tests, supervised by Dr. Carlo Faletti at Turin's Fornaca Clinic, ruled positive, excluding the possibility of a tear to the anterior cruciate ligament." So which is it? A lengthy injury or simply a minor problem? Azzurri staff member, Professor Enrico Castellacci, insisted no mistake was made and suggested the communication of the news might have been confusing, "I never mentioned the need for surgery, nor that there was a total lesion of the knee ligament." He continued, "I think the communication was mishandled. The slender statement released by Juventus was made by a club and did not consist of a medical report." giornalaccio rosa dello Sport writer Mirko Graziano went so far as to note on Twitter that Marchisio will be available for the Bianconeri's upcoming match against Empoli on April 4. La Stampa journalists noted similar positive statements the night before. Needless to say, fans of the Old Lady experienced a roller coaster of emotion during this fiasco. The Italian midfielder has been in fine form this season and has expertly taken over Andrea Pirlo's role and led the team with character. Considering Paul Pogba and Pirlo's injuries, it's vital Marchisio remains fit and healthy to help push Juventus on during this difficult stage of the season and potentially reach the semifinal of the Champions League should they defeat Monaco in the quaterfinals. Without him, the tactics will need to change, at least in Europe. With few midfielders available, Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri will have no option but to play the 3-5-2 formation, which is bound to affect their attacking game, especially should they reach the latter stages of Europe's premier competition. Hopefully Kwadwo Asamoah will be back soon to at least offer another option in midfield should the coach want to stand by the 4-3-1-2 formation in Serie A and Coppa Italia games going forward. Sadly, the fall-out from the Marchisio debacle has led to unwarranted criticism and maddening behaviour. FIGC president Carlo Tavecchio revealed that Conte received death threats, leaving both men shaken. Judging by the reaction of Juventus fans on social media, opinions are split. There are those who are angry with Conte, while others insist he's simply doing his job and entitled to take it seriously. It hardly helps that John Elkann, Fiat owner and the chosen heir of former Juventus owner Gianni Agnelli, chose to criticise the man who resurrected the fallen Old Lady. A man so far detached from "Stile Juve," Elkann furiously suggested that the Azzurri coach is no longer a coach but a simple "cherry-picker with the highest number of injuries." It was a ridiculous statement and hardly befitting of one of Italy's greatest industrialist. The former Juve tactician could do with being a little bit more understanding of exactly how important this stage of the season is for certain sides and empathise with Juve's quest for success, as it is not only in Juve's interest but also in the interest of Italian football as a whole. Regardless of his comments, it must highlighted that without Conte, there would be no high-flying Juve, a team that is miles ahead of its rivals in Serie A and challenging the very best in Europe. A club now renowned for its winning mentality, professionalism and fighting intensity. Allegri may have refined this team, but make no mistake, Conte is its creator and regardless of the man's limitations or reasons for his departure, he deserves the utmost respect -- it's time to remember how a big club acts.

Marchisio back 'within days' Mar 28, 2015 Juventus medics suggest Claudio Marchisio could be back in action within days after new knee ligament tests. The situation is bizarre, as on Friday morning the Italy medical staff sent him back to Turin, having spotted a “sub-total lesion” in the anterior cruciate ligament of his right knee. There had been reports of an operation and six to eight months on the touchline, sparking death threats towards Coach Antonio Conte on social media. Later that evening Juventus medics performed another MRI scan in Turin and “excluded tears” to the ligament. Today there were more tests and La Stampa claims they found the situation was even better than thought last night. Instead of two to three weeks on the touchline, Marchisio could be back in training within days and targeting a comeback in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final against Monaco on April 14. Today the doctors who performed the original tests in Florence insist they did spot a sub-total lesion, which although won’t necessarily stop the midfielder playing, is something to keep an eye on.

Italy medics: 'Marchisio sub-total lesion' Mar 27, 2015 The Italy medical staff insist there is a “sub-total lesion” of Claudio Marchisio’s knee ligament, despite Juventus tests. There is total confusion over the status of the midfielder’s right knee, as on Friday morning Azzurri staff suggested a lesion to the anterior cruciate ligament, which would require six to eight months out. Later that same evening, Juve medics in Turin performed another MRI scan and “excluded the possibility of a tear,” so he could be back in action within two weeks. “I do not have to justify the Azzurri staff, because I have no doubts that we acted the correct way,” said Professor Enrico Castellacci. “I do have doubts on the test results, because we’ve seen two with very different outcomes. I have the utmost faith for the radiologists in Turin and Florence, but please allow me a little uncertainty still. “Having said that, if the second test says one thing, it doesn’t automatically mean the first test was completely wrong. “I never mentioned the need for surgery, nor that there was a total lesion of the knee ligament. I simply made the Istituto Fanfani report public.” Marchisio underwent the first examination at the Istituto Fanfani in Florence, close to Italy’s training ground in Coverciano. “We can only confirm what we ascertained yesterday and that was underwritten by four famed radiologists with over 30 years of experience,” Doctor Fabio Fanfani told the Corriere dello Sport. “The player presented a sub-total lesion of the right anterior cruciate ligament. We never said there was a total lesion. “We are naturally happy if Marchisio, according to further tests, could be back on the field soon. “I think the communication was mishandled. The slender statement released by Juventus was made by a club and did not consist of a medical report. “What we had was a photograph of the situation, but we don’t have his current clinical records or the progress of the player. “I can tell you that there are various cases of players who continue their activity with partial lesions. “We are not run by Juventus or the Federation. Our opinion is a professional and free one.”

Juventus: Marchisio injury not as bad as feared The midfielder will be monitored on a day-to-day basis after a follow-up scan revealed no serious damage to his anterior cruciate ligament. Mar 28, 2015 Juventus have revealed that Claudio Marchisio's injury is not nearly as bad as originally reported. The Italian FA (FIGC) had stated that an MRI scan on the midfielder's knee reavealed that he had ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament while training with the national team ahead of Saturday's Euro 2016 qualifying match with Bulgaria and would be out for the remainder of the season. However, the club performed their own tests on the 29-year-old, which show that he has not torn the ligament. "After returning from international duty on Friday afternoon, Claudio Marchisio underwent medical examinations conducted by Juventus’ club doctors and Dr. Flavio Quaglia," a statement from the Turin side read. "The 29-year-old then underwent an MRI scan on his right knee this evening. The tests, supervised by Dr. Carlo Faletti at Turin’s Fornaca Clinic, ruled positive, excluding the possibility of a tear to the anterior cruciate ligament. "Marchisio will now rest and his condition is to be monitored on a day-to-day basis." The news will come as a pleasant surprise to Juve boss Massimiliano Allegri, whose side are still competing in Serie A, the Champions League and Coppa Italia.

Juventus announce that Claudio Marchisio doesn't have a torn ACL Just another day in the neighborhood, right? Mar 28, 2015 So, maybe we don't need to be as sad as a couple of hours ago. Juventus' official website tells us this: After returning from international duty on Friday afternoon, Claudio Marchisio underwent medical examinations conducted by Juventus' club doctors and Dr. Flavio Quaglia. The 29-year-old then underwent an MRI scan on his right knee this evening. The tests, supervised by Dr. Carlo Faletti at Turin's Fornaca Clinic, ruled positive, excluding the possibility of a tear to the anterior cruciate ligament. Marchisio will now rest and his condition is to be monitored on a day-to-day basis. Uh, so yeah. About that whole thing where Claudio Marchisio is out for the rest of the season because his ACL was in need of some repairs... The obvious plot twist is that Juventus has announced the original diagnosis from earlier today about Marchisio's ACL being torn can essentially be thrown right out the window. (You can point and laugh at the Italy doctors, but that option is optional at this point.) The diagnosis of "day-to-day" doesn't really say a lot in terms of how long he will truly be out, but it's definitely a vast improvement over the grim news that came out of the Italian national team camp Friday afternoon. It's confusing, sure, but it's also better than the original reports suggested. I guess now all we do is wait. Not only to see how Marchisio's knee heals, but also when his return actually takes place. Having something listed as 'day-to-day' can mean exactly that, or it can be evaluated on a daily basis for a month without much improvement. And knowing how this day has gone with one diagnosis essentially canceling the other one out, I'm going to just wait for the next injury update to come our way. Hopefully it's another step forward like the one above.