Socrates

How Juventus Can Improve If They Sell Paul Pogba Jul 25, 2014 Paul Pogba has been a revelation since joining Juventus, going from being a peripheral figure at Manchester United to two-time Serie A champion and a member of the France World Cup squad. His rise has been incredible to witness, and there is every chance he could mature into one of the best midfielders on the planet. At just 21, the Lagny-sur-Marne native has excelled in Turin, despite still having started just 70 professional matches, according to stats site WhoScored.com. Last term, he featured in all but two of Juve’s league games, notching seven goals and the same number of assists, per the same source. He has blossomed into one of the finest prospects in Europe, coveted by a number of clubs despite his agent insisting he is going nowhere. “Everything is perfect at Juventus and no meetings are planned,” Mino Raiola told TuttoSport (h/t Yahoo Sport) when asked about interest from Chelsea earlier this month. In that same interview, he also said that Pogba moving was “just fantasy football,” but what if that became reality, what if Juventus decided to cash in on the talented midfielder? While sacrificing Arturo Vidal makes little sense—a theory expanded upon here—an argument for selling Pogba now can be rationalised far more easily. There would be no shortage of deep-pocketed suitors, with Paris Saint-Germain, per Le Parisien (via Stefan Coerts of Goal.com), and his former employers at Old Trafford, per Matt Dickenson, Gary Jacob and George Caulkin of The Times (subscription required), joining Chelsea in being strongly linked with a move for Pogba. Where Vidal embodies everything positive about this Juventus and is clearly the club’s best player, his midfield colleague can—and often is—ably replaced by the likes of Claudio Marchisio. The latter lost his place to the young Frenchman, but his statistical output rivals Pogba’s reasonably well. Looking at WhoScored once again, they completed an almost identical number of tackles, Pogba averaging 2.3 to Marchisio’s 2.2 per game. The latter held the edge in interceptions—1.4 per appearance to 1.0—whilst passing more accurately to complete 86.7 per cent to Pogba’s 83.8. With the Bianconeri looking to win now, as well as in the future, Marchisio is able to carry the load in the present despite his team-mate possessing a much higher ceiling in the future. A sale for the sums discussed would allow Juventus to add other pieces, too, finally handing La Madama the resources to compete with Europe’s greatest clubs. Seeing the likes of Real Madrid win the Champions League, then adding Toni Kroos and James Rodriguez to their squad leaves others trailing in their wake. Moves for two of the World Cup’s finest players that Juventus have missed out on in Alexis Sanchez and Juan Manuel Iturbe highlights just how great the gap has become. Their last two Champions League campaigns have also shown Juve to still be somewhat short when matched against the elite teams, lacking the weapons to unlock the finest defences. Having the money from a potential Pogba sale would allow the Bianconeri to contest for the signature of these players more keenly, adding genuine star quality to an already talented squad. Alvaro Morata is a step in the right direction, but others such as Xherdan Shaqiri would allow Juventus to make the necessary leap to join those truly giant clubs once again. The Bayern Munich forward discussed a possible move with TuttoSport earlier this week (h/t Football Italia), but the money is likely to once again be the stumbling block. Selling Pogba before he is the finished product may sound sacrilegious to supporters of the club, but sacrificing a major talent is not new territory for the club. The reigning Italian champions sold both Roberto Baggio and Zinedine Zidane when the team belonged to Alessandro Del Piero, a similar scenario to cashing in on the French youngster when Vidal is the star of the show. It might hurt, it might seem like a mistake, but if the money was reinvested properly, selling Paul Pogba could actually improve Juventus.

Allegri: 'I'm not worried' Jul 25, 2014 Massimiliano Allegri is “not worried” by the Arturo Vidal situation or his debut Juventus defeat to an amateur team. The new Coach had a sensational first friendly game in charge, losing 3-2 to Eccellenza level side Lucento today. “This was more of a training session than a proper match,” he told Tuttomercatoweb. “I wanted to see who will remain and how they would play. We were coming off two days of intensive training, so our legs were a little heavy. “I expected the first few days to be like this, but there is a great atmosphere and everyone wants to work hard. From Monday we’ll start playing for real and then there’s our first official friendly against Cesena.” Allegri was also asked about the Vidal situation, as the Chilean midfielder said he wants to talk to the new Coach before making a decision on his future. “I am not worried. He is a Juventus player and I am relaxed. I’ve already spoken to him, as I have done with all the players who are currently all over the world.” Allegri tested out the 4-3-2-1 system in today’s friendly and explained how he will move Juve on from the Antonio Conte era of three consecutive Scudetti. “It’s not intelligent to completely revamp a side that works well, but I will make some modifications. It is only normal that a Coach who did as well as Conte is remembered fondly, but in football and life everything can change. “Roberto Pereyra allows me to have different options and more or less the same characteristics as Claudio Marchisio, but until I have the whole squad at my disposal, I cannot give you precise indications. “Napoli and Roma will be our big rivals this season, just like Inter, Milan and Fiorentina. Juve are coming off three titles and remain the favourites, but it’ll be a tough battle.” Allegri’s reign has not started well, as on top of this friendly defeat they lost Alvaro Morata for 50 days to a knee injury. “He’d only been with us for a day, so was very unlucky. We have to look on the positive side, as he’ll be back for the start of the season.”

Juventus lose on Allegri debut Jul 25, 2014 Juventus lost their first game under Max Allegri, falling 3-2 to amateur side Lucento despite a Fernando Llorente brace. New Coach Allegri changed their system to his favoured 4-3-2-1 with Carlos Tevez and Sebastian Giovinco supporting the Spanish centre-forward. It started off badly, as Lucento took the lead when Gianluca Bo was allowed to nod in a corner. Llorente turned the game around before half-time, as he turned to fire in a Simone Pepe assist and then scored with an angled drive. Roberto Pereyra had his presentation Press conference before the game, but made his debut in a Juve jersey for the second half. Allegri performed many substitutions and Lucento netted twice in the final 15 minutes to secure a shock 3-2 victory at the Vinovo training camp. Cavazzi sprinted forward and held off a challenge from Angelo Ogbonna to fire past Marco Storari, then Cretazzo netted from the edge of the box. The Bianconeri were unlucky this afternoon, hitting the woodwork with Sebastian Giovinco and Pereyra. Juventus had already faced Turin-based Eccellenza League side Lucento in a 2011 pre-season friendly, winning 6-1. Juventus: Storari; Motta (Spinazzola 62), Sorensen, Ogbonna, Barlocco (Liviero 52); Padoin (Buoy 62), Marrone (Pereyra 51), Pepe (Gerbaudo 62); Tevez (Coman 52), Giovinco (Buchel 62); Llorente (Vitale 62)

Marotta: 'No reason for Vidal exit' Jul 25, 2014 “There is no reason” for Arturo Vidal to quit Juventus and Beppe Marotta would be “very surprised” if he requested a transfer. Director Marotta was naturally asked about Vidal’s future during a presentation Press conference for Roberto Pereyra. “It’s very simple. Vidal extended his contract with us last season, as there was a reciprocal desire to continue this rapport,” noted Marotta. “There is no reason for him to leave. Yesterday he gave an interview in a rushed and embarrassed manner, as he was getting his luggage and so was misinterpreted. “I can assure and confirm Vidal is happy to be with us and there’s no reason for alarm. He had these problems with the knee injury and rushing the recovery for the World Cup, so will take a while to find his fitness. “Nobody can doubt the quality of the player, nor how strong his bond is with Juventus.” Would Marotta be surprised if Vidal asked for a transfer? “Absolutely yes. It is a very remote chance, considering what the lad is like, and so I’m not even considering the possibility. “The situation around him is typical of the transfer market when several big clubs admire him. Vidal exploded in a fairly unexpected way over the last two years to become one of the most important players in the world. “He is naturally linked to big clubs, but I’ll point out Juventus are a big club too and we intend to hold on tight. I don’t get the sensation he wants to leave us.” Marotta was also asked about their search for a striker after a knee injury ruled new arrival Alvaro Morata out for 50 days. “So far we are satisfied, as we achieved the targets we were aiming for, when it comes to the profile of the player needed. “We are keeping a close eye on the evolution of the market, though obviously there are many problems with clubs who own the players we are interested in. It changes hour by hour.” The main name linked with the Bianconeri is Samuel Eto’o, who is a free agent. “We’ve never talked about Eto’o. The squad needs at least five strikers, so we are missing someone, especially considering Alvaro Morata’s injury. “Whether the target is Eto’o or someone else, I prefer not to say. As Giovanni Trapattoni said, in this market don’t say cat unless it’s in the bag. “I can confirm we are looking for another forward.”

Serie A leaders at odds over FIGC Jul 24, 2014 It seems that Serie A leaders are split on who should be the next President of the FIGC. Demetrio Albertini and Carlo Tavecchio are the two names in contention to replace Giancarlo Abete as the head of the Italian Football Federation. But Sport Mediaset have revealed that the men and women at the top of teams in Serie A are currently at odds as to who should be appointed. Juventus’ Andrea Agnelli, Milan’s Barbara Berlusconi, James Pallotta of Roma and a host of others believe that the game on the peninsula needs a complete overhaul – and thus, think that Albertini is the ideal man. Some of the older heads however, like Claudio Lotito and Enrico Preziosi of Lazio and Genoa respectively, think that Tavecchio would be a better, more conservative option. They are currently meeting this evening to try and come to a compromise, ahead of an election on August 11.

Sorensen ha rifiutato l'Udinese? E dove vorrebbe giocare questo, nel Real Madrid?

Carlos Tevez: 'Roberto Mancini arrival would not have forced exit' Jul 23, 2014 Carlos Tevez has dismissed suggestions that he would have asked to leave Juventus if the club had appointed Roberto Mancini as their new manager. The Argentine had a difficult relationship with Mancini during their time at Manchester City, but Tevez insists that he never asked Giuseppe Marotta, the club's CEO, any questions about who was going to replace Antonio Conte prior to the arrival of Massimiliano Allegri. "I have never spoke with Marotta about this," the forward told reporters. "The club is based on respect and I doubt the thoughts of a player could change anything. "Those who write these stories should have more respect. "I have never thought to leave - I've signed for three years and I want to end my contract here, staying with my team-mates." Mancini is currently without a club following his departure from Galatasaray.

Tevez: Ditching Juventus never on the cards The Argentine has claimed that it never crossed his mind to leave the Serie A champions, even after the departure of influential coach Antonio Conte. Jul 23, 2014 Carlos Tevez has claimed that it was never a possibility he would leave Juventus after the departure of Antonio Conte, who brought the former Manchester City striker to Turin last summer. The Juve boss' acrimonious resignation this month was reportedly sparked by a lack of intent and imagination in the transfer market, with several senior players also thought to have been left disillusioned with the club. However, the 30-year-old attacker insists he never thought about asking for a move - despite reports in Italy suggesting he threatened to force for a transfer if Roberto Mancini had been hired - while also claiming the team can succeed without Conte. "The idea of leaving Juventus never crossed my mind after the departure of Conte. I signed up for three years and I want to finish my contract," he told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. "His choice to leave did not disappoint me. We have to show that this team is winners. Conte had a great influence on our victories, but the badge is not just about him." Conte's replacement, Massimiliano Allegri, has proven to be an unpopular choice among many Bianconeri fans while star midfielder Arturo Vidal continues to be linked away from Turin. Despite the stream of negativity coming from Juventus at the moment, though, Tevez remains upbeat when questioned about the new coach and his Chilean team-mate. "I don't know Allegri or how his methods work, but we are training well, which is important," the Argentine added. "Vidal is a phenomenon and a great champion. I hope that stays here with us, as he simply must not go away from Juve." Tevez was an integral member of the playing staff as he helped Juventus and Antonio Conte on their way to a third consecutive Serie A title last season.

Tevez on Conte, Mancini and Juve Jul 23, 2014 Carlos Tevez insists he “never considered leaving” Juventus and denied warning them against hiring Roberto Mancini. The striker spoke at a Press conference this afternoon and was asked about the sudden departure of Coach Antonio Conte on the second day of pre-season training. “We players still have to prove we are playing in a team that won many Scudetti, that we weren’t just counting on the strength and hard work of the Coach,” said Carlitos. “We need to be stronger and prove we belong at Juve. I never considered leaving. Conte is a champion as a Coach just as we was during his playing career. I think he took this decision before announcing it.” It had been reported today that Tevez advised Juventus director Beppe Marotta against hiring Mancini as a replacement, so they went for Massimiliano Allegri instead. “I’ve never spoken to Marotta about this. The club is based on respect and I doubt the thoughts of a player could change anything. Those who write these stories should have more respect. “I didn’t know Allegri as a Coach, but I think we are working well now. We know the Juventini loved Conte, but we have to focus on training to prepare for Serie A and the Champions League. “What shape am I in now? I’m 8kg heavier! I’m fine and once all my teammates return we can start to really get this season into focus.” It has been said that Conte’s departure and the transfer strategies mean Roma and Napoli are favourites for the Scudetto. “The field will tell us whether that’s true, but one thing is for sure: we are champions of Italy. I also think with the team at our disposal we can play for the Champions League and give this joy to the fans.” Tevez was frozen out of the Argentina squad for the World Cup, who lost the Final to Germany in extra time. “We could’ve won the World Cup and everyone in Argentina truly believed that, but Germany played better on the night. We lost because the ball didn’t go in the net for us and it did for them.”

Tevez warned Juve off Mancini Jul 23, 2014 There are sensational reports in Italy this afternoon suggesting that Carlos Tevez told Juventus directors not to appoint Roberto Mancini. Following Antonio Conte’s departure last week, the former Galatasaray boss was one of the leading contenders to take over the Bianconeri. However, Corriere della Sera have claimed today that the Argentine striker openly warned the leaders at the club that he would force a move should they appoint Mancini. Tevez worked with the 49-year-old at Manchester City, and infamously fell out with the tactician during a Champions League game with Bayern Munich, when he refused to come off the bench. The goalscorer has put that behind him however, and has become a fan favourite in Turin with his performances. After becoming one of the most important members of the squad, the 30-year-old is rumoured to have felt it within his power to go straight to the top and force the champions to swerve away from the ex-Sampdoria striker. Tevez is reported to have said: “I will pack my bags and leave”, should Mancini have been given the job. As it was, Massimiliano Allegri was appointed.

Elkann: Conte a surprise, but… Jul 23, 2014 John Elkann, head of the majority shareholders of Juventus, says Antonio Conte’s exit was a ‘surprise’, but that the club ‘is stronger than the individual’. Elkann is President of Exor, the company that hold more than 60 per cent shares in the Bianconeri, and he is also one of the heirs to the Agnelli family. Considering the change in management at the club facilitated by Conte’s exit last week, the American-born patron admitted his surprise, but also considered his optimism. “It was a surprise, but the same as Conte has said, when you lack the motivation it is hard to move forward,” Elkann has told reporters today. “It was a very good period for Juve, but Juve is stronger than the individual. “We have before us a great future beyond Conte. “Allegri now has a great responsibility, as does any Coach of Juventus. “This responsibility is felt by all of those who work at Juventus because ahead of us we have so many important things and a great future.” Elkann was asked for his view on continued speculation linking Arturo Vidal with an exit. “The transfer market is open, there are those who are looking after it very well.”

Pirlo, Allegri resolve differences Jul 23, 2014 Tuttosport believe that Andrea Pirlo and Massimiliano Allegri have put their Milan past behind them to work together at Juventus. One of the main points of interest to Allegri’s arrival as Antonio Conte’s replacement at Vinovo was the role that Pirlo would play in the team. Whilst the regista has only recently renewed his contract at the club for two years, speculation had surrounded his position in the side following how his time at Milan ended under the same Coach in 2011. Minimal playing time in his preferred position for the Rossoneri at the discretion of Allegri saw the playmaker depart on a free transfer to Juve. However, Tuttosport suggest that the two have now sought to resolve any issues from that period, through a phonecall initiated by Allegri. Whilst Pirlo had reportedly already received assurances of his importance to Juve heading into next season via club officials, this believed conversation with Allegri has reportedly proved most important. It is understood that the 46-year-old tactician transmitted ‘serenity, confidence and motivation’ to the 35-year-old midfielder and that he specifically made clear that the player’s position will remain in the centre of midfield and not centre-right or centre-left. Pirlo apparently responded positively and offered Allegri his own assurance: “Do not worry, you can count on me.”

Taking a deeper look at new Juventus signing Patrice Evra Jul 22, 2014 Like all other Juventus transfer targets this offseason, the process of actually getting Patrice Evra to Turin seemed to have dragged on all summer. The news of Juve's interest in him has been met with equal parts of disdain and support. At 33, he doesn't appear to be a part of the long-term squad, but definitely still has some value to the side. Born in Senegal, Evra is a French citizen who has made 11 appearances for the France Under-21 side and 62 for the senior side, including the just concluded 2014 World Cup. He has collected a number of titles in his nine years at Manchester United, winning five Premier League titles, the Champions League in 2008 and the English League Cup thrice. For the Red Devils, he made a total of 379 appearances, and was named to the Premier League 'team of the year' on three occasions. Not much of a goalscorer, he potted ten in his time in England. His best years were in the 2008-2010 era, which were also tinged with controversy. He was widely reported to have been one of the key players in the shambolic mutiny in the French camp that led to manager Raymond Domenech getting fired and Les Blues taking the early flight home in the 2010 World Cup. He declined from then on, with the last season at Old Trafford under David Moyes marking the low point for more than one United player. While he has lost pace and doesn't track back as often and well as is demanded for someone in his position, he is still astute in his attacking abilities, and crosses the ball better into the box than Paolo De Ceglie can even dream of. Evra's biggest failing is his tendency to surge so far up the left wing that opponents can take advantage of the room behind him on a quick counter. Giorgio Chiellini tends to drift out left when playing in a central defender role, so covering for him when he's on the overlap could fall to Chiello and also be shared between Kwadwo Asamoah or either Claudio Marchisio or Arturo Vidal, depending on who's on the left. Evra can defend — when he fails his task it's not because of inability, but more of a lapse of concentration combined with aging legs. However, when he does become a component of the attack, he can be devastating. United's all-conquering 2007-08 team had him out on the left and constantly probing deep in support of a a three-man attack of Cristiano Ronaldo, Carlos Tevez and Wayne Rooney - scary. This note from a 2012-13 season review of the player on The Busby Babe, SB Nation's Manchester United blog, should tell you everything you need to know about the player: While he does tend to overlap his winger often, he doesn't attempt as many crosses from near the touchline. Instead, Evra looks to participate in attacking combinations just outside the box or use his close-control and dribbling ability to penetrate into the box. From these positions, he often attempts relatively short-distanced crosses from just outside the box or he looks to create a chance from a cutback near goal. Furthermore, his decision-making in attack tends to be pretty solid. Evra is a vocal leader in the locker room and on the pitch, and was considered one of the wiser heads at United. Stats aside, two other critical elements that Evra will provide Juventus are his experience and intensity. The Frenchman might be considered long in the tooth, but he has 'been there and done that' to paraphrase a common saying. The last couple of seasons have seen Juventus knocked out of Europe looking like a pale shadow of the side that dominated Serie A. Evra has been to the Champions League final thrice and won the trophy once. His composure and demeanor in clutch situations will be a learning experience for younger squad members who have only known victory under Antonio Conte. The leftback is also widely known for his passion and intensity. He gives his all in every game, and is known as a warhorse who won't pack it in until the referee blows the final whistle. Another Tevez-like player on the pitch makes the side tougher to play against, an intangible that should get the team further in Europe. Despite the ferociousness that he brings to the game, it's a telling fact that he has never been sent off since he moved to England. Even in the midst of the racist abuse fiasco with Luis Suarez, he maintained his composure and didn't let it affect his game. While the wages might be on the higher side for someone at this stage of his career, this might be money well-spent for Juventus as the upside that Evra brings to Turin should overcome any negatives that his age will expose. New manager Massimiliano Allegri will certainly appreciate his support as he tries to make this locker room his own.

Coppa Italia draw Jul 22, 2014 The 2014-15 Coppa Italia draw has been performed with Lazio-Livorno early on, while Inter-Milan and Roma-Juventus could be semi-finals. The draw is a tennis-style table with the top eight seeds (Juventus, Roma, Napoli, Fiorentina, Inter, Parma, Torino and Milan) entering in the Round of 16. The first round is on August 10, the second on August 17, the third August 24 and fourth on December 3. The Round of 16 is on January 14 and the quarter-final on February 4. In this edition of the Coppa Italia, the only round with two legs is the semi-final, played on March 4 and April 8. The Final is set for June 7 2015 at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, but there is a reserve date of May 20 if this clashes with European commitments. Round 1 Aug 10 Benevento-Correggese Catanzaro-Akragas Como-Matelica Cremonese-Cosenza FeralpiSalò-Santarcangelo L’Aquila-Altovicentino Lecce-Foligno Juve Stabia-Prato Monza-Olginatese Pisa-RapalloBogliasco Reggina-Casertana Salernitana-Alessandria Savona-Terracina Sudtirol-Teramo Venezia-Taranto Round 2 Aug 17 Avellino-Venezia/Taranto Bari-Savona/Terracina Bologna-L'Aquila/Altovicentino Brescia-Pro Vercelli Carpi-Pisa/RapalloBogliasco Catania-Sudtirol/Teramo Cittadella-Pontedera/Messina Crotone-Reggina/Casertana Entella-Benevento/Correggese Frosinone-Como/Matelica Lanciano-Salernitana/Alessandria Latina-Novara Livorno-Vicenza/Bassano Modena-Monza/Olginatese Perugia-FeralpiSalò/Santarcangelo Pescara-Albinoleffe/Renate Spezia-Lecce/Foligno Varese-Juve Stabia/Prato Ternana-Catanzaro/Akragas Trapani-Cremonese/Cosenza Round 3 Aug 24 Genoa vs Lanciano/Salernitana/Alessandria Empoli vs Bologna/L'Aquila/Altovicentino Atalanta vs Carpi/Pisa/RapalloBogliasco Bari/Savona/Terracina vs Avellino/Venezia/Taranto Hellas Verona vs Trapani/Cremonese/Cosenza Perugia/FeralpiSalò/Santarcangelo vs Spezia/Lecce/Foligno Cagliari vs Catania/Sudtirol/Teramo Palermo vs Modena/Monza/Olginatese Chievo vs Pescara/Albinoleffe/Renate Sassuolo vs Cittadella/Pontedera/Messina Lazio vs Livorno/Vicenza/Bassano Varese/Juve Stabia/Prato vs Entella/Benevento/Correggese Sampdoria vs Frosinone/Como/Matelica Brescia/Pro Vercelli vs Latina/Novara Udinese vs Ternana/Catanzaro/Akragas Cesena vs Crotone/Reggina/Casertana Round 4 Dec 3 Chievo/Pescara/Albinoleffe/Renate vs Sassuolo/Cittadella/Pontedera/Messina (1) Lazio/Livorno/Vicenza/Bassano vs Varese/Juve Stabia/Prato vs Entella/Benevento/Correggese (2) Sampdoria/Frosinone/Como/Matelica vs Brescia/Pro Vercelli/Latina/Novara (3) Udinese/Ternana/Catanzaro/Akragas vs Cesena/Crotone/Reggina/Casertana (4) Genoa/Lanciano/Salernitana/Alessandria vs Empoli/Bologna/L'Aquila/Altovicentino (5) Atalanta/Carpi/Pisa/RapalloBogliasco vs Bari/Savona/Terracina/Avellino/Venezia/Taranto (6) Hellas Verona/Trapani/Cremonese/Cosenza vs Perugia/FeralpiSalò/Santarcangelo/Spezia/Lecce/Foligno (7) Cagliari/Catania/Sudtirol/Teramo vs Palermo/Modena/Monza/Olginatese (8) Round of 16 Jan 14 Milan vs Winner 1 Torino vs Winner 2 Inter vs Winner 3 Napoli vs Winner 4 Roma vs Winner 5 Fiorentina vs Winner 6 Juventus vs Winner 7 Parma vs Winner 8 Quarter-Final Feb 4 Milan/Winner 1 vs Torino/Winner 2 Inter/Winner 3 vs Napoli/Winner 4 Roma/Winner 5 vs Fiorentina/Winner 6 Juventus/Winner 7 vs Parma/Winner 8 Semi-Final Mar 4 & Apr 8 Milan/Torino vs Inter/Napoli Roma/Fiorentina vs Juventus/Parma

Evra’s salary at €3.5m Jul 22, 2014 New arrival Patrice Evra’s contract signed with Juventus will reportedly see him paid €3.5m per season. The Frenchman’s transfer from Manchester United was eventually confirmed on Monday afternoon following days of speculation. With Juve confirming an instalments totalling at least €1.2m will be paid to the Old Trafford outfit for the player, speculation is now on how much Evra will take in. Tuttosport believe that the 33-year-old’s two-year contract agreed is at a salary rate of €3.5m per season. If accurate, that figure places Evra as just below the Old Lady’s current top earners. Meanwhile, So Foot have run quotes today from the player, on various moments on his career, including four years ago when he was apparently on the verge of leaving for Inter or Real Madrid. “In the summer of 2010 I had decided to leave Manchester. I was tired of the climate and the fog, and I wanted a change of scenery for family reasons. “I was looking for a milder climate. There were teams interested in me such as Inter and Real Madrid, but Sir Alex Ferguson showed up at my house in Manchester to convince me to stay at the club. “I know that my heart really took the right decision. When Sir Alex speaks, it is always good to listen.”

Va bene, allora sono due le volte.

Patrice Evra to Juventus Jul 21, 2014 Former Manchester United left-back Patrice Evra has signed with Juventus, the Premier League club announced Monday. Manchester United ✔ @ManUtd Patrice Evra has left #mufc to join Juventus. Everyone at the club would like to thank him for his many years of excellent service. Evra provided a statement on Manchester United's official website, where his full letter can be read: After a great deal of thought I have decided the time is right for me to leave Manchester United. It is the biggest decision of my career as this club is, and will always remain, in my heart. Joining and playing for Manchester United has been a privilege, a dream come true and my time here has been so memorable. Through the good times and the bad times we have all stuck together and remained loyal. I have always said you don't just join Manchester United, you join the family and long may that tradition continue. ... ... My biggest thanks go to the fans. We have had some fantastic times together, we lifted all of those trophies together and that night in Moscow will live with us all forever. Every single time I stepped out in that shirt I knew I was playing for the badge and for a very special club. United first-team coach Phil Neville praised the former Red Devil on Twitter: Philip Neville ✔ @fizzer18 Great quotes from Patrice Evra about how he felt playing for man utd - a real fighter and a great leader in the dressing room! Evra's eventual departure from Old Trafford has been an open secret for some time. His contract expired this summer, and his drop in form gave the club little reason to bring him back. Also forcing Evra out the door was the fact that the Red Devils were aggressively pursuing Luke Shaw, who the club signed last month. Evra spent the last eight-and-a-half seasons with Manchester United, having left Monaco in January 2006. The 33-year-old became one of the veteran leaders of the club, wearing the captain's armband on occasion. Having built such a strong relationship with the club, Evra indicated that he would've stayed at Old Trafford if given the choice, per Miguel Delaney of The Independent: "My agent will have a meeting with [the club] and we will see. It will be easy for me. That is my point of view. I just want to wait until the end of the season to decide what to do. ... ... Ask Manchester United, not me. Everyone knows how much I love this club. It's difficult. The reason is an important reason. And you will see." Where he was once one of the best left-backs in the world, Evra has since fallen off. He's run into the same problem that every marauding full-back before him has: As he's aged, Evra's speed has disappeared, but his mentality has remained the same. As a result, the Frenchman struggled to get back to a defensive position after running into the attacking half. Evra is still a talented defender with his back to goal and a man in front of him. Pablo Zabaleta is the only Premier League player who's registered more tackles in the last five years, per WhoScored.com: WhoScored.com ✔ @WhoScored Patrice Evra: Only Pablo Zabaleta has made more tackles than Evra (447) of all defenders in the last 5 Premier League seasons #Juventus He has a couple more years of productive football before he hits a more dramatic decline. You can understand why Juventus would jump at the chance to bring him in for the short term. For United, this is yet another step in the much-needed transition away from Sir Alex Ferguson. The club has been aging for some time, especially at the back, without many younger replacements coming in. Although many United supporters are thankful for the years Evra spent at the club, they're likely happy to see him off. Rob Pollard of Bleacher Report weighed in on Evra's time at United: Rob @RobPollard United fan or not, you'd have to look at Evra as one of *the* great foreign imports in terms of professionalism. He is the third defender to leave Manchester United this summer, after Nemanja Vidic confirmed he is headed to Inter Milan and Rio Ferdinand signed with Queens Park Rangers. Ferdinand noted that the "old guard has gone" but feels the younger defenders at Old Trafford are more than equipped to take over: Rio Ferdinand ✔ @rioferdy5 The old guard has gone....myself, Vidic & Evra...great times together... young lads are ready, I believe they will now blossom #mufc Between the departures of Vidic, Evra and Ferdinand and the arrival of Louis van Gaal, it's clear that a new era at Manchester United is underway.

Per una volta sono d'accordo con un cattolico. Per tutto quello che accade c'é un motivo anche se a noi sfugge.

OFFICIALLY OFFICIAL: Juventus sign left back Patrice Evra from Manchester United Jul 21, 2014 Saturday brought us the word that Juventus were adding to their Spanish contingent with the addition of Álvaro Morata. Now, Juventus have added to their French Connection, giving Paul Pogba somebody to speak his native tongue with for the next couple of years (Not that our boy Paul has trouble making friends or getting along with people — or animals — at this point in his young life, but I digress.) Juventus announced on Monday they have made the long-anticipated deal for Manchester United and France fullback Patrice Evra official. The 33-year-old French international with 62 caps to his name has agreed to a two-year contract with the three-time defending Italian champions, adding depth to a left back position that hasn't had much of any the past number of years. From juventus.com: Juventus Football Club can today announce that Patrice Evra has signed a two-year contract with the club after a fee of £1.2 million, to be paid in two separate installments, was agreed with Manchester United. A further payment of £0.3 million will be made to Manchester United in the event of Juventus qualifying for the 2015/16 Champions League. There's no word from the official press release as to how much the two-year contract Evra signed is worth, but rumors and/or reports surrounding the deal had Evra slated to make anywhere between €3 million or €4 million a season during his time at Juventus. Not bad for one of the final paychecks a guy will make in his career, huh? This is what Evra had to say about his move to Turin: "I believe my transfer to Juventus in this stage of my career is the right thing to do so I can continue challenging myself and strive to improve. Juventus is a great club, and I can't wait to be part of the team and to contribute to the successes that have always been part of their history." (Source: Gianluca Di Marzio) The question now is how, exactly, Evra will fit into Max Allegri's plans. It could be largely depend on if Juventus' new manager feels that Kwadwo Asamoah is an option in defense or if the Ghanian will be returning to his more natural midfield role in what is expected to be a four-man defense under Allegri. I guess the only way we'll know for sure is when the full contingent of Juve players who were at the World Cup return to Vinovo over the course of the next 10 days. PS - The folks over at The Busby Babe, SBNation's Manchester United blog, are pretty sad about Evra's departure. It is also mildly amusing that they are still holding on to hope that this move paves the way for Artuto Vidal to go the other way.

Juventus Official – Patrice Evra Completes His Move From Manchester United French left back Patrice Evra has completed his transfer from Manchester United to Serie A champions Juventus. Jul 21, 2014 Patrice Evra’s future at Old Trafford has been under speculation all throughout the summer, especially after the arrival of Luke Shaw and Juventus’ interest in signing him. The Italian club has now officially announced the arrival of Evra on two-year contract. The transfer fee involved in this move is 1.2 million pounds, paid over two instalments. Initial reports suggested that Evra could be used in a player plus cash deal in Manchester United’s bid to sign Arturo Vidal, but the Vidal transfer rumours seemed to have died down recently, while Evra has already been announced as a Juventus player. “Juventus Football Club S.p.A announces that the agreement with Manchester United Football Club Limited for the definitive acquisition of the registration rights of the player Patrice Latyr Evra has been finalised for a consideration of 1.2 million pounds payable in two instalments: 0.6 million at the international transfer release and 0.6 million within 1 July 2015. “The purchase value may increase by a further maximum of 0.3 million pounds in case Juventus qualifies to UEFA Champions League 2015/16. “Juventus and the player have signed a 2-year contract of employment.” – Read a statement published by Juventus. The French international joined Manchester United in 2006 and has made 379 appearances for the Red Devils. He became a lynchpin in the side under Sir Alex Ferguson and delivered consistent performances for most part of his career. Evra won five Premier League titles, three League Cups and a Champions League during his stint. His performances came under a bit of criticism last season and he was expected leave this summer following the arrival of Luke Shaw at Old Trafford. The Frenchman left an emotional message for his fans at Old Trafford before his departure, and insisted that this club will always remain close to his heart. “After a great deal of thought I have decided the time is right for me to leave Manchester United. It is the biggest decision of my career as this club is, and will always remain, in my heart. “This club is steeped in history and I feel privileged to have become a part of that. Over the past nine years I have met and worked with some incredible people, many of whom will remain friends for life. I would like to thank everyone at the club – teammates, coaches and in particular all the staff who made every single day in Carrington or at Old Trafford a special day. “An immense thank you to Sir Alex Ferguson for making it all possible, for giving me the privilege to be a captain, to be inspired by the legend of Manchester United and to understand that nobody is bigger than the club. “My biggest thanks go to the fans. We have had some fantastic times together, we lifted all of those trophies together and that night in Moscow will live with us all forever. Every single time I stepped out in that shirt I knew I was playing for the badge and for a very special club. My passion for this club will live on and I know you guys will go on to enjoy more success in the coming seasons.” – Evra said.

Evra raring to go at Juventus The Frenchman is delighted to have completed his transfer to Turin and is certain he has made the right decision. Jul 21, 2014 Patrice Evra is raring to go following his transfer to Juventus from Manchester United on Monday. The 33-year-old signed for the Bianconeri on a two-year contract following eight years at Old Trafford, and is confident of success with the Italian champions. "My transfer to Juventus at this stage of my career is the right thing to do so I can continue challenging myself and strive to improve,” he told Sky Sport 24. "Juventus are a great club, and I can’t wait to be part of the team and to contribute to the successes that have always been part of their history." Evra began his career in Italy with Marsala and then Monza, and is Juve's second signing in a number of days following the arrival of Real Madrid's Alvaro Morata.

'Joining Juve the right thing to do' Jul 21, 2014 Patrice Evra has claimed that his move from Manchester United to Juventus was ‘the right thing to do’. The France international has left Old Trafford after eight seasons to sign a two-year contract with the Bianconeri. And the veteran left-back has admitted he ‘can’t wait’ to win trophies in Turin. ”I believe my transfer to Juventus in this stage of my career is the right thing to do so I can continue challenging myself and strive to improve,” he told Sky Sport Italia. “Juventus is a great club, and I can’t wait to be part of the team and to contribute to the successes that have always been part of their history.”

Official: Juve sign Evra Jul 21, 2014 Juventus have confirmed that Patrice Evra has officially joined from Manchester United on a two-year deal. The France international has been heavily linked with a move away from Old Trafford after new boss Louis van Gaal approved the signing of Luke Shaw from Southampton. And in the last few moments the Bianconeri have revealed that the full-back has put pen-to-paper on a contract until 2016. Massimiliano Allegri’s men will pay €1.2m in two installments for Evra, with a further €0.3m to be paid should the Old Lady qualify for next season's Champions League.