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LIVORNO - JUVENTUS November 24, 2013 - 3:00 PM Armando Picchi Stadium — Livorno Referee: Davide Massa Chiellini boost for Juventus Nov 20, 2013 Juventus’ defensive headache for their trip to Livorno should ease with the return of Giorgio Chiellini. http://markting10.nl/ The latter has been out of action since picking up a muscle problem on the Friday before the 3-0 win over Napoli two weeks ago. Juve will travel to Tuscany without the suspended duo of Angelo Ogbonna and Leonardo Bonucci, while there is a doubt regarding the fitness of Andrea Barzagli. “There is an emergency, but I should play at the Picchi if there are no surprises before then,” stated the former Amaranto stopper. http://markting10.nl/ “I’m feeling good and I am available.” Chiellini could be asked to play in the middle of a back-three with Martin Caceres and Federico Peluso on either side. “It makes no difference for me,” stated the man who is usually used on the left of the trio. “I’m always at the disposal of boss Antonio Conte. http://markting10.nl/ “We were in great shape before the international break and now we want to start again from where we left off.” Juventus are now just one point behind leaders Roma. “We’re not thinking about top spot just yet. We are going down our path and Roma are going down theirs.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

LIVORNO - JUVENTUS November 24, 2013 - 3:00 PM Armando Picchi Stadium — Livorno Referee: Davide Massa Nicola: Juve will be difficult challenge Nov 20, 2013 Livorno boss Davide Nicola has conceded that facing Juventus this weekend will be a ‘difficult challenge’. http://markting10.nl/ The promoted side host the Bianconeri on Sunday looking for the three points that could take them up to 10th in the table. But the Coach has admitted that getting three points against Antonio Conte’s side will be a tough ask. “We’re going to be facing a team that has a precise idea of what their identity is,” he told Rai2. http://markting10.nl/ “They play at a club where the only priority is to win – so it’s going to be a difficult challenge for us. “We’re going to be playing a side that go out with a frightening intensity, but we hope what we’ve got will be sufficient. “Conte, as a Coach, is absolutely excellent. We all want to be at the same level as him.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Lucescu: Shakhtar tried for Buffon Nov 20, 2013 Shakhtar Donetsk boss Mircea Lucescu has claimed that his side tried to sign Gianluigi Buffon before he renewed with the Bianconeri. http://markting10.nl/ The Italy international signed an extension with the Old Lady earlier this year, but the Romanian Coach has revealed that his team attempted to lure the shot-stopper to Ukraine. “We tried to sign Buffon,” he told Tuttosport. “But then he renewed with Juve and that was the end of that. “It would have been a superb signing for us, both on the pitch and our image off it.” http://markting10.nl/ Lucescu was effusive in his praise for the Turin club and Antonio Conte. “Juve are a very strong team. If they get out of their Champions League group this year, they can go all the way. http://markting10.nl/ “Conte’s a man I like. In the future, I’m sure the biggest teams will be after him. “I think the Scudetto will be between Juve, Napoli and Roma.”

Pogba thanks Conte for WC place Nov 20, 2013 Paul Pogba has conceded that without Antonio Conte, he would not be going to the World Cup next summer. http://markting10.nl/ The Bianconeri youngster played in France’s 3-0 win over Ukraine on Tuesday, that saw them progress to Brazil 2014. And the former Manchester United man has admitted that it’s the Old Lady Coach who has got him into the national team. “It was a good game and a good performance from the whole team,” he told Sky Sport Italia. http://markting10.nl/ “It’s a dream for me. I am very happy. I can’t wait to go to Brazil. “I think that without Juve I would not be here with France. Conte trusted me – he put me on the pitch and gave me the time to play well.”

LIVORNO - JUVENTUS November 24, 2013 - 3:00 PM Armando Picchi Stadium — Livorno Referee: Davide Massa Defensive emergency for Juve Nov 20, 2013 Antonio Conte’s defensive headache with Juventus has not eased, as he is unable to count on Stephan Lichtsteiner for the weekend. http://markting10.nl/ The Bianconeri head out to Livorno on Sunday afternoon with the motivation that a win could put them top of the table before Roma play the next day. However, it is a match the Old Lady will have to face without half her squad’s defenders available. Alongside the suspended duo of Leonardo Bonucci and Angelo Ogbonna, Juve head into Week 13 with doubts over Andrea Barzagli’s availability, with a thigh complaint picked up whilst on international duty. http://markting10.nl/ The situation is now worsened with the news that Swiss full-back Lichtsteiner is not yet ready to return to the field. Continuing to work separate from the main group in training, Juventus have reported through their official website this week that the 29-year-old will not make this weekend’s trip to the Armando Picchi. http://markting10.nl/ Lichtsteiner has been out since picking up a suspected thigh injury whilst in action against Galatasaray at the start of October. Speculation for the weekend is that Juve will run with a back three of Martin Caceres, Giorgio Chiellini and Federico Peluso, with Kwadwo Asamoah and Paolo De Ceglie on the wings. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Lichtsteiner answers fan questions Nov 19, 2013 Stephan Lichtsteiner answered Juventus fan questions on Twitter, revealing his Champions League dream and friendship with Paul Pogba. http://markting10.nl/ “It is a great honour to wear this jersey, though it also weighs heavily on the shoulders because you are obliged to win,” wrote the Swiss international. “Scoring the first goal at the Juventus Stadium is a fond memory, but I’d above all like to remain in the history of Juventus for the victories rather than goals. “I’d say my best goal was the most recent, in the Italian Super Cup against Lazio. Bayern Munich were the most difficult club to play against because they have such organisation and strong players. http://markting10.nl/ “The dream I haven’t achieved yet is the Champions League. It is everyone’s dream. “My football idol was Marcos Cafu, as we play in the same position. The toughest opponents I have faced are Cristiano Ronaldo, Franck Ribery and Leo Messi, as in the one-on-one they cause huge problems.” There were also some amusing moments in the Q&A, as Lichtsteiner was asked who had the better haircut: Arturo Vidal or Pogba? http://markting10.nl/ “I’m going to be democratically Swiss here and say I couldn’t possibly choose! Of my teammates, I hang out most with Pogba and we also speak French. “What is the best thing to come from Switzerland: Chocolates, Roger Federer or watches? Federer is unique, as he did something incredible and made tennis history.” http://markting10.nl/ Lichtsteiner was also asked to rate Fabio Quagliarella’s appearance on Dancing with the Stars. “Unfortunately I haven’t seen it yet...”

6th Italian Supercup 18 August 2013

31st Scudetto 11 May 2013

Mancini would love to have Pirlo at Galatasaray Nov 19, 2013 Galatasaray boss Roberto Mancini has hinted that his side could make a move for Andrea Pirlo, whose Juventus contract is set to expire by the end of the season. http://markting10.nl/ The sides are set to do battle against each other in the Champions League in Istanbul for the last remaining group qualification spot, a game that will give the former Sampdoria striker the chance to cast his eye over the midfielder. He told Tuttosport: “Pirlo is a player who can make the difference in any teams. He is certainly a player that I would like in the team and I would struggle not to admit that.” The former Manchester City coach also warned Juventus that they can expect an intimidating atmosphere when they arrive in Istanbul for the clash but believes they are favourites to progress. http://markting10.nl/ “I think that Juventus probably have an 80% chance of going through and can go through if they get two good results but they will have to be careful coming here. “Our fans will be giving the team everything they can.”

Brawn Over Brains: Juventus Without Andrea Pirlo Nov 19, 2013 Since his arrival in Turin, Juventus are now having to deal with the same dilemma AC Milan used to: what does life after Andrea Pirlo look like? http://markting10.nl/ The Italian has been the cornerstone of the best midfield in Serie A over the last couple seasons, alongside Claudio Marchisio, Arturo Vidal, and Paul Pogba. However Pirlo is 34 years old today, slowing down and Antonio Conte has been increasingly managing his fitness over the last 18 months. In Conte’s 3-5-2, Pirlo has very much been the perfect player. As the regista (deep-lying playmaker), the entire team is build around him. He has midfield runners alongside him, with Vidal, Marchisio and Pogba. Pirlo also has flying wingbacks, Stephan Lichtsteiner and Kwadwo Assamoah, to open up the pitch and take advantage of his passing range. Since Juventus returned in Europe however, Conte has been increasingly managing Pirlo’s fitness. With the added caveat of the Champions League, it is more difficult for Pirlo to retain his best physical condition whilst playing three games a week. Every year that goes by of course, is one more year that Pirlo’s effect wanes. http://markting10.nl/ Pirlo has never been a player who ran a lot. He does not defend much either. However he has a very specific skill set that no player can match in Serie A, and probably even in the world. As such, it is always a blessing to have a player like Pirlo. On the other hand, it is also a problem when he is absent from the pitch. On numerous occasions already, Conte has deployed Pogba in his position when resting Pirlo. It is important here to discern that Conte has used Pogba in Pirlo’s position, and not Pirlo’s role. Pogba boasts of athletic gifts that Pirlo never had, but on the other hand does not have the passing range the Italian possesses. Pogba is a player that is very difficult to dispossess. He uses his size and strength to ward off players. He also has that rangy running style that allows him to break through the opposition’s midfield line. Although he is not as eagle-eyed as Pirlo, Pogba can see a pass and has a powerful long range shot as part of his arsenal as well. Conte gambles on all those attributes for Pogba to fill Pirlo’s position. http://markting10.nl/ The main difference between both is that Juventus’ team becomes a much more physical and athletic one with Pogba instead of Pirlo. That is not a fundamentally bad thing of course. In fact, for Europe, adding more physical density to one’s midfield often pays off in this era of high pressing and packed midfields. What Juventus loses is in speed of play. Carrying the ball forward is always slower than passing it up the field. What Pogba manages to do in one gut-busting run, Pirlo does with a single swing of his foot. The speed of play suffers but the incisiveness as well. Verticality is the most crucial loss. Pirlo, with one pass, can immediately turn momentum in Juventus favor by switching the play onto a running teammate in an attacking position. http://markting10.nl/ A team without Pirlo would be a much more physically imposing side. Especially with Conte’s high intensity pressing style, a midfield-three of Pogba, Vidal and Marchisio presents just as daunting a proposition. Pirlo tends to focus attentions when he is on the pitch. When so much of the play goes through him, teams target him and can thus blunt Juventus’ cutting edge. However a Juventus without Pirlo will be a team with a slower build-up play. It will be a team less able to verticalize play, and certainly not with the same instantaneity and precision as with a Pirlo on the pitch. In fact, Marco Verratti – who is a slightly different player to Pirlo still – would be the one player that could most successfully bridge the gap between Pogba’s athleticism and Pirlo’s passing range for a Juventus bound to be without its Italian maestro sooner rather than later.

Paul Pogba Tactical Focus: Why Juventus Star Is Already a Complete Midfielder Nov 19, 2013 Paul Pogba has long been talked about as one of the most prominent prospects in world football, and now he's finally starting to realise some of his incredible potential. http://markting10.nl/ He was the source of much controversy in 2009 as Manchester United poached him from Le Havre's famed academy, and already then there were suggestions he could become one of the best in the world. Instead of exposing him to the limelight of professional football, Sir Alex Ferguson tucked the then-16-year-old into the reserves to allow him to grow in his own time. He moved through the gears quickly—perhaps too quickly—and in 2012 became frustrated with the lack of first-team opportunities. He seized his chance to leave at the end of his contract, selecting Juventus from reams and reams of suitors; his talent was still abundantly obvious. http://markting10.nl/ Since moving to Turin he's flourished, and Antonio Conte has given the Frenchman what Sir Alex failed to: legitimate game time and an opportunity to win a place in the first XI. The 20-year-old we see before us is making gargantuan strides that live up to his on-field nickname (Paul the Octopus), and it seems just a matter of time before he cements his status as a world-class player. What makes Il Polpo Paul so special? http://markting10.nl/ Physical and Mental Marvel We often talk about success as if it's easy to attain, then subsequently lament players who may have been "born in the wrong era" and suggest that's the prime barrier to certain individuals' progression. Andy Carroll is an example of that, as for every part of him that replicates the battering ram figure of Duncan Ferguson, there's a part of him that clearly doesn't fit in today's possession-oriented game. Ganso could be considered another. There are also players who are born in the right era, and that's certainly been the case when it comes to Pogba's rapid ascension to Juventus' first XI. http://markting10.nl/ We're beginning to see more and more formations geared toward allowing physically excellent players to showcase their strengths. Conte's Bianconeri is a prime example, with both his 4-3-3 and his 3-5-2 systems requiring vertical drive and aggressive movements from deep. Kwadwo Asamoah was an attacking midfielder once, but now he's a fully converted left wing-back, playing in a position that allows him to use his incredible engine and vertical style to great effect. He, Mauricio Isla, Stephan Lichtsteiner and Arturo Vidal are just four of many players on the books in Turin who couldn't ask for a better tactical fit. Pogba, a physical marvel, is in the same boat. http://markting10.nl/ At just 20 he towers over most midfielders, outmuscles half of them and outthinks the rest. He's supremely confident in his own ability, and that allows him to play an expressive game without the fear of making mistakes. There's every chance that, when fully developed at 25, he'll be unmatched as a midfield engine, capable of dominating everyone in his path. His first-half performance against Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League gave us a frightening glimpse of what he's capable of (even now) against the elite teams in world football. There are few more complete players in world football even at this stage in his career, and he's shown the ability to take on almost any midfield role. It's just another thing that makes him such a precocious talent, and we'll examine him in a few of these roles here. http://markting10.nl/ Pogba as a Regista At the end of September 2013, Juventus were handed the small matter of the Turin derby away from home. Andrea Pirlo was dropped to the bench in favour of a Claudio Marchisio-Vidal-Pogba midfield, with the latter in the famous "regista" role Pirlo has made his own over the last decade and a bit. The regista will control everything from deep in midfield, dictate tempo and fire off inch-perfect passes to every corner of the pitch. He's the heartbeat of the side, and if he doesn't play well, the entire team will struggle. http://markting10.nl/ To put Pogba, at 20, in this role in the bitter Derby della Molle was some sign of faith from Conte, and the Frenchman went on to display his obvious strengths and talents throughout. He ended up scoring the sole goal of the game, a headed winner, but it was his performance throughout that impressed more. His passing isn't on the same level as Pirlo, but the confidence exuded in controlling proceedings was astonishing. http://markting10.nl/ He sat in front of the defensive line, fired off vertical passes and provided an excellent shield for Giorgio Chiellini and co. Pirlo is an underrated tackler, but Pogba trumps him even at this stage; he has the mobility and footballing IQ to sense danger early and quell it, allowing La Vecchia Signora to build sustained periods of pressure. Pogba finished the game with one goal, one interception, six tackles and 63 touches of the ball, according to WhoScored.com. http://markting10.nl/ Pogba as a Shuttler It's not in Conte's remit to exclude Pirlo at this stage, but there is an obvious intent to marginalise his importance to the side given the fact his contract expires at the end of the current season. Whether that means grooming Pogba to be Juve's next full-time regista, bringing back Luca Marrone or changing the style, we can't say just yet, but it would be foolish not to utilise Pirlo's excellence for one final campaign. That's meant Pogba and Pirlo on the pitch together plenty of times already this season, with the former moving into a box-to-box (or "shuttling") role while the latter resumes his mantle as chief playmaker. http://markting10.nl/ Opinion will be divided, but this is the role we believe to be his best: a box-to-box responsibility that allows him to extend those long loping legs and utilise his powerful frame in one-v-one situations. His dribbling is getting stronger, he's winning more take-ons and he's lethal when he spots a pocket of space to leap into. That said, he doesn't neglect his positional duties either, and his work rate for both Juve and France remains extremely high. http://markting10.nl/ The 3-0 victory over Napoli, in which he scored a spectacular third, is perhaps the flagship game of his career so far, as with Pirlo pulling the strings from deep, Pogba was able to dart into space from a defensive position and force the Partenopei onto the back foot. He can do it from deep and run straight at you—which is terrifying—or in advanced positions to craft shooting opportunities. His strike that beat Pepe Reina against Napoli was beyond sublime. http://markting10.nl/ Looking Forward It appears Conte is giving serious thought toward a full-time switch to a 4-3-3 formation, abandoning the 3-5-2 but for the odd occasion. The latter system has failed miserably in the Champions League (where the club is bottom of Group B with two matchdays remaining), and Juve will soon be at a stage whereby deep runs in that competition will be required to keep Pogba at the club. Either one suits Pogba down to ground; such is his incredible versatility and status as a near-complete midfielder. He can pass, shoot, dribble, tackle, intercept and head; he can do everything there is to do already. http://markting10.nl/ His best form appears to come in a box-to-box role, and there are legitimate fears that grooming the Frenchman as a regista will waste his incredible athleticism and surging ability. For him to reach the top of the game he needs to be unleashed, and Conte needs to make some vital decisions this summer when it comes to how his XI will shape up. Pogba will excel regardless, and it's a matter of whether he becomes a great player or one of the best this game has ever seen. Conte's use of him, even at this stage, will impact his eventual fate.

Manchester City made a 'mistake' by not signing Pogba, says Vieira The World Cup-winning midfielder, who played for both City and Juventus, believes the Etihad Stadium outfit missed a trick by not recruiting the "extraordinary" 20-year-old. Nov 19, 2013 Manchester City reserve team manager Patrick Vieira has labelled the club's failure to sign French midfielder Paul Pogba a "mistake". http://markting10.nl/ The 20-year-old left rivals Manchester United on a free transfer in 2012, joining Serie A champions Juventus where he scored five goals in his maiden campaign en route to the Scudetto. And Vieira, who noted the similarities between himself and the Blues youngster, says he regrets City's failure to lure his "extraordinary" countryman to the Etihad Stadium. "Many people say he is like I was. I think he is more offensive than me and perhaps better technically," Vieira told L'Equipe. "He is a player that I really like. http://markting10.nl/ "I saw him play for Manchester United. That Manchester City did not take him when he left was a mistake because he is an extraordinary player." Pogba was on the losing side as France suffered a 2-0 defeat to Ukraine in their World Cup play-off first leg and Vieira has urged the players to step up. http://markting10.nl/ "In the French team, we have the players. These players must have a structure that allows them to grow," the former Arsenal midfielder continued. "They must feel that the France team is as important, if not more important, than the club. This is not the case right now."

Ancelotti rules out Pirlo-Alonso exchange deal The former Paris Saint-Germain coach has stressed that the Spain international remains a key player for Madrid and is not interested in a swap for the Juventus veteran. Nov 19, 2013 Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has ruled out the possibility of a player exchange deal involving Xabi Alonso and Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo. http://markting10.nl/ Both playmakers are reaching the end of their respective contracts and Alonso, 31, has been heavily linked with a move to the Serie A champions while Pirlo is thought to be keen on a reunion with former AC Milan boss Ancelotti. However, the Madrid boss has now made it clear that he will not make a move for his 34-year-old compatriot and is eager to keep Alonso at Santiago Bernabeu. "Xabi is a vital player for Madrid now that he's recovered from injury. There are only two players like him in Europe. One is Pirlo and the other is Xabi," Ancelotti told Mediaset. http://markting10.nl/ "However, we have no intention of making a player exchange deal with Juventus. There is no substance to any rumour like that. "I am still in touch with Andrea because I have a good relation with him. I was pleased to see the Madrid fans give him a warm welcome when we met." Pirlo has been with Juventus since the summer of 2011 was inspirational in their successive Scudetto triumphs, but has seen his first-team place come under increasing threat from Paul Pogba this season.

Llorente: Costa should play for Brazil The 28-year-old was not surprised by the striker’s decision to play for Spain, but admits if it was him in that situation, he would have chosen the nation of his birth. Nov 18, 2013 Fernando Llorente says Diego Costa should have elected to play for Brazil rather than La Roja. http://markting10.nl/ The Juventus striker is anticipating even more competition for a place in the national side following the addition of the Atletico Madrid forward, after he earned a call-up for friendlies against Equatorial Guinea and South Africa. And Llorente has now revealed he could never contemplate playing for anyone else other than the nation of his birth. “Of course, he’s had an amazing start to the campaign and the fact that he has chosen to play for Spain puts all of the strikers on full alert,” he told AS. "Now it is much harder to win a place with Spain. http://markting10.nl/ “I wasn’t really too surprised to be honest. “He has spent several seasons in Spain and looking at how our national side is playing, everyone wants to play for Spain and Diego Costa has the possibility of being one of them. “He’s playing at a high level and has decided that he wants to play for Spain. http://markting10.nl/ “For me personally, I would have chosen my own country if I had been in his place but everyone is entitled to their own opinion.” The 28-year-old also revealed his delight at returning the national team, as he continues to adjust to life at Juventus. “I’m delighted to be back with the national team. The past year wasn’t easy for me but the change, going to one of the big teams in Italy has worked out well because it will help me to grow as a player. http://markting10.nl/ “I feel much better now but my best is yet to come. I need a few more games under my belt to get back to my peak.” The former Athletic Bilbao striker then spoke about the emotions of returning to the scene of Spain's 2010 World Cup victory in Johannesburg. http://markting10.nl/ “Being with the national team is always incredible – wherever they play. We’re all delighted to be here and we all want to put in a good account of ourselves. “Returning to South Africa is wonderful. As soon as we arrived the memories came flooding back – winning our first World Cup is the greatest thing that has ever happened to us.”

Comparing me with Buffon is unnecessary, says Enyeama The Nigeria goalkeeper says that he and the Bianconeri star are from different worlds but is looking forward to clashing with the Azzurri. Nov 18, 2013 EXCLUSIVE By Kolade Oni Nigeria goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama has stressed that he does not feel worthy of comparisons with Italy counterpart Gianluigi Buffon. http://markting10.nl/ Both shot-stoppers have been key parts of their respective national teams for a number of years and clash on Monday in a friendly at Craven Cottage. And Enyeama is delighted to be playing against such opposition but believes that he and the Juventus skipper are from "different worlds". "I am happy that we are playing a high-profile friendly against Italy. We have an opportunity to play against a renowned country and former world and European champions, he told Goal. http://markting10.nl/ "There is no battle between me and Buffon because we are in two different worlds. He is a good goalkeeper no doubt about that but it would be an unnecessary distraction comparing me with the Italian goalkeeper. "I expect an exciting match but the battle is beyond two individuals."

Buffon: Inter can win Serie A The Italy international feels the Giuseppe Meazza side can fight for the title following the arrival of new owner and president Erick Thohir. Nov 18, 2013 Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon believes that Inter have the potential to challenge for the Serie A title this season. http://markting10.nl/ The Nerazzurri currently sit fourth in the league table following a strong start to the campaign under Walter Mazzarri, but Buffon feels the arrival of Erick Thohir as their new owner and president could prove to be a big boost in their bid to return to the Serie A summit. "The arrival of Thohir at Inter is a big thing. It signifies a huge change. It's good to see foreign money find its way to Serie A," Buffon told Tuttosport. "I would say Inter are Scudetto challengers as well now." http://markting10.nl/ Buffon also insisted champions Juventus have begun the season in very good form, and would be sitting clear at the top were it not for the record-breaking run of Roma. "The only reason why we are not sitting top of the table is that Roma have been excellent. But so have we, just look at our results," he said. http://markting10.nl/ "The important thing for us at Juventus is that we will not have any regrets in the end. We always want to give everything and get the best out of ourselves." Juventus currently sit second in Serie A, trailing leaders Roma - who won their first 10 games in a row - by one point.

Biglia reveals Pirlo admiration Nov 18, 2013 Lazio midfielder Lucas Biglia has revealed that he takes inspiration from Juventus man Andrea Pirlo. http://markting10.nl/ The Argentine playmaker joined the capital club from Anderlecht in the summer, and has claimed that the Bianconeri Ballon d’Or nominee is one of his heroes. “I am a traditional Argentine number five,” he told Clarin. “I like to try and get the ball moving, always trying to use it intelligently. “That’s what I’ve been taught since I was very small. http://markting10.nl/ “My point of reference as a kid was Fernando Redondo – I always tried to replicate what he did on the pitch. “Today however, I really admire Sergio Busquets and Andrea Pirlo – Pirlo is a playmaker who has moved into a deeper position, whereas Busquets has the sort of quality very few possess.”

Llorente sees future alongside Tevez Nov 18, 2013 Fernando Llorente is confident he and Carlos Tevez will prove to be an effective strike-force for Juventus. http://markting10.nl/ The duo joined the Italian giants in the summer, but the Spaniard has had his problems adjusting to the Italian game. “We have played a few matches together,” Llorente, signed on a Bosman from Athletic Bilbao, told AS. “He is a great player and I think that we can improve in playing together. I am comfortable featuring alongside Tevez.” http://markting10.nl/ The international last week admitted that he had struggled to cope with the training demands of boss Antonio Conte, but he insists working with Marcelo Bielsa in Bilbao has aided his adjustment. “The ways of Bielsa are not like a Spanish Coach,” the 28-year-old commented. “Bielsa was an intermediate step that helped me to prepare a lot for what I have found in Italy. “If I had not had Bielsa, I would have had a much harder adaptation to the work in Italy. Until I adapted, I could not find a good physical condition. http://markting10.nl/ “I feel better now. But my best is still to come. I still need to reach the top.” Llorente has four goals in 12 games for his club so far this term.

Sirigu: 'An honour with Buffon' Nov 17, 2013 Salvatore Sirigu will start for Italy against Nigeria on Monday. “It’s an honour to wear Gigi Buffon’s jersey.” http://markting10.nl/ The Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper is given the opportunity to impress in an international friendly at Craven Cottage to warm up for the World Cup. It will be his seventh cap, but the first was also in London against an African side, that time the Ivory Coast in August 2010. “It’s not difficult for me to be behind Buffon in the pecking order. For someone who grew up with this legend it is satisfying and an honour to be his understudy,” said Sirigu. http://markting10.nl/ “It is also an honour to be at the Nazionale and to wear the same jersey as someone like Gigi, a player who is simply beyond doubt. “Maybe if I had stayed in Serie A, I wouldn’t have had the same growth process. Being in France certainly doesn’t damage me when it comes to the Italy jersey, as it doesn’t matter where you play, but rather how you play. http://markting10.nl/ “I am sure it won’t just be this game, but my work every day that will help Cesare Prandelli evaluate my chances of going to the World Cup and make sure Buffon won’t be too sorely missed if he can’t play. “Could there be a PSG-Juventus match in the Champions League? That would be exciting, without doubt, but Juve are an organised and very strong side who we’d rather avoid.”

Chiellini: 'Conte is a psychologist' Nov 17, 2013 Giorgio Chiellini reveals the greatest strength Antonio Conte has as a Coach is “the psychological aspect.” http://markting10.nl/ The defender spoke to Tuttosport about his time in Turin under the double Scudetto-winning tactician. “I think the psychological aspect is the most difficult for a Coach, but that is where Conte excels. He evaluates everything based on moments, people and needs. At times all it takes is a glance, at others a speech. He doesn’t need to send messages just with words. “I didn’t think he’d be able to change us so much and so quickly. I went through the ‘dark years’ of finishing in seventh place, which were much worse than Calciopoli and being demoted to Serie B. http://markting10.nl/ “To get right back up and in fact win the title unbeaten will always remain in the history of Juventus. It was unique and special. “Now the challenge is even tougher, as we can become the first post-War Juventus side to win three Scudetti in a row. “This is now the strongest squad of the Conte era, as we raised the bar with new signings and our overall growth over time. Now we have to prove that on the field.” http://markting10.nl/ However, the Bianconeri have been shakier at the back than in recent years and Chiellini hit back at criticism. “When things go well, the defence seems to be an iron curtain, but when they go badly the blame all falls to us back there. I simply believe in the first part of the season the team was a little rusty and that leads to conceding goals. http://markting10.nl/ “In any case, other than the incredible blackout in Florence, we had an almost perfect march.” Juve had been leading that game 2-0 before capitulating 4-2 to Fiorentina in the final 20 minutes.

Pirlo considers contract offers Nov 17, 2013 Andrea Pirlo’s contract expires in June and he’s considering a new Juventus offer, but several Premier League clubs are calling. http://markting10.nl/ The midfielder will turn 35 in May, although he remains one of the top players in the world in his role. He shook up the situation this week when revealing he wanted to continue playing, “we’ll see if it’s with Juve or another team, but I won’t rule anything out.” Chelsea, Tottenham, Arsenal and Manchester United are all said to be preparing offers if he wants a new experience as a free agent next year. http://markting10.nl/ According to La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport today, Pirlo’s agent is ready to discuss the Juventus proposal of a two-year contract worth €4m per season plus performance-related bonuses. The Daily Star claims Spurs are leading the chase with a three-year contract worth €5m per season.

'Juventus will not be intimidated by Galatasaray,' insists Chiellini The versatile centre-half is well aware that their European fate is likely to be decided in Istanbul next month but he is not concerned by the hostile atmosphere that awaits. Nov 17, 2013 Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini remains confident that his side can progress to the knockout stages of the Champions League - even though they face a daunting showdown with Galatasaray. http://markting10.nl/ The Bianconeri have picked up just three points from their first four games and face Danish side Copenhagen at home next week before a potentially decisive trip to Turkey. Speaking to Tuttosport, Chiellini insisted his side will not be upset by the likely hostile atmosphere that awaits them in Instanbul. “We will not be intimidated by the whistles and screams from the crowd," the Italy international declared. http://markting10.nl/ "Of course, the home team can benefit from the atmosphere and give their best, but we will not let it affect us. "Though I should also point out we have a tough game against Copenhagen first.” Chiellini also took time to praise his manager Antonio Conte for rejuvenating the club following his arrival from Siena in 2011. http://markting10.nl/ "He is very good - he evaluates everything according to the moment," the versatile centre-half explained. "I never thought he could change so much in so little time. I lived through both seventh-placed finishes [before Conte's arrival], which were much worse than Calciopoli and Serie B. "To immediately recover and win the league unbeaten will remain forever in the history of Juventus as unique and special.”

Buffon: Balotelli is not treated unfairly The Italy international does not believe the striker is subject to prejudice from referees and warns that the Azzurri will be up for the fight in Brazil next summer. Nov 17, 2013 Gianluigi Buffon does not believe that there is any prejudice from officials towards Mario Balotelli, insisting the striker is not a victim of refereeing decisions. http://markting10.nl/ The Italy star felt aggrieved at the lack of protection afforded by referee Olegario Benquerenca in Friday's 1-1 draw with Germany, but Buffon has made it clear the AC Milan star must not consider himself harshly treated as officials attempt to keep the game moving. "I see no prejudice against Mario," the 35-year-old told giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. "It's just that now the way games are refereed has changed to prevent them becoming bogged down. Referees tend to whistle less and let the play run more - and I agree with that." http://markting10.nl/ Italy will not be among the top seeds when the draw for the World Cup group stages takes place on December 6, but Buffon believes the Azzurri proved they are a team to be feared with their display against Germany. "We might not be the strongest but we can endure as much as anyone," the Juventus shot-stopper added. http://markting10.nl/ "We've just drawn a type of game that others would lose. You will see the real Italy in Brazil - the problem will be for those who will have to deal with us, not the other way around." Italy continue their preparations for Brazil 2014 with a friendly against Nigeria, who themselves have secured a World Cup berth, at Fulham's Craven Cottage on Monday.

Buffon: Italy excel under pressure The Juventus veteran thinks the Azzurri have the quality to surprise at next year's World Cup if they maintain the right belief. Nov 16, 2013 Goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon feels pressure brings out the best in Italy as they continue preparations for the 2014 World Cup. http://markting10.nl/ The Azzurri battled to a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Germany in Milan on Friday to prolong their impressive unbeaten run against Joachim Low's side. While he was keen to appear cautious over their chances at next summer's finals, Buffon insists Cesare Prandelli's men can achieve anything if they maintain their level of belief. "There are certainly those who are at a more advanced stage than we are, but we are still in good shape," the Juventus custodian told reporters. http://markting10.nl/ "Unlike others, we have the quality of knowing when and how to suffer under pressure. When there is a complicated situation, we tend to do very well indeed. "However, it's not easy to say what the real Italy are like now. Prandelli is right when he says we mustn't ask for the moon, that we are not the strongest team in the world. "We've got to go into the World Cup expecting the same as we did before Euro 2012 and the Confederations Cup. That means good performances, often hand-in-hand with good results." http://markting10.nl/ Italy finished second at the European championship last summer, before coming in third in this year's World Cup dress rehearsal held in Brazil after their semi-final defeat to Spain on penalties. They will face Nigeria in London on Monday in their next friendly, with the Super Eagles having secured their place in Brazil with Saturday's 4-1 aggregate win over Ethiopia.

Pirlo: Now is not the time for contract talks The Juventus midfielder has made it clear that he is in no hurry to decide where his future lies though says he wants to keep playing at the top level. Nov 16, 2013 Andrea Pirlo says he will not be rushed into making a decision regarding his future at Juventus. http://markting10.nl/ The 34-year old Italy international’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season. And speaking to journalists during a post match interview following Italy’s 1-1 draw with Germany on Friday, Pirlo felt relaxed about where his future lies beyond the current campaign. “My future? There is throughout the season to talk about it; we’ll see,” Pirlo said. http://markting10.nl/ “I’m optimistic. I want to keep playing, because I'm good and enjoy it. I don’t know if it will be at Juventus or another team." Pirlo, who joined from Milan back in 2011, has helped Juventus secure two Serie A titles, as well as two Supercoppa Italiana titles.