Socrates

Allegri Faces Impossible Juventus Job Aug 21, 2014 When AC Milan was falling backwards a couple of seasons ago, the media’s fingers were pointed firmly at their coach. Massimiliano Allegri was accused of playing reactive, provincial, football not fitting with the clubs’ stature. The Italian relied on containing attacks and hitting the opposition on the break rather than dominating and controlling games the way Juventus did under Antonio Conte. Following such criticism of his coaching style in Milan, Allegri has returned to post this summer. The former Rossoneri chief now in charge of Juventus, the previous grey areas that tarnished his previous achievements can finally and more decisively be judged as — very literally — black or white. It feels a long time since Allegri took over at the San Siro and won the Scudetto in his first season. Having battled to second spot the following campaign, he endured recrimination from press and supporters alike as his side struggled, garnering criticism for behaviour that seemingly baffled all parties. This is the crux of the problem facing Juventus fans this summer. One the one hand, their new coach is a Scudetto winner, one who took over at AC Milan and led them to unexpected glory. On the other, he is a man who found regular spots for Kevin Constant and Urby Emanuelson in his side and, perhaps most damning of all, oversaw Andrea Pirlo’s departure from the San Siro. Yet there is sense in Allegri’s appointment. Allegri has garnered some merit in promoting youth to some extent, something that many Serie A coaches have consistently failed to do. Having brought through Stephan El-Sharaawy and Mattia De Sciglio into the Rossoneri first team, he contributed in lowering the side’s average age. Juventus do not quite have that problem, though youth development is something worth keeping an eye out for. Pirlo, Gianluigi Buffon and Andrea Barzagli are not in the first throes of youth, nor is Carlos Tevez. In taking 16 year old Mattia Vitale on the tour of the Far East, there are already signs that Allegri is looking to lower Juventus’ squad age – certainly during his time at AC Milan, there were instances of players being parachuted into the first team who might not seem immediate choices; some worked, some didn’t. In that context, he may well look to ‘revolutionise’ the shape of the team as well. Although well experienced and phenomenally successful when operating with a three-man defence, the Bianconeri will likely find themselves set up in the 4-3-3 formation more familiar to Allegri and which has deployed with some success elsewhere. Although he has also used a trequartista (playmaker) behind a front two, the Italian coach has exclusively operated with a back-four. In some ways, given the task that Allegri undertook at AC Milan, his appointment at Juventus is almost the exact opposite. Instead of stopping the rot and trying to guide a Rossoneri side who were on an irreversible slide, he takes over a side at the peak of their powers and will be trying to keep them at a high level, while perhaps improving their European performances. One can understand Juventini’s reluctance to take Allegri in their hearts immediately. Not only has he come from one of their biggest rivals, but he has arrived with a number of questions that need answering both in terms of his coaching and man-management. After the regimented ‘win at all costs’ approach that Antonio Conte embodied, Allegri is a very different kettle of fish and watching his Juventus will be a very different experience to watching Conte’s . However, Allegri takes over the best squad in Italy by a distance. He managed his previous team to a Scudetto at the first time of asking; something he should be able to replicate with the Bianconeri. The problem he will have is that, if he fails to win Serie A with the squad at his disposal, he can have no real excuse. As far Allegri and Juventus go, they will probably never be a match made in heaven but then. On the other hand they don’t need to be. They just need to get along.

Juventus: Full Report Card for Every Position Entering Serie A Season Aug 21, 2014 It has been a tumultuous summer for Italian champions Juventus, with the Turin club rocked by the resignation of Antonio Conte just two days into their pre-season training schedule. The subsequent appointment of Massimiliano Allegri as coach led to a somewhat pessimistic air surrounding the club, although that seems to have since cleared. The Bianconeri have been—despite Arturo Vidal being constantly linked with a move away—relatively quiet on the transfer front, although there is still time left in the window for some late additions. Those who have already arrived at the club have reinforced the level of depth available to the new boss, while those departing have largely only been fringe players. What follows over the following pages is a breakdown of the current Juventus squad by position, looking at the strengths and the weaknesses of each department. Goalkeeper Captain Gianluigi Buffon returns for his 14th season representing the club, and he is only 12 appearances short of a landmark 500th match for the grand Old Lady of Italian football. The 36-year-old remains, despite his advancing years, among the world’s best at his position and can be relied upon to once again deliver consistently excellent performances. According to statistics available from Fox Soccer, only Morgan De Sanctis (21) managed more clean sheets than Buffon (18) last term, with the Roma ‘keeper playing almost 400 minutes more than his Juve counterpart. The same source shows he also made 89 saves, conceding a league-low 0.61 goals per game during 2013-14. Currently, Marco Storari occupies the position of deputy, although the former Milan man has been linked with a move to Sassuolo in recent weeks, per Sky Sport Italia (via Football Italia). Grade: A Right-Back/Right Wing-Back Stephan Lichtsteiner remains the undisputed first choice on the right flank, with the Swiss international leading the club with eight assists. As discussed here previously, his link-up play with Fernando Llorente proved to be a valuable weapon last term, with the duo combining for six of the striker’s 16 league goals in 2013-14. While Mauricio Isla has left for Queens Park Rangers, the Bianconeri moved quickly to bring in Romulo as a replacement. Like the Chilean, the former Hellas Verona man is able to play in a variety of positions, but he is largely expected to act as back-up to Lichtsteiner on the right. The versatile Brazilian also notched eight assists while averaging 2.5 tackles and 1.3 interceptions per game for the Gialloblu. Weighing in with six goals of his own, the 27-year-old looks set to be an interesting addition for the reigning champions. Grade: B+ Left-Back/Left Wing-Back Perhaps the weakest position in the squad, the decision over who patrols the left flank is likely to depend on the formation chosen by coach Allegri. Should he opt to retain Conte’s 3-5-2 framework, the likely candidate is Kwadwo Asamoah, a standout performer for Juventus since arriving from Udinese. The Ghanaian has excelled as a left wing-back, improving his attacking forays while showing a sound ability to cover defensively when the need arises. Federico Peluso was previously second choice in that role, but the 30-year-old was sold on to Sassuolo earlier this summer. In his place comes Patrice Evra, a man who needs no introduction following eight successful seasons with Premier League giants Manchester United. Arriving in Turin for a low fee, the Frenchman provides a viable solution on the left should Allegri decide upon a more traditional back four. The positives of signing the 33-year-old defender were discussed in detail here, and his veteran experience should prove to be a viable asset, particularly in the Champions League. Grade: C- Central Defence The regular trio of Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini remains intact, and they have proven beyond doubt their ability to perform domestically. Their displays as a three-man back line were largely responsible for the Bianconeri conceding a league-low 23 goals last term. Forming the backbone of the club’s three consecutive titles, the problem comes when switching to a back four. Chiellini is a top-quality player in any setup, but with Barzagli struggling with injuries, Bonucci is unsuited to the alternative formation. Angelo Ogbonna has yet to fully settle into life at a truly big club, which leaves Martin Caceres as the only viable alternative. The Uruguayan was excellent last term, averaging 2.2 tackles and 1.2 interceptions per game while completing 90.5 per cent of his passes. Allegri will need him to continue that rich vein of form if he is to be able to constantly chop and change the team's playing style, particularly when the Champions League gets underway. There have also been major indications that Luca Marrone will provide cover in this area as the need to rotate arises. Grade: B- Central Midfield Undoubtedly, the team’s biggest strength lies in the quality, chemistry and variety of its four leading midfielders, each offering the side a vastly differing skill set and combining to become one of Europe’s very best units. Andrea Pirlo is usually the headline act, with the veteran genius providing four goals and six assists last term. He led the team with 69 completed passes per game. Beside him, both Paul Pogba and Claudio Marchisio added defensive awareness with attacking intent, their strength and stamina the perfect foil for Pirlo’s guile and cunning. However, it is Arturo Vidal that provides this Juventus with its beating heart, the Chilean proving to be the club’s most valuable player once again. As if 11 goals and five assists didn’t already mark out his vital contribution, only Udinese’s Allan (136) bettered his 2013-14 tally of 130 tackles, highlighting the impact of his contribution at both ends of the pitch. Roberto Pereyra may not have been the midfield signing Juventus supporters were hoping for, but the 23-year-old should add to the depth here as well as providing another option further forward. Grade: A+ Attack With the arrivals of both Carlos Tevez and Llorente last summer, Juventus took a giant leap forward in terms of attacking quality, with the duo combining for 35 league goals in their debut campaigns. Each played a vital role, with the impact of Tevez having adding a huge impetus to the side’s cutting edge upfront. Fabio Quagliarella and Mirko Vucinic both left the club this summer, and that should see an increase in playing time for the much-maligned Sebastian Giovinco. Beyond that trio, the squad remains limited, although Alvaro Morata is the biggest name to arrive in Turin this summer. Able to play in a variety of attacking roles, the former Real Madrid star should provide Allegri with greater tactical flexibility, a matter dissected in greater detail here. Perhaps the side remains one player short in this department, but the level of quality is already high enough to challenge for the biggest honours in 2014-15. Grade: A-

‘No Pogba renewal talks set’ Aug 21, 2014 Paul Pogba’s entourage has reportedly downplayed Beppe Marotta’s assertion yesterday that a renewal at Juventus was imminent. The director general yesterday commented that talks with the France international over an improved contract could be resolved ‘quickly’. However, L’Equipe are running quotes attributed to the player’s ‘entourage’ that suggest otherwise. “No appointment has been made and no discussions are planned,” the French publication quotes an unnamed source from the player’s camp. “Paul is happy in Turin. Now, generally so, the last 10 days of the transfer window ahead are important and hectic.” Pogba is represented by Mino Raiola, who is reportedly in England today as talks between Milan and Liverpool for Mario Balotelli’s transfer gather pace.

Allegri: 'I had a Juve poster...' Aug 20, 2014 Max Allegri is “happy” Arturo Vidal is staying and revealed why he had a Juventus poster on his wall as a child. The Coach spoke to reporters after a 6-1 victory over the Juve Primavera team, a traditional pre-season ‘family’ test. “It was a wonderful day and is part of the club history. We were welcomed very well by the fans and I thank them for their participation.” Patron John Elkann told the media today that Allegri confessed to always being a Bianconeri supporter, though he adjusted that slightly. “Was I a Juventus fan? More than anything else I always had a passion for Michel Platini as a child.” The tactician is looking forward to the Trofeo TIM on Saturday, which sees 45-minute games against Sassuolo and his old club Milan. “The team is preparing well and it’s not possible to be 100 per cent in the opening round, as we started late due to the World Cup. “Everyone is in good shape and the Trofeo TIM is very important, as it will allow us to see where we are compared to Milan and Sassuolo.” Today director Beppe Marotta declared Vidal was never on the market, slamming the door on Manchester United links. “The club was very clear on the fact we won’t be losing any players and I am very happy about that. As for those coming in, we’ll see what can be done. We are vigilant on the market and if there’s an opportunity to strengthen the squad I’m sure we will.”

Allegri 'always a Juve fan!' Aug 20, 2014 Juventus patron John Elkann reveals new Coach Massimiliano Allegri “has always been a Bianconeri fan!” The former Milan tactician took over from Antonio Conte last month and was greeted with mixed reactions from the supporters. “There is a new Coach with a new generation of fans,” Elkann told Sky Sport Italia. “We have always done great things and I am sure we can continue that with Allegri. “He feels profoundly connected to Juventus and confessed to me he has always been a Bianconeri fan! A new era begins and it will certainly be ambitious.” Meanwhile, Conte is officially the new Coach of the Italy squad after terminating his Juve contract by mutual consent. “I sent a personal message to Conte. It will be a great challenge for him and we hope he’ll be as successful as always. “Juventus will provide the spine of the Nazionale and there’s everything needed to do well.”

Marotta: 'Juve seek opportunities' Aug 20, 2014 Juventus CEO Beppe Marotta left the door open for more transfers. “If the opportunity arises...” The Bianconeri have been linked with Manchester City defender Matija Nastasic and even Monaco striker Radamel Falcao on loan. “If the opportunity arises, then we will take it, but at the moment we have achieved most of our transfer targets,” Marotta told reporters today. “We’ll see what happens over the next few weeks. We took on this season by maintaining most of the core from the previous squads and in the last 10 days we’ll see if any opportunities present themselves. “We still need a forward, a support striker in an area where we already have a lot of guarantees, but it won’t be a shock level profile. “Andrea Barzagli is recovering faster than expected and Luca Marrone showed he can play in defence, so apart from any other interesting opportunities we could well remain as we are.”

Marotta: Vidal never for sale Aug 20, 2014 Juventus CEO Beppe Marotta insists Arturo Vidal has never been for sale at any point this summer. The Chilean midfielder has been linked with a big money move to the likes of Real Madrid and Manchester United in recent months. However, speaking to Sky Sport, the official said the player has returned to Old Lady training following injury and will be available for the Serie A champions again soon. “Vidal is fine, he has started training again and his knee is working as normal again,” Marotta said. “He is still available for the team, there is always the same speculation about him. He was never put up for sale and there have never been any negotiations for him. “They are the usual media rumours that are apart from reality.” Marotta then discussed the prospect of Gigi Buffon and Paul Pogba signing new contracts. “Buffon? We are very grateful to him. There is already a contract outlined in principle, we will meet when he wants to. He will stay as long as he wants to. “Pogba? We have had some negotiation with his agents, we hope to arrive at a positive conclusion shortly.”

Conte wants 'part-time' Pirlo Aug 20, 2014 Antonio Conte will give Andrea Pirlo a ‘part-time role’ in his Italy set-up, according to reports this morning. giornalaccio rosa dello Sport believe that the new Coach will speak with the Juventus midfielder within the next few days to outline his vision for the Azzurri – and where the veteran fits into that. The paper claims that the tactician wants Pirlo to be involved with the national team, but only when absolutely necessary. That means that the Bianconeri man won’t play in friendlies or meaningless qualifying matches. Only in absolutely essential games and tournament matches will the 35-year-old be considered for selection. Conte meanwhile, also has clear ideas about who else will be lynchpins in his side. Daniele De Rossi is thought to be key for the new Coach, whilst Marco Verratti will be one of the first names on the team-sheet. The same however, can’t be said for Mario Balotelli. The pink paper writes that the 45-year-old will give the Milan striker his chance, but a series of bad performances or off-field misdemeanours will result in exclusion from the group.

Marotta rules out Juventus bid for Falcao It had been claimed that the Bianconeri were hoping to take the Monaco forward on loan but the Italian champions will not make any more high-profile signings this summer. Aug 20, 2014 Juventus director general Giuseppe Marotta has seemingly ruled out a bid for Radamel Falcao. The Bianconeri have been heavily linked with a loan move for the Monaco forward, who is reportedly unsettled at the Stade Louis II, with Leonardo Jardim's men having lost their first two games of the new Ligue 1 season. However, Marotta has explained that while Juventus could sign another attacker before the close of the summer transfer window, they will not bring in a big-name player. "We're lacking a forward, a second striker in a compartment that already gives us many certainties, but it will not be a player with a major profile," the Juve director told Sky Sport Italia. "We will not make big investments. But one player could arrive in the final hours of the window." It has also been reported that Juventus are considering a move for Benfica captain Luisao but Marotta insists that they are not interested in the centre-back either, as he feels that the Italian champions are well stocked in defence. "We have never contacted the player," he declared. "But this is the world of football. "Barzagli is recovering quicker than expected from injury and Luca Marrone has shown himself to be comfortable in defence, so we could stay like this." Juventus kick off the defence of their Serie A title with a trip to Verona to take on Chievo on August 30.

Evergreen Evra Patrice Evra’s desire, experience and versatility make him arguably Juventus’s most important summer signing, as Luca Persico explains. Patrice Evra - 273 appearances for Manchester United, 16 major honours and 61 caps across ten years with France. The 33 year-old’s credentials are unrivalled and yet he wants more. His switch to Juventus last month was motivated by ambition, rather than a desire to wind down his illustrious career. Evra, like Ashley Cole and Nemanja Vidic, has left the Premier League to play with greater regularity, but also to win. After nine seasons at Manchester United, it would have been easy for him to accept his place as a mentor to new £30 million signing Luke Shaw. Instead, he has chosen to challenge himself. “It was very difficult to leave Man United because it was like my second family," he said, as reported by the BBC. “But as soon as I knew there was interest from Juve, I knew it would be a new challenge for me because I have to repay the faith they showed in me.” For Sporting Director Giuseppe Marotta, signing Evra was no gamble: “He’s 33 so brings great experience to our team. Beyond his technical capabilities, we chose him because he has played in a culture at Manchester United that is a lot like ours – we win.” Former Juventus Coach Antonio Conte brought back the winning culture Marotta outlines to the Old Lady, with three consecutive League titles. For his replacement, Massimiliano Allegri, the challenge is to maintain that success and having the likes of Evra at his disposal can only help. The Dakar native’s arrival not only further swells the vast wealth of experience that is already in the Juventus dressing room, but also gives Allegri a key component for his expected tactical reshuffle. The former Milan Coach is yet to settle on a new system. In pre-season, he has used both a back four and a back three - the system Conte implemented so successfully. For either formation, Evra could prove invaluable. In a four, he is a natural at left full-back and showed at the World Cup that he is a much more assured defender than the one that was occasionally exposed at Manchester United last season - while with a three, he can operate as the left centre-back or at wing-back. It is in that role where Evra can perhaps improve Juventus. He may not be as dynamic or explosive as Kwadwo Asamoah, but he offers guarantees defensively and would perhaps ensure the team’s shape is better balanced. “I started my career playing largely within the 3-5-2 system but then I adapted to playing in a four man defence,” notes Evra. “I can do well with both systems of play.” Helped by his “brother” and former Manchester United team-mate Carlos Tevez, Evra should settle quickly at Juventus. The Frenchman insists Juve are “a big family” and is confident that the club can help reestablish Italian football amongst Europe’s elite. His experience, versatility and leadership suggests he could be Marotta’s most important summer recruit, while his hunger to seek out more success should ensure he instantly becomes an integral part of Allegri’s plans.

Juventus Refuse All Offers For Llorente Aug 18, 2014 Juventus striker Fernando Llorente is not for sale at any price, amid interest from Spanish outfit Valencia. The 29 year old Spanish international had a solid debut season in the Serie A last term, and has established himself as a first team member of the Bianconeri. Rai Sport report that Valencia offered €10 million for the towering striker, but Juventus dismissed the offer, insisting the striker was not on the market. Reports emerged over the weekend that Juventus were willing to offload Llorente, to then make a play for Monaco striker Falcao, but these reports have been deemed false. Llorente has been in fine form this pre-season for Juventus, and looks set to start alongside Carlos Tevez when the league restarts.

Allegri: Juventus are with me Aug 18, 2014 Max Allegri reflects that a successful Coach needs his club and his players behind him, and says he has found this at Juventus. The former Milan man came in as Antonio Conte’s replacement two days into pre-season, with sections of support unhappy at his appointment. However, on from positive words from the likes of Gigi Buffon on the new approach being taken by the 47-year-old, he has commented on what he feels is needed to continue the club’s winning run in Serie A. “When you change Coach, new things are normal. Each approaches the team based on their character,” Allegri has told the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport today. “There is no single way to win. The methods of Allegri, Conte, Mourinho, Ancelotti, Guardiola and Klopp are all good, but you have to have a big club behind you and a great team. “The Coach is very important, but you need togetherness between himself, the club and the players. At Juve I have found this. At Milan it was there for three years. “Repeating Juve’s 102 points of last season? I have tried to get to know the people who work at the club, especially at Vinovo. Everyone can contribute something. “If someone does a bad job, including the gardener, you will drop points along the way. To collect 102 points is impossible - the average you need to win is usually 84-85 points. I just want to have one more than second place.” Juve are again expected to do better in the Champions League. “Fortunately in the past four participations I have always passed through to the knockout stage and once got through to the quarter-finals. The Champions League is fascinating and unique. “Our first goal is to move through to the second phase, which is then another tournament. I will just say that we need faith. But we must also be realistic. “The teams that are left in the Cup are incredible - Real Madrid, Bayern, Barcelona, City and others. “Have Dortmund and Atletico taught us something, though? Sure. But Borussia can reflect on a long journey, whilst before reaching the Champions League, Atletico had won the Europa League. “This, however, does not mean that Juve cannot think of being in contention. Our qualities are many. There are players who still can grow individually - Pogba, Marchisio, Vidal, Coman, Llorente, Asamoah, Morata. “And even if an individual improves by only 10 per cent, it increases the value of the whole team. “The Scudetto or the Champions League? Both.”

‘Vidal is a lion in a cage’ Aug 18, 2014 Juventus cannot afford to make mistakes in the transfer window, warns Max Allegri, as he describes Arturo Vidal as ‘a lion in a cage’. The Bianconeri have run through the summer so far with continued market speculation on their Chile international midfielder. Whilst rumours persist of interest from Manchester United, Juve’s Coach has made clear where Vidal’s focus is. “He is a lion in a cage. He would like to play, but he needs to train more,” Allegri has told the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport today. “We will put him in the field against Villar Perosa [Wednesday August 20] or in the TIM Trophy [on August 23]. “Arturo has great spirit. It is normal that there are rumours about him - great teams seek out the big players. But Vidal is already at a great team.” Juve are still expected to bring in reinforcements this summer, with links in particular to defensive and attacking targets. For the 47-year-old, there is great risk in leaving activity to this late in the market. “We must make evaluations with the club. We have little time and the margin for error is small. Two mistakes from eight signings is something no-one will notice. “Two mistakes from two is colossal damage. It’s not good even at 50 per cent, for one error from the two. “The defenders are working well, Ogbonna has excellent quality, obviously he needs to do more. We will be in a state of emergency for the first two rounds, for the injury to Barzagli and the suspension of Chiellini. “I will have only Caceres, Bonucci and Ogbonna, as well as Marrone if he stays. Among other things, Marrone is a pleasant surprise as a defender - he has a clear evolution to this role. “And offensively what is the situation? It is important to recover Morata, then we will see what we can do. We would need a player who can play two roles. Morata, for example, can play as prima punta, but he is more a seconda and it is also feasible he can play on the wing in a tridant. “So, if someone comes in then they need to be useful - we do not need a striker at a low level that does not improve us.”

Allegri: Two formations useful Aug 18, 2014 Massimiliano Allegri sees value in Juventus’ tour of Asia and tactical flexibility and comments once more on working again with Andrea Pirlo. The Bianconeri ended their tour of Indonesia, Australia and Singapore with a 5-0 win over a Singapora selection over the weekend. Ahead of returning to Italy to see out pre-season, the club’s new Coach has reflected on the positives to take from the four wins recorded. “The tour has been used to do some good work - we trained hard and well. We grew in a physical aspect,” Allegri has told the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. “And then we carried forth the 3-5-2 system whilst also deepening our knowledge of another playing system. I think it is very fortunate to be able to switch between two formations, even in the same game. “There are moments in the season where you can play with three [defenders] and others when it is better to do so with four.” Attention is on Allegri’s intentions to use a four-man defence for 2014-15. “The team showed good signs in the two phases when they played with a four in Jakarta and Sydney, and also for the whole game in Singapore. “We need to work hard to acquire the knowledge to make it possible to use a different formation with the same reliability. “Would this other formation be a 4-3-1-2? Often I say 4-3 and then we’ll see. It depends on the characteristics of the players. I have the fortune in only teaching the one system, as the other is already in place. “But I don’t have a playmaker? I can adapt someone. Pereyra has the features to do so even if he is not a classic finisher. I can not see Pogba in that role, Marchisio rather yes. “Tevez can play in a 4-3-2-1 with two players moving between the lines, and also in the 4-3-1-2. When you have great players it is much simpler. “But switching to a 4-3-3 is proving more difficult? Yes, for the characteristics of the players. The only winger is Pepe, then there is Coman, who has great quality but who is very young. He will be useful this year.” Allegri is reunited at Juve with Andrea Pirlo, having allowed him to leave Milan at the end of the 2010-11 season after a difficult year together. However, for the 47-year-old, a repeat scenario in Turin is unlikely. “This issue was never there. Football is not an exact science - there are years that begin one way and end up in another. “In that season Andrea was unlucky - he was a starter, he got injured, it took him a little while to return and we went forward with a different line-up. Then other assessments were made by the club considering the economic aspect. “At a technical level, Pirlo has more quality than everyone else and at a physical level he is the same as 10 years ago, so… “When Pirlo does need to rest, who will take his place? Marchisio, he is tactically intelligent.”

5 Reasons Why Roma Won't Win Silverware This Season Aug 17, 2014 Though they have been the side that has looked most likely to knock Juventus from the precipice of Italian football recently, Roma could struggle to win any trophies in 2014-15. The Giallorossi finished runners-up to Juventus in Serie A last season, and they have progressed to at least the quarter-final stage in the Coppa Italia every year since winning it back to back in 2006-07 and 2007-08. But while they will be considered contenders in several competitions in the upcoming campaign, it is difficult to see Roma taking home any silverware. Here are five reasons why. Juventus Are Still the Kings The Giallorossi may have finished second in Serie A in 2013-14, but by season's end they trailed Juventus by the massive margin of 17 points. That is the gap which needs to be closed if Roma, and others, are to compete for the league title, and it is hard to see anyone making such a vast leap. The one ray of hope may be that Juventus decide to concentrate on European football, rather than focus on winning their fourth straight Scudetto. But even if that is the case, someone in the trailing pack will have to produce an near-perfect campaign to overhaul the champions. While the Coppa Italia might offer more of an opportunity for silverware due to the knockout format of the competition, the Bianconeri will start that competition as favourites as well. Totti Isn't Getting Any Younger Francesco Totti has been Roma's talisman for so long now that it is hard to remember a time when the club was not heavily reliant on him. And if the Giallorossi's pre-season was anything to go on, Totti will once again be the side's most influential attacking player. This is somewhat worrisome when you consider the legendary No. 10 is now 37 years old. While his skills remain as honed as ever, Totti's ageing legs can no longer be counted on to carry him through 90 minutes of every game of a long season. The Roma captain managed 20 starts in 2013-14, and he was subbed off on 14 of those occasions. His participation levels will surely drop off even further in the upcoming campaign, meaning the Giallorossi will have to find a way to win without their main man. Inter, Napoli and Fiorentina Have Strong Squads Roma may have been the second best Italian side last season, but there are a group of teams who are looking in good shape to overhaul them this time around. Inter have a fresh look about them and, with Walter Mazzarri entering his second year in charge, should hit the ground running. While Milan may still be a side in transition, Napoli and Fiorentina both appear to have strong squads heading into the 2014-15 season, and they will be pushing for domestic honours. Lack of Firepower Up Front Though there is considerable talent among Roma's posse of attacking players, it does seem they are lacking a genuinely world-class goalscorer. As mentioned, Totti is still capable of brilliance, but he cannot be depended on to score more than 20 goals as he did in his younger days. Mattia Destro is the closest the Giallorossi have to a target man, and while he managed 13 Serie A goals last campaign, he will need to take his game up another level if Roma are going to be in the running for trophies at season's end. Those in the support cast such as Gervinho, Juan Iturbe, Adem Ljajic and Marco Borriello can contribute a handful of goals, but they are not quite as fearsome as some of the other strikers in Serie A, at least at this point of their respective careers. Roma Are Not Ready to Win the Champions League While Roma fans will be delighted to see their side in the Champions League this season, there is little chance of the team going all the way in the world's most prestigious club competition. Roma will be seeded in pot three or four, meaning they are sure to come up against at least one of European football's powerhouse clubs in the group stage. Even if they make it through to the knockout rounds, it is hard to see them getting past the likes of Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Chelsea and Real Madrid to claim the trophy. Domestic football will be the club's best chance of silverware.

Pirlo: 'Available for Conte's Italy' Aug 17, 2014 Andrea Pirlo “will gladly accept” an Italy call-up from new Coach Antonio Conte, postponing his retirement. The Juventus midfielder had written in his autobiography that he’d hang up his Azzurri boots after the 2014 World Cup. However, the arrival of ex-Bianconeri tactician Conte on the bench could well change his mind. “The Nazionale? I am available,” Pirlo told Tuttosport after bagging a brace in a 5-0 friendly win over Singapore. “If Conte calls me, then I will gladly accept, as always. If he decides not to call me up, then that will be fine too and it’ll mean my story with the Azzurri jersey has concluded. “He will make the decision and I will adapt to it.”

Juve target Falcao for Llorente Aug 17, 2014 Juventus and Liverpool reportedly asked AS Monaco for Radamel Falcao on loan, as Valencia want Fernando Llorente. The Colombian international hitman only left Atletico Madrid for £50m last summer, but is widely believed to be unhappy at Monaco. His first choice would be moving to Real Madrid, but they cannot make a bid this year due to Financial Fair Play rules, having already spent £90m for the likes of James Rodriguez, Toni Kroos and Keylor Navas. According to the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport, Monaco would be prepared to loan Falcao out for one season so that he can find his fitness after a lengthy injury lay-off. That way he’d be able to bide his time and wait one year for Real Madrid to take him on, or agree a buy-out clause with this new club. Juventus have approached Monaco to ask for his signature, but face competition from Liverpool, who are still seeking a replacement for Barcelona-bound Luis Suarez. The Mail on Sunday claims Monaco are demanding a £12m loan fee, though it could well be negotiated down. The Bianconeri would pay for this move – and his huge £10m per season wages – by accepting Valencia’s bid for Fernando Llorente. The same newspaper claims Valencia have offered €10m (£8m) for Llorente, but that Juve want double that sum to release the Spaniard. It would be a huge boost to their finances, as they picked up Llorente on a free from Athletic Bilbao a year ago.

Allegri: 'Vidal and Tevez precaution' Aug 16, 2014 Massimiliano Allegri explained why he left Carlos Tevez and Arturo Vidal out of a 5-0 Juventus win in Singapore. The Bianconeri inaugurated the new National Stadium in Singapore by playing a local all-stars selection, concluding their pre-season tour of Asia. “The team had a good approach to the game, which was what I wanted to see,” said Allegri in a Press conference. “We are working very well in this very important phase of pre-season.” Andrea Pirlo bagged a brace with a free kick under the wall and a penalty, while Paul Pogba, Kwadwo Asamoah and Sebastian Giovinco rounded out the scoreline. “Pirlo is in great shape and of course he is an important player. This was our last game in Asia, so now we return home where we’ll continue preparing for the start of Serie A.” Tevez and Manchester United transfer target Vidal were nowhere to be seen in Singapore, but Allegri had an explanation. “I chose to keep Tevez and a few other players out as a precaution to avoid pointless risks, because the state of the pitch was not good. Vidal will be working with the full squad from next week.” Allegri takes over from Antonio Conte, who is the new Italy Coach, so what is he expecting from this sea change in Turin? “I think our first objective of the season must be getting past the Champions League group phase. Therefore we need to be ready to start strong and give our best as quickly as possible.”

Five-star Juve in Singapore Aug 16, 2014 Andrea Pirlo bagged a brace as Juventus ended their pre-season tour of Asia with a 5-0 victory in Singapore. The Bianconeri opened the new stadium with a friendly against the Singapore Selection. Paul Pogba rattled the crossbar after just four minutes with his header, but it was offside anyway. It was Pirlo who broke the deadlock with an inspired free kick. Rather than curl it over the wall, he cheekily waited for the players to jump and placed it under their feet. Pirlo doubled their tally before the break, converting a penalty when Shakir pulled back Roberto Pereyra in the box. Pogba made it 3-0 straight after the restart, skipping past two defenders down the left to fire into the far corner. Pereyra was denied by a fine save, but it was only a warning ahead of Sebastian Giovinco’s impressive volley from the edge of the box on a Pirlo corner. Kwadwo Asamoah also shined his scoring boots with a splendid volley moments later. Arturo Vidal and Carlos Tevez did not take part, as Coach Massimiliano Allegri did not want to risk them on a shoddy pitch. Singapore 0-5 Juventus Scorers: Pirlo 17, pen 43 (J), Pogba 48 (J), Giovinco 54 (J), Asamoah 71 (J) Juventus: Buffon (Storari 46); Lichtsteiner (Marrone 52), Bonucci (Caceres 46), Ogbonna (Chiellini 46), Evra (Asamoah 46); Pirlo (Pepe 58), Pogba (Blanco 80), Vitale (Marchisio 46); Pereyra (Buenacasa 73), Giovinco, Llorente (Motta 58) Singapore: Hassan; Al-Qaasimy, Safuwan, Baihakki, Shakir; Hariss, Shahdan; Pejic, Shahril, Camara; Velez

Tevez on Argentina, England and Italy Aug 16, 2014 Juventus hitman Carlos Tevez sees differences between Argentina, the English Premier League and Serie A. The former Manchester City and Manchester United forward spoke to Today Online ahead of the friendly match in Singapore. “We Argentineans work hard on our skills and we are so passionate about the game,” said Carlitos. “That’s why you see so many Argentineans playing professional football all over the world, even in Singapore and Malaysia. We are a determined lot, we can make a success out of wherever we play.” Tevez has experienced football in England and now in Italy, so can see differences. “Life in the English Premier League is different. So too Italian football, the way they train, the football culture and even the food. But I have no problem with that.” Apache also had praise for Bianconeri teammate Andrea Pirlo. “Pirlo is a phenomenon. He is such a wonderful player, blessed with so much skill and talent and I have always enjoyed playing alongside him. He makes Juventus tick, especially in midfield.”