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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.

Benatia: Roma are not Serie A favourites The 26-year-old insists that Juventus and Napoli are likely to become champions this season despite the Giallorossi's unbeaten start to the campaign. Nov 15, 2013 Mehdi Benatia insists Roma should not be considered favourites for the Serie A title despite their unbeaten start to the campaign. http://markting10.nl/ The Giallorossi sit atop the table, a point ahead of Juventus, with 10 wins, two draws and no losses to their name. However, the Morocco international maintains the current Scudetto holders and Napoli will be scrapping for glory all the way this season and stresses Rudi Garcia's men are simply focused on European qualification. "We're not favourites for the Scudetto, our principal objective this season is to get this team back into European competition," he told Sky Sport Italia. http://markting10.nl/ "If anything more than that is possible then we'll do that, but Juventus and Napoli will fight until the end and we'll have to duel with them." Juventus have clawed themselves back to within a point of Roma following back-to-back draws for the Giallorossi, and Benatia admits he is in awe of the strength in depth at Antonio Conte's disposal. "Juventus have been the strongest team in Italy for three years," he confessed. http://markting10.nl/ "They are a great side, they have a complete squad and a quality one. "They'll do well in the Champions League as well."

Neuer not at Buffon's level, says Zoff The former Italy shot-stopper has taken the time to praise the former Schalke star, but insists he's not the best in the world just yet. Nov 15, 2013 Italy legend Dino Zoff believes Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer still has some work to do if he is to reach Juventus shot stopper Gianluigi Buffon's level. http://markting10.nl/ Zoff feels the Germany international is already one of the best shot-stoppers in the world, but has stressed that the Azzurri icon remains in a league of his own for now. "Neuer is definitely one of the best goalkeepers around in Europe at the moment," Zoff was quoted as saying by TZ ahead of Friday's international friendly between Cesare Prandelli's side and Joachim Low's men. "He has proven his worth time and time again over the past few years. http://markting10.nl/ "However, he still misses a number of titles in order to reach Gigi Buffon's level. "I have no doubt that Neuer will get there in the end, though. He is still very young for a goalkeeper." The 27-year-old Neuer has been in sublime form for Bayern so far this term, keeping six clean sheets in 12 Bundesliga appearances.

Barzagli injury update Nov 16, 2013 Juventus defender Andrea Barzagli is out of Monday’s Italy-Nigeria and at risk for Livorno after an injury against Germany. AMAZONIAN The centre-back limped off after clutching his thigh during last night’s 1-1 international friendly at San Siro. He was sent back to Turin rather than make the trip to London with the rest of the Azzurri side for Monday night’s game against Nigeria. AMAZONIAN “Andrea Barzagli, who left the field towards the end of last night’s Italy v Germany game due to muscular discomfort in his left thigh, has undergone an MRI scan this afternoon in Turin which has revealed a pectineus muscle strain. “The extent of the injury will be assessed over the coming days,” read a statement from the Juventus website. It therefore remains to be seen whether he can recover in time for next weekend’s Serie A encounter with Livorno.

English clubs watch Pirlo situation Nov 16, 2013 While Andrea Pirlo commented on his Juventus contract situation, it’s reported Arsenal, Spurs, Chelsea and Manchester United want him. http://markting10.nl/ The veteran midfielder’s deal expires at the end of the season and negotiations have not progressed far. “I don’t know, there’s a whole season ahead of us and we’ll talk about it at the right time. I am optimistic, always,” the 34-year-old told Rai Sport after last night’s 1-1 draw with Germany. “I want to keep playing because I have fun and am in good shape. We’ll see if it’s with Juve or another team, but I won’t rule anything out.” http://markting10.nl/ According to the Daily Star, this means there are four Premier League clubs who believe they can coax Pirlo to England next year on a Bosman. He already moved from Milan to Juventus as a free agent in July 2011, so it would not be the first time he’s taken such a step. The sides ready to pick up Pirlo are Arsenal, Tottenham, Chelsea and Manchester United.

African Player of the Year nominees Nov 16, 2013 Kwadwo Asamoah, Mehdi Benatia, Gervinho and Kevin Constant are nominees for African Player of the Year. AMAZONIAN The winner will be announced in Nigeria on January 9 from the list of 25 names. Nominees for African Player of the Year: Ahmed Musa (Ngr / CSKA Moscow) Asamoah Gyan (Gha / Al Ain) Dame N’Doye (Sen / Lokomotiv Moscow) Didier Drogba (Ivo / Galatasaray) Emmanuel Emenike (Ngr / Fenerbahçe) Islam Slimani (Alg / Sporting Lisbon) John Obi Mikel (Ngr / Chelsea) Jonathan Pitroipa (Bur / Rennes) Kevin Constant (Gui / Milan) AMAZONIAN Kwadwo Asamoah (Gha / Juventus) Luís Carlos Almada Soares (CV / Omonia Nicosia) Mehdi Benattia (Mar / Roma) Mohamed About Erika (Egy / Al Ahly) Mohamed Salah (Egy / FC Basel) Nicolas Nkoulou (Cam / Maseille) Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Gab / Dortmund) Ryan Mendes (Kaa / Lille) Saladin Said (Eth / Wadi Degla) AMAZONIAN Seydou Keita (Mal / Dalian Aerbin) Sofiane Feghouli (Alg / Valencia) Sunday Mba (Ngr / Warri Wolves) Victor Wanyama (Ken / Southampton) Vincent Enyeama (Ngr / Lille) Gervinho (Ivo / Roma) Yaya Toure ( Ivo / Manchester City)

Barzagli misses Italy-Nigeria Nov 16, 2013 Andrea Barzagli will not go to London for Italy’s friendly against Nigeria after limping off with Germany. AMAZONIAN The Juventus defender pulled up with a muscular problem during last night’s 1-1 draw at San Siro. He has been diagnosed with a slight pull of the left adductor, so is sent home ahead of Monday’s test at Craven Cottage. AMAZONIAN Medics are confident Barzagli will be fit for next Saturday’s Serie A match against Livorno. Sami Khedira came off considerably worse, as he tore a knee ligament during last night's match and will be out for six months.

Pirlo: 'Optimistic for World Cup' Nov 15, 2013 Andrea Pirlo is “optimistic” that Italy will do well at the World Cup after their 1-1 friendly draw with Germany. http://markting10.nl/ “When the Coach arrived he helped younger players to settle in, so we have time to put together a fine mix of youth and experience for a great World Cup,” he told Rai Sport. “This was an important test against a great side and we played them on an even keel. It was important to see what level we’re at on this stage of the season.” Joachim Löw said this week Italy were “master illusionists” who tended to take teams by surprise. http://markting10.nl/ “We are a team who never give in, we have great resources and always want to win. We proved that against Germany, where a few times in recent years they thought themselves superior and yet we still beat them. “Germany have been together a long time and know each other well, but Italy are getting there and we’re very optimistic for the World Cup. We must always play at 100 per cent with the ultimate concentration and determination, but we never disappoint in these big tests because motivation is not hard to find.” http://markting10.nl/ Pirlo was given a warm welcome at San Siro this evening, even though he has long since left Milan for Juventus. “I played at San Siro for 10 years, so it’s always nice to come back here and receive such a good reception.” He was asked about reports that Paolo Maldini will soon join the Milan staff as a director. http://markting10.nl/ “I don’t know what will happen in future, but he’s a legend and it would be good to see him back in Italian football. “I’d give the Ballon d’Or to Franck Ribery. I think he deserves it more, as with Bayern Munich he won everything there was to win this year.” http://markting10.nl/ Rai Sport also asked Pirlo about his upcoming contract renewal talks with Juventus and left the door open. “I don’t know, there’s a whole season ahead of us and we’ll talk about it at the right time. I am optimistic, always. I want to keep playing because I have fun and am in good shape. We’ll see if it’s with Juve or another team, but I won’t rule anything out.”

Raiola: 'Pogba best in the world' Nov 15, 2013 Agent Mino Raiola claims Paul Pogba is “the best player in the world at his age and is like a Monet painting.” http://markting10.nl/ He is already a regular for Juventus and France at the age of 20 and started the World Cup play-off against Ukraine this evening. “Paul is growing, though he has already done great things and his strength is that he thinks only about improving in the future,” Raiola told Sky Sport Italia. “Pogba is the best player in the world at his age. Zlatan Ibrahimovic teaches us that you can do better even at the age of 32, so imagine how much joy Pogba can still give us.” http://markting10.nl/ Raiola famously said another of his clients, Mario Balotelli, was like “the Mona Lisa,” so he continued the art theme. “I am not worried by how much Pogba is worth. He’s like a Monet painting now, as it doesn’t matter what happens in the World Cup, his worth is already clear for all to see. “Great works of art are not sold at auction, as they are already in the hands of collectors and they’ll keep hold of them unless there is the desire to sell.”

Juventus trio on the mend Nov 15, 2013 Mirko Vucinic, Stephan Lichtsteiner and Giorgio Chiellini should be fit for Juventus’ trip to Livorno, state Tuttosport. http://markting10.nl/ Vucinic and Lichtsteiner have been absent for some weeks, while the stopper picked up a problem on the eve of the 3-0 win over Napoli. The Montenegro striker, out since October 2, scored a brace in the 7-0 friendly win over Asti on Thursday afternoon. http://markting10.nl/ Chiellini’s return could be fundamental for boss Antonio Conte as both Leonardo Bonucci and Angelo Ogbonna will be suspended for the trip to Tuscany. Conte is also hoping to have midfielder Arturo Vidal fit for when his side face the Amaranto on November 24.

Juve to fill Curvas with kids Nov 15, 2013 The two Curvas at the Juventus Stadium could be populated by children for the Juventus-Udinese Serie A game. http://markting10.nl/ As it stands, those two sections of the ground – behind each goal – will be closed to supporters as a punishment for territorial discrimination chants aimed at the city of Naples during the 3-0 win over Napoli. The Curva Nord will be closed for 90 minutes, while the Curva Sud will be shut for two games – thus will also be empty for the Sassuolo tie. http://markting10.nl/ However, after an initiative by Turin daily Tuttosport, those two parts of the arena may now be filled with kids instead of Ultras. Italian Olympic Committee chief Giovanni Malago and Italian Football Federation President Giancarlo Abete are in favour of such a move.

Italy chief: Replace hooligans with kids Nov 14, 2013 The Juventus Stadium may not be half-empty when the two ends of the ground are closed for the upcoming visit of Udinese, if the president of the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI) Giovanni Malago gets his way. http://markting10.nl/ The gates to the Curva Sud and Curva Nord will be locked when Juventus host Udinese on Dec. 1, but Malago, after a meeting with the Italian Prime Minister Enrico Letta on Wednesday, believes there could be a way to open them -- to children. "Opening all of the Curva closed due to racism and letting only children in is a fantastic idea," Malago said. "We need the clubs and the Lega (Serie A) to look into this from a regulatory point of view, but I like the idea a lot." Fenerbahce set a precedent by letting only women and children into their league game with Manisaspor in 2011 after a pitch invasion during a preseason friendly led to a full stadium closure. Rather than playing behind closed doors, the Turkish Football Association only banned those it was sure had caused the trouble -- the men. http://markting10.nl/ "It would be a great signal," continued Malago. "It would be like when we confiscated assets from the Mafia." Letta would like to go even further to improve the matchday experience at Serie A games by approving new rules to facilitate clubs in their attempts to build new or renovate old stadiums. At present, bureaucracy is hindering clubs from improving arenas, most of which were last enhanced ahead of Italia '90 and some of which date back even further since their last upgrade. http://markting10.nl/ Juve led the way by rebuilding the former Stadio Delle Alpi while Udinese have finally started work on renovating the Stadio Friuli after years of planning and wrangling. Lazio, Roma, AC Milan, Inter Milan and Sampdoria are just five clubs who have expressed their desire to build new grounds, although strict rules and drawn-out building application processes mean plans are pencilled on paper, but no more than that. http://markting10.nl/ "I want to have the final word on a long-standing stadium problem," Letta told reporters. "There will be an amendment drawn up in the stability plan which will define this issue once and for all, and I will be inviting the parliament to approve it. "This is the appeal I will be making to parliament: from Jan. 1, we need new laws for more modern stadia without any barriers."