Socrates

Allegri: 'Nice balanced Juve group' Aug 28, 2014 Max Allegri thinks Juventus have a “nice and balanced” Champions League group with Atletico Madrid, Olympiacos and Malmo. The Bianconeri were placed in Group A with last season’s beaten Finalists. “There’s a nice and balanced group for us with fiery venues at Atletico Madrid and Olympiacos.” Milan went out to Atletico Madrid in the Round of 16 last season, but Allegri had already been fired before those fixtures and replaced by Clarence Seedorf.

Juve-Atletico Madrid- Olympiakos-Malmö Aug 28, 2014 Juventus will face Atletico Madrid, Olympiacos and Malmo while Roma enter the Group of Death with Bayern Munich, Manchester City and CSKA in the Champions League. The draw for the tournament was held this evening at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco. Max Allegri’s Bianconeri face last season’s beaten Finalists and Liga victors Atletico Madrid, who are coached by ex-Inter and Lazio star Diego Simeone. They also take on Champions of Greece Olympiacos and Swedes Malmo. Roma enter the undoubted Group of Death with Bayern Munich (including Mehdi Benatia), Manchester City and CSKA Moscow. Ciro Immobile’s Borussia Dortmund are in Group D with Arsenal and Cesare Prandelli’s Galatasaray. Mario Balotelli’s Liverpool have a tough Group B with Real Madrid, Basel and Bulgarian fairytale team Ludogorets. Zlatan Ibrahimovic – and Italian teammates Marco Verratti, Salvatore Sirigu and Thiago Motta – will be in action at the Camp Nou, as PSG are in with Barcelona, Ajax and Cyprus side APOEL. The group phase begins on September 16-17 and terminates on December 9-10. There were only two Serie A sides involved, as Napoli lost their play-off 4-2 on aggregate to Athletic Bilbao. Juve were second seeds, while Roma’s absence from top European competition since 2010-11 saw them relegated to the fourth pot. Group A Atletico Madrid (ESP) JUVENTUS (ITA) Olympiacos (GRE) Malmo (SWE) Group B Real Madrid (ESP) Basel (SWI) Liverpool (ENG) Ludogorets (BUL) Group C Benfica (POR) Zenit (RUS) Bayer Leverkusen (GER) Monaco (FRA) Group D Arsenal (ENG) Borussia Dortmund (GER) Galatasaray (TUR) Anderlecht (BEL) Group E Bayern Munich (GER) Manchester City (ENG) CSKA Moscow (RUS) ROMA (ITA) Group F Barcelona (ESP) PSG (FRA) Ajax (NED) APOEL (CYP) Group G Chelsea (ENG) Schalke (GER) Sporting Lisbon (POR) Maribor (SLO) Group H Porto (POR) Shakhtar Donetsk (UKR) Athletic Bilbao (ESP) BATE Borisov (BLR)

CHIEVO VERONA - JUVENTUS - Saturday, August 30, 2014 6:00 PM Stadio Marc'Antonio Bentegodi — Verona Referee:‬ Carmine Russo Pirlo out for a month Aug 28, 2014 Juventus have confirmed that tests carried out on Andrea Pirlo have ruled him out of action for up to 30 days. The midfielder was seen as a doubt for this weekend’s season opener at Chievo having picked up a knock during last weekend’s Trofeo TIM. Again absent from training this morning, the Bianconeri have now confirmed the full extent to the player’s issue, revealed in tests. Confirming the news in a statement, Juve report that as the result of a blow to the hip suffered during the Trofeo TIM, the 35-year-old underwent an MRI that highlighted a strain in his rectus femoris - thigh muscle - that will require 30 days for ‘complete functional recovery’. The player will enter into a specific rehabilitation training programme and also be subject to follow-up tests on the injury in 15 days’ time. It rules Pirlo out of potentially Juventus’ first five Serie A fixtures, at least the first matchday in the Champions League group stage and also contention for Italy’s first squad under Antonio Conte, to be announced this weekend. The injury heightens Max Allegri’s selection issues ahead of his competitive debut on the Juve bench, as he is already without Alvaro Morata, Arturo Vidal, Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini for Week 1. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Lacazette earns France recall as Deschamps preserves Evra The coach has made only a couple of changes to the side that travelled to Brazil in the summer, with the Lyon forward replacing Olivier Giroud in his 23-man panel. Aug 28, 2014 France coach Didier Deschamps has resisted the urge to experiment too greatly in his side’s forthcoming friendlies against Serbia and Spain but has offered Lyon forward Alexandre Lacazette a recall to the side while preserving 33-year-old Patrice Evra. The former Juventus and Marseille boss has named a 23-man panel for the two encounters next month, which also includes Steve Mandanda, who missed out on the World Cup due to a neck problem. Deschamps has not used the World Cup as a watershed moment for veteran left-back Evra, as he feels the ex-Monaco star could still be available when Euro 2016 comes around. “Evra was competitive during the World Cup,” the coach explained. “After eight years with Manchester United he is with Juventus, so I’m not the only one who thinks he remains competitive. “No one can know what level he will be at in two years’ time. But I can bring in other players to that post if I need to.” Deschamps has decided to stick closely to the side that travelled to the World Cup in the summer, with only two alterations made. Lacazette is in for the injured Olivier Giroud, while Mandanda takes the place of the retired Mickael Landreau. Franck Ribery and Eric Abidal have both announced their decision to quit the international game recently, while Samir Nasri had previously ruled himself out of selection. Goalkeepers: Steve Mandanda (Marseille), Hugo Lloris (Lyon), Ruffier (Saint-Etienne) Defenders: Mathieu Debuchy (Arsenal), Lucas Digne (PSG), Patrice Evra (Juventus), Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal), Eliaquim Mangala (Manchester City), Bacary Sagna (Manchester City), Mamadou Sakho (Liverpool), Raphael Varane (Real Madrid) Midfielders: Yohan Cabaye (PSG), Blaise Matuidi (PSG), Rio Mavuba (Lille), Paul Pogba (Juventus), Morgan Schneiderlin (Southampton), Moussa Sissoko (Newcastle) Forwards: Karim Benzema (Real Madrid), Remy Cabella (Newcastle), Antoine Griezmann (Atletico Madrid), Alexandre Lacazette (Lyon), Loic Remy (QPR), Mathieu Valbuena (Dinamo Moscow)

Juventus without injured Pirlo for a month The midfielder is set to miss at least five Bianconeri games, along will a pair of Italy clashes, after he pulled a tendon this month. Aug 28, 2014 Juventus will be without veteran midfielder Andrea Pirlo for around a month after he sustained a hip injury in last weekend's Trofeo TIM pre-season tournament. An MRI has confirmed that the 35-year-old has pulled a tendon in his hip and is set to miss the first four or five Serie A games of the new season, as well as the first Champions League group stage game of 2014-15. The Bianconeri kick off their title defence on Saturday against Chievo Verona but Massimiliano Allegri will have to rely on others to get his debut season in charge off to a solid start, though he is already set to be without Arturo Vidal, Giorgio Chiellini, Andrea Barzagli and Alvaro Morata. The former AC Milan talisman featured 45 times under Antonio Conte in 2013-14 and has helped to navigate Juventus to three successive Scudetti since his arrival in 2011 from San Siro. Pirlo is yet to confirm if he will retire from the national team, which Conte now coaches, but he will definitely not be involved in Italy's upcoming internationals in early September against Netherlands (a friendly) and Norway (a Euro 2016 qualifier).

Juve & Roma await Champions draw Aug 28, 2014 Juventus and Roma will today learn their opponents for the Group stage of the 2014-15 Champions League. Today’s draw in Monaco, set to begin at 4.45pm UK time, will pair the 32 qualified clubs together into eight groups of four teams. Determined by coefficient rankings, clubs are separated into four seeding pots and each group will contain one team from each pot - teams cannot be drawn against others from the same pot, nor against teams from the same country. Following Napoli’s Play-off round defeat to Athletic Bilbao over two legs, Italy has two representatives in this afternoon’s draw - Juventus and Roma. Juve, who were eliminated at the Group stage of the competition last year before going on to reach the semi-finals of the Europa League, are placed in Pot 2. Roma, who are making a return to the competition after three years away, are in Pot 4 and risk a tough draw today. Champions League draw Pot 1: Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Benfica, Atletico Madrid, Arsenal, Porto Pot 2: Schalke 04, Borussia Dortmund, JUVENTUS, PSG, Shakhtar Donetsk, Basel, Zenit, Manchester City Pot 3: Bayer Leverkusen, Olympiacos, CSKA Moscow, Ajax, Liverpool, Sporting Lisbon, Galatasaray, Athletic Bilbao Pot 4: Anderlecht, ROMA, Ludogorets, APOEL, BATE Borisov, Maribor, Monaco, Malmo

Champions League draw set Aug 27, 2014 Juventus are second seeds in tomorrow's Champions League draw, but Roma are pushed down to fourth. This evening’s results set the scene for the draw and unfortunately Napoli will not be a part of it, as they lost the play-off 4-2 on aggregate to Athletic Bilbao. It leaves only two Italian sides in the group phase and is the fourth time in five years that a Serie A representative has gone out in the preliminary round. Steaua Bucharest and Ludogorets went to extra time, but the Bulgarians thanked a heroic performance from Cosmin Moti to qualify. With their goalkeeper sent off, centre-back Moti went in goal for the penalty shoot-out and incredibly saved two spot-kicks. Pot 1 Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Benfica, Atletico Madrid, Arsenal, Porto Pot 2 Schalke 04, Borussia Dortmund, JUVENTUS, PSG, Shakhtar Donetsk, Basel, Zenit, Manchester City Pot 3 Bayer Leverkusen, Olympiacos, CSKA Moscow, Ajax, Liverpool, Sporting Lisbon, Galatasaray, Athletic Bilbao Pot 4 Anderlecht, ROMA, Ludogorets, APOEL, BATE Borisov, Maribor, Monaco, Malmo

Juve: No Lichtsteiner for Shaqiri Aug 27, 2014 There are reports Bayern Munich wanted to give Juventus Xherdan Shaqiri, but they refused to hand over Stephan Lichtsteiner. According to Sky Sport Italia, Swiss international Shaqiri was prepared to make the move to Turin and Bayern were also open to the proposal. However, negotiations hit a brick wall when Bayern Munich requested full-back Lichtsteiner as part of the deal. Juventus replied with a clear no, refusing to part with their ‘Swiss Express.’ It’s also claimed Juve asked for Shaqiri on loan with option to buy, but were unimpressed with Bayern’s demands. They would loan him for €6m and an option to buy for a further €25m.

Pogba: It's different under Allegri Aug 27, 2014 Paul Pogba has conceded it is different under Massmiliano Allegri, but believes that Juventus can still win the title. The former Milan boss took over from Antonio Conte earlier this summer, with some suggesting that the new tactician’s arrival could see a drop off in performance. But the France international, who recently signed a contract extension, has insisted that won’t be the case. “I feel good,” he told Sky Sport Italia, “We’re working well with Allegri. We know him a little more. “It’s true that he is different from Conte, but that is only normal. We’re going to get used to Allegri, but I feel comfortable with him. “There isn’t that much difference from before. Allegri has a different style to Conte, but that doesn’t mean we can’t keep on winning. “I’m not saying that we’re favourites for the title, but we’re focused and want to win the League as much as we have done over the past three years.”

Pogba: Juventus can win without Conte It has been suggested that the Bianconeri will struggle to win a fourth successive Scudetto - but the midfielder insists that they need only remain concentrated. Aug 27, 2014 Paul Pogba insists that Juventus can continue winning under Massimiliano Allegri, arguing that the new coach is not so different to predecessor Antonio Conte. Bianconeri fans were left stunned when Conte sensationally parted company with the Turin club by mutual consent in July, after winning three successive Serie A titles with the Old Lady. Their shock turned to anger when Massimiliano Allegri, who was sacked by rivals AC Milan midway through last season, was promptly hired as a replacement but Pogba sees no reason for concern ahead of the start of Juve's Scudetto defence this weekend. "We know him a little more now and everyone is good with him," the France international told reporters on Thursday. "That he's different to another coach is normal. "For me, it's the first change of coach, but we feel good with him, also on the field, and there are not so many differences to Conte. "It's true that Conte had a different style, but does not mean that we cannot win [with Allegri]. "We know that we can win if we are concentrated, as Juve have been in these last three years." However, Pogba admitted that his primary aim now is to help the Bianconeri end their 18-year wait for a third European Cup triumph. "The Champions League is not an obsession, but an objective and a dream, as it is for all players," the midfielder told reporters. "It's a goal and I really want to win it." Pogba also confessed that he feels perfectly placed to emerge as a leader on and off the field this season, revealing he has learned much from Juve veteran duo Gianluigi Buffon and Andrea Pirlo. "I feel older," he mused. "I'm more mature and grown-up because I'm 21 now. "But playing and training with Buffon and Pirlo makes you grow."

CHIEVO VERONA - JUVENTUS - Saturday, August 30, 2014 6:00 PM Stadio Marc'Antonio Bentegodi — Verona Referee: Carmine Russo‬ Paloschi: No Juventus fear Aug 27, 2014 Alberto Paloschi has brushed aside concerns over Chievo’s pre-season and asserts they are ready to face Juventus. The Flying Donkeys will play host to the defending League champions on Saturday evening in Week 1’s opening fixture. For Paloschi, it brings back memories of a disallowed goal against the Bianconeri last season. “I remember it well, but I have put it behind me. The thing that matters most, mindful of what happened last season, is a good start,” last season’s top scorer for Chievo has considered this week. “Juventus are champions, but we are ready to face them. We want to have a good game, playing as we do.” Pre-season has seen concerns raised over the Mussi Volanti’s level of performance. “In pre-season we struggled, we could not express ourselves as best we could because of the amount of work we had done and as a result there were some lacklustre performances. “But now we are improving, we have found more brightness as the weeks have gone by.” Chievo are seen as likely to move between three different formations this season - 4-3-1-2, 4-3-3 and 3-5-2, with one of those likely to place Paloschi out wide. “If we are playing with three strikers, I could adapt to play on the outside of a trident. “I did that three times last year and scored six goals. I prefer to act from the centre, but I have no problem in changing.” Strike partner Sergio Pellissier could be on the verge of leaving the club. “Sergio is a point of reference, he has always been close to everyone, in times of trouble. Maybe in the future I can become a leader like him, but I still have much to prove.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Tevez, Higuain and the contenders to be Serie A top scorer this season The departure of last season's top scorer Ciro Immobile means the race for the Capocannoniere is wide open heading into the new term. Goal takes a look at the main contenders. Aug 27, 2014 Serie A returns this weekend and it is set to be an enticing and competitive campaign as several teams look to bring an end to Juventus' era of dominance. Following the transfer of last season’s Serie A top goalscorer, Ciro Immobile from Torino to Borussia Dortmund, the race for the Capocannoniere is wide open with main candidates Juventus, Napoli, Roma and Fiorentina being led by strikers who will all be looking to finish top of the goalscorer charts. After a successful first season with Napoli, Gonzalo Higuain enters the new campaign as one of the favourites to top the scorer charts. The Argentine striker joined the Partenopei from Real Madrid and linked up well with Jose Callejon, Lorenzo Insigne and Marek Hamsik, scoring 17 times. Fully settled into the team and with Rafael Benitez’s side looking to mount a stronger challenge for the title, Higuain, boosted by the support of Michu, will have better service and will be confident of improving on his tally this term. Following the departure of coach Antonio Conte, there is a growing feeling that Juventus’ reign of dominance is set to come to an end. However, the Bianconeri should still be confident of winning a fourth consecutive league title as they head into the new campaign with the same squad. Crucial to the Old Lady's title hopes is striker Carlos Tevez. The Argentine scored 19 goals last term, only one of which was a penalty. The former Manchester City forward will be confident of racking up a similar record this year as his partnership with Fernando Llorente continues to flourish. Despite starting only 19 games last season, Giuseppe Rossi netted 16 goals for Fiorentina. His conversion rate of nearly 35 per cent was the highest of anyone in the top 10 goalscorer chart. Worries have already been expressed over his knee heading into this campaign, but with the Viola looking to improve on their fourth place finish, Rossi, if fit will be critical and has a great chance of improving on his record. Luca Toni, who finished runner up in the scorer charts last season will fancy his chances of at least matching his remarkable tally of 20 for Hellas. However, the loss of Romulo, who set up eight goals last season, on loan to Juventus and the sale of Juan Iturbe to Roma severely lowers the quality of service to the Italy international. Two-time Capocannoniere winner Antonio Di Natale will be looking to bow out in style by topping the charts once again while Juve forward Fernando Llorente will feel he has to improve on his record of 16 goals in 34 appearances last term. With Inter looking to recover from another poor season, a lot of their hopes rely on Rodrigo Palacio who remains their main goal threat, having scored 17 times in 2013-14. Mattia Destro has the potential to play a crucial role for Roma as they look to build on their magnificent 2013-campaign. No striker in last year's top 30 had a higher shot conversion rate than the 23-year-old's rate of 37% as he scored 13 non-penalty goals in 14 starts last term.

Gaetano Scirea – A Forgotten Juventus Legend Aug 26, 2014 The epitome of decency, chivalry, courage, skill, talent and even personality, Gaetano Scirea has been long forgotten in the footballing world. A silent guardian, Scirea single-handedly constructed the back four of the World Cup winning Italian side in 1982. He also played crucial and vital roles for his club side Juventus. Operating as a Sweeper, who plays behind the Center Back, Scirea kept arguably world’s best defender, Franco Baresi, out of the National Team. In his 16 year career, Scirea has won almost every trophy there is to win, including a World Cup. Scirea is one of only five players in European football history to have won all international trophies for football clubs recognized by UEFA and FIFA. Scirea is also one of only nine players in the history of the European football to win all three major UEFA football competitions. It can be said the Gaetano Scirea wrote poetry in football . Il Giocatore ( The Player ) Scirea was a defender of skill and tactical ability. In contrast to the ruthless tactics often employed by other defenders, including his paired partner, Claudio Gentile, Scirea was renowned for his class, fair play and sportsmanship. Scirea never earned a red card in his career. He played the sweeper, or libero, role for most of his career, and contributed to the development of the position. Thus, Scirea would detach himself from the defensive line and contribute to the attacking potential of his team, frequently being involved in the build-up of goals, and sometimes even scoring himself. In the latter part of his career, Scirea played a more defensive central-defender role. During the ’80s Juventus was full of stars. Although there were players such as Bettega, Zoff, Tardelli, Platini, Brady, Boniek, Gentile, and Furino, to name a few, one stood above them all—captain Gaetano Scirea. He was a clean fighter, capable of transmitting confidence and strength at the same time. Il Campione ( The Champ ) Starting his career with Atalanta, Scirea played with the Orobici for two long seasons, crafting his talent to take roots in the tough annals of Italian football. Initially he was used as a midfielder but gradually he shifted to sweeper, a position that would later make him legendary. Solid performances for Atalanta saw Scirea move to Italian giants, Juventus. At first there was a lot of criticsim with the Turin based club as they were accustomed to Sandro Salvatore, but then after couple of matches his class was there for all to see. Later his commitment and professionalism would make him a Legend for the bianconeri. During a game against lower Italian sides, Scirea’s foot was regularly stamped upon, the opponents trying to cut it open, constantly harming him. A champ as he was, he played without fear throughout the match, using only his right foot’s instep to control the ball, the rest was done by the left foot, and in the words of Giuseppe Furino “He did it so naturally, that I was amazed”. Il Compagno ( The Team mate ) Giuseppe Furino in his interview with Juventus TV, captures the true essence of Gaetano Scirea as a team mate, he concludes “You could always find Scirea, it was very hard not to find him. Wherever you were, he was never far away and he was an important figure. You could always lay it off to him and he would give the ball back. You could always find him, he’d be near you”. Gaetano Scirea knew how to score, when to assist, when to pass. He would often take the blame of others upon him, calming the situation. Legendary Juventus midfielder Sergio Brio, loved playing infront of Scirea and even credited him for his illustrious career, as Scirea mopped up the mistakes made by Brio, also assisting him along the way. Brio says ” If I made a mistake, you could hear V********O, even from him, its not like he was a saint, but yes I must say that it was always constructive and never insulting”. Even foreign players such as Michel Platini had never met such a selfless player, who would think about the team apart from his own instincts. In a league game, Juventus were behind and the opposition only had one striker up the field, in a brilliant tactical move by Scirea, he told Brio to go infront of the player, whereas he would drop deep, sandwiching the opponent in the process. Incidences like these sum up Scirea, as a pillar of motivation that he was. L’uomo ( The man ) Scirea was born on 25th May, 1963 in Cernusco sul Naviglio in Lombardy, Northern Italy. Scirea was born into a modest family with his father working for Pirelli. Football, the game which would later give him world-wide fame, was soon introduced in his life as he started participating in seven-a-side matches in Cinisello Balsamo in his locality. As a man, Scirea was shy and introvert but regardless of these attributes he was known for his great character and his ability to get-on with team mates. He was capable of cracking jokes and socializing with every body. In fact, he would bring a lot of people together in his personal life. Injected with calmness, Scirea was known to bring with himself a positive aura. In a hilarious incident, Scirea dressed as an old hag to scare his two kids, implementing that he also knew how to be fun. His friendship with Dino Zoff was built throughout his time in Juventus. As Zoff puts it, ” What I remember most is not the laughs we had, it was after the World Cup and we were savouring this joy without laughing about victory. We talked very little that evening”. Marco Tardelli dubbed Zoff and Scirea’s room as Switzerland as it was so calm, when every body was off the edge. A man who always took time out for his friends and family, Scirea was a man of few words, but was respected and loved by everyone. Suo Legato e decoro( His Legacy and Honours ) Scirea’s name has become attached to various youth tournaments and fair-play awards as a role model for sportsmanship and sporting excellence. In 2005, former Italian national team coach Enzo Bearzot proposed the retirement of the number six jersey of the national team and Juventus in recognition of Scirea’s career.The north stand in Juventus’ former home ground Stadio Olimpico di Torino was also known as the Curva Scirea and was occupied by the ultras. In his 16 year career, Scirea won almost every trophy there was to win. His accolades includes, 7 League Championship (1974–75, 1976–77, 1977–78, 1980–81, 1981–82, 1983–84, 1985–86) , 2 Italian Cup (1978–79, 1982–83) , 1 UEFA Cup ( 1976–77) , 1 UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup (1983–84) , 1 European Cup (1984–85) , 1 UEFA Super Cup (1984) and 1 Intercontinental Cup (1985), with Juventus. He also won the World Cup with Italy in 1982. Two decades have passed since Gaetano Scirea’s death but he still remains one of the most respected Juventus legends. An epitome of professionalism on and off the pitch, Scirea was an ideal example for many , including kids. Nobody in the modern football game comes close to the class and chivalry of this modest man. A long forgotten hero, Gaetano Scirea is certainly one of of the top defenders the world has ever witnessed, if not The Top Defender.

Gaetano Scirea – A Forgotten Juventus Legend Aug 26, 2014 The epitome of decency, chivalry, courage, skill, talent and even personality, Gaetano Scirea has been long forgotten in the footballing world. A silent guardian, Scirea single-handedly constructed the back four of the World Cup winning Italian side in 1982. He also played crucial and vital roles for his club side Juventus. Operating as a Sweeper, who plays behind the Center Back, Scirea kept arguably world’s best defender, Franco Baresi, out of the National Team. In his 16 year career, Scirea has won almost every trophy there is to win, including a World Cup. Scirea is one of only five players in European football history to have won all international trophies for football clubs recognized by UEFA and FIFA. Scirea is also one of only nine players in the history of the European football to win all three major UEFA football competitions. It can be said the Gaetano Scirea wrote poetry in football . Il Giocatore ( The Player ) Scirea was a defender of skill and tactical ability. In contrast to the ruthless tactics often employed by other defenders, including his paired partner, Claudio Gentile, Scirea was renowned for his class, fair play and sportsmanship. Scirea never earned a red card in his career. He played the sweeper, or libero, role for most of his career, and contributed to the development of the position. Thus, Scirea would detach himself from the defensive line and contribute to the attacking potential of his team, frequently being involved in the build-up of goals, and sometimes even scoring himself. In the latter part of his career, Scirea played a more defensive central-defender role. During the ’80s Juventus was full of stars. Although there were players such as Bettega, Zoff, Tardelli, Platini, Brady, Boniek, Gentile, and Furino, to name a few, one stood above them all—captain Gaetano Scirea. He was a clean fighter, capable of transmitting confidence and strength at the same time. Il Campione ( The Champ ) Starting his career with Atalanta, Scirea played with the Orobici for two long seasons, crafting his talent to take roots in the tough annals of Italian football. Initially he was used as a midfielder but gradually he shifted to sweeper, a position that would later make him legendary. Solid performances for Atalanta saw Scirea move to Italian giants, Juventus. At first there was a lot of criticsim with the Turin based club as they were accustomed to Sandro Salvatore, but then after couple of matches his class was there for all to see. Later his commitment and professionalism would make him a Legend for the bianconeri. During a game against lower Italian sides, Scirea’s foot was regularly stamped upon, the opponents trying to cut it open, constantly harming him. A champ as he was, he played without fear throughout the match, using only his right foot’s instep to control the ball, the rest was done by the left foot, and in the words of Giuseppe Furino “He did it so naturally, that I was amazed”. Il Compagno ( The Team mate ) Giuseppe Furino in his interview with Juventus TV, captures the true essence of Gaetano Scirea as a team mate, he concludes “You could always find Scirea, it was very hard not to find him. Wherever you were, he was never far away and he was an important figure. You could always lay it off to him and he would give the ball back. You could always find him, he’d be near you”. Gaetano Scirea knew how to score, when to assist, when to pass. He would often take the blame of others upon him, calming the situation. Legendary Juventus midfielder Sergio Brio, loved playing infront of Scirea and even credited him for his illustrious career, as Scirea mopped up the mistakes made by Brio, also assisting him along the way. Brio says ” If I made a mistake, you could hear V********O, even from him, its not like he was a saint, but yes I must say that it was always constructive and never insulting”. Even foreign players such as Michel Platini had never met such a selfless player, who would think about the team apart from his own instincts. In a league game, Juventus were behind and the opposition only had one striker up the field, in a brilliant tactical move by Scirea, he told Brio to go infront of the player, whereas he would drop deep, sandwiching the opponent in the process. Incidences like these sum up Scirea, as a pillar of motivation that he was. L’uomo ( The man ) Scirea was born on 25th May, 1963 in Cernusco sul Naviglio in Lombardy, Northern Italy. Scirea was born into a modest family with his father working for Pirelli. Football, the game which would later give him world-wide fame, was soon introduced in his life as he started participating in seven-a-side matches in Cinisello Balsamo in his locality. As a man, Scirea was shy and introvert but regardless of these attributes he was known for his great character and his ability to get-on with team mates. He was capable of cracking jokes and socializing with every body. In fact, he would bring a lot of people together in his personal life. Injected with calmness, Scirea was known to bring with himself a positive aura. In a hilarious incident, Scirea dressed as an old hag to scare his two kids, implementing that he also knew how to be fun. His friendship with Dino Zoff was built throughout his time in Juventus. As Zoff puts it, ” What I remember most is not the laughs we had, it was after the World Cup and we were savouring this joy without laughing about victory. We talked very little that evening”. Marco Tardelli dubbed Zoff and Scirea’s room as Switzerland as it was so calm, when every body was off the edge. A man who always took time out for his friends and family, Scirea was a man of few words, but was respected and loved by everyone. Suo Legato e decoro( His Legacy and Honours ) Scirea’s name has become attached to various youth tournaments and fair-play awards as a role model for sportsmanship and sporting excellence. In 2005, former Italian national team coach Enzo Bearzot proposed the retirement of the number six jersey of the national team and Juventus in recognition of Scirea’s career.The north stand in Juventus’ former home ground Stadio Olimpico di Torino was also known as the Curva Scirea and was occupied by the ultras. In his 16 year career, Scirea won almost every trophy there was to win. His accolades includes, 7 League Championship (1974–75, 1976–77, 1977–78, 1980–81, 1981–82, 1983–84, 1985–86) , 2 Italian Cup (1978–79, 1982–83) , 1 UEFA Cup ( 1976–77) , 1 UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup (1983–84) , 1 European Cup (1984–85) , 1 UEFA Super Cup (1984) and 1 Intercontinental Cup (1985), with Juventus. He also won the World Cup with Italy in 1982. Two decades have passed since Gaetano Scirea’s death but he still remains one of the most respected Juventus legends. An epitome of professionalism on and off the pitch, Scirea was an ideal example for many , including kids. Nobody in the modern football game comes close to the class and chivalry of this modest man. A long forgotten hero, Gaetano Scirea is certainly one of of the top defenders the world has ever witnessed, if not The Top Defender.

Romulo: Allegri Is Doing An Excellent Job As Juventus Coach Aug 26, 2014 Juventus midfielder Romulo believes that Massimiliano Allegri has been doing a great job as coach of the Old Lady since taking up the position in July. The 27-year-old, who joined the Bianconeri on a season-long loan from Hellas Verona this summer, has been finding his form after recovering from a minor injury as the Turin giants prepare for their first match of the 2014-15 campaign against Chievo on August 30 and he admits that the tactician has been issuing helpful advice to his players ahead of Saturday’s game. Romulo spoke to JTV about Juventus’ debut match of the new season and his current progress in training, while also praising the excellent job Allegri has been doing at the club thus far. “It will be a complicated game because we’ll be facing a team that will play with 11 men behind the ball,” said the former Fiorentina man. “It will take patience and lucidity, every chance we have on goal should be capitalised. “Physically I’m fine, but I still need a week, ten days maximum, in order to find my best form after my injury. I cannot wait to play in the Champions League, we hope to have a good run. “Allegri? He’s an excellent tactician, he asks us to give 100 per cent in every situation and is always ready to give us helpful advice.”

Pirlo a doubt for Chievo Aug 26, 2014 Massimiliano Allegri may be without Andrea Pirlo for his first official game with Juventus, as the midfielder has a knock. Allegri will competitively debut as Bianconero boss on Saturday evening away to Chievo, having come in this summer as a late replacement for Antonio Conte. However, speculation is that he may have to immediately find a solution for an absent Andrea Pirlo. Sportmediaset report that the 35-year-old has suffered a knock in training this week and that it leaves him a doubt to start at the Bentegodi. Officials will reportedly give Pirlo two-to-three days before assessing the condition of the injury, believed to be sustained to his knee.

‘More imagination with Allegri’ Aug 26, 2014 Claudio Marchisio believes that one key difference between Antonio Conte and Max Allegri is in their philosophy when in possession. Juventus are working under the latter ahead of kick-off for the 2014-15 season, following three years of success with the former. For the team’s versatile No 8, the suggestion of issues in the transition are wide of the mark, even as formation changes continue to be toyed with. “I do not see many problems, I feel like we are on course. Allegri and his staff are well placed and have found a group united and ready for sacrifice,” Marchisio has considered to Tuttosport today. “We have begun again with new ideas and with a different style of play, but we know it. Over the past two years we have won with 3-5-2, but the first year we set ourselves out in a 4-3-3. “We know a four-man defence - a little work to resume certain mechanisms is normal. Not even in the friendlies has it seemed problematic to me. “Against Milan [in the weekend’s Trofeo TIM] the test was great, but we gave away a few too many counter-attacks. In Verona will be a different Juve.” Speculation has centred on Marchisio perhaps taking a more advanced role in midfield under Allegri. “I’m used to moving between different roles, I am flexible and open to the changes. Against Milan I was played in the trequarti [area between midfield and attack], but it was not a classic Christmas tree formation - in defensive phases I was alongside Pirlo to provide cover. “I try to position myself between the lines for when we have more possession. It is something different to the days under Conte, when we had a much more planned game. It’s a different idea - we have to work, but not so much. “Allegri has made us understand that we will not dwell on a single formation - we have a list of quality that allows us to change identity during the game. “At the Trofeo TIM, Llorente was absent. And Morata has not yet returned. I expect a great season, we want to defend the three Scudetti we have won and to do well in Europe. “The Scudetto or the Champions League? I would exchange the Scudetto only if we were to win the Champions League.” Marchisio was asked if Juve are more free in attack under Allegri. “With Conte everything was more planned and the results speak for themselves - three League titles in a row and two Super Cups. Now it is different, Allegri has a different idea of the game, as we saw against Milan. “We work mainly on the possession of the ball. In Europe it works well, we saw it again last year when we faced teams with little to them - they played safe football, whilst we had some difficulties. This is the most important step to be taken. “And will this improved imagination be best felt in Europe? Definitely. We often speak of our failure in Europe, but the first year we went out against Bayern and last time we threw away qualification against Galatasaray.” Atletico Madrid have been mentioned as the type of example Juventus can take inspiration from in Europe. “We are not so far behind Atletico. With a bit more luck we could have won the Europa League in May. We are not that far from the top eight in Europe. “Then it is obvious - the economic difficulties are there in Italian football. The further down you go, the greater.” It was put to Marchisio that Conte’s exit this summer signals the end of a cycle at the club. “It is wrong to say this is the end of a cycle. It is Juve who continues - our nature compels us to win again. “To win a fourth Scudetto is difficult, but we want to succeed. There are many rivals - Roma ahead of the rest, but I also see Inter, Milan, Napoli and also Fiorentina. We would also love to win a 10th Coppa Italia. “Will we miss something without Conte’s screams? We are a big club, we do not necessarily need those screams. And then I can assure you that even Allegri raises his voice in the locker room.” Marchisio will still be able to catch those screams whilst on international duty, though, as Conte is now the Italy Coach, following his exit from Juve. “The resignation was a surprise, because it came on the second day of pre-season. I respect his choice, he also explained the reasons, but these will remain private. “Certainly he is not the type to continue as a Coach and a Juventino if he does not feel 100 per cent. “Italy will be a new role for him. But he is the right Coach for the ideas of football that he has. He will have more time to organise everything. “His task is similar to that of Prandelli, after the failure in the World Cup at South Africa, where he prepared us for the European Championships, where we finished as runners-up.” Juve’s pre-season campaign has seen them take in a considerable number of air miles. “I don’t think it will disadvantage us. It seems we are reliving the same situation as 12 months ago. We suffered in America, we played games below our level, then… we won the Super Cup and then started out great. “In this tour we have travelled further, that is true. But the group is the same, with some additions.” Marchisio was also asked about his future, with two years remaining on his current contract. “It is the first summer that my name has not appeared in the transfer rumours. The other day I was laughing about it with my wife - you’ll see that in the end I will be sold…obviously that is a joke…”

Juventus, Roma or Napoli – who will win Serie A? Italy's top division returns this weekend with three teams in the mix for the title in what promises to be another fascinating campaign. But who will come out on top? Aug 26, 2014 By Alex Rossi, Kris Voakes & Tony Mahoney It has been a long nine weeks since Italy were eliminated from the World Cup, but this Saturday finally sees the nation's footballers return to the field. And while some suggest that calcio's downward curve is set to continue, a bona fide title race could be on the cards for the first time in three years. Whereas Juventus racked up a record tally of points last season to register a third straight Scudetto, there seems to be genuine competition for the league crown this time around. Roma pushed the Bianconeri for much of last term, and Rudi Garcia's men have made some notable additions as they look to go one better in 2014-15. Napoli provide further competition, with Rafa Benitez having an extra year's preparation and experience to throw into the mix following an impressive spell in his first season with the Azzurri. And, of course, there's champions Juve, who will be looking to mark the arrival of Massimiliano Allegri with a fourth title on the bounce. But which of the three will win it? Here, Goal journalists Alex Rossi, Kris Voakes and Tony Mahoney take up the debate ... "JUVENTUS ARE FAR FROM DONE" By Alex Rossi How quickly people forget. Just three months on from a season in which Juventus smashed all sorts of records, many are taking the first sign of strengthening among rival squads and running away with themselves. The doubters are queueing up, ready to beat down Juve. But the champions are not ready to relinquish their place at the top of Italian football. The Bianconeri won every single home game last season. They chalked up 102 points - a tally unrivalled in Italian football history. With every week they proved themselves to be far too good for the rest of the country, and there is little to suggest things have dramatically changed since May. Have things really changed so much that the 17-point margin by which Juventus won last year can be overturned by Roma? And does anyone seriously believe there has been a 24-point turnover between Juve and Napoli over the last few months? The loss of Antonio Conte will take some getting used to, but Massimiliano Allegri has been there and done it with Milan before in 2010-11. There's a chance that Arturo Vidal will not be around come September 2, but they have an ample stand-in in Claudio Marchisio and a Vidal of the future in Paul Pogba. And the man who makes them tick, Andrea Pirlo, is still the best midfielder in the country. Juventus are far from done. "ROMA ARE ONLY GOING TO GET BETTER" By Kris Voakes Few teams with 85 points have to settle for second place. They may not have carried away the Scudetto in May, but Roma should look at 2013-14 as nothing but a success. And, following an excellent summer in the transfer market, there is every reason to believe they will get their hands on the ultimate prize 12 months on. Juventus' record-breaking Scudetto season was magnificent, but it was also entirely necessary, Until the last three rounds of the campaign, Roma were on target to rack up 94 points themselves, which would have won all but one league title since football's inception in Italy. Juve were so good because they had to be. Rudi Garcia's side simply did not allow them to slip up. Since the close of the last campaign, the Giallorossi have dealt brilliantly. Juan Iturbe has come in to light up the forward line, while the likes of Seydou Keita and Davide Astori will provide fantastic options beyond the thin layer of quality Garcia had at his disposal last term. What's more, Ashley Cole - disposed with by both Chelsea and England - remains a superb full-back, adding a touch of quality to the left-hand side. Last season, Garcia found consistency in his side. This year, they have added further quality to the bargain without losing a single star - Mehdi Benatia permitting. Throw in the impending return of Kevin Strootman to join the likes of Miralem Pjanic, Radja Nainggolan, Daniele De Rossi, Alessandro Florenzi, Francesco Totti and Mattia Destro, and Roma are going to get better. "NAPOLI PLAY FOOTBALL FEW ITALIANS CAN LIVE WITH" By Tony Mahoney Everyone is talking about a straight battle between Juventus and Roma for the Serie A title, and that will play right into Napoli’s hands. Although the Azzurri have not had the most impressive summer in the transfer market, they have a settled side who will finally reap what was sown when the likes of Gonzalo Higuain, Jose Callejon and Dries Mertens were signed in 2013. Juventus, on the other hand, have been rocked by the resignation of their inspirational coach Antonio Conte and will take time to adapt to his replacement Massimiliano Allegri. The Bianconeri will get nowhere near their record points tally of 2013-14. Roma, meanwhile, will need to learn how to fight on two fronts as they return to the Champions League. Physically, this will affect them. With Rafa Benitez, Napoli won’t suffer from any of these issues - even more so if they exit the Champions League play-offs against Athletic. Everyone knows what is expected from the Spaniard, who is a master at rotating his squad to maintain freshness. Most importantly, Napoli play a brand of football that most outdated Italian clubs can’t live with. Benitez’s 4-2-3-1, which relies on selective pressing and quick counter-attacking bursts, provides a width and directness that many sides playing 3-5-2 just don’t possess. The southerners boast the best striker in Serie A in Gonzalo Higuain and have goals throughout their squad in the form of Jose Callejon, Dries Mertens, Marek Hamsik and Lorenzo Insigne. If these stars in particular stay fit, then Napoli could win their first Scudetto since 1990.

Marchisio: Conte exit in everybody's best interest The midfielder has made it clear that the Italy boss made the right call to step down and is confident a successful season awaits the Turin giants. Aug 26, 2014 Claudio Marchisio believes Antonio Conte's decision to step down as Juventus coach was in everybody's best interests. The successful coach stepped down earlier this summer over a dispute about the Serie A champions' transfer policy, despite signing a one year contract extension months before, having guided the club to a third consecutive league title. And Marchisio feels the current Italy boss made the right call as he no longer felt committed to the cause. "I respect Conte's choice. He explained to me why he left, but that stays between the two of us," Marchisio told Tuttosport. "I can assure you that he's not the type to continue as coach when he's not feeling committed 100 per cent. "He tried to keep going at the start of the season because he's a Juventino, but he then realised that it was in everybody's best interest to go separate ways." The midfielder then went on to stress that Juventus are in good hands again following the appointment of Massimiliano Allegri as Conte's successor. "Each coach has his own character and methods, but things are working well with Allegri. And don't you think that Allegri doesn't scream when necessary... "And either way, even if our coach doesn't scream to fire us up, we're in good shape and ready for the new season. A great season awaits. We want to defend the Scudetto and do a good job in Europe." Juventus kick off the new Serie A campaign with an away game against Chievo on Saturday.

On Paul Pogba's rumored contract extension Aug 24, 2014 It is no secret that Juve's two biggest commodities are Paul Pogba and Arturo Vidal. Sure, Juventus has plenty of other players that will fetch the club a lot of money, but the two central midfielders have the most value in the whole squad. Vidal has been the subject of much speculation for the last little while, with Manchester United, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich rumored to be interested in the player. Our director sportivo, Beppe Marotta, has been quoted saying the same things over and over again: "Vidal will only be sold he asks to leave." More recently, Marotta said the following in case a player requested a move: "Obviously there are also some timing issues to fulfill such a request." Curiously, as far as I know, Marotta has said little about the club getting fair remuneration if a player asked to leave. While the Roma camp go out and put a €100 million price tag on Kevin Strootman, Juventus have never been caught saying that Vidal is worth X amount of dollars or euros. It has always been about the player's desire to move, not about the club making a profit. The Ciro Immobile transfer showed that Marotta meant the statements above. Immobile found a club he wanted to play for and Juventus and Torino were keen on cashing in on the Naples native; a win-win-win if you will. The timing of the operation was right, although if Immobile did more at the World Cup, Juventus would have looked foolish. However, just like with the Vidal case, Marotta didn't offer the player to the highest suitor. Actually, there was no highest suitor because Marotta didn't seem bothered to start a bidding war for the Cappocannoniere of the 2013-14 season. At this point you may be asking, how does this relate to Pogba? Pogba is arguably the biggest asset at Juventus. You know that, I know that, Pogba knows that, Raiola knows that, and the management knows that. You know who also knows? Every soccer club on the face of the earth. Of course, the value of this asset decreases as his contract gets closer to its expiry date and that is where the issue lies. If sold this summer, Pogba could have fetched a nice sum, next summer things may be different. If a bidding war starts Juventus can get a lot of money. If however, Pogba is set on joining one club and one club only, our biggest prize can be walking out the door for pennies on the dollar. With that being said, am I happy Pogba is staying for the season? You bet! But I will be elated the moment he signs that extension. Take home message here is :Juventus wants Pogba to renew. Pogba is a smart kid, and he knows that at this moment his destiny is in his hands. One more year at Juve can only be helpful, and after that, forcing a transfer or waiting another year and moving for free will allow him all the freedom in the world. Pogba is also ambitious, and I think he sees that he has won everything at Juventus that he can win with the club. Whether that is true or not is a matter for another time. So from his point of view why should he sign an extension? More money? He knows that in five years he'll be making more than he can count. More playing time? Juventus are not going to bench him even if he doesn't sign an extension. There is really little driving force to sign a contract extension if he has decided that his chances of getting what he really wants, that is trophies and not money, lies elsewhere. Take home message here is: Pogba may not be very interested in signing an extension if it means he is shackled to a club he doesn't want to be part of anymore. So maybe Beppe's reassurances to Vidal over the last few months have been aimed at Pogba, and not at the Chilean. After all, Vidal has stated time and again that he wants to remain in Turin and his contract until 2017 a few months ago are a testament to this. Juventus are essentially saying to Pogba sign the contract extension, we will pay you as much as we can (over €4 million allegedly) and when you are ready to go, we won't hold you back. We ask that the move is done with reasonable timing but that's it. You are free to go when you want to. So why not hold out for an astronomical transfer fee once his contract is extended? Because Mino Raiola is his agent. The moment Pogba requests to leave, Mino will ensure the biggest splash is made on the transfer market. While Marotta has never put a price to any of Juve's players Raiola has not been as coy. Among other things, he has said that Pogba is worth twice as much as Bale. If Juventus get what Totthenham got for Bale, I will learn to live without the Frenchman. I never thought Pogba would stay at Juve and become a legend with our club. His move from Manchester to Juventus showed that the player is hungry for success and trophies. Pogba will surely move when trophies dry out, or when he is unable to play the big games in Europe year in and year out. I am okay with this, but the club needs a big pay day when young Paul does say his goodbyes. If Marotta needs to reassure the player in any way, shape or form, no matter how weak he looks, I'm all up for it.

TIM: Pereyra revives Juve Aug 23, 2014 Roberto Pereyra gave Juventus a hard-fought 1-0 win over Sassuolo in the Trofeo TIM mini-match. The Bianconeri were straight back in action after losing the opener 1-0 to Milan, but this was the first game of the night for hosts Sassuolo. The tournament awards three points for a win in 45 minutes, two for a victory on penalties and one for a shoot-out defeat. It was an important night for Francesco Acerbi, who is ready to play again after beating cancer twice in a year. Giorgio Chiellini was twice decisive on Jasmin Kurtic after a hole developed in the back four, while Rubinho did well to smother a Raman Chibsah effort from a corner. Ex-Udinese man Roberto Pereyra drilled wide from a promising position and Romulo’s attempt was deflected off target, while a Kwadwo Asamoah cross-shot flew past everyone. Juventus had a great chance on 36 minutes when Alessandro Longhi failed to cut out a cross for Simone Pepe at the back post, but Ciro Polito reacted quickly to parry from point-blank range. Pepe wasted a golden opportunity soon after, as Martin Caceres and Romulo combined to set him up from 10 yards, but the unmarked veteran hit a fresh-air shot. Juve finally broke through with only 120 seconds left in this mini-match. A low cross was deflected, turning it into an assist for Pereyra, who was quick to react and toe-poke in from eight yards. Sassuolo 0-1 Juventus Scorers: Pereyra 43 (J) Sassuolo: Polito; Cannavaro, Terranova, Acerbi, Longhi; Brighi, Chibsah (Magnanelli 30), Kurtic; Sereni (Berardi 30), Pavoletti, Floro Flores Juventus: Rubinho; Romulo, Marrone, Chiellini, Caceres; Mattiello, Padoin, Asamoah; Pepe, Pereyra; Vitale

TIM: Milan beat Allegri's Juve Aug 23, 2014 Keisuke Honda gave Milan a surprise 1-0 win over Juventus in the opening Trofeo TIM mini-match. This is a traditional pre-season tournament with three 45-minute games. They get three points for a victory, two for a win on penalties and one for losing a shoot-out. The first match was the biggest and also gave Allegri his first opportunity to face former club Milan, who were still smarting from Mario Balotelli’s sale to Liverpool. Milan had a very aggressive start with Andrea Poli and Jeremy Menez efforts charged down in quick succession. Paul Pogba hit a weak effort straight at Diego Lopez and Patrice Evra crucially stopped Keisuke Honda tapping in on the counter. Sulley Muntari wasted a golden opportunity when pouncing on a Leonardo Bonucci howler, as he ballooned the half-volley high and wide. Diego Lopez did well to save from point-blank range until Sebastian Giovinco wandered offside in a chaotic move. Milan eventually broke through when Mattia De Sciglio burst down the left and pulled back for Honda’s well-taken strike from 12 yards. Honda also curled a free kick just over the bar, while at the other end Giovinco just failed to get a touch to Pogba’s assist from close range. This victory gives Milan three points. It also means the next game in the Trofeo TIM this evening will be between Juventus and hosts Sassuolo. Juventus 0-1 Milan Scorers: Honda 30 (M) Juventus: Storari; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Ogbonna, Evra; Pirlo, Vidal, Pogba; Marchisio, Tevez, Giovinco Milan: Diego Lopez; Abate, Alex, Bonera, De Sciglio; Poli, Muntari, Essien; Honda, Pazzini, Menez

Allegri: Vidal's return the most important thing The Chile international, who has been heavily linked with a summer switch to Old Trafford, featured in Saturday's 45-minute friendly defeat to AC Milan. Aug 23, 2014 Massimiliano Allegri was a happy man after seeing Arturo Vidal don a Juventus shirt for the first time since being linked with Manchester United. The Chile midfielder has not featured at all during pre-season, with the midfielder having been afforded an extended break to recover from his exploit's at Brazil 2014 this summer. Speculation was rife that Vidal had played his last game for the Old Lady, with United reportedly on the verge of luring the 27-year-old. However, Vidal, who has also been battling a knee problem, played in Juve's Trofeo TIM clash with AC Milan in Reggio Emilia on Saturday night, which, as far Allegri was concerned, more than made up for the 1-0 loss to their Serie A rivals. "It was the first time that he's played since we have returned to training, so he's still missing something [in terms of fitness]," Allegri told Mediaset. "The important thing, though, is that he has returned." While Vidal now looks certain to remain in Turin, Juve are reportedly still looking to strengthen their squad before the close of the transfer window. It has been claimed that director general Giuseppe Marotta is targeting a defender and an attacker, and Allegri admitted that he is not against the idea of making more signings. "We [the coaching staff] are in full harmony with the club," he explained. "If there's the chance of improving the squad, the club will certainly do it." Allegri took charge of Juve last month, after the shock resignation of Antonio Conte as coach.

Milan squad for Trofeo TIM Aug 22, 2014 Milan named their squad for the Trofeo TIM against Juventus and Sassuolo, including Mattia De Sciglio. The traditional pre-season tournament sees three 45-minute games and the team with the best record wins the trophy. It takes place at the Mapei Stadium in Reggio Emilia on Saturday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT). De Sciglio is included in the list after shaking off an injury. Milan squad for Trofeo TIM: Abbiati, Agazzi, Diego Lopez, Abate, Albertazzi, Alex, Armero, Bonera, De Sciglio, Rami, Zaccardo, Zapata, Cristante, Essien, Honda, Mastalli, Muntari, Poli, Saponara, El Shaarawy, Menez, Mastour, Niang, Pazzini

VIDEO: Pirlo is not impressed Aug 22, 2014 Juventus have sparked a new internet meme – can you break the ice-cool Andrea Pirlo’s stony expression? The Bianconeri posted this video and asked fans to provide their best attempt at getting the Italy legend to smile. You can send in your entry with the hashtag #pirloisnotimpressed