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JUVENTUS - CHIEVO VERONA - Sunday, January 25th, 2015 - 3:00 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Davide Massa Juventus - Chievo Preview: Llorente plays down five-point lead The Spanish striker has demanded the Bianconeri - who lead Serie A by a considerable margin - up their game in the Scudetto race, with high-flying Roma hot on their tails. Jan 24, 2014 Juventus striker Fernando Llorente insists there is no room for complacency from his side in the Serie A title race, despite the Turin giants having opened up a five-point lead over second-placed Roma. Massimiliano Allegri's men host Chievo on Sunday, with Roma set to visit Fiorentina later in the day. With that in mind, defending champions Juve will be eager to increase the pressure on Roma and Llorente knows the importance of sustaining momentum after three wins in a row in all competitions. "Five points don't mean a thing," he told Sky Sport this week. "Roma are a great team, we know they want to win the Scudetto and we can't allow ourselves to ease off. "We must keep working hard in order to give 100 per cent in every game and show our desire to taste further success." Llorente has lost his place in the Juve starting XI to Alvaro Morata in the last two matches - wins against Verona in the Coppa Italia and the league - but says the level of depth in the squad is crucial. "Everyone is important in this team," he continued. "Alvaro possesses great qualities and can become a fine player. He just needs to knuckle down and keep doing what he’s doing. "It was a useful breather for me because the most important moment of the season is on its way. Your body reacts better when you rest and that will be fundamental for the next game." Llorente has scored just four Serie A goals so far this term, but netted 11 of his 16 last season after the turn of the year and is targeting a repeat performance this time around. "I hope I can do it again, it's my aim to reach those figures," he added. "I haven't scored many so far, but I've been involved in plenty of moves that have led to goals. Scoring is obviously important for a striker, but the team winning is even more crucial." Chievo have endured a difficult season so far and, while results have improved since picking up one win from their first 10 matches, they remain just two points above the relegation zone. Andrea Barzagli (foot) is nearing a return for Juve after steadily increasing his workload during the week, while Andrea Pirlo is a doubt after coming down with flu-like symptoms on Thursday. OPTA FACTS Chievo have beaten Juventus only once in 23 previous meetings in Serie A (1-0 in January 2010). Juve have won their last five league games against Chievo. In Turin, the Old Lady are unbeaten against Chievo (8W 3D). Juventus have been trailing only for seven minutes so far in this Serie A campaign (excl. injury time). Chievo are unbeaten in their last four games on the road (2W 2D) – their longest run since 2009. Juventus have the best attack of the Serie A season (42 goals scored), Chievo have the worst (only 14). Only four of Chievo’s 14 goals have been scored in the first half. Juventus have scored the most goals in the opening 15 minutes of play (nine). LAST FIVE MATCHES Juventus W W W D L 18/01/2015 - Juventus 4 - 0 Hellas Verona 15/01/2015 - Juventus 6 - 1 Hellas Verona 11/01/2015 - Napoli 1 - 3 Juventus 06/01/2015 - Juventus 1 - 1 Internazionale Milano 22/12/2014 - Juventus 2 - 2 Napoli Chievo L D D W L 18/01/2015 - Chievo Verona 1 - 2 Fiorentina 11/01/2015 - Atalanta 1 - 1 Chievo Verona 06/01/2015 - Chievo Verona 0 - 0 Torino 21/12/2014 - Hellas Verona 0 - 1 Chievo Verona 15/12/2014 - Chievo Verona 0 - 2 Internazionale Milano HEAD TO HEAD 30/08/2014 - Chievo Verona 0 - 1 Juventus 16/02/2014 - Juventus 3 - 1 Chievo Verona 25/09/2013 - Chievo Verona 1 - 2 Juventus 03/02/2013 - Chievo Verona 1 - 2 Juventus 22/09/2012 - Juventus 2 - 0 Chievo Verona http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Paul Pogba's agent says Juventus departure won't happen in January Jan 23, 2015 Paul Pogba won't be making a winter exit from Serie A club Juventus despite persistent rumours to the contrary, according to his agent Mino Raiola. The French midfielder has been linked to various Premier League and La Liga clubs including his former team Manchester United and current Champions League title-holders Real Madrid during the winter transfer window. Pogba, who just signed a new five-year deal with Juventus, could make a summer move according to his agent, but for now he'll remain in Italy. "Paul renewed his contract in Italy. There is a five-year deal with Juventus and what June and July brings, we will see in June and July," Raiola told Sky Sports. "He will stay here this window in Italy and after that it's also up to Juventus and up to himself to see what are the possibilities and what are the things to do. "I have been in football long enough to say that I cannot foresee the future. Today Paul Pogba is the most expensive player if he would be on the market. That's the risk, that's normal. There are only a few clubs that can afford him." Raiola confirmed he was well aware of the interest surrounding his client and added that Pogba would have no issues returning to Manchester United even though he left Old Trafford saying he'd never return. "Paul has always said he is not angry with Manchester United, you need to move on," said Raiola. "So there is no personal grudge against Manchester United. On the contrary, he holds Manchester United very dear and has very nice memories."

JUVENTUS - CHIEVO VERONA - Sunday, January 25th, 2015 - 3:00 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Davide Massa Preview: Juventus vs. Chievo Jan 23, 2014 Juventus will be hoping to extend their unbeaten league record to 11 games when they host Chievo on Sunday afternoon. The Serie A leaders, whose one defeat in 15 matches came on penalties to Napoli, have opened up a five-point gap over second-placed Roma in recent weeks. The Vecchia Signora are currently on a hot streak in front of goal with 13 goals being netted in their last three outings, while striker Carlos Tevez is shouldering much of the responsibility in the final third with six goals in five games. The Argentine requires help from teammate Alvaro Morata, but the former Real Madrid man is expected to retain his place in attack. Chievo haven't conceded more than two goals in a game since October 18, but they will need all of their defensive solidarity to continue that run in Turin. Scoring at the other end of the pitch remains a problem though, with just eight goals coming in their last 10 matches. The Gialloblu currently sit just outside of the relegation zone in 17th position, but they were unfortunate to lose to Fiorentina last week after conceding a 94th-minute goal. Coach Rolando Maran could make an alteration in midfield, with Ruben Botta coming in to replace Valter Birsa. Juventus Form in Serie A: D D W D W W Form in all competitions: W D L W W W Possible starting lineup: Buffon, Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini, Evra; Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Pereyra; Tevez, Alvaro Morata Chievo Recent form W L W D D L Possible starting lineup: Bizzarri, Cesar, Gamberini, Frey, Zukanovic, Botta, Izco, Hetemaj, Schelotto, Pellissier, Paloschi Sports Mole says: 2-0 http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - CHIEVO VERONA - Sunday, January 25th, 2015 - 3:00 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Davide Massa Juventus V Chievo – Preview: Bianconeri Aim To Extend Unbeaten Run Over Flying Donkeys Jan 23, 2014 Juventus entertain strugglers Chievo at the Juventus Stadium on Sunday afternoon, knowing a win will consolidate their five point buffer at the top of the Serie A standings. The hosts come into the match as heavy favourites and in fantastic form with four wins in their last five games in all competitions, recently overcoming Chievo’s cross-town rivals Hellas Verona 4-0, the previous weekend to remain in first place on 46 points. The Bianconeri have not succumbed to defeat since the end of October away to Genoa, while to make matters worse for the visitors, the hosts have not lost a home league game since a 2-1 setback to Sampdoria in January 2013. Chievo meanwhile are hovering just above the relegation zone in 17th place, with 18 points. The Flying Donkeys were experiencing somewhat of a resurgence under coach Rolando Maran where they lost only once in nine games and amassed 14 points. However, a last-gasp winner from from Fiorentina’s Khouma Babacar in their last outing denied the Gialloblu a hard-fought point, as the match finished 2-1. Juventus have completely dominated this fixture in recent times as the Old Lady has won the preceding five league matches and have not been beaten by the Flying Donkey’s since 2010. In fact that has been the Bianconeri’s only defeat to Chievo in the last 14 years, winning 16 of the past 23 encounters. During the corresponding meeting of this season Juventus enjoyed a 1-0 triumph in the opening round back in August, courtesy of an own goal from Cristiano Biraghi. For the match Massimiliano Allegri is expected to employ the same starting line-up as he did against Hellas Verona, with the exception of defender Stephan Lichtsteiner who could replace Martin Caceres. Arturo Vidal and Luca Marrone are both waiting to have their fitness evaluated and could feature on the bench. While there are no suspensions to speak of, Carlos Tevez, Paul Pogba, Claudio Marchisio and Lichtsteiner are all one match away from accruing a fifth yellow card. As for Chievo, boss Maran has an almost full squad to choose from and is likely to make a few changes after suffering that agonising loss to the Viola. Dario Dainelli will supersede the suspended Cesar, while Isaac Cofie and Riccardo Meggiorini will probably start at the expenses of Ezequiel Schelotto and captain Sergio Pellissier respectively. Form Guide: Juventus (D-D-W-D-W-W) Chievo (W-L-W-D-D-L) Expected Starting Xis Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Evra, Pirlo, Marchisio, Pogba, Pereyra, Tevez, Morata Chievo: Bizzarri; Frey, Dainelli, Gamberini, Zukanovic; Birsa, Izco, Cofie, Hetemaj; Paloschi, Meggiorini http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Pogba: ‘Turin is good for me’ Jan 23, 2015 Paul Pogba says ‘Turin is good for me’ amidst rumours of a move away from Juventus in the summer. The French midfielder has been linked with the likes of Chelsea, Manchester City and Real Madrid, with his agent admitting he won’t stay with the Bianconeri forever. In an interview with Juventus’ in-house television channel the 21-year-old revealed he’s been learning Spanish - but only because he’s good friends with Fernando Llorente. “Turin is very calm, and it’s good for me to relax and to focus,” Pogba explained. “I like to sit and watch TV series like The Walking Dead with [Patrice] Evra, who is my Uncle Pat. Just like in Manchester [united] there’s the French group. “Then there’s Fernando Llorente, I see him a lot. He’s my Spanish teacher. “Sometimes we go to eat with the team, and I love spending time with them. I think it’s a good thing which helps the squad stay united and that’s very important. “I’m find in Turin, I think it’s a city which keeps you focus on the job of playing football. “In Milan there are too many things to do. There are many restaurants, there’s fashion week… many things to do.” Despite being a relative youngster, Pogba has established himself as one of Juve’s key players, and the former Manchester United man puts that down to always focusing on the next target. “In my mind there are always so many targets. “For example, if we win the League again there are other goals I want to achieve. We’ve never ‘arrived’, that’s the way I am. “It’s true that the Juve players have helped me too. The environment at Juventus is always helpful for me.”

Pogba: ‘Juve can go far in Europe’ Jan 23, 2015 Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba believes the Bianconeri can ‘go far’ in the Champions League this season. The Bianconeri have dominated the domestic scene in recent years, winning three Scudetti in a row and currently sitting five points clear at the top of Serie A. However, the Old Lady have not been able to translate that form into Europe, and were eliminated last year in the Champions League group stages, before falling at the semi-final stage of the Europa League with the final in their own ground. “What are we missing?” Pogba considered in an interview with JTV, Juventus’ in-house television channel. “For every team, you also need a bit of luck. Then maybe we’re all doing very well, then suddenly two or three players get injured and everything changes. “I think we have the team to go very far. “But then in football it’s not possible to say who will win. But I know we can go very far and can do very well.” The former Manchester United man also discussed the Scudetto race, and insisted the Bianconeri are not competing with Roma, but rather with everyone. “It’s not a battle with Roma, it’s a little bit against everyone. We want to be at the top. “Now we’re at the top and we want to finish there. Continuing to be first, that’s the battle. “If we’re a great team we have to think about finishing the season, and being champions and after that we can relax. We’re not champions yet, and we still have to work hard and be better. “Chievo in the next game? That’s always a tough fixture. The next game is always a hard one, especially since we’ve just won three in a row, and that can make things even more difficult. “We know Chievo defend well, so we have to be ready. “The problem is that teams shut up shop against us, so we have to do more.” As well as Manchester United and Juventus, Pogba has played in his native France for Le Havre, and discusses the differences between Ligue 1, the Premier League and Serie A. “Starting with the French, that’s the most technical-tactical,” Pogba explained. “There’s a little bit of both things. It’s not like in England. There it’s more physical, there’s a lot of intensity and I like that aspect, as well as the culture. “In Italy it’s more tactical, the defending is better than in other Leagues. I believe that, because I’ve played in all three and I’ve seen that difference.”

JUVENTUS - CHIEVO VERONA - Sunday, January 25th, 2015 - 3:00 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Davide Massa Juventus vs. Chievo: Issues and Decisions That Will Shape Serie a Game Jan 23, 2014 Last week’s win over Hellas Verona saw Juventus reach the halfway point of the Serie A season with a five-point lead over their nearest rivals. Having also secured a berth in the Coppa Italia quarter-final with a victory over the same opponent—plus progress to the last 16 of the Champions League—the Bianconeri can reflect on a good start to 2014-15. A quirk in the schedule sees Verona’s other team, Chievo, travel to Turin this weekend, with Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri’s men hoping to add three more points to their tally. Buoyed by their first triumph in 14 years away to Napoli, the confidence of the reigning champions is currently extremely high. In contrast, their opponents sit in 17th place with the threat of relegation looming large behind them, bringing manager Rolando Maran’s job under heavy scrutiny. The coach was only appointed in October, and he has won just three of his 12 games in charge, continually struggling to earn the results they so desperately need. Over the following pages is a look at the key issues and decisions that will shape the encounter at the Juventus Stadium, looking closely at how each could affect the final result of Sunday’s match. Can Chievo Find a Way Score Against Juventus? Chievo’s biggest concern this season has been a serious lack of goals, with their attack the worst in Serie A as they have found the net just 14 times in their first 19 matches. Leading scorer Alberto Paloschi has found the back of the net just four times. The former Milan striker is showing form poor in comparison with 2013-14, and Maran needs him to improve quickly. Sunday sees them pitted against the best defence in the league, with Juventus having conceded just nine times thus far. Despite injuries forcing constant changes to the lineup, the Bianconeri back line has been consistently superb in protecting goalkeeper Gigi Buffon. However, despite the captain recording 11 clean sheets, last week’s win over Hellas was his first shutout since the 0-0 draw with Atletico Madrid in early December. Will We See Another Gem from Paul Pogba? With his name the subject of constant speculation, Juventus moved to dismiss suggestions Paul Pogba was set to leave the club. “Our intention is to buy important players and not sell them,” director Beppe Marotta told Sky Sport Italia (h/t Football Italia), and the player’s form certainly makes him vital for the Bianconeri. Pogba has scored in each of his last three outings, with his volley against Napoli sparking the team to that historic win, as discussed in depth here. Playing a key role between attack and defence, the ability of the 21-year-old is incredible to witness and should prove too much for Chievo on Sunday. Can Chievo Maintain Their Own Impressive Defensive Record? While their attack has been seriously blunt, only five teams in Serie A have conceded fewer goals than the Veronese side. Leading scorer Carlos Tevez has scored 13 times already, just once fewer than Chievo’s entire total; the Argentinian is enjoying a stellar first half to the campaign. He was on target twice in last week’s win over Hellas, and this weekend’s opponents will be concerned after seeing the Bianconeri net 10 times in those two meetings with their neighbours. Maran will hope his defence can hold the champions at bay, but in their current form, that seems an unlikely prospect. Can Other Youngsters Shine for the Bianconeri? The rise of Pogba has seen Juventus earn a reputation for believing in young players, and the playing time afforded to Alvaro Morata and Kingsley Coman reinforces that opinion. The pair have the complete faith of Allegri, with the club allowing Sebastian Giovinco’s contract to expire thanks to their performances. However, both need to improve their productivity, with the Spaniard scoring just four league goals, and his French team-mate yet to net in Serie A. He did notch his first professional strike in the Coppa Italia win over Hellas, and he will hope to add more against Chievo. Allegri has rotated the side heavily in recent weeks, meaning both can expect playing time on Sunday, but it will be up to them to capitalise on that opportunity. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - CHIEVO VERONA - Sunday, January 25th, 2015 - 3:00 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Davide Massa JUVENTUS V CHIEVO MATCH PREVIEW Jan 22, 2014 Juventus Juventus were crowned winter champions at the half way point of the season; now they have to do it all over again, starting with this weekends visit from Serie A strugglers, Chievo Verona. The Bianconeri had a brief dip in form through December but returned to winning ways in the new year with back to back victories against Hellas in the Coppa Italia and Serie A. Last weekends win against the side from Verona saw Juve stretch their undefeated home run to two years, their last league defeat at the J-Stadium coming at the hands Sampdoria way back on 6 January 2013 [33 wins and 4 draws]. There were some concerns about Gigi Buffon and Andre Pirlo who both came down with flu-like symptoms midweek but both players are believed to have returned to training. Juve were further bolstered by the return of Andrea Barzagli who completed full training sessions midweek. Juventus are expected to lineup much the same as in last weeks 4-0 win over Verona. Gigi Buffon will start in goal with Stephan Lichtsteiner and Patrice Evra playing in the full-back positions. Sky Sport Italia predicted a starting XI that included Andrea Barzagli but it’s more than likely he’ll feature from the bench if he does indeed play. Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini are most-likely to play in the centre-back positions with Claudio Marchisio expected to fill in for Andrea Pirlo in midfield. Paul Pogba and Roberto Pereyra will sit either side as part of the 3-man midfield with Arturo Vidal behind the front duo of Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente. Predicted Lineup 4-3-1-2 : Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Evra; Marchisio, Vidal, Pogba; Pereyra; Tevez, Llorente Injuries Kwadwo Asamoah and Romulo (Both undergone knee surgery), Angelo Ogbonna (Ankle), Andrea Pirlo (Flu – Recovered), Luca Marrone. Chievo Do you know about those prejudices against Chievo Verona? The ones saying that they are utterly defensive-minded and, in the end, incredibly boring? It turns out that they are mostly true, even though Rolando Maran was considered an offensive-minded coach earlier in his career. But, truth be told, they get things done when it counts as, since they finished their great climb up until Serie A, they failed only once to escape relegation. Predictably, they have the worst attack in the League, as they scored only fourteen goals so far. On the other end, they have conceded only 22 goals, ranking fourth in Serie A, behind Juventus (9), Roma (14), Torino (21) and tied with Lazio and Milan. Their matches are very uneventful. They are in 17th position, two points above Cagliari that occupy the final relegation spot. On the road, they aren’t particularly bad: they have collected 11 points in nine matches, winning thrice, drawing twice and losing four matches. They play a basic 4-4-2. The only unavailable player is the Bostjan Cesar. Maran is set to field Nicolas Frey, Dario Dainelli, Andrea Gamberini and Ermin Zukanovic in the defense. Both fullbacks are capable of playing as centre-backs and this tells the whole story about the solidity of their back four. With the return of the starter Ivan Radovanovic from an injury, the coach has a number of options at his disposal in the midfield: Hetemaj-Izco-Radovanovic-Birsa is the most likely combo, Izco-Cofie-Radovanovic-Birsa the most defensive one, which can’t be discarded in this scenario, Schelotto-Izco-Hetemaj-Birsa the most offensive solution. Maxi Lopez has just left without being replaced, but Maran can use any combination of Alberto Paloschi, Riccardo Meggiorini and Sergio Pellissier. Ruben Botta has spent time has second-striker too, he could be a tactical weapon against Pirlo. Of course, it’s always possible that they’ll alter their usual scheme going with a more defensive solution: Maran is quite familiar with 3-5-2. Their two main weapons, if we can call them that way, are playing on the flanks (but they don’t have a tower waiting for crosses in the box) and feeding the strikers with long balls as they try to beat the offside trap: Paloschi is very good at doing that and Pellissier is experienced. Their midfield is very dynamic, they are mostly hustlers and there isn’t much creativity there. All things considered, the biggest challenge for Juventus will be finding the first goal. They are in a complicated situation considering their position in the table, but they are not yet in “desperate” mode. In the first match of the season, Juventus dominated in all phases of the game, scoring early with an own-goal by Cristian Biraghi, but failed to close the game and Chievo did have a chance to equalize with Maxi Lopez but Buffon was, as always, superb. Predicted Lineup: 4-4-2: Bizzarri, Frey, Dainelli, Gamberini, Zukanovic; Hetemaj, Izco, Radovanovic, Birsa; Paloschi, Meggiorini Injuries: Bostjan Cesar Formation http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - CHIEVO VERONA - Sunday, January 25th, 2015 - 3:00 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Davide Massa Flu bug hits Juventus Jan 22, 2014 Flu is spreading in the Juventus squad, as Andrea Pirlo and Gigi Buffon have been taken ill. The pair were left out of today’s training session as they have come down with flu symptoms. The goalkeeper was diagnosed first, but it appears to have spread to the veteran midfielder too. There was some good news for the Bianconeri, as Andrea Barzagli returned to training with the group yesterday and today had the entire session with his teammates. Defender Barzagli is yet to play this season due to a recurring Achilles tendon problem. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Chelsea readying Pogba bid? Jan 22, 2015 English Premier League side Chelsea are said to be preparing a €52m bid for Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba. The Frenchman signed a new contract with the Bianconeri in October, but that hasn’t quelled speculation that the French international will leave the Italian champions this summer. According to the Daily Express, Chelsea are ready to test Juve’s resolve, offering a fee of around €52m, plus Andre Schurrle and possible John Obi Mikel. The newspaper reports that Blues manager Jose Mourinho is already looking to strengthen the squad at Stamford Bridge for next year, but will offer a cash plus players deal to comply with Financial Fair Play rules.

No Paul Pogba-Marco Verratti swap deal with PSG and Juventus - agent Jan 21, 2015 Marco Verratti's agent has insisted his client will not serve as a makeweight should Paris Saint-Germain attempt to move for Juventus' Paul Pogba. Italian media have reported Pogba, 21, is a high priority target for PSG, who are apparently keen to bolster their midfield with the France international. The former Manchester United youngster's arrival at the Parc des Princes could be eased should Verratti, 22, agree to move in the opposite direction where Juve are known admirers of the Italy international. However, the player's agent, Donato Di Campli, told Tele Radio Stereo 92.7 that Verratti would not be included in any deal other than a potential transfer of his own out of the French capital. He said: "Everyone says good things about Marco. I have to emphasise that, with all the respect I have for Pogba, Marco is not a makeweight for anyone. "If someone decides to knock on PSG's door, they have to do so exclusively to talk about Verratti and strike a deal with the French club without thinking about including him in any sort of talks for another player." Verratti, who arrived at PSG on a five-year deal as a relative unknown from Pescara in 2012, has signed two contract extensions with the French champions, the most recent of which last September, tying him to PSG until 2019.

The Bianconeri’s new blood Now at the halfway point of the Serie A season, Luca Cetta assesses the early impact of Juventus’ summer signings. Jan 21, 2014 Juventus are not getting carried away just yet, but acknowledge they are in good shape to retain their crown with 19 games played. The Bianconeri have been led to top spot – five points clear of Roma – by members of the old guard, the likes of Carlos Tevez, Leonardo Bonucci and Claudio Marchisio, with championship medals already in their possession. Tevez was the big-name signing of last season, but nobody of his stature arrived at Vinovo this time around. Rather, the policy was to bolster the squad and add depth with players who can challenge the established contingent. When asked about the new brigade before last week’s Coppa Italia clash with Verona, Massimiliano Allegri responded: “Our new signings have been good.” With six months in Turin under their belt, here’s a look at each of the five arrivals. Roberto Pereyra has made the most appearances, 24, of the new breed and only five players have been fielded more often than El Tucumano in all competitions. He’s featured in various midfield roles, shining brightest in taking up a position behind the strikers. The Argentine has proven a solid option and versatile figure. With 12 Serie A starts under his belt he has the tactician’s faith. Adding goals to his repertoire – as has been the case in recent days – will only boost his standing. On loan from Udinese, Pereyra’s move can be made permanent in July and it would not be a surprise to see a deal negotiated. One question is whether spending up to €14m on his signature will enhance the Old Lady in the Champions League, where she strives to improve each season. Pereyra has started just once in Europe. Alvaro Morata, meanwhile, arrived fresh from Real Madrid’s European triumph, but didn’t see much game time in the Spanish capital. This season has followed a similar pattern, with the 22-year-old locked in an Iberian battle with Fernando Llorente for the right to partner Tevez. The nod has often gone to the former Athletic Bilbao man. Morata’s start against Verona was just his sixth. From the bench Morata – four League goals – has proven an impact player, providing energy and a goal threat in limited playing time. Allegri sees a talented and decisive player, but one who needs to exhibit greater consistency to become a regular starter: “Morata has extraordinary technique. He arrived from a huge club like Real Madrid, but didn’t play much there, so this is a very different season for him... He needs to be a little less frenetic and also realise that he has to be in a game for over 90 minutes.” Patrice Evra ended an eight-and-a-half-season stay at Manchester United to join Juventus, returning to the country where he commenced his professional career. ‘Uncle Pat’ took time to adjust as the Bianconeri initially kept to the 3-5-2 formation of seasons past. He traded the left wing-back position with Kwadwo Asamoah, but with Juve’s switch to a four man defence and the Ghanaian’s injury is the undisputed choice at left back. With consistent game time under his belt in a position of comfort the veteran has improved. At 33, Evra is only a short-term option and it’s a position Juventus will likely add to in the summer, but he has valuable experience to offer, especially in Europe. Countryman Kingsley Coman has enjoyed a positive start to life in Turin. Signed on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain, summer reports spoke glowingly of the 18-year-old. Bianconeri fans got the chance to see what the fuss was about on the opening day against Chievo as Coman was thrust into the starting line-up. He responded with an encouraging debut. His Coppa goal was a first career strike and perhaps a sign of things to come from the promising talent. Coman has pace and can be a handful for opponents. He can only get better as he continues to adapt and grow. Lastly, Romulo’s season has not panned out so well. He arrived from Verona a jack-of-all-trades type, but thanks to injury has worn the black and white just three times. If Pereyra’s move is a good chance of becoming permanent, the same cannot be said for the Italo-Brazilian. Contrasting fortunes, then, for the quintet. Six months into the journey the overall sentiment surrounding their impact is one of positivity. The players will want to use the remaining months of the season to further their worth. As they head towards the Scudetto, Juve know the new blood has played its part.

MANCHESTER UNITED MAKE €80M FOR PAUL POGBA Jan 21, 2015 Manchester United have made an €80m bid for Paul Pogba to join them in summer, according to La Stampa. La Stampa journalist Massimiliano Nerozzi tweeted earlier today that the English club had made an offer to Juventus by way of the player’s agent, Mino Raiola, who was spotted at the Bianconeri headquarters in Vinovo yesterday. According to the report, Pogba is the subject of a bidding war between Manchester rivals City and United with PSG in the background while Real Madrid are not thought to be interested in the French midfielder. La Stampa also suggest a move to United would earn Pogba wages close to €9m, a significant rise on his current €4.5m salary at Juventus. Tuttosport also report on the meeting and suggest a bid in the region of €90-100m for Pogba was discussed, but also on the agenda was Borussia Dortmund’s Mkhitaryan who Juventus are pressing to sign. Dortmund, however, are blocking the move given their €27.5m investment in the player.

Agent: ’Tevez talks in a year’ Jan 20, 2015 Carlos Tevez’s agent says discussions over his Juventus contract will not take place before next year. The striker has previously stated that he may not renew his contract, which expires at the end of next season, with a view to returning to Argentina and Boca Juniors. “The topic of Carlos’ contractual situation will be addressed in a year, not before that,” Kia Joorabchian is reported as saying by Tuttomercatoweb. “Then we’ll see. Carlitos has told me that at the moment he only wants to concentrate on the Scudetto, the Champions League and everything he can win with Juventus. “Tevez really wants to win everything, two more League titles with Juventus, and of course the Champions League, which is his dream.”

An Argument for Why Juventus Must Not Tie Carlos Tevez to a New Deal Jan 20, 2015 While spending time in Argentina during the Christmas break, Carlos Tevez discussed his situation with Juventus and made a number of comments that quickly found their way back to Italy. Far from the kind of outburst with which he was previously synonymous, the 30-year-old made a simple and calm statement of intent. "I'm not thinking of signing an extension because that’s not how I feel at the moment," Tevez told reporters in his homeland per FourFourTwo. "As I always said, my idea is to complete my contract. Everyone knows I said so from the moment I arrived at Juve.” It quickly became headline news across the peninsula, so central has Tevez become to the Turin side since his arrival in June 2013. Indeed, when looking for a transfer that can claim to have had the most impact on a club in recent seasons, the £10 million switch Tevez made from Manchester City must rank highly on any list. Netting a staggering 38 goals in all competitions for the Bianconeri thus far, he narrowly trailed Ciro Immobile as Serie A’s leading scorer in 2013-14, finishing just three behind the Italian. He is also currently top of the charts this term, already weighing in with 13 goals and five assists, making himself indispensable to the reigning champions and striking fear into defences across the peninsula. There is little doubt he is the club’s most valuable player, capable of winning games almost single-handedly and helping Massimiliano Allegri’s side win matches that would otherwise end as draws. The value of Tevez cannot be reduced simply to his goal tally either, he possesses an infectious work rate that has spread throughout the squad since his arrival in Turin. While he averages just 0.8 tackles and 0.1 interceptions per game, according to statistics from WhoScored.com, his effort is plain to see, and a number of other players have followed his example. The likes of Paul Pogba, Roberto Pereyra and Kingsley Coman follow the lead of Tevez, who has been a model professional since landing in Italy. Asked about possibly resting his star striker for the Super Cup clash with Napoli last month, Allegri underlined the role played by the Argentinean. “He's clearly not 100 percent fit at the moment,” the coach noted, per the club’s official website. “But he's such a big player he can still make the difference at any time.” The prospect of losing Tevez right now is unthinkable, yet it would also be a mistake for the Old Lady to commit to him for a longer period. There are still 18 months remaining on his current deal, by which time he will have turned 32 and is likely to have played over 700 games as a professional, inevitably leading to a serious amount of wear and tear. It seems impossible to ignore the fact Juventus would receive increasingly diminishing returns on any investment, and the player’s desire to return to the club he loves cannot be underestimated. Wishing to end his career back where it all began, Tevez first joined Boca Juniors back in 1997 and started a love affair with the blue and gold which burns passionately to this day. It is a mutual feeling, too, with the Bocas' Daniel Angelici repeatedly stating his aim of bringing the striker back to La Bombonera. “Over a year and half, things can change. But right now his idea is [Tevez will return next year],” the president told giornalaccio rosa Dello Sports (h/t Goal.com) recently, understanding the position of both the player and his current club. As we have seen in the past, there seems to be little sense in attempting to stand in Tevez’s way, and having already stated his intention to honour his current deal, the Bianconeri could coax a superb final season in Europe from the former Manchester United star. Losing him now would obviously be catastrophic for the grand Old Lady of Italian football, but 18 months is an eternity in football. With the likes of Kingsley Coman, Alvaro Morata and Simone Zaza waiting to be passed the torch by the summer of 2016, her future is comfortably secure. By then, Juventus can thank Carlos Tevez for three incredible years of service, and wave him off into the Buenos Aires sunset as he returns home.

Juventus should sell Pogba, advises Lippi The Italian was forced to sell Zinedine Zidane to Real Madrid for €75 million in 2001, but successfully reinvested in the side and says the same thing could happen again. Jan 20, 2015 Former Juventus boss Marcello Lippi believes it would benefit the Serie A champions in the long term if they were to cash in on Paul Pogba. Lippi has admitted that it would be a big blow for the Turin giants if they were to lose the France international, but feels they would eventually become a stronger team if they re-invest the transfer fee they receive for the 21-year-old, much like when they sold Zinedine Zidane to Real Madrid in 2001. "Of course, it would be a big sacrifice to lose Pogba, but selling him would generate enough money to buy three or four great players to help improve the team," Lippi told Sky Sport 24. "When I returned to Juventus in 2001, I got a call that the club were going to sell Zidane. He was the best player of the world, but Madrid were paying €75 million. "The club told me to remain calm and that they would reinvest all the money in the squad. "We eventually signed Gianluigi Buffon, Lilian Thuram and Pavel Nedved and continued to win silverware." Pogba has been a key figure for Juventus this season, scoring five goals in 16 Serie A appearances. He recently signed a new contract with the Italian champions until June 2019, but clubs such as Real Madrid, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly monitoring his situation in Turin.

Tevez wants Champions League glory with Juventus, says agent The attacker's representative has stressed his main focus for now is winning silverware rather than discussing a contract renewal. Jan 20, 2015 Carlos Tevez dreams of winning the Champions League with Juventus but won't discuss a new contract for at least another 12 months, according to his agent. The Argentina international's existing deal with the Serie A champions is due to expire in June 2016 and Tevez stressed earlier this week that he has yet to make a decision about his future. His agent Kia Joorabchian has now added that the 30-year-old is focused on winning silverware for now and will consider his options at some stage next season. "Carlos will deal with the contractual issue in a year or so and no sooner. We will see what happens then," Joorabchian told Tuttosport. "He has told me that he wants to focus on winning the Scudetto again and the Champions League. He wants to win all competitions Juventus take part in. "Tevez really wants to win it all during his time at Juventus. It is his dream to win the Champions League. "He has told me that he is feeling very well in Turin and so is his family. He is feeling right at home at Juventus. The fans love him and that's important to him as well." Tevez has been a key performer for Juventus this campaign, scoring 13 goals in 18 Serie A appearances.

Zidane on Pogba: The best always join Madrid The Frenchman is adamant he hasn't spoken to his compatriot about joining the club but hinted a future move for the player is inevitable. Jan 20, 2015 Zinedine Zidane says "the best players always join Real Madrid in the end" after being quizzed over the club's reported interest in Juventus star Paul Pogba. Juve director general Giuseppe Marotta admitted on Monday that the club could struggle to hold on to the 21-year-old because of the wages on offer at Europe's wealthiest clubs. He also revealed that Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti's had already approached him regarding the France midfielder and said the Italian was telling 'white lies' after denying any interest in the player. Zidane, who is now in charge of the club's Castilla side, himself insists he has made no attempt to convince his compatriot to move to Spain, but wouldn't be surprised to see a transfer unfold. He told AS: "I have not tried to convince Pogba to join Real Madrid because I don't know him on a personal level. "But the best players always go to Madrid in the end." If he was to join the club, Pogba would find competition in the form of Isco, who has emerged as one of Madrid's best performers this season. Zidane has watched the Spain international at close quarters and paid him the ultimate compliment by comparing the 22-year-old to himself during his playing days. "Isco is a bit like me on a technical level," Zidane was quoted as saying by AS. "The fans are loving him and he is going through a special moment. "He is a first-team regular at the moment and he has proven to be a great buy."

http://www.tuttosport.com/foto/Calcio/Serie%20A/Juventus/2015/01/18-88322_0/FOTO+Tevez%2C+Pogba+e+Pereyra%2C+festa+Juve+allo+Stadium http://www.zimbio.com/pictures/gSHNZ99kXgf/Juventus+FC+v+Hellas+Verona+FC/ciUWdX2jqFE

Marotta praises Allegri Jan 19, 2015 Juventus director general Giuseppe Marotta has praised Coach Max Allegri, and outlines the club’s goals for the season. Allegri replaced Antonio Conte on the Bianconeri bench this summer, and has since guided the Old Lady to the Champions League Last 16 and has established a five point lead at the top of Serie A. “It was very hard,” Marotta recalled of Conte’s departure in an interview with Sky. “We ended up with this mutual termination with Conte on July 15 when the season had practically started, so obviously there were enormous difficulties, especially if we remember the legacy of three Scudetti, meaning he wasn’t easy to replace. “However, today Allegri has partially succeeded in the club’s aims, we’re the winter champions, in the next round of the Champions League and we hope and wish to be part of the final reckoning in May. “He’s a man with great professionalism, and a calmness which has allowed him to overcome great difficulties, he’s a winning Coach like Conte. “Allegri has led with tranquility this season, supported by the club and supported by a group of players who are winners both on and off the field. “We’re winter champions but that’s a largely meaningless title. The important thing is to be top at the end of the season and get onto the winner’s podium in May. “So, we take the title of winter champions, aware that we’ve shown in the first half of the season that we have a tight-knit squad and a very good Coach.”

JUVENTUS - HELLAS VERONA 4 - 0 Paul Pogba (3') Carlos Tévez (7') Roberto Pereyra (66') Carlos Tévez (74') Sunday, January 18th, 2015 - 20:45 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Massimiliano Irrati Llorente: ‘Every game is difficult’ Jan 19, 2014 Fernando Llorente warns that Juventus cannot afford to get complacent after extending their lead at the top of Serie A. The Bianconeri eased past Verona last night, which allowed the champions to go five points clear of nearest rivals Roma who drew at Palermo on Saturday night. “It was very important for us,” Llorente told Sky of last night’s win. “Now we’re five points ahead, but there’s a long way to go in the League, because Roma have shown they’re a great team. “However, we have to concentrate on ourselves and keep going. We have to be at our best, because every game is difficult, and if you let your guard down for even a moment it can be dangerous. “The Champions League? There are some things we have to improve, like all teams, but I think we’re on the right track.
 “I think that when you get to this stage [the Last 16] you’re playing at the highest level.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Ancelotti telling a 'white lie' over Pogba - Marotta The European champions' boss says they are not interested in the France international but a senior official at the Bianconeri claims he is being disingenuous. Jan 19, 2015 Juventus general director Giuseppe Marotta has accused Carlo Ancelotti of telling a "white lie" and claims Real Madrid are interested in Paul Pogba. The Juve star has been heavily linked with a move away from Serie A in recent months with Madrid one of the few clubs who could put together a financial package big enough to tempt him from Turin. Ancelotti, though, has ruled out the possibility of his side making a move for the highly-rated France international, insisting they have no interest in bringing him to the Spanish capital. "I think Pogba is a great player," he told Sky Italia. "He can play in any team in the world, but not for Real Madrid because he is not a player who interests us." However, Marotta insists the Madrid boss is telling a "white lie", claiming Ancelotti has already approached Juve to ask about the former Manchester United midfielder. "Ancelotti asked me some questions about Pogba," he said to Sky Italia. "He says he's not interested? Well, that's a white lie. I'm sure he has his reasons to say it's not true." Marotta stressed Juventus will do all they can to ensure the player stays at Juve for as long as possible, but is realistic over the potential salary the midfielder could command elsewhere. "We will do everything within out limits to hold on to Pogba, but we must not forget Italy is a country in transition," Marotta added. "The problem we have is that of offers coming in from other clubs offering him a salary that we are not able to match due to our financial situation. "At the moment, there's no reason to believe that Pogba will definitely leave Juventus for another team, but we have to bear in mind that we cannot compete with the wages that are being paid elsewhere. We have our limits."

Conte to visit Juventus Jan 19, 2015 Giuseppe Marotta confirms Antonio Conte will return to Juventus this week - for a visit in his role as Italy CT. Conte spent three seasons on the Juventus bench, guiding the Bianconeri to the Scudetto in each of those seasons, and achieving a record points total last year. However, the former midfielder dramatically quit the club in pre-season, before taking up the role as Azzurri CT. The Coach has been visiting Serie A clubs throughout the season, and will this week make a return to Vinovo. “This week will see him [Conte] at Vinovo again,” the Juventus director general confirmed. “It will be Thursday or Friday. “The relationship with Conte is great, and we really want to help his work with the national team. However, we have a lot of commitments on our calendar.” Conte has requested more time for Italy training camps, but it is thought that Juventus will refuse to release their players.

JUVENTUS - HELLAS VERONA 4 - 0 Paul Pogba (3') Carlos Tévez (7') Roberto Pereyra (66') Carlos Tévez (74') Sunday, January 18th, 2015 - 20:45 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Massimiliano Irrati Four-star Juventus show Serie A why they're the team to beat Jan 19, 2014 Hellas Verona, for all their stunning performances last season, succumbed to Juventus for the second time in a week as they lost 4-0 in Turin on Sunday night. History has not been on their side as they have yet to achieve a victory in Juve's home in the league. A draw was the dream but instead they proved incapable of even providing a challenge. It took the Bianconeri a grand total of six minutes to go 2-0 up, leaving their opponent both physically and psychologically broken. Despite the change of formation and the deployment of Luca Toni on the pitch, Verona looked intimidated and insecure and failed to work as a unit to adequately restrict Juve's attacking game. Andrea Mandorlini's defence was shambolic and guilty of a series of errors that were embarrassing to say the least. Mediocrity would have pierced that defence let alone the majesty of Juve's attack. While the Bianconeri are often forced to overcome a goalkeeper playing the game of his life against them, Verona's Rafael made life that much easier for the champions of Italy. Both in the Coppa Italia and on Sunday evening, he could have done better on certain goals, and while his defence let him down, he ought to take responsibility for his role in this simple home win. The Old Lady, on the other hand, looked self-assured and confident, pushing in numbers and having as many as five players in the box in their attacks. They still ran a few risks defensively but certain players are doing well to make the most of their opportunities and deserve to be commended. This blog hasn't always been kind to Alvaro Morata, because he has disappointed in the Bianconeri jersey despite his undoubted potential. His needy approach to the game and obsession with scoring has hindered Juve's attacking flair and affected his status within the team. To be fair to him, this blog similarly criticised Carlos Tevez for doing the same on occasions last season and especially in Champions League matches. He has since learned how to play to the rhythm of the team, proving himself to be Juve's greatest asset. Against Verona, Morata understood sacrifice that bit more. Not only was he happy to roam and stretch the attack, offering the mobility required of a centre forward, but he demonstrated his technique while making the right decisions -- something he has struggled with in the past. He looked to help the team and was defended rather well. His relationship with Tevez needs to improve still and the Spaniard needs to look up more without surrendering to impulse so quickly. Nonetheless, on a night where he was asked to lead the line, he played a game worthy of his reputation. Yet the Spaniard was not the only one who impressed. Martin Caceres played well while Roberto Pereyra is proving he can finish. Claudio Marchisio is another worthy of praise and his intelligence and dedication to the cause never ceases to impress. Not only did he provide an immaculate assist for Juve's fourth goal but the manner in which he passed and then took up a perfect position in case there was a cut back demonstrated his understanding of the game. Whether it be defending, attacking or initiating counter-attacks, he makes an impact. As does Giorgio Chiellini, who fans often take for granted. Yet despite the beauty of the Juve's game, it's important to note that their task was made easier by an opponent who was so feeble in defence. Chiellini will not be allowed to waltz so freely into the final third without so much as a shove in other games, nor will other teams collapse so easily when faced with skilful players. Juventus played a great game but considering the circumstances, anything other than a resounding victory would have been deemed a failure. While confidence has grown and momentum can be achieved, coach Massimiliano Allegri still has to concentrate on creating a side that reacts to pressure. Allowed all the time in the world to surge in numbers and Juventus will dominate, as they did against Verona. However, the sides that have played a well-executed pressing game while maintaining a compact unit have frustrated the champions, proving they have yet to understand how to overcome this obstacle -- something that has led to poor showings in Europe. Juventus, with the best defence and attack statistics in the league, have proven they're the best in Serie A -- at least until this point. If they continue to play with intensity and take the opportunity to learn from their mistakes, they are bound for more glory. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - HELLAS VERONA 4 - 0 Paul Pogba (3') Carlos Tévez (7') Roberto Pereyra (66') Carlos Tévez (74') Sunday, January 18th, 2015 - 20:45 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Massimiliano Irrati Roma losing sight of Juve Juventus stormed into a five-point lead at the top as Roma’s title challenge begins to stutter, writes Alasdair Mackenzie. Jan 19, 2014 Within the space of a week the Scudetto race has changed dramatically, as Juventus displayed their ruthlessness and Roma their fragility. A 3-1 win away to Napoli last weekend could well be looked back upon as the decisive moment of this season for the Bianconeri, as they not only overcame a rival but also a long-standing poor record at the San Paolo. But if anybody had thought this might result in complacency as they took on Hellas Verona twice in 72 hours between Coppa Italia and Serie A, they were proved emphatically wrong. Andrea Mandorlini has endured a torrid week at the hands of Massimiliano Allegri and his troops, conceding 10 goals in the space of four days against two differing Juve line-ups. Their combination of strength in depth and consistency makes it hard to bet against the Old Lady securing a fourth consecutive title, as the likes of Sebastian Giovinco, Roberto Pereyra and Kingsley Coman have all been staking their claim in the last few days. The upcoming Champions League commitments against Borussia Dortmund offer a potential distraction, particularly as their second clash with Roma arrives between the two legs against the Germans. But Roma will need to sort out their own problems first before they can rely upon Juventus making mistakes. The Giallorossi had to come back from behind for the second time in a row in their 1-1 draw with Palermo, with a Davide Astori error leading to Paulo Dybala taking the lead within only two minutes. Although they managed to recover, like they had in last weekend’s derby, courtesy of Mattia Destro’s equaliser, it was the capital club’s fourth draw in the last six games and the failure to pick up three points more regularly has cost them. The problems appear to be two-pronged. The defence, so recently praised as the cornerstone of the Lupi title challenge, was pulled apart by Lazio last weekend before Astori’s error ultimately led to the draw in Sicily. Up front, Destro scored his first goal in three months against Palermo. The over-reliance of the fairly immobile Francesco Totti to lead the line has been particularly evident in the absence of the pacey Gervinho, who is away on Africa Cup of Nations duty. The Giallorossi are being outscored in Serie A not only by Juventus but also by Napoli and Lazio, and Palermo themselves have only hit the target one less time than Rudi Garcia’s men despite being in 10th place. The French Coach must extract some fluency from his side again if they are to emerge from the cold winter months with a title shot, and his priorities must be to re-focus his defence and create better attacking cohesion in the absence of their Ivorian winger. Just below the title chasers, there was a huge moment in the Champions League battle as Napoli overcame an injury-plagued Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico thanks to Gonzalo Higuain’s early goal. The win means they leapfrog the Aquile into third, where they are joined by Sampdoria, who beat Parma 2-0 to sustain their challenge. Fiorentina’s dramatic late winner against Chievo has put the Viola within three points of third place as well and there was a thriller at Marassi as Genoa and Sassuolo played out a 3-3 draw. There weren’t any thrills to be had at San Siro however, as Milan were beaten 1-0 by Atalanta to plunge the Rossoneri into crisis. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111