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JUVENTUS - MALMÖ FF - Tuesday, September 16th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland) Juventus expect tough Malmo challenge, says Giorgio Chiellini Sep 15, 2014 Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini was not wanting to get ahead of himself as the Bianconeri look to get it right in Europe against Malmo on Tuesday. The Serie A champions are desperate to go further in Europe this season than they did last time around, when they were knocked out in the group stage, and two disappointing results against Scandinavian opponents have stuck in his mind. Juve picked up only a 1-1 draw with Nordsjaelland in their 2012-13 campaign and although they recovered that time to reach the last 16, at the expense of Chelsea, they never recovered from a 1-1 draw at Copenhagen last term. "We don't expect it to be an easy game at all," Chiellini said at a news conference in Turin. "We saw that in recent years against Copenhagen and Nordsjaelland, and that's the kind of football we expect Malmo to play. We know what we can only win if we put in all our desire, attention and respect for our opponents." That said, Chiellini insists Juve cannot put all their eggs in the Champions League basket, and that finding the right balance is their biggest challenge. "It would be stupid to sacrifice the league for a European cup," Chiellini said. "Real Madrid had to wait so many years to win their 10th, which they invested so much into getting. I don't think we need to sacrifice." Coach Massimiliano Allegri concurred, saying he feels he has a good enough squad to "go far both in the league and in Europe." Juggling the two competitions is not going to be easy, but Allegri has high hopes. "We know it's very hard to win in Europe, but nothing is impossible," said the former AC Milan coach. "The main objective is to have the whole squad available to keep the level high in all our games, to try to get results in the league and in the Champions League. "Juve have the conviction that we can reach the quarterfinals, but first we've got to win this which is not going to be easy as there are no easy games in Europe, where sides always play to get a result. Our group may seem easy, but it was the same last year and Juve were eliminated, so that shows it's not easy to get through." Allegri can at least count on Carlos Tevez, who has not scored in Europe in over four years, but opened his league account in the 2-0 win over Udinese on Saturday. Chiellini is also back after missing Italy's trip to Norway and Saturday's game at the Juventus Stadium, but Roberto Pereyra is suspended. "With him out, I've got to think of a different option in midfield and maybe Kwadwo Asamoah will move inside," said Allegri. "But we've got plenty of options."

JUVENTUS - MALMÖ FF - Tuesday, September 16th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland) Malmo are in better shape than Juventus - Allegri The coach believes the Swedish champions' early start to the season will benefit them, but insists his side should be aiming to reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League. Sep 15, 2014 Massimiliano Allegri believes Juventus' first Champions League opponents, Malmo, are in better condition than them. The reigning Serie A champions have been drawn in Group A alongside Malmo, Atletico and Olympiacos, and Allegri's men host the Swedish side in their opening match of the competition on Tuesday. And Allegri believes his team are at a disadvantage, having played just two league games so far this season, compared to their opponents, who are top of the Swedish league after 23 games. "Malmo are certainly ahead of us in terms of their condition," he the coach told reporters. "They are organised so we're going to have to be very careful and very quick, and be very secure in defence. "I think Juve have a side competitive enough to go far in both the league and in Europe. We know it's very hard to win in Europe, but nothing is impossible." The 47-year-old added that his side should be aiming to get into the quarter-finals of the competition. "Juve were knocked out in the group stage last season, but they played well. Sometimes you don't get what you deserve. Juve are a great side and they need to aim towards the last eight, but the objective for now is to get through the group. "In Europe you come up against teams who play to win, so there are less tactics and more pace and so you've got to read the game differently. I've not won anything in Europe yet and this is the fifth year I'm involved so I've still got a lot to do and I hope to do that with Juventus."

FOURFOURTWO JUVENTUS - MALMÖ FF - Tuesday, September 16th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland) Vidal and Pirlo to miss Malmö meeting Massimiliano Allegri confirmed Arturo Vidal and Andrea Pirlo are making progress in their injury setbacks, but will not face Malmo. Sep 15, 2014 Chile international Vidal missed Juve's 2-0 Serie A victory over Udinese on Saturday with a persistent knee problem, while midfield partner Pirlo sustained a hamstring injury at the end of August. Coach Allegri revealed that Vidal could return in time for the Serie A champions' clash with Milan on Saturday and Pirlo's fitness is set to be assessed at the end of this week. "We hope to have Arturo Vidal back with us for Milan on Saturday," Allegri said at his pre-match news conference. "Pirlo's coming on well. He'll up his workload and we'll give him another look over at the end of the week." Juve start their UEFA Champions League Group A campaign at home to the Swedish champions on Tuesday and Allegri will be determined to succeed where Antonio Conte failed last season, by guiding his side into the knockout stages. The Turin giants should possess too much quality for Malmo, but Allegri stressed the importance of not taking the underdogs lightly. "Juve need to try and remain at the level of the top European clubs, but for now the minimum aim is getting out of the group," he added. "The most immediate target is winning tomorrow's game. There are no easy encounters in Europe. "The group may seem easy but nothing is ever straightforward in the Champions League. Malmo are a very quick and physical side." Centre-back Giorgio Chiellini is also set to feature after missing the start of the domestic season through a combination of suspension and a calf complaint. And the Italy international is itching to get involved, saying: "I'm in good shape and available for tomorrow's game. "There's plenty of enthusiasm in the camp and around Turin. We want to do well in the Champions League."

JUVENTUS - MALMÖ FF - Tuesday, September 16th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland) Allegri: No easy games in Europe Sep 15, 2014 Max Allegri says Juventus must keep focus on Malmo as ‘there are no easy games in Europe’, and again dismisses importance on the formation. The Bianconeri start their Champions League campaign for the 2014-15 season at home to the Swedish side very much favourites to win, but with their Coach cautious, particularly in facing a Pressroom asking today about the quarter-finals as an objective. “I believe that Juventus currently have the objective closest to them, which is to win this game, which will certainly not be easy,” Allegri has responded to reporters this afternoon. “In Europe there are no easy games, all the teams play to get a result, because it is a very short competition, where you are not permitted to manage the outcome, where you can only try to win games. “We have a group that is apparently simple, but even last year that was the case and Juventus were eliminated. This demonstrates that in Europe the group defined as easy isn’t always. “Malmo are a team that are definitely ahead of us in terms of condition, because their championship is further ahead. “They are a well organised team, who have physicality and speed as strengths, so we need to play a very careful game with great technique, with great speed and always having good defensive security. “Tevez? He is fine, he had a good game [against Udinese], so tomorrow he will be available.” Malmo are debuting at this stage of the Champions League, in UEFA’s initiative to ensure more Leagues are represented in the tournament proper. “It’s important that there are teams here who have won their respective league titles and UEFA are correct. “Everyone has the right to participate in the Champions League.” The 47-year-old was asked if there would be a balancing act between Serie A and Europe. “In football nothing is prohibitive although in Europe it is very difficult. Saturday the new signings have also done well and this will allow me to better manage energy in the season. “We have to sustain every match at the same level regardless of the players used.” Juve’s start to the season has been strong, and Allegri was asked if this was expected progress or ahead of schedule. “I have found a group conscious to the fact that for after three years of consecutive wins it would be difficult to confirm again. “The team has made themselves available and today we are playing pretty well, although there is room for improvement. If we improve as individuals, we will improve as a team. “3-5-2 formation tomorrow? In the end, the system of play, whatever it is, is the interpretation that the Coach gives to it. Ours is a team that can improve and this does not depend on the formation. “Tomorrow I will decide based on the condition of the players available.” Allegri was asked his opinion on why this Juventus hasn’t yet impressed in the Champions League. “From the outside, in the past year the group has been good, but they have paid for episodes. This is a great club, a great team, that should aim to be equal with the biggest in Europe, reaching the last eight. “It will not be easy, we start from tomorrow, realising that the approach to Europe is different to that in Serie A. “What are the differences? The games are different because the teams that you face always play to win. There is less tactics and more speed and you have to be good at reading the game. “Am I more an Italian or European Coach? I would say Italian because in Europe I have not yet won anything. I still have to do a lot better with my team.”

Chiellini: A different approach Sep 15, 2014 Giorgio Chiellini sees Juventus ready to take on the Champions League in ‘a different approach’, with ‘enthusiasm and desire’. The Bianconeri are aiming to once more progress to the knockout stages of the competition, as they begin the group stage tomorrow evening at home to Malmo. Given recent upsets suffered in the previous two editions of the tournament, one of the team’s more experienced men sees a new mentality this term as likely to make a difference. “There is great enthusiasm on my part, but also from the entire team and the city,” Chiellini has told reporters today. “And I think that this is the feeling we must keep with us during this adventure - not the desire for revenge or to make up for the disappointment of last year, but just the desire to surprise and to do great things. “I believe that with these feelings, as well as everything else that we put in place, we can certainly do great things. “We need a different approach than in the past. Numbers count up to a certain point. Previously we paid for our mistakes and our attitude. “It will help us to face the competition in another way. Enthusiasm and desire will be crucial.” Carlos Tevez once more has attention on his notable scoring drought in the Champions League. “Carlos is a key player for us and it has shown it in every game he has played since arriving. But I think that the important thing is the Champions League and Juve. “Then, Carlos is the first not to be selfish and he is not interested in him scoring but that the team scores, that he wins with the team. Then, if tomorrow he begins right away as he has begun in the League, we are all happy.” Juve’s opponents tomorrow night are making their group stage debut in the Champions League, but it doesn’t have Chiellini at ease. “We do not expect an easy victory, indeed we are aware that it will be a difficult game. We experienced a major disappointment last year and two years ago against Copenhagen and Nordsjaelland and I believe that Malmo may resemble these teams. “We are preparing in the best way for this game, aware that we could win but that we will only win in fielding the best desire, with great care and great respect for our opponents.” Chiellini is in line for a return to the first XI following a calf injury sustained whilst on international duty. “My physical condition is good, since Friday I have trained with the team without any trouble, so I am available to the Coach.”

JUVENTUS - MALMÖ FF - Tuesday, September 16th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland) Juventus' Target for the 2014/15 Champions League Season Is the Quarter Finals Sep 15, 2014 It has been a strange summer for all connected with Juventus. The reigning Italian champions saw Antonio Conte walk out on the second day of pre-season training, losing the man perhaps most responsible for their return to dominance. The coach had overseen three incredible years on the domestic front, ending each of his seasons on the bench by lifting the Serie A title. In winning those successive crowns, the 45-year-old managed to end the malaise that had blighted the club in the post-Calciopoli era. Yet Conte was unable to deliver a similar level of success in Europe, with the club perhaps even appearing to regress in the Champions League during his tenure. His first campaign was without continental competition altogether, before making a splash by reaching the quarter final stage in 2012-13. Once there however, he was simply overwhelmed by eventual winners Bayern Munich, the German outfit overrunning an ill-equipped Bianconeri side. Even the 4-0 aggregate scoreline failed to fully surmise the comprehensive nature of the Bundesliga giants across the two-legged tie. Last season saw Conte’s Juventus failed to improve, eliminated at the group stage despite a comfortable-looking draw. Paired with Real Madrid, La Madama expected to progress ahead of either Galatasaray or FC Copenhagen, yet managing just one win in four matches against that latter pair. Dropping into the Europa League provided some respite, comfortable wins over Trabzonspor, Fiorentina and seeing them into the semi-final. There, with a final to be held in their own stadium awaiting, the Bianconeri were once again given a lesson, this time by a rampant Benfica. Having looked on as they collapsed, Massimiliano Allegri arrived in Turin knowing he's facing a difficult task in taking over from Conte. Speaking at his inaugural press conference (h/t UEFA.com), the new coach vowed to win over “skeptical” supporters with “good results, hard work, respect and professionalism.” Moreover, he displayed an understanding that the Champions League was the one area where he could surpass Conte’s achievements on the Juve bench. He went on to tell reporters his intentions, adding: Juventus are still the favourites in Italy, while there are many other big clubs playing in Europe. We have to be one of the best eight in Europe, I will try to get the best out of my players and will adapt to their characteristics. It is perhaps that statement that leads to the conclusion that the quarter final must be the aim this term, despite an expectant fanbase demanding much more. Progressing that far would not only represent a major improvement on last term, it would provide the belief that there is much more to come from this current incarnation of Juventus. That could prove important not just to those filling the stadium each and every week, but also the men currently pulling on those famous black-and-white stripes. There are a number of high-profile players within the squad who need to see such improvements quickly, with questions mounting over their futures. Chief among them are Arturo Vidal and Paul Pogba, two men around whom there was intense speculation all summer, such as this from Anthony Chapman of The Express. The two midfielders are vital to Juve’s continued success, driving the team forward with the undeniable quality and ability discussed in depth here. It will also prove the managerial credentials of Allegri, a man who arrived tainted by last year’s failure at Milan, but determined to prove he deserves his current position. Further still, success in Europe would once again establish the club as one of the continent's finest clubs, and a name to fear once again. Former boss Marcello Lippi—who led the Bianconeri to Champions League glory in 1996—believes that is the only way his former club can compete with other elite sides. Speaking earlier this summer, he told Perform (h/t Goal.com) that Juventus “are now aware of their strength and they need to continue their growth at international level." That must begin this season, and reaching the quarter-final stage should be the minimum aim of Italy’s grand Old Lady. With the likes of Gigi Buffon and Andrea Pirlo joining rising stars like Pogba and Vidal, she certainly has the men in place to show her the way. The time has come for Juventus to deliver.

JUVENTUS - MALMÖ FF - Tuesday, September 16th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland) Juventus v Malmo FF: Preview Sep 15, 2014 Juventus are desperate to avoid a repeat of last season's slow start to the Champions League when they embark on their latest European campaign on Tuesday, according to defender Patrice Evra. The Turin giants, who kick off their Group A fixtures against Swedish side Malmo at the Juventus Stadium, failed to win any of their opening four games last year and, with just one triumph in six matches, failed to progress to the knockout phase. Juve have an equally tough group this term, with Tuesday's rivals joining them in a pool that also includes 2014 runners-up Atletico Madrid and Greek giants Olympiacos. Evra, who joined the Serie A champions in July after eight and a half years at Manchester United, believes a strong start to the group stage is vital. ``Our aim is to do much better than last season,'' the French left-back said to www.juventus.it. ``We have great players in the team and we want to have a starring role. ``It is important to get off to a good start.'' Juve, who are looking to win their fourth straight Scudetto and a first under new coach Massimiliano Allegri, have started the new season with two wins from two league games. And Allegri, who replaced Antonio Conte at the helm over the summer, has also set his sights on a European adventure. ``We want a competitive team that can do well at home and abroad,'' he said. ``We want to go as far as possible in the Champions League.'' The hosts will be bolstered by the return of defender Giorgio Chiellini, who missed Saturday's 2-0 triumph against Udinese through suspension. However, midfield pair Andrea Pirlo and Arturo Vidal are sidelined through injury. Kwadwo Asamoah will replace Robeto Pereyra in midfield, with the Argentinian player serving a one-match ban, while Fernando Llorente will partner Carlos Tevez in attack. Malmo, meanwhile, will be playing in the Champions League group stage for the first time. The Swedish champions, coached by Age Hareide, have targeted a third-place finish in the pool - a position that would guarantee them a spot in the Europa League knockout phase. Despite their lack of experience, Hareide, whose side won three qualifying games to reach this stage, is unwilling to rule out his team's chances. ``The important thing now is to not settle for just taking part,'' he said. ``We want to compete and do the best we can.'' The visitors will be without defender Ricardinho and midfielder Simon Thern through injury. Hareide's side will be looking to raise their game from recent league showings, having been held to a 3-3 draw at Hacken at the weekend after previously losing 2-0 at Djurgarden. They still lead the Swedish Allsvenska by five points, however.

Momentum with Massimiliano An excellent start to life under Massimiliano Allegri has empowered Juventus as they head into a crucial week, writes Jeremy Lim. Sep 15, 2014 For 10 minutes on Saturday night, the Juventus Stadium looked on anxiously as their team came under siege. Opponents Udinese weren’t sticking to the plot, making the Italian champions’ single-goal advantage appear very slender indeed. At the visitors’ helm was Andrea Stramaccioni, author of Inter’s 3-1 victory on the same soil that broke Antonio Conte’s 49-game unbeaten streak with the Bianconeri. But this was not Conte’s Juve Stramaccioni was playing - it was Massimiliano Allegri’s. Claudio Marchisio’s rasping strike ended fears of another shock. Just as his predecessor had won his initial pair of fixtures as Italy boss earlier in the week, Allegri has now won his at the helm of his new side. The comparisons are as constant as they are inevitable. Allegri’s naysayers hang on the end of his every last statement and tactical decisions, waiting to seize on the moment the new Juve Coach does not demonstrate himself up to the task of matching the very high standards set by the one before him. So far, he’s defied early expectations. The Turin club have leapt to the top of the table, shattering the perception Allegri’s teams are perennial slow starters. Beating Udinese makes that 20 Serie A games at home without dropping any points. Allegri can largely thank the victorious elements of last season for making it two wins out of two. Juventus have forged ahead seemingly as rabid for success as before, retaining their edge and killer instinct. Those traits have been joined by something more - there’s added spontaneity and expressiveness in their play, something the new trainer deservedly takes credit for. There’s depth too. It’s clear from Marchisio’s magnificent outings in Andrea Pirlo’s role, down to the assured and composed displays of Martin Caceres and Angelo Ogbonna, that this squad isn’t split into first or second-teamers. Each member feels stimulation, not fear, at the competition for places. Even the summer’s recruits have been quick to add their say. Kingsley Coman enjoyed a game for the ages at Chievo. Against his former employers on Saturday, Roberto Pereyra had been a standout performer. All of which bodes well for Allegri as he prepares to tackle Tuesday’s test versus Malmo, and then a trip to face his Milan past at San Siro. The Champions League presents an early litmus test to the 47-year-old and Juve’s credentials, also due to the club’s recent failing in the competition. Their Swedish opponents don’t seem like much on paper, but as Nordsjaelland and Copenhagen proved before, team reputations count for little at this level. This much is clear - they face a fight from the Group A minnows. But as the infirmary clears, new aspects of the team present themselves daily in training, and Juventus draw momentum from their heady start to life under Allegri, the odds of an upset are looking slimmer than ever now.

JUVENTUS - MALMÖ FF - Tuesday, September 16th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland) Juve to assess Pirlo, Vidal Sep 15, 2014 Juventus will today further assess Andrea Pirlo and Arturo Vidal, with a view to their availability for next weekend’s meeting with Milan. Pirlo has been out of action since late pre-season with a hip injury, whilst Vidal sustained a thigh injury whilst on international duty last week. The Bianconeri are set to put both players through assessment today to better understand their recovery schedule, with the hope of having one or both in line for at least limited availability next weekend against Milan. Neither player is seen as likely to be risked for Tuesday’s Champions League group stage opener with Malmo, nor will Andrea Barzagli. Giorgio Chiellini is expected to displace Angelo Ogbonna in defence for the midweek European match, having missed the weekend through suspension. Against the Swedes, Max Allegri will be without Roberto Pereyra through suspension.

JUVENTUS - MALMÖ FF - Tuesday, September 16th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland) Juventus-Malmo Preview: Can Allegri succeed where Conte failed? The Bianconeri have won Serie A for the last three seasons but struggled to replicate their form on the European stage. Sep 15, 2014 Juventus' quest to transfer their Serie A exploits to the Champions League will continue when they take on Malmo in Group A. Despite winning the Italian title in each of the last three seasons, the Turin giants have failed to make an impact in Europe's premier competition recently. Although they made it to the quarter-finals in 2012-2013, Juventus were frustratingly eliminated in the group phase last time out - meaning it is now 11 years since they reached the last four. They will be hoping to flip the script this year under new head coach Massimiliano Allegri, who has enjoyed a perfect start having taken the reins following the much-loved Antonio Conte's shock resignation. A 1-0 season-opening away win at Chievo was followed up by a 2-0 triumph over Udinese. That Juventus have begun so well is even more impressive in light of their mounting injury problems. Arturo Vidal (thigh), Andrea Pirlo (hip) and Giorgio Chiellini (calf) all missed the weekend's game - while Andrea Barzagli (Achilles) was an unused sub - and it remains to be seen if any of them return on Tuesday. Juventus, who are two-time winners of the competition, will also be without Roberto Pereyra as he serves a one-match suspension. The game represents a historic occasion for not just Malmo, but Swedish football overall. Indeed, Malmo - who were beaten by Nottingham Forest in the 1978-79 European Cup final - are the first Swedish representatives in the competition proper since 2000-01. Malmo's last appearance was in 1990-91, when they reached the second round before losing on penalties to Dynamo Dresden. They have not had an easy passage to the group phase this year, having been forced to come through a rigorous qualifying campaign. The Swedes won three ties, beating FK Ventspils 1-0 on aggregate, taking down Sparta Prague on away goals following a 4-4 draw and overcoming FC Salzburg 4-2. Malmo are already a long way into their domestic campaign, with 23 games having been played. Age Hareide's side currently top the pile in the Allsvenskan, sitting five points clear of an AIK side who have a game in hand. However, they have managed just one win in their last four league games.

JUVENTUS - MALMÖ FF - Tuesday, September 16th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland) A troubled fantasy? Looking at Juventus and the Champions League Sep 15, 2014 The 2013-14 season ended with Juventus breaking records that you don't expect to be beaten again in the foreseeable future. A tally of 102 points significantly higher than what any Serie A team ever reached before, and a whole season gone without a single point dropped at home in the league. Astonishing numbers that made 2013-14 a season that will be remembered for a long time to come. With all this taken into account, the season still ended by stirring controversy between Juventini on whether it was successful or not. A big segment of Juventini found the failure on the European stage hard to swallow, local success no matter how big was a compensation deemed not enough. Putting things into context, 2013-14 was Antonio Conte's third season at the helm. In his first, he earned Juve back its position on the top of Italian football after years of post-calciopoly struggles. An achievement that made him receive plaudits from Juventini all around the globe, in their eyes the x-captain who came back to save their club from its misery was the ultimate superhero. In the second season, Conte successfully confirmed Juve's position on the top of Italian football winning the league with relative ease. This 2012-13 season saw Juventus make its comeback to the Champions League with a participation that promised great things to come. Juve bossed a group that included title holders Chelsea and a quality Shakhtar side with a series of very convincing performances. Qualifying top of the group, Juve "manhandled" Celtic in the last 16 stage with an annihilation of 5-0 on aggregate. Their journey eventually ended in the quarters against a Bayern Munich side that went on to win it all in a very impressive fashion. A positive season for Juventus by all means. The wild fantasy of Juventini expected the fairy-tale to continue from here; Conte, who got us back from our lowest, will take us all the way to the highest. Juventus got into 2013-14 as massive favourites in Serie A, no team was genuinely expected to compete with them. Napoli who tried to play the anti-Juve role fell short quite early in the season, while Roma under the new Rudi Garcia regime performed superbly throughout but never managed to truly threaten what was from the beginning Juve's scudetto. This was the season Juve were expected to step it up in Europe though, unfortunately the reality failed to suit the narrative. Juve couldn't make it through to the knock out stages, finishing third in a group that included Galatasaray and Copenhagen, teams that belong to levels below Juve's aspirations. A lot was blamed on luck after the game in Istanbul which was played in ridiculous weather conditions, in truth Juve had themselves to blame more than anything else. Managing to gain only two points from playing Copenhagen away and Galatasaray at home was a failure enough to make any excuse invalid. What made it all more frustrating is the two games against Real Madrid, the team which went on to win the Champions League. Juve didn't look inferior to Real Madrid during any moment of the 180 minutes despite playing for 45 minutes with a man down. Juventus got "relegated" as a result to the Europa League, reaching the semi-finals where they got knocked out by Benfica after another disappointing draw at home. This is what you call underachieving. Heading into the summer, the uncertainty was there within the club just like it was between the fans. With Juve's best players focused on the World Cup with their respective national teams, media had names like Arturo Vidal and Paul Pogba linked with moves away from Turin. What no one expected came only two days into Juve's preseason preparations, Antonio Conte handed in his resignation adding to the environment's uncertainty. The news fell as an absolute shocker on everyone that has to do with Juventus. Lots of rumours started coming up with everyone speculating trying to guess the reasons behind Conte's decision. Massimiliano Allegri was hired as a replacement, and the summer was concluded with Juve keeping all their star players and with a number of acquisitions made to increase the quality of the squad overall. Unsurprisingly, the series of events at the club weren't received with great content by the Juventini masses. Now that the situation settled and the season kicked off with two impressive performances which showed we've maintained the level we were on last season, positivity is starting to spread. Allegri is proving to be smart enough not to ruin what Conte built, while his more direct approach and tactical flexibility might prove to be the way for us to conquer the next level. Juventus still stand today as favourites for the upcoming Serie A season despite Roma's efforts to close the gap. Especially that the squad is more equipped to fight on several fronts with the clearly increased quality of depth. Last season a number of factors contributed to see us underachieve in Europe, there is no reason to believe this will be the case this time as well. If Conte was the one to hold us from the bottom to where we are, Allegri has now the chance to take us that one more step we've always aspired for. It's said that a man's worth can't be greater than his ambition. Football clubs are no different, thus Juve's ambitions should never see limits. With another Champions League season kicking off for Juve on Tuesday night against Malmö, the Juve fairy-tale can still continue, a bit of added drama will only make the end happier.

JUVENTUS - MALMÖ FF - Martedí, 16 Settembre 2014 - ore 20:45 Juventus Stadium - Torino Arbitro: Szymon Marciniak (Polonia) Confronti ufficiali 0 Vittorie Juventus 0 Pareggi 0 Vittorie Malmö 0 Goals Juventus 0 Goals Malmö 0 Juventus - Malmö a Torino Confronti ufficiali 0 Vittorie Juventus 0 Pareggi 0 Vittorie Malmö 0 Goals Juventus 0 Goals Malmö 0 Giocatori con più presenze e goals contro il Malmö a Torino - Ultimi confronti diretti - Giocate 0 - Vittorie Juventus 0 - Pareggi 0 - Vittorie Malmö 0 - Goals Juventus 0 - Goals Malmö 0

http://www.zimbio.com/pictures/66_x6C07XvV/Juventus+FC+v+Udinese+Calcio+Serie

JUVENTUS - MALMÖ FF - Tuesday, September 16th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland) Preview: Juventus vs. Malmo Sep 14, 2014 Swedish side Malmo start their maiden Champions League group stage with a trip to Italian champions Juventus on Tuesday evening. The 2013 Swedish champions won three qualifying matches to reach the group stages for the first time since the 1990/91 campaign, while their only previous European experience came in the 2011/12 Europa League, when they finished bottom of their group. Indeed, Malmo are Sweden's first group stage representatives since Helsingborgs appeared in the 2000/01 competition, but they face a difficult opening match against the current Serie A holders. Juventus, who are two-time winners of the competition, finished third in their group last season before dropping into the Europa League, where they made the semi-finals, before losing to Benfica. Juve's European home record in recent seasons has been strong, however, remaining unbeaten in their last seven games, winning three times in the process, while they reached the quarter-final stage of the competition in the 2012-13 campaign. The home side are expected to be without the services of key midfielders Andrea Pirlo and Arturo Vidal, who are both injured, while summer signing from Real Madrid Alvaro Morata is also a doubt with a knee problem. Carlos Tevez could also miss out with a thigh injury, leaving Sebastian Giovinco as the main option to partner Fernando Llorente in a forward position. Summer signing from Manchester United Patrice Evra is also expected to feature for Juve in a wing-back position. Malmo, meanwhile, are expected to be without both Simon Thern and Piotr Johansson. Skipper Markus Rosenberg will lead the line, with Enoch Kofi Adu also due to start. Recent form Juventus: WWWWW Malmo: LWWLD Possible starting lineups Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Ogbonna, Caceres, Evra; Marchisio, Pogba, Pereyra; Llorente, Giovinco Malmo: Olsen; Concha, Tinnerholm, Konate, Helander, Halsti; Adu, Forsberg, Eriksson, Thelin; Rosenberg Sports Mole says: 2-0

JUVENTUS - MALMÖ FF - Tuesday, September 16th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland) Polish ref for Juventus-Malmö Sep 14, 2014 Polish referee Szymon Marciniak has been assigned to the Juventus-Malmo Champions League tie. The Bianconeri begin their European campaign on Tuesday evening in Turin. They will face Swedish side Malmo and UEFA have chosen Polish referee Marciniak. Juve are in Group A along with Malmo, Atletico Madrid and Olympiacos.

I Could Play Until I’m 40 In My New Role States Marchisio Sep 14, 2014 Juventus midfielder Claudio Marchisio has stated that he could play until he is 40 thanks to his new role in midfield. Marchisio has been deployed as a deep-lying playmaker in the first two games of the Serie A under the new coach Massimilano Allegri in the absence of the injured Andrea Pirlo, and the Italian admits he is liking his new role. “I’ve adapted in my new role. I can even play up to the age of 40 in this new role,” he told JTV. “I’ve changed my game. I have been touching more balls in this role. “The approach in these two games has really been important, as we have seen in Verona and once again against Udinese. “We’ve got the desired result in the two opening games.”

Marchisio: Juventus Have Started The Season Off Well Sep 14, 2014 Juventus midfielder Claudio Marchisio is pleased at how his team have kicked off their 2014-2015 Serie A campaign. The Bianconeri have won three straight Scudetti so far, but experienced a bit of turmoil this summer after Antonio Conte departed and was replaced by former AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri. However, after laboring to a 1-0 win over Chievo in their first fixture, Juventus were able to get things right and maintain their unbeaten run at home with a solid 2-0 victory against Udinese, with Marchisio opening his goal account for the season with a long-range strike. “After three straight titles, it was really important for us to start things off on the right foot as other teams are well equipped this season,” the 28-year-old Italian international stated to Sky Sport Italia after the match. Marchisio has been deployed in a new role in the absence of Andrea Pirlo due to injury, but the long-serving Bianconeri midfielder was quick to point out that he is not a replacement for the veteran player. “Simply put, there is only one Pirlo. I’m trying to do my best, but he’s irreplaceable. “And while I like that role because I get to be involved and I get plenty of space, I enjoy playing as a mezzala because I have the opportunity to score some goals.”

Marotta: 'Lotito has too much power' Sep 14, 2014 Juventus dg Beppe Marotta launched a surprising attack on Lazio President Claudio Lotito. “He has too much power.” Lotito was the main push behind the election of controversial new FIGC President Carlo Tavecchio. He has since raised eyebrows with his presence at the Italy camp during recent games, fuelling fears Lotito is acting as ‘puppet master’ to Tavecchio. “I hope this Presidency can bring about reforms, although so far I’ve heard many words and seen little action,” Marotta told Rai Sport. “I hear talk of people owning multiple clubs, but not of reserve teams to get players on the pitch regularly. These are issues pushed forward by directors who know little about football. “Juventus are available and encourage reforms, but the important thing is to be listened to and so far nobody has asked us anything.” When asked about Lotito, the Bianconeri director general was concerned. “He has extremes of power and when one person has all that power we all risk falling into the abyss.”

Pogba confirms Juve talks Sep 14, 2014 Paul Pogba confirmed he is “in negotiations for a contract renewal with Juventus.” The midfielder is hot property on the transfer market and wanted by the likes of Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Manchester City and Manchester United. “We are in negotiations for a contract renewal with Juventus,” Pogba told TF1 in France. “I will soon have a meeting with the directors.” His current deal runs to June 2016, but the Bianconeri are eager to extend until 2019.

Evra: Serie A less intense than EPL The defender was left in awe of the home support after taking in his new surroundings for the first time on Saturday night. Sep 14, 2014 Patrice Evra revealed how Paul Pogba had told him all about Juventus' famous support after savouring the Turin atmosphere for the first time in the 2-0 win over Udinese on Saturday evening. Goals from Carlos Tevez and Claudio Marchisio gave the Bianconeri a second win in as many games at the start of the new Serie A season, with Evra impressing on the left hand side of a 3-5-2 formation. The Frenchman was making his first start for the club and admitted after the game he had been struck by the incredible vocal support of the home crowd, as well as revealing the adjustments he has made since moving to Italy from Manchester United this summer. He told Sky Italia: "Paul Pogba told me all about this stadium – it’s incredible! I would like to thank all the fans, staff and my team-mates. I looked to repay them with a good performance tonight. "I’ve never worked as hard in my life! Serie A’s less intense than the Premiership but there’s a greater focus on tactics. You always need to be focused and alert to everything.”

Pogba: Juventus talks under way The French midfielder, who admits he is arrogant, says he will be holding talks with the Serie A champions' chiefs regarding extending his contract at the club. Sep 14, 2014 Paul Pogba has confirmed he is in talks with Juventus about extending his current deal with the Serie A champions. The France international has become a key component of the Juve midfield since joining the club from Manchester United in 2012. Pogba's impressive performances for the Turin giants reportedly attracted attention from a number of Europe's top clubs, with Paris Saint-Germain said to be the main candidates to lure him away from Italy, while a return to United was repeatedly rumoured in the summer. However, the 21-year-old's latest revelations mean any move now seems less likely unless negotiations break down before the winter transfer window. "We are in negotiations for a contract renewal with Juventus," the midfielder told TF1. "I will soon have a meeting with the board of directors. "I have the arrogance of a born winner." Pogba's current deal runs until summer 2016, but Juve are said to be keen on extending the agreement for a further three years.

JUVENTUS 2 - 0 UDINESE - Carlos Tévez 8' Claudio Marchisio 75' Saturday, September 13th, 2014 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ Antonio Damato Allegri: Juventus need to learn control The new head coach is not surprised by their winning start to the season but feels they must be more careful with their tempo. Sep 14, 2014 Massimiliano Allegri believes his Juventus side need to show more control in their play after they saw off Udinese 2-0 on Saturday. After being kicked out of AC Milan midway through the previous campaign following a run of poor results, Allegri was appointed as Juve boss in July after Antonio Conte's shock resignation. Allegri began his reign - and Juve's title defence - with a 1-0 win at Chievo on the opening weekend of Serie A and he watched on at the Juventus Stadium this weekend as goals from Carlos Tevez and Claudio Marchisio sealed a routine victory. While he admits he is not surprised to see his side's winning start to the season, Allegri maintains his players must be more consistent when it comes to the tempo of their play. "It was a special night for me as Juventus coach in this wonderful stadium," he told Sky Sport. "I was curious to see how the night would go, above all that we'd be able to win! "The crowd's an added weapon for the team and they stepped up when there were moments of difficulty. "We had this 10-minute spell when Udinese had us under pressure and we've got to emerge from those situations better. We also gave the ball away in avoidable ways. "The team started very well and we knew Udinese would become more dangerous on the counterattack as time wore on, so we had to break the deadlock early. "The lads defended well and, once we took the lead, we were at times patient and at others a bit too hasty. I wanted more than one goal and we suffered in the second half, unable to get the measure of Udinese after their tactical switch, but in the end it was a good performance. "I am absolutely not surprised we've started the season so well. This squad has physical and technical qualities which mean we can do a lot better. "We must improve on how to control the tempo, as we cannot always go at 100 miles per hour or at 10 miles per hour. Playing every three days we have to learn more control to avoid wasting energy." Juventus kick off their Champions League campaign on Tuesday against Champions League rookies Malmo. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS 2 - 0 UDINESE - Carlos Tévez 8' Claudio Marchisio 75' Saturday, September 13th, 2014 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ Antonio Damato Tevez, Marchisio score as Juventus beat Udinese 2-0 in home opener Sep 14, 2014 If you were expecting change with Max Allegri then you're not going to like reading today's match report. If you wanted Juventus to remain the same despite Antonio Conte's departure, then you will enjoy reading this narrative. Honestly though, if you didn't look at the bench you would have sworn this was last year's team, with some changes though. Roberto Pereyra is a definite upgrade in the middle of the field over last year's midfield sub Simone Padoin (sacrilege! I know!). As much as some fans would like to blame Allegri for Juve's strange season-opening injury bug, Juve have been lucky to start the season with a soft schedule which has allowed the team to break in some new faces. MATCH SUMMARY Juventus marked their first home game of the 2014-15 season with a pretty commanding performance. At times it looked like they were coasting a little bit. especially in the second half, but for the most part this was a blemish-free victory. They were a 100% at home last season, and they maintained that streak today too, with minor hiccups on the way. The first half consisted of Juve penning Udinese back in their first half, and the customary early goal too. This time it was Carlos Tevez, who was a game-time decision due to injury, benefiting from a pull-back by Stephan Lichtsteiner which was deflected into his path. Tevez did well to keep his shot low, and it flew past Orestis Karnezis in the Udine goal in the 8th minute. The away side were lucky to go into halftime just the one goal down as Juve swarmed all over them, clocking ten shots in the first period alone. At that point the absence of Andrea Pirlo and Arturo Vidal through injury was barely felt, while wily veteran Antonio Di Natale was a non-factor. Pereyra shot way over when set up by Fernando Llorente. Tevez shot over soon after, and both Paul Pogba and Lichtsteiner could have done better with further opportunities before the break. Udinese manager Andrea Stramaccione was the first away coach to pull out a win at Juventus Stadium when with Inter Milan, and dug some tricks out of the bag to start off the second half. He pulled off forward Luis Muriel and brought on Bruno Fernandes to quell the tidal wave of Juventus possession in midfield, and the move immediately paid dividends as suddenly Udinese looked like they belonged. A couple of times Udinese threatened to tie the game as Juve looked a little wobbly at the hour mark, and then Igor Bubjnic got behind the defence to slot past an otherwise idle Gianluigi Buffon. However the Croat was pulled back by the assistant referee's flag as he looked to have strayed just offside. After the scare though, Juventus bounced right back and Claudio Marchisio took advantage of a gap in the backline to hammer home a second and seal the game. Marchisio has been pulling the strings in the absence of Pirlo, and while there is no replacing the master, Il Principino was a pretty competent replacement completing 92% of his passes for the day. Udinese played like a beaten side for the last quarter of an hour, and gave Allegri the chance to roll out subs Kingsley Coman and Alavaro Morata, both making their Serie A home debuts. Indeed Morata almost scored in the limited time he was on the pitch, which is remarkable as he was widely expected to be out until October. LE PAGELLE Buffon: 7 - It's only a seven, but it's through no fault of his. He really had little to do all day. Caceres: 8 - The Uruguayan had an excellent game out on the right, made three interceptions and was generally solid all around. Bonucci: 7 - Kept close tabs on Di Natale all game. Ogbonna: 7.5 - Haters gonna hate, but that's two games with him in the backline, and two clean sheets. One interception, eight clearances and two shots blocked - his best game for Juve so far? Lichtsteiner: 7.5 - Never any doubts about him, like clockwork he motors up and down the wing, all game. Pereyra: 7 - Wayward in front of goal, his movement and passing were decent. Marchisio: 8.5 - Excellent with or without the ball, took full advantage of his opportunity to start. Pogba: 7.5 - Always a threat to score when he had the ball, had the Udinese midfield chasing him all afternoon. Evra: 6.5 - Played more of a supportive role in midfield, was not really needed to add firepower up front. Tevez: 8 - Injury? What injury? He was his harrying best chasing everything down, being a menace in attack. Llorente: 7.5 - Udinese had no answer for his hold-up play, allowed Juventus to gain a foothold deep in their territory. Subs: Coman: N/A Padoin: N/A Morata: N/A Coach: Allegri: 7 - If you were hoping to see something different about how Allegri will approach the Champions League, you wouldn't have seen it today. In his defence, why rock the Serie A boat when it's still sailing merrily along. Now if he can get Tevez to break his CL drought, we'll be even more appreciative of Allegri http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Evra: Juventus Can Compete For The Champions League Sep 14, 2014 Juventus full back Patrice Evra was full of praise for his new team mates as the Bianconeri defeated Udinese 2-0 at the Juventus stadium. Carlos Tevez and Claudio Marchisio were on target in something of a routine win for the Bianconeri. The ex-Manchester United defender spoke to Sky Sport Italia after Saturday night’s match and said, “Playing in Italy is very different to playing in the Premier League. “In Italy it’s much more tactical and you must concentrate all the time. I’ve never worked so hard in training!” After being asked about the impact his new team can have in the Champions League, Evra commented, “Here we have some great players and I know we can do great things. We can do much better than what was achieved last season.” Evra has only recently joined the Italian champions after leaving English giants Manchester United in the summer.

JUVENTUS 2 - 0 UDINESE - Carlos Tévez 8' Claudio Marchisio 75' Saturday, September 13th, 2014 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ Antonio Damato Allegri: This Juventus Side Must Still Improve Sep 13, 2014 New Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri appeared happy with his side’s 2-0 home win over Udinese, but was under no illusions that his squad has still some way to go to becoming a real force. Carlos Tevez gave the hosts an early lead before Claudio Marchisio doubled the advantage late in the game. Allegri spoke to Sky sport Italia after the game at the Juventus stadium and said, “I’m not surprised about how well we played but technically this team still must improve. “We need to learn when to slow down as we can’t play at 100mph for the whole match.” He also had words of praise for his four strikers, who all played a part in the victory. “Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente played superbly and worked incredibly hard. It was good to be able to bring on two strikers, young and talented, like Kingsley Coman and Alvaro Morata, who almost scored on his debut.” The former AC Milan tactician is in his debut season with the Bianconeri, having replaced Antonio Conte who left Juventus to coach the Italian national team. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111