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ROMA - JUVENTUS May 11, 2014 - 5:45 PM Olimpico Stadium — Rome Referee:‬ Carmine Russo Garcia: 'Roma-Juve a celebration' May 10, 2014 Rudi Garcia wants to see “enthusiasm and a celebration” in Roma-Juventus, but is without Morgan De Sanctis. “This is the last game at the Olimpico in an extraordinary season for us,” said the Coach in his Press conference. The Scudetto has already been decided, making this a battle purely for pride, as Roma want to show they are not necessarily inferior to the Bianconeri. “We want to put in a good performance and I hope it will be a celebration for everyone. We had a record-breaking campaign, but in front of us Juventus broke even more records. “I said that next season we might put together fewer points and win the Scudetto anyway. What proved the difference between Roma and Juve? I don’t know and today I don’t care, as I want to put out the best possible team and enjoy the game, playing it at 100 per cent. “I want to see a Roma who play with enthusiasm and feel pleasure in playing a big game like this. It has to be a pleasure to play at this level.” If Roma win tomorrow, it will mean over the course of the season they have beaten all 19 Serie A teams. “The table is what it is, Roma second and Juve first. We beat Juve in the Coppa Italia and lost in Turin, so we will be very motivated.” Garcia confirmed goalkeeper Morgan De Sanctis has a bruised arm he suffered against Catania, so 23-year-old Polish talent Lukasz Skorupski will start in goal, while Douglas Maicon needs a late fitness test. Asked about Antonio Conte’s future at Juventus, Garcia went back on more old wounds. “Juve and their Coach will do what they think is best. The important thing is that Roma are competitive next season and we are working on it. Speaking of Conte, I didn’t like some of his statements, let’s say looking for controversy, but someone who gets 96 points can only be a good Coach.” Garcia was optimistic on Miralem Pjanic’s contract renegotiations and insisted it was “not decided” whether he’d leave on Tuesday to join Bosnia’s World Cup squad. “He wants to remain, the President wants to keep him, so a compromise will be found.” Would the Roma tactician ever accept the job at Juventus, if asked? “I am the Coach of Roma, proud to be here, I want to stay for a long time and it would be an honour to win even half of what Sir Alex Ferguson achieved at Manchester United. “There is rivalry between the clubs, but this must be purely sporting rivalry with fair play. I don’t want to put negativity into the game, as football must be a festival for children too.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

ROMA - JUVENTUS May 11, 2014 - 5:45 PM Olimpico Stadium — Rome Referee:‬ Carmine Russo Juventus squad for Roma May 10, 2014 Juventus are without Arturo Vidal, Sebastian Giovinco and Mirko Vucinic against Roma. It kicks off at 17.45 CET. The Bianconeri announced several problems in today’s training session that ruled players out of the trip. Claudio Marchisio felt pain in his right foot, but is still in the squad. Giovinco is suffering from an acute pain in his left thigh, Vucinic has a left knee problem. Vidal is out for the rest of the season after undergoing keyhole surgery on his knee. Juventus squad for Roma: Buffon, Chiellini, Caceres, Ogbonna, Pogba, Pepe, Marchisio, Tevez, Giovinco, Peluso, Llorente, Barzagli, Osvaldo, Bonucci, Padoin, Pirlo, Asamoah, Lichtsteiner, Quagliarella, Storari, Isla, Rubinho http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

ROMA - JUVENTUS May 11, 2014 - 5:45 PM Olimpico Stadium — Rome Referee:‬ Carmine Russo Roma squad for Juventus May 10, 2014 Roma have named their squad for tomorrow’s Serie A showcase with Juventus. It kicks off at 17.45 CET. The Giallorossi have already lost the Scudetto race, but are eager to prove they’re worthy challengers to the title holders. Kevin Strootman and Federico Balzaretti are still sidelined, while Alessio Romagnoli is suspended. Mattia Destro returns from his four-match ban, while Radja Nainggolan has also finished his time on the naughty step. Roma squad for Juventus: Bastos, Benatia, Castan, De Rossi, De Sanctis, Destro, Dodo, Florenzi, Gervinho, Ljajic, Lobont, Maicon, Nainggolan, Pjanic, Skorupski, Taddei, Toloi, Torosidis, Totti http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Pirlo: 'Italy ready for World Cup' May 10, 2014 Andrea Pirlo is confident Italy “are ready for the World Cup,” and Mario Balotelli “will be important, just like the others.” The Juventus midfielder spoke to giornalaccio rosa TV about the upcoming tournament in Brazil, which will likely be his last for the Azzurri. “The team grew well, had a good Confederations Cup and comfortable qualification, so I think we are ready for the important adventure that is the World Cup. “It is going to be a tough group, but we have everything it takes to get through the round. “My favourites for the trophy are Brazil, as they are the hosts, Spain, Germany and Argentina, but there are many contenders.” Italy will face England, Costa Rica and Uruguay in Group D next month. Pirlo was also asked whether Balotelli will be the decisive figure in Italy’s tournament and if he had any advice for the Milan striker. “No, I have no suggestions, as he is big enough to take care of himself. The important thing is that he reaches the tournament in good shape, then he’ll be important to the squad, just like the others.” Pirlo has become an icon of Italian football all over the world and was greeted with excitement by the crowd at a recent friendly in Spain. “It is pleasing to be known abroad, especially by children, as that means I’ve done some good work over the years. It also happened in Brazil at the Maracanà. “I still want to play football and I still have fun, so as long as I have that hunger I’ll continue to play.”

WhoScored.com ROMA - JUVENTUS May 11, 2014 - 5:45 PM Olimpico Stadium — Rome Referee:‬ Carmine Russo Preview: Roma v Juventus May 9, 2014 Team News Roma • Alessio Romagnoli is suspended and he will miss out along with Kevin Strootman and Federico Balzaretti who have had their seasons ended early through injury. • Mattia Destro and Radja Nainggolan will be back available and both are likely to start. Juventus • Arturo Vidal took advantage of the fact that the title has already been sewn up to undergo surgery on his injured knee. • Apart from him, Antonio Conte will have his best XI available. Match Facts Juventus have won 12 of their last 13 matches in Serie A. Roma have been winning at both half time and full time in 9 of their last 10 home matches in Serie A. Roma have won 10 of their last 11 home matches in Serie A. Juventus have been drawing at half time and winning at full time in their last 3 matches in Serie A. Roma have scored at least 2 goals in 10 of their last 11 home matches in Serie A. Roma have seen under 2.5 goals in their last 4 home matches against Juventus in all competitions. Prediction • Roma's defeat at Catania - coupled with Juventus' victory over Atalanta - took away the chance of this game being a top quality fight. However, even if the gap in the table makes this match irrelevant in terms of the title, it takes away from Juventus the option of playing for a draw and thus makes for a more interesting clash. • Juve will be going for the 102-point mark, knowing that getting to three figures would be a record for the Italian league. Roma will want to prove that they can compete with the title winners and they will also seek revenge for the humiliating defeat they suffered in the reverse match. Both teams will go all out victory from the first minute to the last. Prediction Roma 1 - 1 Juventus http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

ROMA - JUVENTUS May 11, 2014 - 5:45 PM Olimpico Stadium — Rome Referee:‬ Carmine Russo Serie A Preview: Roma v Juventus Roma failed to halt Juventus' charge to the title, but can dent their hopes of securing Serie A's highest points tally on Sunday. May 9, 2014 Juve wrapped up a third straight Scudetto last Sunday thanks to Roma's surprise 4-1 reverse against Catania after Rudi Garcia's men had proven worthy title rivals for Antonio Conte's side. Last weekend's results make Sunday's clash - which has been moved forward three hours after violence in the capital marred the Coppa Italia final - at the Stadio Olimpico a lot less meaningful than it would have been, although Juve still have plenty to play for. A win for the newly crowned champions over Roma will secure Juve the highest points tally for a Serie A campaign - bettering Inter's haul of 97 in 2006-07. Sebastian Giovinco spoke in the week about securing 100 points to cap off another impressive season for the club and Conte. The calming influence of midfielder Andrea Pirlo has been a major factor in Juve's progress under Conte and he feels the success at the club has helped ward off thoughts of retirement. "My motivation to go on is very strong, simply because I love playing football and having fun on the pitch," the 34-year-old told L'Equipe this week. "I have always had fun every day on the training field and every weekend during the matches. I believe that is important. I don't feel any tiredness or weakness. "I am happy at Juventus and I hope to be able to stay for a few more years." Despite not being able to catch Juventus, Roma have managed to secure the second automatic UEFA Champions League place and sit 13 points clear of Napoli in third. While Juve won the reverse fixture at a canter in January, as goals from Arturo Vidal, Leonardo Bonucci and Mirko Vucinic helped see off nine-man Roma 3-0, Garcia's side have beaten Juve this season. Roma ended Juve's Coppa Italia campaign later that month thanks to Gervinho's late winner, with Garcia and his opposite number embroiled in a public spat of late. When Garcia urged other teams in the league to raise their games against Juventus, Conte labelled Roma as "provincial" and later stated his side's achievements had become "almost expected" in comparison. Despite their disagreements in the press over recent weeks and Roma's inability to stop Juve defending their title, Garcia is pleased with how his debut season in charge has panned out. "Juve are accustomed to winning in Italy. We learned a lot this season but need to end the campaign better. Not only do the fans expect more next season, but so do I and the players," he told Sky Sport Italia. "I will add, Sunday's match must only be a festival of football - for Roma to show they are happy with our season and be proud of what we’ve achieved." http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Pogba: I wish to stay at Juventus and win the fourth Scudetto May 9, 2014 Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba has finally broken the silence regarding the transfer rumors surrounding him by reassuring the Bianconeri supporters that he wants to stay at Turin and win another Scudetto the next season. The French international has been one of the most impressive players in Italy this season, scoring nine goals and notching nine assists in fifty games in all competitions for the recently crowned Italian champions. Pogba’s agent Mino Raiola dismissed any story linking his client from a move away from Italy, suggesting that he will be holding talks with the club about a contract extension, also claiming that his client is very happy at Juventus and that he does not want to move away from Turin. The former Manchester United player spoke to La Stampa addressing the transfer rumours around him. “Where will I go? I’m here, right? I’ve got a contract with Juventus. So what are we talking about? “, said Pogba. “I have never thought of moving or spoken to anyone about making a transfer. I wish to stay at Juventus and I want to add another league title by winning the fourth Scudetto with Juve. “Did Zinedine Zidane phone me? I would like to know from where this coming. Has anyone seen the number of Zidane on my phone? Or have I told anyone that Zidane has spoken to me over the phone? “I have never said I want to play for Real Madrid. I have only said that Madrid are a great team like Juventus and Manchester United.”

Barzagli: Dominant Scudetto May 9, 2014 Andrea Barzagli has hailed Juventus’ third straight Scudetto as ‘sensational’ and ‘dominant’. The Bianconeri claimed their 30th official League title last weekend after Roma lost 4-1 away to Catania. And the defender has insisted that his men were thoroughly deserving of the trophy. “It’s been a sensational League campaign and a dominant Scudetto victory,” he told JTV this afternoon. “The first Scudetto? Surprising. Second? Confirmation. Third? Devastating. The last three years have undoubtedly been the best of my career. “We’ll certainly give everything we’ve got next year to show that this group can keep winning. “We all feel the responsibility of wearing the black and white stripes. The shirt must always be honoured. “I would like to dedicate this third consecutive Scudetto to my children. My son especially is a big fan!” The 33-year-old then remarked on his calf injury that meant over a month on the sidelines, and this weekend’s match with Roma. “Unfortunately the injury kept me out for five weeks. Now I’m over it and am working my way back to peak condition. “I think the match against Roma will be a good one. Even though we've won the League we still want to give a good account of ourselves.”

ROMA - JUVENTUS May 11, 2014 - 5:45 PM Olimpico Stadium — Rome Referee:‬ Carmine Russo Roma vs. Juventus Preview May 9, 2014 Serie A's top two teams will square off on Sunday when Roma host Juventus at the Stadio Olimpico, and with the top two spots in the Italian league already decided, they will battle merely for honour and bragging rights. Juventus have already secured the title and could choose to field a number of squad players, but the Bianconeri haven't beaten Roma at the Olimpico since 2011 and would love to break that streak. The hosts on the other hand had won nine straight matches before Sunday's shock 4-1 loss at the hands of Catania, and the Giallorossi will be looking to get back on track as they seek to close out the season on a high. Two Very Different Clubs: Despite what the Italian league table would suggest, Juventus and Roma are teams having gone through very different campaigns in 2013-14. On one hand there's Roma, who exceeded expectations with a young team, free-flowing attacking football and a future much brighter than it was a year ago. There's the new stadium, which Di Marzio collaborator David Amoyal thinks will bring the club even closer to the level of Juventus: David Amoyal @DavidAmoyal Said it many times one of Juve's biggest edges in Serie A is their homefield advantage, Roma is smart in wanting to build a new stadium Perhaps even more exciting is the emergence of young players like Mattia Destro and Miralem Pjanic, who really stepped up in 2014 and look set to help the Giallorossi bombard Italian defences with goals for the foreseeable future. On the other hand, there's Juventus. Despite celebrating their 30th Italian title (or 32nd, depending on who it is you're asking), the past season will be viewed as one of disappointment. It all started with the snowstorm in Istanbul, which put paid to their Champions League hopes. That was followed by a number of lacklustre performances in the Europa League, culminating in the semi-final loss to Benfica. In Serie A, Juventus managed to win matches without ever truly impressing. In fact, per WhoScored.com, the Bianconeri haven't beaten an opponent by more than two goals since January. While winning is all that matters in Turin (it's the club's official motto), Juventus simply haven't been winning all that convincingly. The futures of manager Antonio Conte and super-talent Paul Pogba are both very much up in the air, with the former refusing to commit his future at the club in front of the Sky Sports cameras, via football-italia.net: “We have always said, along with the club, that we’ll talk it over when the situation calms down and analyse every aspect. These have been three very intense and stressful years, so I thank the lads for their incredible efforts and tonight confirms their professionalism. [...] I repeat, we have to evaluate everything in all aspects and we’ll see.” As shared by Goal's Carlo Garganese, the Bianconeri will be without star midfielder Arturo Vidal, who chose to have surgery on his right meniscus ahead of the upcoming World Cup: Carlo Garganese @carlogarganese Arturo Vidal recovery from surgery could take as long as 12 weeks, say @GoalChile .That would be World Cup over. Would be another huge loss The Bianconeri replaced Vidal and Andrea Pirlo with Claudio Marchisio and Simone Padoin for their 1-0 win over Atalanta, and Marchisio will almost certainly start in the team's midfield three alongside Pirlo and Pogba. For the Italian international, it will be one last chance to show Cesare Prandelli he deserves to be a part of the Italian XI in next month's World Cup. Injuries and suspensions cost the Giallorossi against Catania, as Roma were without Destro, Radja Nainggolan, Federico Balzaretti and Mehdi Benatia. Benatia in particular was a painful loss, as the Moroccan has emerged as one of the top defenders in 2013-14. In fact, Kicker reportedly claims the veteran centre-back is set to join Bayern Munich during the summer transfer window, according to these fans: Global Bayern Fans @BayernFansIntl Kicker is reporting that Roma are willing to sell Benatia to FC Bayern for approx £20 mil While neither team looks set to gain much from this match, a battle at the top of the table always brings out rivalry. Juventus in particular could choose to field a couple of squad players in an attempt to determine whether they are deserving of a spot in next year's team (Padoin, Federico Peluso, Sebastian Giovinco) while Roma could use a sweep of the Italian champions to propel them to glory next season. Ultimately, this match could come down to whichever team wants it most, and you would be foolish to bet against Roma in that case. Juventus' season since the start of the New Year can be best described as "lacklustre," while Roma have been one of the hungriest, most exciting teams in Europe. On Sunday, that should be rewarded with a win and a clean sweep of the once-dominant Bianconeri, who need just four more points out of their last two matches to cross the 100-point mark for the first time in Serie A history. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

ROMA - JUVENTUS May 11, 2014 - 5:45 PM Olimpico Stadium — Rome Referee:‬ Carmine Russo MATCH PREVIEW May 9, 2014 The title race may now be over, but Roma’s Week 37 meeting with Juventus will be as intense as ever. The Bianconeri secured their 30th official Scudetto last Sunday, after Roma suffered an unexpected 4-1 defeat at Catania. In truth, the title had been Turin-bound for a number of weeks, but the hope in Rome was that the battle could at least be drawn out until this weekend’s clash. The loss to Catania, however, meant that wasn’t possible, but Roma have still had a remarkable season. The Giallorossi have been defeated just three times, while they have beaten their own points record and need just two more to match Juventus’s Scudetto winning total from last year. The work Rudi Garcia has done ensures next season’s title race should be even closer, while the rivalry between himself and Antonio Conte has been stoked in recent weeks. The Juventus tactician labelled Garcia ‘small minded’ after he suggested struggling teams ‘do nothing’ against Juventus. Conte also added that he ‘didn’t think Serie A needs Garcia’. That last point could not be further from the truth, with Giorgio Chiellini admitting that, “their great campaign pushed us to go beyond 100 per cent.” Garcia himself perhaps put it best, “We compliment Juve, a great club with great players. Their record-breaking campaign is in part down to us and vice-versa.” That extra motivation from their rivals leaves Juventus needing just two point to surpass Inter’s record return of 97. It’s a feat they will expect to achieve, with Cagliari at home still to come, but Conte will hope to secure it in Rome and ensure Juventus have an early psychological edge ahead of next season. For Garcia, memories of Roma’s 3-0 capitulation in Turin earlier in the campaign will still hurt. The 1-0 Coppa Italia victory was revenge of sorts, but Conte fielded a mixed line up. The tactician will do no such thing this time around. Arturo Vidal is his only notable absentee, while Gianluigi Buffon gets a rest. Roma come into the tie without the suspended Alessio Romagnoli and long term casualties Kevin Strootman and Federico Balzaretti, but Garcia otherwise has a largely full strength squad to pick from. Keep an eye on: Claudio Marchisio (Juventus) - The midfielder is getting back to his best after a difficult campaign. Having lost his first team place to Paul Pogba, it was suggested that Marchisio could move on. That talk seemed to initially affect him, but he’s come strong in recent weeks Form Guide: Roma (W W W W L) Juventus (W W W W W) Last season: Roma 1-0 Juventus Stat fact: Roma are unbeaten at the Stadio Olimpico this season. ROMA (probable): De Sanctis; Maicon, Benatia, Castan, Torosidis; Nainggolan, De Rossi, Pjanic; Gervinho, Totti, Destro JUVENTUS (probable): Storari; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Tevez, Llorente http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

‘Juve don’t want to sell Pogba’ May 9, 2014 Mino Raiola has reiterated Paul Pogba’s future is at Juventus, as he comments that the Bianconeri ‘do not want to sell him’. Pogba’s agent yesterday looked to put an end to transfer links to Paris Saint-Germain in particular by confirming that talks over a new deal with the Bianconeri will shortly begin. On from that and the player’s own assertion that he has not considered an exit from Turin has come the message once more. “Juventus have told me that they do not want to sell him,” Raiola has reiterated in today’s edition of Le Parisien. “Paul is happy and soon we will enter into negotiations for the renewal of his contract that expires in two years. “Anyway, I have never spoken to PSG about Pogba. I have proposed other players to the club, but now is not the time to talk about that.”

Pogba would thrive at PSG, says Thiago Silva The Brazilian has admitted his admiration for the midfielder, who has been constantly linked with a move to the French capital. May 9, 2014 Paris Saint-Germain captain Thiago Silva has tipped Paul Pogba to have a big future - whether it lies at Juventus or the Parc des Princes. The midfielder moved to Turin two years ago but has constantly been linked with a switch away from Serie A, with PSG reportedly keen admirers of his talents. And the Brazil international says the 21-year-old Frenchman is destined to do great things no matter where he chooses to spend his peak years. "Pogba is a great player with a great future," he told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. "He has personality, the right mindset and quality to establish himself at the top, anywhere." PSG's big spending in recent years is set to earn them a hefty fine from Uefa but Thiago Silva believes that punishing ambition makes no sense. "It's not for me to say if it should be less, but the president told us that it won't change anything," the Selecao skipper stated. "But I fell it's a strange system. PSG is a growing club."

Pogba: I've never thought of leaving Juventus The France international is reportedly being courted by Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid but he says his dream is to win a fourth Scudetto with the Bianconeri. May 9, 2014 Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba has insisted that he has never considered leaving the club. The young Frenchman has been repeatedly linked with a move to Paris Saint-Germain after two glittering seasons in Turin. However, he says that his head has never been turned and has no interest in a move away from his current side - even for Real Madrid. "Where will I go? I'm here. I've got a contract with Juventus, so what are we talking about?" he told La Stampa. "I've never talked about a transfer. I dream of winning a fourth Scudetto with Juventus. I've never said I wanted to play for Real Madrid. I just said they're a great team like Juve or Man United." Pogba has scored nine goals in 47 appearances for Juventus this season.

ROMA - JUVENTUS May 11, 2014 - 5:45 PM Olimpico Stadium — Rome Referee:‬ Carmine Russo Garcia: I’m glad Roma were able to keep pressure on Juventus May 8, 2014 Roma boss Rudi Garcia has revealed that he’s happy with his team’s ability to keep pressure on Juventus for most of the season despite falling short in the Scudetto race in the end. The 50-year-old was able to keep the Giallorossi on the Old Lady’s tail for most of the campaign after losing the first place spot earlier in the campaign and he admits that he still believed in the capital city club’s chances of winning the Scudetto this term up until Juve’s recent 3-1 win over Sassuolo. Garcia spoke to La Repubblica ahead of the Lupi’s home match with the Bianconeri on Sunday about his satisfaction with Roma’s season, while also commenting on his squad’s shocking 4-1 loss to Catania on May 4. “I seriously believed in the title up until Juve’s victory over Sassuolo,” said the tactician, who has managed to secure the Giallorossi a place in the Champions League during his debut campaign with them. “I’m pleased to have kept pressure on Juventus as they tried to earn their third Scudetto in a row. “The loss to Catania? We all made mistakes, I for one. We’ll have to make up for it in these last two matches.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

ROMA - JUVENTUS May 11, 2014 - 5:45 PM Olimpico Stadium — Rome Referee:‬ Carmine Russo Gervinho: Roma squad not complete enough to win Scudetto The Ivorian forward reflected positively on his side's season but feels the team didn't have enough depth to challenge Juventus throughout the campaign. May 8, 2014 Roma forward Gervinho believes his side didn't have enough strength in depth to challenge Juventus for the Serie A title this season. Despite winning their first 10 games of the season and going unbeaten for a further seven before suffering their first defeat at the hands of Juve, Roma ceded the league title to Antonio Conte's men last week. Gervinho, one of star performers for the runners-up this term, believes the Bianconeri simply had a more complete squad than Roma, who still, he insists, enjoyed a successful season. "It has been a positive campaign in the sense that our objective was to get back into Europe. We achieved that," he told Roma Channel. "We could’ve done better, but we are satisfied. The Scudetto was decided by details. We have a good squad but perhaps not complete enough to be competitive throughout the whole season. "We gave our all but Juve had more strength in depth." The 26-year-old says the campaign has been positive for him, adding that he is very content in the Italian capital. "I think nine goals is a good tally and I can improve, as I created so many scoring opportunities that I didn’t take. It was a good season and I concentrated on giving my best for the team. "The most important goal was the one against Juventus in the Coppa Italia. It might not have been the most beautiful goal, but it was the most important. "If I had to choose the best goal, then I’ll say the one against Bologna. I hope to score against Juventus again this weekend." The former Arsenal man admits he feels "important" at Roma and cited the influence of his coach at Lille in luring him to Serie A. "I knew that Rudi Garcia would give me a lot of responsibility and believed in me, so that influenced my decision to come here. "I have to say I am also satisfied to have provided 10 assists, as that was an objective I had set myself this season. I wanted to score more goals, but the coach told me to help my team-mates score too. "I have a good rapport with all my team-mates and we joke around, even with the gardeners. Trigoria is like a second family. "I am happy to be a part of this club and hope we can achieve many more satisfying moments together next year. We’ll try to return after the holidays stronger than ever." As the World Cup approaches, the Gervinho was asked if he would prefer to win the summer's big prize or the Champions League with Roma. "Why choose?" he replied. "I’d like to win with Roma and the Ivory Coast! Next season we need an even stronger side for the Champions League, so some new players to be even more competitive. "We don’t just want to take part in this tournament, as we want to go as far as possible." http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

ROMA - JUVENTUS May 11, 2014 - 5:45 PM Olimpico Stadium — Rome Referee:‬ Carmine Russo Roma-Juve kick off time moved over violence fears After the troubles in the Italian capital before the Coppa Italia final, Sunday's headline fixture has been moved from 20:45 CET to 17:45. May 8, 2014 Sunday's game between Roma and Juventus has been brought forward three hours in a bid to avoid more fan violence at the Stadio Olimpico. Supporters clashed prior to Napoli's 3-1 win over Fiorentina in the Coppa Italia final following trouble in the capital on Saturday, which resulted in kick-off being delayed by 45 minutes. This weekend's Serie A fixture between second-placed Roma and champions Juve was scheduled to begin at 20:45 local time, but will now kick-off at 17:45 due to safety fears. The decision was made after Roma magistrate Giuseppe Pecoraro consulted with local police and the league. "When you need to make a decision to change something that has already been arranged it is obviously never a good thing," said Giovanni Malago, president of the Italian National Olympic Committee. "But it is also clear that the decision has been taken to avoid having another problem rather than letting it occur." http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

ROMA - JUVENTUS May 11, 2014 - 5:45 PM Olimpico Stadium — Rome Referee:‬ Carmine Russo Roma-Juventus Betting Preview: Fired-up Giallorossi to keep things tight against the champions Having handed the Old Lady a third consecutive title with a meek 4-1 defeat against Catania last weekend, expect Rudi Garcia's men to put in a determined performance. May 8, 2014 Roma will be hoping to bounce back from last weekend's shock 4-1 defeat against struggling Catania when they welcome Juventus to Stadio Olimpico on Sunday. That result finally put an end to the Giallorossi's faint title hopes but they are 11/8 (2.38) favourites with bet365 to gain some consolation by beating the champions for the third time in a row at home. After lifting a third consecutive Scudetto, Antonio Conte's men are aiming to become the first team in Serie A history to reach 100 points and are available at 15/8 (2.88) to move three points closer to that target with a victory in the capital. The hosts have drawn just three games on home turf all season, but you can get odds of 12/5 (3.40) on them settling for a point this time out. Having doggedly hung on to the runaway leaders' coat tails all season, Rudi Garcia's team will have been bitterly disappointed to hand them the title with such a meek defeat against a team seemingly destined for Serie B. That performance will surely only serve to strengthen their resolve to give the fans something to cheer about in their final game on home turf, with victory against the champions providing the perfect incentive. With this in mind, Roma are unlikely to lack any motivation as they look to continue their strong recent home record against the Old Lady, having won two and drawn one of the last three meetings at Stadio Olimpico. The most recent of those results came via a 1-0 Coppa Italia win just this January, when the hosts' strong defensive record came to the fore in a tight victory. No Serie A side have conceded fewer than the eight goals let in at home by Garcia's outfit this campaign, meaning even odds (2.00) offer solid value on them keeping the scoreline to under 2.5 in a hotly-contested game against the champions. That bet would have paid out in each of the last four encounters between the teams at Stadio Olimpico, as well as five of Juventus' last six league games on the road. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Chiellini: Italy can trouble anyone May 8, 2014 Giorgio Chiellini has outlined his belief that Italy must advance to the knockout stages at the World Cup because: “We can compete with anyone.” The Azzurri are drawn in Group D of this summer’s tournament in Brazil, alongside England, Uruguay and Costa Rica. With the League title out of the way, Chiellini admits that focus is on succeeding in advancing out of that group this summer. “Until now we would not have focused on it. With lots of objectives you are too focused on those and you cannot think of anything else,” Chiellini has explained via a Google Hangout today. “Now our objective is reached, so it is inevitable that our thoughts turn to the World Cup and already we begin to get excited. “Definitely it will be a great adventure, I am convinced that it is essential for us to progress from the first round into the knockout stage because we are a team that can be really troublesome and can compete with anyone. “We know we have a tough group but we also have a lot of enthusiasm and the desire to do well. We hope to continue the positive results that we have managed in the last three years.” Chiellini, who also considered Juventus’ road to domestic success this season, was asked whether it really is an advantage to have club colleagues Andrea Barzagli and Leonardo Bonucci alongside him in Italy’s back-line. “Of course it helps us to know each other, because of the many times you are on the field you do not even have to look at each other to know where your teammate is - after so many matches together you know where your teammates are. “Me, Andrea and Leo, we are aware of each other through memory after all these games together with Juve and in the national team it can definitely be an advantage and help for Prandelli. “Then, he will make his decisions and also with the others there are no issues. But, to have a block of a team that players throughout the year together is an advantage.”

Chelsea, United in Pogba race May 8, 2014 Reports today list Premier League duo Chelsea and Manchester United as also interested in Juventus’ Paul Pogba this summer. The 21-year-old only moved out to the Old Lady from Old Trafford in July 2012, at the expiry of his United contract, but is the subject of continued speculation over his future in Turin come the end of this season. Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid have been listed as potentially plotting bids this summer for the midfielder’s services, including offering €3.5m more per season in wages than Juve’s reported maximum figure they can put in front of Pogba and his agent. In Spain reports this week suggest that prospective new Barcelona Coach Luis Enrique has specifically requested that the Catalans make him their No 1 signing. The giornalaccio rosa dello Sport, however, report that competition is due now from the Premier League and specifically from Chelsea and Manchester United.

‘Genoa, Udinese wins key to Juve’ May 8, 2014 Giorgio Chiellini says wins over Genoa and Udinese provided the ‘fundamental shift’ in Juventus winning the Scudetto, the season’s ‘biggest objective’. The Bianconeri are celebrating a third successive League title after Week 36’s results ensured their lead over second placed Roma was unassailable. Sitting down for Google Hangout, defender Chiellini reflected on the current mindset in the dressing room, and the weight of their achievement this term. “Certainly we are more calm than we were in February, when we were in the middle of the season,” Chiellini began today. “We have achieved the most important objective of the year and we are definitely more relaxed. “It was definitely the biggest goal at the beginning of the season, a difficult task, but to which we believed so much in. “Then in being able to succeed with a season so exciting, with record numbers - we hope to be able to end the season well - it is definitely a great satisfaction.” The 29-year-old was asked when the players realised they had won the League. “Surely we did well not to believe too early, because there were some who had assigned it to us a month ago, even two months ago. “Instead, we knew that Roma would win all their recent games. I believe that a fundamental shift was the victory at Genoa with the last minute goal from Pirlo, and then perhaps that in Udine, because it was one of the last occasions on which they could have hoped we would drop points.” The Italy international picked out his best moment of the season and thought back to Week 18. “Perhaps the victory over Roma, it was a crucial moment because they were five points behind, had not lost and were definitely convinced they could come to Turin to get a result. “Instead, we won a difficult game, with an overwhelming result, perhaps a little too much, but it was a game that we wanted at all costs.” Chiellini, who recently surpassed 300 appearances for the Old Lady, was asked to pick his most memorable game played for the club so far. “Can I not say two? One was the victory in Madrid at the Bernabeu, in the year of Ranieri, because it was not very predictable. “Home and away, we managed two wins against Madrid, it was a great thrill. Then, Cagliari-Juventus in Trieste, because after all these years, to win again was a unique experience, in an undefeated season, it was more than a dream come true, because even the dreamers could not have hoped for a season like that at the start.”

Pogba: I want to be like Pirlo The youngster has nothing but praise for the veteran midfielder and has voiced his gratitude towards former club Manchester United. May 7, 2014 Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba has voiced his admiration for team-mate Andrea Pirlo and says that he learns from the Italy international on a daily basis. Pogba has formed a formidable partnership with the experienced playmaker in the centre of Juve's midfield since his arrival in Turin and the France international claims he wants to emulate the 34-year-old at the club. "Being with Pirlo is just great – you learn every day with him and you just enjoy your football when you see him play," Pogba told the BBC. "He's been a top player for many years now and when you watch him you just want to be like him." Pogba joined Juventus on free transfer from Manchester United in 2012 and recently hit out at his former team for showing him a lack of respect while he was at the club. However, the 21-year-old has now expressed his gratitude towards the Premier League club for preparing him for life among big-name players in Turin. "I've made a great decision coming here from Manchester United," he said. "I'm thankful to them every day because that's where I gained the experience that prepared me for training with big players like Pirlo, Vidal, Marchisio and Buffon. "I'm grateful to United but now I'm at Juventus and I'm happy here." Pogba has a contract with the Serie A champions until June 2016.

‘If Pogba wants to stay…’ May 7, 2014 Gianluca Vialli has advised Juventus to determine their decision over Paul Pogba based on the player’s desire to stay or go. Speculation is that the 21-year-old will be the subject of intense interest this summer from the likes of Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea and Real Madrid, even as Juve are seen as ready to treble his earnings in a bid to keep him. For the Bianconeri’s former No 9, the right decision regarding Pogba’s future has to be made in accordance with the midfielder’s will. “The first question I would ask is, does he want to stay or not? It is essential to understand this,” Vialli has considered to Tuttosport today. “If Pogba says that his dream is to win the Champions League with Juve, then I would think twice about selling him. “Because players of this ilk, beyond their technical value, bring something extra special to the group. You want these players around you, if you think you can continue to grow in Europe. “And then you are also willing to give up so much money, because players of this type are priceless. “But if Pogba has doubts about his future at Juventus and ambitions perhaps away from Turin, then it is right for Juve to think about it. And understand if there is a chance to optimise the situation, to see a fantastic player that everyone wants. “From a similar situation emerged the sale of Zinedine Zidane, which earned enough money to have a big transfer spend themselves.”

Agnelli: Juventus won’t put three stars on their shirt until another team has two May 7, 2014 Juventus president, Andrea Agnelli, has praised his team for making history but has claimed they will not be placing the third star on their shirt – signifying 30 Serie A titles – until another team has a second star. The Bianconeri celebrated their third successive Serie A triumph with a 1-0 win at home to Atalanta on Monday night, officially moving their overall tally of Scudetti to 30. “I have already had the chance to say this to those close to me but it is hard to find the adjectives to describe this season.” The 38-year-old told media in his press conference. “We have written a long page in the history books. The boys and the coach [Antonio Conte] deserve this success.” The board member of Fiat then dismissed the criticism encountered by the Vecchia Signora due to their failure in Europe this term. “I happened to hear people believe Bayern Munich have failed this season, to me this criticism is excessive, also in relation to what people have said about Juventus. “At the start of the season there are hundreds of teams who enter the Europa League and Champions League and only two teams run out winners, that doesn’t mean every other team has failed.” “Those who work hard deserve credit and I am proud and aware that today is another chapter closed. We are already working towards next season.” Agnelli concluded by making caustic remarks about the third star Juventus have earned thanks to their 30th Scudetto, stating that, in actual fact, the club have won 32 titles – a reference to the two Scudetti that were stripped from Juve due to their involvement in the Calciopoli scandal. “I want to also say that we will not be placing the third star on our shirts, we have won 32 Scudetti. “When someone earns a second star, then we will put the third start on our badge to remind everyone of the difference between us and the others.”

JUVENTUS 1 - 0 ATALANTA Simone Padoin (72′) May 5, 2014 - 9:00 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee:‬ Andrea De Marco Attendance:‬ 38000‎ Juventus celebrate Serie A title with another win May 6, 2014 Another win and another trophy for Antonio Conte’s Juventus. After their 1-0 win over Atalanta on Monday, the Turin giants are the Campioni d’Italia for the third consecutive year -- a feat the club hasn’t managed since the 1930s. This team deserves the honour and continues to develop in an astonishing manner. People may criticise them and undoubtedly always demand more, but when it comes to domestic glory, there’s only one dominant force -- the Old Lady of Calcio. They didn’t even try against Atalanta on Monday -- a side that hasn’t managed an away win at Juve since 1989 -- and yet the hosts still found a way to collect the three points. It was far from thrilling and barely even entertaining but can we really dare to criticise a side that has now managed 100 wins under the tutelage of this phenomenal coach? Atalanta is a special club. They were the team Alessandro Del Piero played against in his last home match at Juventus' stadium when he retired his Bianconeri jersey, doing a lap of honour as he came off the pitch. They are the club that sold Juve the goal scorer from Monday night, Simone Padoin, and most importantly they produced and nurtured the Old Lady’s remarkable Gaetano Scirea -- a legend and perhaps the greatest defender to have ever graced Turin. Boasting a stunning youth academy, a wonderful sporting director and a humble coach who lives for the city of Bergamo and the defence of its classy football, they were the perfect side to play on such a joyous occasion. History and reputation aside, they have also been fiercely impressive this season, managing to break records by collecting six wins in a row and are just three points away from equalling the best ever points tally in a season. Unfortunately, they lacked the quality in the final third to make an impact against the champions. While they have dazzled against the likes of Inter this season on account of Giacomo Bonaventura’s technical ability, Maxi Moralez’s well timed runs and Luca Cigarini’s passing accuracy, they struggled to make the most of the possession Juventus granted them. They were of course without Cigarini while Stephan Lichtsteiner did well to halt Giacomo Bonaventura’s advances but the reality is, Juventus maintained a solid defensive shape when they lost possession. With the ball at feet and allowed to attack, the Bianconeri -- hungover from happiness -- barely created in the first half. Unable to dribble past their markers, there was no intensity, little pace and no ingenuity. However, they did improve in the second half and that has much to do with Claudio Marchisio’s interpretation of the role, Carlos Tevez’ arrival on the pitch and the increase in intensity. Yet to analyse this game in detail is to rob this team of the many compliments it deserves. This wasn’t a vintage performance simply because it didn’t need to be. The team have won a third consecutive title and are only four points away from collecting 100 points in the league. They have broken records, comprehensively beaten their biggest challengers and have gone a whole season without losing at home, not in Serie A and not in Europe. Each year, they develop and their appetite grows. They have secured the strikers that have allowed them to finish off their many chances, nurtured a young midfielder in Paul Pogba who is now followed by all of Europe’s best and devised a strategy for the future that will keep them healthy, wealthy and competitive for many years. Yet despite all they’ve accomplished collectively, both on and off the pitch, we cannot deny how much Conte has given them. His ideas, winning mentality and character have turned good players into world class footballers and without him, a sleeping giant might have still only been dreaming. Rumours suggest the coach is interested in an adventure abroad and he did indeed hold talks with an English side recently. He is learning the language and the temptation is difficult to resist. However, that does not mean he will leave, it’s simply a possibility he has entertained; something he did the previous year when he was contacted by one of Europe’s best. He wants guarantees in the sense he wants the opportunity to develop his tactical understanding. He would like a team with greater technical strength and players that allow him the flexibility to change schemes and perfect a philosophy. Juventus owns his heart -- he has never denied that. To be able to lift a European trophy with the team he captained is the reason he is still eager to discuss his future with management with a view of extending his stay. He is the beating heart of this Old Lady, as are the players that have given their all to realise the club’s ambitions. From the many fans who have watched their every game this season, from the exciting wins over the likes of Roma to the soul crushing defeat at Florence, congratulations to Italy’s best team and here’s to another 32 titles. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111