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Why Juventus star Carlos Tevez is unlikely to play at the World Cup The Apache has been in great form for Juventus but a return to the international stage may not be within his reach - despite mounting media pressure. Oct 14, 2013 SPECIAL REPORT By Kris Voakes New to a league he calls the toughest he’s ever played in, it is fair to say that Carlos Tevez has hit the ground running. Despite the intensity of Serie A coming as a shock to him, the Argentine has adapted so quickly that his Juventus coach Antonio Conte has had to defend claims that the Italian champions have become a one-man side centred on the ability of the former Manchester City man. http://markting10.nl/ However, his fantastic early-season form with the Bianconeri has yet to have any noticeable effect on Alejandro Sabella, with the Argentina national coach continuing to overlook a player once considered a central figure in the Albiceleste’s future. Over the years, Tevez has had clear issues with the very concept of international football, and raised the idea of early retirement from the national team in late 2009. “I’m a little tired out by all this football,” he told Marca. “I want to start enjoying being with my family more. "I have really wanted to stop and have a bit of calm. I’ve gained a lot from the world of football, but I think that has saturated me a lot. http://markting10.nl/ “There’s a lot of bad blood in Argentina and with the national side I think, ‘Why bother? If we win or lose, it’s always the same.'” While many predicted that the World Cup in South Africa the following month would mark the end of his run with Argentina, Tevez continued to make himself available even after the quarter-final defeat to Germany. Yet the new season had not even begun when he was throwing doubts into people’s minds again, admitting once more that the travelling involved was too much for him. I think Tevez’s exclusion is the best thing that could have happened to our national team. It is not because of good or bad performances, it is more that Sabella has taken the decision with the dressing room in mind. Tevez only played in the 2011 Copa America because the media, fans and even some members of the government were calling for him to be included. He turned up 6kg overweight and ended up missing the key penalty against Uruguay. http://markting10.nl/ He has said in the past that his retirement from international football was near, and after a friendly against Ireland in August 2010 he said travelling back and forth for the Albiceleste is tiring. While he clearly wants to get back into the frame and is trying to play nice in order to help his case, at the same time he also seems resigned to his fate. - Sebastian Garcia | Goal Argentina One thing that has always helped Tevez has been the support of public opinion and the mass media. After the introduction of Lionel Messi as “the best player in the world” by the public address announcer before Argentina’s 0-0 Copa America draw with Colombia in 2011, Carlitos was presented as “the player of the people”. And all this in Messi’s home province of Santa Fe. Not since his crucial penalty miss in the quarter-final against Uruguay has Tevez worn his national team’s colours, and the exile has coincided with better form on the pitch for the two-time World Cup winners under Sabella. Unlike in the run-up to the 2010 finals, there is a real feeling that this tournament could bring the very best out of the players that have been representing their country of late. http://markting10.nl/ But still there is a great push behind Tevez, with many in Argentina continuing to petition for his return even after the player himself gave up on international football for good in the summer. "It's over," he said of his Argentina career. "I have nothing more to add. I have said what I feel and that's the end of the matter. If I say anything else then it would seem as if I'm asking for a recall." Yet while he talks like a man who has had enough, his actions have not entirely been in sync. When he set up a new Twitter account, allies in the media were among the first accounts he followed, with team-mates and friends largely coming later. Was this just Tevez keeping up with the Argentine news, or was it a political step as part of a campaign to regain his national place in time for the World Cup? http://markting10.nl/ "There comes a moment where you get tired, you get tired of football,” he added in the summer. “I wanted to leave the game but then Juventus, one of the biggest clubs in Europe, arrived. I had always said that I would retire at the age of 28 and I was close to retiring after the row with Roberto Mancini.” So, with his issues with the ex-Manchester City boss having been overcome to the betterment of his career, the Tevez question keeps being asked of Sabella. There is some suggestion that whatever friction the ex-Boca Juniors star once brought with him might not be an issue now that he is in a better place mentally thanks to his club form. “It is not right to talk about players that are not here,” the coach told a press conference in September. “But I can say that we always have one eye on our players. http://markting10.nl/ “Although the quality of our attackers is already very high, if his level remains this high for Juventus, it will be difficult to leave him in Turin.” For now, Tevez remains on the outside looking in. But if his form for Juve continues to make headlines in Italy, how long will Sabella be able to ignore the increase in public opinion and media pressure by keeping the striker on the sidelines? Even with his international career supposedly over, Tevez continues to give the Argentina coach something to think about.

Pogba: I'm happy at Juventus The France international is keen to stay in Turin and has dismissed suggestions that he could be on the move at the end of the season. Oct 14, 2013 Paul Pogba has insisted that he is happy with life at Juventus and is not thinking about leaving the Serie A champions amidst reports linking him with Paris Saint-Germain. http://markting10.nl/ Bianconeri president Andrea Agnelli recently stated that the Italian giants might be unable to hold on to the France international if a lucrative offer came in for the 20-year-old midfielder, but the man himself has dismissed suggestions that he could soon leave Turin. "I am not angry that Juventus are talking about a possible transfer," Pogba told Sky Sport. "I do not know anything about PSG's interest. I am only thinking about Juventus. I am happy here. http://markting10.nl/ "We have not discussed a contract renewal yet, so there's no news on that front. I am only thinking about football and my agent Mino Raiola takes care of the rest." Pogba's current contract with Juventus is due to expire in the summer of 2016.

Chiellini unconcerned by Pogba talk The defender isn't concerned about the France international possibly leaving the club for another of Europe's biggest clubs. Oct 13, 2013 Giorgio Chiellini is confident Juventus team-mate Paul Pogba will remain in Turin amid rumours linking the midfielder with a January transfer. http://markting10.nl/ The France international has been in superb form for the Serie A champions this season, with the Bianconeri starting the campaign undefeated. His performances have drawn reported interest from Premier League sides Arsenal, Chelsea and former side Manchester United. But Chiellini suggested that the 20-year-old would already have departed the Juventus Stadium if the club were looking to sell. http://markting10.nl/ "As far as Pogba is concerned, Juventus has already proved this summer that they didn't want to sell him," he said. "There were many teams which wanted and needed to spend money: we have seen in the last days of the transfer market that there were teams which wanted to spend such an amount of money. "This means they have a huge budget and don't know how to spend it and sometimes they even pay a player more than they wanted to. http://markting10.nl/ "Therefore Pogba could be one of the most suitable players, but Juventus clearly said he wouldn't leave the team and he didn't leave." However, Chiellini also admitted Pogba could depart further down the line if Juventus received an attractive offer. He added: "As regards the future, you can't promise a player that he will remain in a team forever. http://markting10.nl/ "In today's football world, and especially in Italy, everybody has got a price and if a club receives such an offer, then a player will leave the team. "I believe this episode is a non-problem, it is something normal. Instead of Pogba, there could have been any other player."

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS October 20, 2013 3:00 PM Artemio Franchi Stadium — Florence Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Montella: 'Napoli for the title' Oct 13, 2013 Vincenzo Montella tips Napoli to win the Scudetto ahead of Juventus and Roma, then reveals his secret Fiorentina tactic. http://markting10.nl/ “Napoli will fight for the Scudetto, as they have a great chance of winning it this year,” the Viola Coach told La Nazione newspaper. “Juventus are the strongest team in terms of structure and they are accustomed to winning, but the difference could be in the motivation. “Roma are very balanced and travelling on the wings of enthusiasm at the moment, while Inter can make life difficult for any team. http://markting10.nl/ “I believe Napoli will finish on top with Juve second and Roma third. Mind you, I always get predictions wrong...” Fiorentina face arch rivals Juventus next weekend and Montella has a cunning plan. http://markting10.nl/ “We’ll try to play worse football than we did last season, but hope we’ll win instead. I know how much this game means to the fans and we’ll try to make them happy. Our supporters are passionate, but also demanding.” Montella is also pleased that Juan Cuadrado returned from international duty two days early after picking up a ban for Colombia. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Chiellini: 'No Prandelli to Juve' Oct 12, 2013 Giorgio Chiellini laughed off rumours linking Italy Coach Cesare Prandelli to Juventus and defended Mario Balotelli. http://markting10.nl/ The defender spoke at a Press conference at the Coverciano training ground after last night’s 2-2 World Cup qualifier in Denmark. “The next game with Armenia will not be pointless, as we want to end the campaign unbeaten,” said Chiellini. “Balotelli’s absence from the stadium is not such a big deal, as he wasn’t feeling well. We hope he can be ready for Tuesday. Mario has been unlucky during this international get-together, because he picked up an injury in the first training session and then had a fever. “This is and always will be Balotelli’s Italy, even if it is possible to play without him. Nobody is indispensable. Some people might not like Mario, but that’s the story of his career. The Nazionale helped him to calm some of the antipathy towards him.” http://markting10.nl/ This week the papers also speculated that Prandelli will leave the Italy bench after the World Cup in order to take over at Juventus. “I think all this is premature, as we are so tied to Antonio Conte at Juventus and Prandelli for Italy. We are doing well and cannot help but speak highly of Prandelli, but these rumours of him joining Juventus are just fantasy football. http://markting10.nl/ “Roma surprised everyone, as I did not expect them to start with seven consecutive victories. They are also playing great football and at times remind me of the Juventus we saw two years ago, especially in their enthusiasm to overcome difficult situations. “They have such energy that it allows them to do anything. It is exciting to watch them play. They can be stopped, just as all teams can be stopped, but I hope they are not too consistent like this. “Considering the fixture list Juventus have had a good start and we must continue taking it one game at a time.”

Ljajic: 'Only Juve challenge Roma' Oct 12, 2013 Roma have a perfect record and Adem Ljajic isn’t shying away from the Scudetto. “Only Juventus are stronger.” http://markting10.nl/ The Giallorossi have been careful to avoid talking about the title despite starting with seven consecutive victories, conceding one goal and scoring 20. “I am always an optimistic type, but I must admit I didn’t expect us to do so well,” Ljajic told Il Tempo newspaper. “So far Roma have been fantastic, but we must continue taking it one game at a time, just like Rudi Garcia asks. It’s the only way we can win something. “Scudetto? I said before I arrived from Fiorentina that only Juventus are stronger than this Roma side. Another four or five, including us, can fight for second place. http://markting10.nl/ “Our minimum objective is to qualify for Europe, then at the end of the day we’ll see where we are.” The Lupi already passed one big test by beating Inter 3-0 at San Siro, while next weekend they face Napoli. “The Partenopei are candidates for the Scudetto and have champions of international level, but if we play the way we did in the first seven games then we’ll certainly beat them,” continued Ljajic. http://markting10.nl/ “We are not inferior to Napoli. I was out of the Inter game because I had problems with my back and thigh, but I am ready for the next game.” The Serbia international had been heavily linked with Milan before making the move to Roma, but insists it was all speculation. “I never spoke to anyone at Milan. We didn’t agree for a contract extension with Fiorentina and my agent told me Roma were among the clubs interested. ‘Let’s go there,’ I said. I am very happy with my choice, as you can see from the table...”

'Balotelli is not indispensable for Italy' - Chiellini The defender played down the absence of the enigmatic striker and says recent reports of Azzurri coach Cesare Prandelli going to Juventus after the World Cup are untrue. Oct 12, 2013 Italy stopper Giorgio Chiellini has claimed the team is not dependant on Mario Balotelli, even after they drew 2-2 against Denmark on Friday. http://markting10.nl/ The AC Milan striker missed the World Cup qualifying match due to illness, but Chiellini refused to attribute the draw in Copenhagen to his absence. "Nobody is indispensable," the defender told reporters at a press conference. "This is and always will be Balotelli’s Italy, even if it is possible to play without him. "Mario has been unlucky because he picked up an injury in the first training session and then had a fever. I do not care if he annoys someone, that is the story of his career." http://markting10.nl/ Meanwhile, Cesare Prandelli has been linked to the Juventus dugout after his contract with the Azzurri expires next year after the World Cup, but Chiellini has dubbed such reports as pure speculation. "I think it is fantasy football, as we are so tied to [Antonio] Conte at Juventus and Prandelli for Italy," he continued. "We are carrying out a good project with him here [for Italy], but everything else is really fantasy football." http://markting10.nl/ Chiellini then moved to play down his club's admission that they are resigned to losing Turin prodigy Paul Pogba at some point in the future. "The statements about Pogba are nothing striking. In the face of a big offer, no player is not for sale," the 29-year-old said. "It does not mean that Juventus have put Pogba on the market - he'd have been sold this summer if that was the case. http://markting10.nl/ "I hope that Paul stays with us for a long time, and I am sure he will soon renew his contract. But as for the future, no one can safely say." Pogba joined the Bianconeri in 2012 on a free transfer from Manchester United, and has since established himself as a mainstay for the Italian champions.

Italy record-breaker Buffon may go down as the greatest goalkeeper in history The veteran surpassed Fabio Cannavaro as the Azzurri’s most capped player against Denmark, and there is every chance he will be remembered as the finest ever in his position. Oct 11, 2013 COMMENT By Carlo Garganese From the moment Gianluigi Buffon took to a professional pitch for the first time in a baptism of fire against Fabio Capello’s all-conquering AC Milan on November 19, 1995, it was clear that a new phenomenon had been born. At just 17 years of age, Buffon earned Parma a goalless draw with world-class saves from Ballon d'Or winners Roberto Baggio and George Weah, as well as an even better stop from fellow striker Marco Simone. http://markting10.nl/ Still a teenager, Buffon's stardom was confirmed two years later on his international debut. The Azzurri were contesting a crucial World Cup 1998 first leg play-off in Russia and the omens were not good. Hosted in the freezing Moscow winter, the pitch was covered in snow and mist, and the teams even used an orange ball so appalling were the conditions. In the 32nd minute, goalkeeper Gianluca Pagliuca was forced off injured. As regular No.1 Angelo Peruzzi was also unavailable, a lean and lanky 19-year-old stepped into the snow for his Italy bow. Most Italians feared the worst. Everything pointed to a home victory: the weather, the Azzurri’s miserable record in Russia and, most importantly, the presence of a rookie goalkeeper. Yet Buffon proved to be the saviour and sold himself to the watching world with a string of stunning saves. For someone so young, his personality and confidence shone through as Italy miraculously escaped with a 1-1 draw. Cesare Maldini’s men won the return leg in Naples 1-0 and qualified for France '98. http://markting10.nl/ Fast forward another 16 years and Buffon is still going strong, having long since established himself as an unequivocal legend of the sport. A key component in Italy’s 2006 World Cup success – where he conceded just two goals in seven games, an own goal and penalty - the 35-year-old has won a hoard of individual and team honours, including six Scudetti and nine Serie A Goalkeeper of the Year awards. When it comes to positioning, decision-making, aerial ability and organising a defence, Buffon is the greatest there has ever been in his role. The best goalkeepers are usually those who don't need to make saves because they prevent them from being created, not those who are forced into dramatic highlight-reel stops because they are slow off their line or can't arrange a wall competently. Friday's appearance against Denmark in Copenhagen was Buffon’s 137th for Italy, overtaking former team-mate Fabio Cannavaro as the most capped player in his country's history. The World Cup final acrobatics against Zinedine Zidane, the European Championship penalty stops from Adrian Mutu and Ashley Cole, the miracle scooped saves versus Bulgaria and Georgia – the magical Azzurri moments for Buffon are never-ending. http://markting10.nl/ And though his reflexes and reactions may not be what they once were, and more Bayern Munich-like errors are creeping into his game, Buffon is still one of the world’s premier shot-stoppers. In terms of longevity, there has never been a goalkeeper who has been consistently brilliant for so many years. Buffon is set to play in his fifth World Cup next summer. Only two players have ever managed such a feat – Mexico glovesman Antonio Carbajal between 1950 and 1966, and Germany legend Lothar Matthaus from 1982 to 1998. And don't rule out Buffon from ending his career with a sixth World Cup in 2018 (fittingly in Russia) when he will be 40 – the same age that Dino Zoff was when he captained Italy to glory in 1982. Together with Lev Yashin and Gordon Banks, for many years Zoff was widely regarded as one of the best three goalkeepers of all time. By the time Buffon hangs up his gloves, he may have overtaken them all.

Agnelli open to Euro Super League Oct 11, 2013 Juventus' Andrea Agnelli has reflected on the potential Europe’s top clubs have when united, including the financial lure a European Super League has. http://markting10.nl/ The Bianconeri President is in London for the Leaders in Football conference and has reflected on how greater organisation between UEFA’s clubs is the way forward. “We should have a common strategy, because we are stronger together,” considered Agnelli this week. “The best example is that of the ECA [European Club Association] - what they have done in five years is extraordinary, they have created a strong understanding and constructive dialogue with UEFA and FIFA. http://markting10.nl/ “Financial Fair Play? I support it because it is the only reasonable measure to prevent clubs spending beyond their means, but it must be effective. “I want to know first what the penalties are. A fine of €10m would not even be much, and disqualification is not plausible. “Imagine that UEFA excludes Juventus, Bayern, Real Madrid and Manchester United from its competitions. What would the television companies say? http://markting10.nl/ “A European super league? The problem is that UEFA will automatically reject the American system, but a closed championship between the 20 best teams in Europe would be the best from an economic point of view.” Agnelli’s mind is also on the domestic game and how Serie A must ‘improve’. “We must improve the system, because we are still stuck in a land of no-one. We spend much time discussing how to spend the money and not on how Italian football should develop internationally. http://markting10.nl/ “Football is followed by half the country and thus as the ability to act as a guide to Italy’s political situation. To this should be applied a sense of responsibility, perspective and discipline.” The President admitted an inclination in the future to try and increase revenue that Juve’s current ground generates. “The Delle Alpi, it could hold 68,000 people, but it was basically a white elephant, a cold and inhospitable place to watch a game with a very low average attendance compared to the capacity. http://markting10.nl/ “The Juventus Stadium has 41,000 seats and is almost always sold out, generating revenue of €40m compared to €13m from the previous ground. “At Stamford Bridge, they collect €80m to €90m, and this is the target that I have in mind - the economic situation and low prices of our competition, however, does not help matters.”

Arsenal eyeing Llorente Oct 11, 2013 Arsenal are seen as in the market this January for a striker and apparently are considering Juventus hit-man Fernando Llorente. http://markting10.nl/ The Spaniard has seen speculation surround his early work in Italy this season, with a failure to earn a regular place in the side believed down to struggles to get to grips with Antonio Conte’s demands. Whilst links to the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid have been played down in Turin, reports in England today suggest that Arsenal are monitoring the situation. The Gunners are reported by The Mirror as keen to strengthen their front-line in January and allegedly see Llorente as an ideal ‘stop-gap’ solution.

‘Pogba? There is a strategy’ Oct 11, 2013 Paul Pogba’s agent has mused that no club would be able to turn down ‘an indecent offer’ for the midfielder, let alone Juventus. http://markting10.nl/ The Bianconeri turned heads yesterday with President Andrea Agnelli’s reflection that the club would be powerless should a large bid come in for the highly-rated Frenchman. However, on from reports that this would need to be around the €45m mark, the player’s representative has looked to ease concern. http://markting10.nl/ “Not only Italy, but nowhere in the world can you refuse an indecent offer,” Mino Raiola commented to Tuttosport this week. “And the fans no longer have to worry. http://markting10.nl/ “The player’s renewal? There’s no hurry. Paul is very calm and serene. He is fine where he is. We want to renew with Juventus, but we have our clear strategy. “Have we already had an offer from elsewhere? No, we have received nothing. And anyway, in that case, Juve would have no reason to worry.”

'Pogba wants to stay at Juventus' - Raiola The agent for the 20-year-old midfielder claimed that his client has every intention of staying at the Bianconeri, and revealed plans to negotiate a contract renewal. Oct 11, 2013 Paul Pogba’s agent Mino Raiola has thrown cold water on rumours that the midfielder was set to leave Juventus. http://markting10.nl/ Pogba, whose contract expires in June 2016, has been the subject of transfer speculation for his impressive displays since joining the Serie A champions in 2012, with club president Andrea Agnelli admitting that the 20-year-old could be sold if a sizeable offer was received. However, Raiola has moved to downplay Agnelli’s comments and allay supporters' fears by asserting that Pogba’s camp is primarily concerned with negotiating a new deal that will allow the midfielder to remain at Juventus. http://markting10.nl/ “He [Pogba] is fine where he is. We want to renew with Juventus and we have our clear strategy,” he revealed to Tuttosport. “Paul is very quiet and peaceful here, Juve would have no reason to worry. “Agnelli has discovered the problem because no one, not only in Italy, but in the world, can refuse an obscene offer. But the fans no longer have to wonder.” http://markting10.nl/ However, despite a seeming mutual interest on both sides for Pogba to renew his contract, Raiola denied that a proposal for a new deal had already been put forth by Juventus. "Are there already any offers on the table? No, that isn't true, no offers have arrived," he admitted. Pogba signed for Juventus on a free transfer from Manchester United in 2012 and has since been capped three times for the France national team.

Juventus resigned to losing Pogba The France international has attracted interest from clubs throughout Europe with his impressive displays and the Bianconeri are concerned they will not be able to keep him. Oct 10, 2013 Juventus president Andrea Agnelli has admitted the club would find it hard to refuse a “massive” offer for star midfielder Paul Pogba. http://markting10.nl/ Pogba has impressed for the Bianconeri since joining from Manchester United in 2012, but Agnelli fears that Italian football’s economic uncompetitiveness could mean they lose the 20-year-old. “If we got a massive offer for Pogba, will we be able to retain him? I don't think so, we have not got the economic strength,” said Agnelli at the Leaders in Football conference at Stamford Bridge. “We can be attractive but I don't think we have the economic strength to fight against the others and retain such a player. http://markting10.nl/ “Italy is no longer a final destination, it’s a transition destination. “Italy needs to come into some serious reforms as at the moment we are in no-man's land. We have to reform the stadiums because that's where the shows are made.”

Platini backs Juventus to beat Real Madrid The former France international feels the Bianconeri are capable of winning Europe's grandest prize this season and has defended the stadium ban imposed on AC Milan. Oct 10, 2013 Uefa president Michel Platini believes Juventus are fully capable of beating Real Madrid in this season's Champions League group stages. The Bianconeri laboured to draws against Copenhagen and Galatasaray in their opening two fixtures, meaning they already sit four points behind Carlo Ancelotti's men in Group B. http://markting10.nl/ Juve midfielder Paul Pogba claimed this week that his side will win at least one of their two clashes with the Spanish giants, and Platini is also of the opinion that anything is possible in this season's tournament. "I agree with him [Pogba]. Football has levelled off, especially in the Champions League - everyone can beat everyone else, and anyone can lose against anyone. Chelsea, for example, lost in London to Basel," he told Tuttosport. When asked if Juventus could go all the way in this season's Champions League, he added: "Why not? Last season, returning after a year of 'purification' without Europe, they reached the quarter-finals. If the draw is not particularly malignant ..." http://markting10.nl/ The Serie A champions currently find themselves two points behind pace-setters Roma, who have won all seven of their opening league games under new boss Rudi Garcia. Although the form of the Giallorossi so far this season has taken many by surprise, Platini insists he was never in any doubt as to the abilities of his compatriot following his achievements in Ligue 1. "The Italians underestimated him. In France, we knew how good he was," said Platini. "He showed that immediately. After all, you can't win a title with Lille if you're not of that calibre. http://markting10.nl/ "We're only at the beginning of October, and Juve are still there. Of course, with a fit [Francesco] Totti, Roma can reach any goal." AC Milan CEO Adriano Galliani recently hit out at a stadium ban imposed on the club after alleged chants by supporters against southern Italians, but Platini is hopeful such sanctions will eventually discourage fans from showing any kind of discriminatory behaviour. "We have no more than two solutions: punish the players, or punish the fans," said the former Ballon d'Or winner. http://markting10.nl/ "Initially, you have the temporary suspension of the game, then the closure of a section in the 'offending' stadium, and finally closing the whole stadium. "Playing behind closed doors is penalising. Maybe, someday, someone who frequents the stands will understand this and will not carry out certain behaviour."

Marchisio: 'I missed Azzurri' Oct 10, 2013 Claudio Marchisio has “missed” the Italy shirt during his injury and can’t wait to play against Denmark. http://markting10.nl/ The Juventus midfielder is back after suffering a thigh strain in August and expected to start in tomorrow night’s World Cup qualifier. “I really missed the Nazionale. Now I am over the injury and really want to wear the Azzurri jersey again,” he said in a Press conference. http://markting10.nl/ “We are a very close-knit group and have been doing great things for the last three years. Thanks to Coach Cesare Prandelli we have been able to improve so much. “Tomorrow the objective is to step on to the field in order to win. Even if we have already qualified for the World Cup, we want to make a good impression.”

Agnelli: Difficult to keep Pogba Oct 10, 2013 Juventus President Andrea Agnelli has admitted that the club would have to accept offers for Paul Pogba. http://markting10.nl/ The French midfielder arrived from Manchester United last year on a free transfer, but has already become one of Antonio Conte’s key players. The Bianconeri chief though, has conceded that the club couldn’t turn down big offers for the youngster. “If a huge offer arrived for Paul Pogba,” he told reporters. “I don’t think, right now, we would be strong enough to resist it. http://markting10.nl/ "If I was to judge it from a footballers' point of view, Italy is no longer the final destination but a transit destination. "I am trying to think what will be of us in two or three years' time if we get a massive offer for one of the best talents we have today, Pogba, the French 20-year-old. "Look at what happened to Milan. They had to give away Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva to pay the cheques. "At the end of the day you can be attractive, but you also need to have the economic strength."

Tevez on Serie A, Juve & Conte Oct 10, 2013 Carlos Tevez has admitted his surprise at the quality of Italian football, conceding that it is ‘the most difficult’ League he’s played in. http://markting10.nl/ The striker joined Juventus in the summer from Manchester City, and after a superb start to the season, the Argentine has been moved to comment on Serie A and Coach Antonio Conte. “I was genuinely surprised,” he told Tuttosport. “I thought it was easier to play here, but instead it is more tactical, fast and a lot more hard work. “It is the most difficult League in which I have played. http://markting10.nl/ “It seems that every team who comes up against Juventus treats it like a World Cup final. Everyone wants to beat us – so we always have to give 100 per cent. It’s incredibly difficult. “But Juve have given me my desire to play football. That is the best thing for a player – being happy. And I am here. “Conte is tough, but he is a phenomenon. I was very surprised – for him, every game is like a final. He always wants to win and is never satisfied. “He is a workaholic – but you can see that because of the results we’ve got on the field. He’s also very rigid with regards to the power he holds. He made me understand the first time we spoke that he is in charge. http://markting10.nl/ “Conte has to stay here. But I think he would do great things everywhere. He is a great Coach and a serious professional. “He would have no problems in either England or France. http://markting10.nl/ “Comparisons with Ferguson? They are both winners. Both of them consider their clubs to be the best in the world. “For Ferguson, the Manchester United badge is the most important thing and is to be defended at all costs. And that’s the same for Conte.”

'Immortal' Totti can land World Cup spot, claims Buffon The Juventus shot-stopper has echoed the sentiments of Italy coach Cesare Prandelli and believes the legendary Roma star deserves a place in the Azzurri's World Cup squad. Oct 9, 2013 Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has championed the idea of coach Cesare Prandelli selecting the "immortal" Francesco Totti for duty in the World Cup next summer. http://markting10.nl/ The 37-year-old has been touted for a potential return to the international scene after inspiring Roma to their best start to a Serie A campaign, with the Giallorossi sitting top of the standings having collected maximum points from their opening seven fixtures. On Monday Prandelli confirmed he would consider selecting the legendary Italian should he sustain his performances throughout the season, and Buffon believes that his compatriot's age-defying ability puts him in the frame for selection ahead of the trip to Brazil in June. "As I've already said, Totti can be considered a sort of immortal player under certain points of view," the 35-year-old told a press conference. http://markting10.nl/ "His current physical and mental conditions along with his technique and natural skills make him a player able to make the difference in any occasion and at every age. "Thanks to his performance, Totti is proving once again that he has always been - and he still is - a champion, therefore it's normal that everyone talks about him in such a positive way. "We also have to say that it's October and the World Cup is close, but it won't take place before eight or nine months. http://markting10.nl/ "If he is still in the same condition, then, no one would have any doubt." Totti's last appearance for the national team was in 2006, where he helped the Azzurri to victory over France in the final of the World Cup. Italy, who have already qualified for Brazil 2014, face Denmark on Friday, before hosting Armenia four days later in their final two fixtures in Group B.

Bonucci relishing Roma and Napoli competition The 26-year-old has admitted he is enthused by his own team's start to the Serie A campaign - but is more excited to see rival clubs laying down a challenge to the Bianconeri. Oct 9, 2013 Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci has revealed that he is excited by the prospect of Roma and Napoli challenging his team for the Serie A title this season. http://markting10.nl/ Antonio Conte's men have dropped just two points in their bid to record a third-straight Scudetto thus far, but it is the Partenopei and Giallorossi who occupy Italy's top-two places - the latter of which boasts a perfect 100 per cent record. Instead of fearing the added competition, though, Bonucci admits he is relishing the prospect of a three-way tussle for domestic supremacy this season. http://markting10.nl/ "The championship is beautiful with super strong teams like Roma and Napoli this season," he told the club's official website. "I think the league is even now and the best thing for us to do is forget our previous two titles and focus on this season." The 26-year-old, who is currently on international duty with Italy for the Azzurri's two remaining World Cup qualifiers with Denmark and Armenia, will resume domestic duties with the Bianconeri for the visit to Fiorentina on October 20.

Van der Sar praises Buffon comeback Oct 9, 2013 Former Juventus goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar has hailed the comeback of Gianluigi Buffon who came back from a serious injury picked up in the summer of 2010 which prevented him to play for half of a season. http://markting10.nl/ Retired goalkeeper van der Sar was the Old Lady’s number one for two seasons until he was forced to leave when the Bianconeri announced Buffon as their new goalkeeper at the start of the 2001/2002 campaign “I hope everything is fine with Juventus and I also hope to meet the club in the second round of the Champions League with my current club Ajax,” the Dutchman told Sky Sport 24. http://markting10.nl/ “Buffon? He is still young in his performances, he had an injury three or four years ago but he came back really well.” Van der Sar joined the Turin club in 1999 and played 66 Serie A matches for the club before he left the club to play for Fulham, and the 42-year-old has since returned to his first club Ajax as a commercial manager.

Buffon not joining Real Madrid, claims agent The player's representative has poured cold water on the "unfounded" speculation linking the veteran Italian shot-stopper with a move to the Spanish giants. Oct 9, 2013 The agent of Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has laughed off speculation linking his client with a move to Real Madrid. http://markting10.nl/ Reports emanating from Spain recently have suggested that the Blancos are lining up a bid for the veteran Italian, who could face his reported suitors when Antonio Conte's men travel to Madrid for a Champions League clash on October 23. However, the player's representative, Silvano Martina, has dismissed the notion that the 35-year-old could enjoy regular visits to the Santiago Bernabeu in the future. http://markting10.nl/ He told TuttoJuve: "How am I meant to comment on a rumour like that? I do not know where it has come from, but it is pointless to even consider it. "Real Madrid will be playing Juventus in the Champions League - and that will be the only meeting Buffon will have with them." The Italy international, whose current deal with the Bianconeri expires in 2015, is the world's most expensive goalkeeper after joining the reigning Italian champions in a deal worth €54 million in 2001 from Parma.

Buffon agent dismisses Madrid link Oct 9, 2013 Gianluigi Buffon’s agent has rubbished recent reports that Real Madrid may target the Juventus shot-stopper. http://markting10.nl/ Stories have emerged in the Press over the past few weeks that the Spanish giants could be targeting the veteran Italian. But his representative has insisted that those claims are ‘unfounded’. “How am I meant to comment on a rumour like that?” Silvano Martina questioned to tuttojuve. http://markting10.nl/ “I do not know where that has come from, but it is pointless to even consider it. “All I know is that Real Madrid will be playing Juventus in the Champions League – and that will be the only meeting Buffon will have with Madrid. “Everything else is absolutely fanciful and unfounded.”

Buffon: Totti is immortal Oct 9, 2013 Gianluigi Buffon has admitted that in his current form, Francesco Totti could make a difference to any team. http://markting10.nl/ There have been some claims in the Italian Press that the Roma forward could make a return to the national side set-up for the World Cup. And ahead of their game against Denmark on Friday, the Juventus goalkeeper has conceded that the veteran goalscorer would be an asset. “Totti is immortal as a player,” he told a Press conference. “In this form he could make a different everywhere. “He is proving to be a champion. “We’ll have to find the strength to honour this qualification process. To play badly for the national team – at any stage – doesn’t please any one. http://markting10.nl/ “The best thing for Italian football would be for us to win this game. We have to be a point of reference for the game in this country.” Buffon then commented on recent controversy surrounding ‘territorial discrimination’ and Juve’s start to the season. “There’s a fine line between local pride and discrimination,” he added. “There are always risks http://markting10.nl/ “It is a delicate issue so we all have to take some responsibility. “We can’t be passive and just accept this sort of behaviour. “We [at Juve] are aware that Napoli, Roma and Inter will be rivals until the end of the season. “We know we can do better despite winning most of our games, and that gives us confidence.”

'This season's a great one' Oct 9, 2013 Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci has urged his teammates to forget the last two Scudetto wins, and concentrate on this season’s title. http://markting10.nl/ The Bianconeri have won the League title for the past two seasons, but currently sit in third place behind early front-runners Napoli and Roma. “This championship is a great one,” he posted on his official website. “Napoli and Roma are really strong this year. “I think the League is as good as ever and is sending clear signals [to the rest of Europe] that the teams are to be feared. http://markting10.nl/ “As for us, the best thing to do is forget about the past, the last few championship wins, and focus on this year.”

Lichtsteiner pulls out of Swiss squad Oct 9, 2013 Stephan Lichtsteiner has pulled out of the Switzerland squad for the World Cup qualifiers against Albania and Slovenia. http://markting10.nl/ The Juventus defender has suffered a problem with his right thigh, and will travel back to Turin to start receiving treatment. There has been no official word about how serious the injury is, but it is not believed to be too damaging.