Socrates

5th Italian Supercup 11 August 2012

Giaccherini 3-2

Bendtner si infortuna al polso = il massimo della sfiga.

I nostri hanno festeggiato un pó troppo.

Fa giocare tutta la rosa tranne Anelka.

Serie A Week 38 - 19-5-12 (8:45 p.m.) - Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa Referee: Andrea Gervasoni HT: Samp surprise Juve May 18, 2013 Eder’s controversial penalty cancelled out a Fabio Quagliarella opener, as Sampdoria are holding Juventus at half-time. The Blucerchiati were the only team Juve had failed to beat this season, as they earned a shock 2-1 win in Turin despite going down to 10 men. Renan and Paul Pogba sat out bans, while Nenad Krsticic, Jonathan Rossini, Andrea Costa, Kwadwo Asamoah, Andrea Barzagli and Simone Pepe were sidelined. Juventus haven’t conquered Marassi since 2006, managing three draws and a defeat here. After three minutes Shkodran Mustafi needed a sliding clearance in the six-yard box to deny Sebastian Giovinco. Fabio Quagliarella’s sudden snapshot from 20 metres was beaten away with great difficulty by Junior Da Costa. An Andrea Pirlo volley was charged down by Angelo Palombo and Emanuele Giaccherini’s low drive was smothered on the ground. Giorgio Chiellini had a rare strike at goal from outside the box and the wayward volley took a huge deflection to wrong-foot Da Costa, but the ‘keeper managed to parry with his trailing leg. Quagliarella’s angled drive skimmed the back post and Da Costa beat away another Giaccherini effort with his palms under driving rain. The pressure eventually paid off, as Quagliarella sprung the offside trap on a splendid Pirlo pass over the top, his first touch was crucial and he managed to steer the finish in at the near post. However, the referee awarded a penalty for Chiellini’s tug on Icardi, who seemed to have the striker’s hand clamped under his arm, but it was a very soft decision. Eder converted with a daisy-cutter spot-kick in at the base of the near stick. Just 60 seconds later Eder was about to get another on the counter-attack when skipping past Leonardo Bonucci, but Chiellini came flying in to clear and risked an own goal. There was more danger, as from a corner a Lorenzo De Silvestri free header into the ground bounced over the bar. At the other end, Da Costa flapped a cross into the path of Quagliarella, but his follow-up was kept out by a crucial Mustafi goalline clearance. Chiellini nodded over from a corner before the break. Sampdoria 1-1 Juventus (Half-Time) Scorers: Quagliarella 25 (J), Eder pen 31 (S) Sampdoria: Da Costa; Mustafi, Gastaldello, Castellini; De Silvestri, Poli, Palombo, Obiang, Estigarribia; Eder, Icardi Juventus: Storari; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Isla, Padoin, Pirlo, Giaccherini, De Ceglie; Quagliarella, Giovinco Ref: Gervasoni http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 38 - 19-5-12 (8:45 p.m.) - Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa Referee: Andrea Gervasoni Line-ups: Sampdoria-Juventus May 18, 2013 Juventus conclude their season at Marassi against the only team they haven’t been able to beat – Sampdoria. The Bianconeri have already secured the Scudetto, but are out for revenge in Genoa at 19.45 UK time. Click here for a match preview. Samp caused a huge upset in January when they won 2-1 in Turin despite going down to 10 men. Mauro Icardi scored a brace that day and will be eager to break his two-month goal drought this evening, as he is on the verge of a summer switch to Inter. Renan sits out a two-match ban, while Nenad Krsticic, Jonathan Rossini and Andrea Costa are out of action. Andrea Poli could well be making his last appearance in the Blucerchiati jersey, as he has been heavily linked with both Juve and Milan. Juventus are without the banned Paul Pogba, while Kwadwo Asamoah and Simone Pepe are on the treatment table. Andrea Barzagli is only fit enough for the bench. Gigi Buffon is again rested so that Marco Storari can take centre stage and there are other changes to give smaller figures a chance to start. The last time Juventus won away to Samp was 1-0 in March 2006, followed by three draws and a defeat. SAMPDORIA: Da Costa; Mustafi, Gastaldello, Castellini; De Silvestri, Poli, Palombo, Obiang, Estigarribia; Eder, Icardi Sampdoria bench: Romero, Berni, Rodriguez, Maresca, Maxi Lopez, Munari, Sansone, Berardi, Poulsen, Soriano, Savic JUVENTUS: Storari; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Isla, Padoin, Pirlo, Giaccherini, De Ceglie; Quagliarella, Giovinco Juventus bench: Buffon, Rubinho, Marchisio, Vucinic, Peluso, Barzagli, Bendtner, Vidal, Lichtsteiner, Matri http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Marotta confirms Tevez talks May 18, 2013 Beppe Marotta has confirmed Carlos Tevez’s agent approached Juventus. “We could reach an agreement with them.” The general manager spoke to Sky Sport Italia before tonight’s final game of the season with Sampdoria. “Tevez? In terms of quality and experience, we are not the first to notice him,” said Marotta. “He wants to make up for lost time, as his years at Manchester City were not the best. We have not made any approach towards the English club. “It is clear that at this stage of the season agents step forward and I will not rule out a meeting in that sense. We could reach an agreement with them, but then we’d have to strike a deal with his club too.” Tevez has suddenly become the hot favourite ahead of Real Madrid forward Gonzalo Higuain. “Higuain is younger and is therefore worth more on the transfer market. Tevez is certainly an easier negotiation process, as his contract expires next summer. “We are trying to strengthen the attack for next season, so that is our primary objective. We’re after players who suit Antonio Conte’s football.” Juve already have Fernando Llorente secured, as he is out of contract with Athletic Bilbao next month.

Man Utd could buy Marchisio May 18, 2013 Tuttosport claim Juventus are prepared to sell Claudio Marchisio to Manchester United this summer. The midfielder has been a target for some time, but until now had been considered an integral part of the club’s plans. According to Tuttosport, the 27-year-old is no longer considered untouchable and could be sold for the right price. Manchester United are in pole position for Marchisio, even though Sir Alex Ferguson has now left. ‘Il Principino’ has been at Juventus since childhood, as he grew up through their youth academy.

Serie A Week 38 - 19-5-12 (8:45 p.m.) - Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa Referee: Andrea Gervasoni Rossi expects Samp-Juve festival May 18, 2013 Sampdoria conclude their season tonight with Juventus and Delio Rossi is glad it’ll be “a festival against one of the best teams in Europe.” The only Serie A game of today kicks off at Marassi at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT), click here for a match preview. “I trust it will be a festival against one of the best teams in Europe and I’m happy that we round off the season with such a top class fixture,” said the Coach. The Blucerchiati could become the only side to beat Juventus twice in Serie A this term, as in January they won 2-1 in Turin despite being down to 10 men. “Juventus are certainly a stronger team than we are, but we are motivated and this will be the last game of the present, not the first of the future. “I can only thank the fans, as they supported us even during the most difficult moments. If Sampdoria achieved safety, it is also thanks to them.” Rossi arrived as an interim manager, but this week signed a new two-year contract with Samp. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Quasi-goal di Quagliarella.

Serie A Week 38 - 19-5-12 (8:45 p.m.) - Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa Referee: Andrea Gervasoni Juve squad for Sampdoria May 17, 2013 The entire Juventus squad, including suspended Paul Pogba, is making the trip to Genoa for tomorrow night’s Sampdoria match. Coach Antonio Conte called up every element of the side so they can see out the final game of the season together. It kicks off at Marassi at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT), click here for a match preview. Juventus squad for Sampdoria: 1 Buffon, 3 Chiellini, 4 Caceres, 6 Pogba, 7 Pepe, 8 Marchisio, 9 Vucinic, 11 De Ceglie, 12 Giovinco, 13 Peluso, 15 Barzagli, 17 Bendtner, 18 Anelka, 19 Bonucci, 20 Padoin, 21 Pirlo, 22 Asamoah, 23 Vidal, 24 Giaccherini, 26 Lichtsteiner, 27 Quagliarella, 30 Storari, 32 Matri, 33 Isla, 34 Rubinho, 39 Marrone http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 38 - 19-5-12 (8:45 p.m.) - Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa Referee: Andrea Gervasoni Sampdoria vs. Juventus PREVIEW – Capping the Season with the Unbeaten Blucerchiati May 17, 2013 Here we are, at the end of yet another calcio campaign. It’s remarkable how fast the year went, but as a middle-20 something, every year seems to progress faster than the last. It seems like yesterday that Juventus trained in Chatillon and we wondered what the season might bring. Would we retain the title? How would our return to the Champion’s League go? How long could we remain unbeaten? It’s been a beautiful year. There’ve been loads of memories made – the crushing win over Nordsjaelland after losing our unbeaten record at home to Inter. The 2-2 comeback at Stamford Bridge. The destruction of Zeman’s Roma. The 3-0 mauling of Chelsea at the Juventus Stadium. Marchisio’s double in the Turin derby. Going to Donestk uncertain of qualification. Losing at home to Sampdoria with a man advantage. Matri’s brace against Cagliari as a substitute. The Celtic matches, the Bayern matches. Every season is truly an unforgettable one, but this one particularly so. This year was a season of consecration for Juventus. The team established its dominance in Serie A, showed its power (and weaknesses) in Europe, and for figures like Conte, Bonucci, Chiellini, and many others, it was a year that proved their quality beyond all doubt. There are players that didn’t prove themselves this year, and they may leave, but they leave as Italian champions and time will look kindly on their tenure at Juventus. The aim this year was a good run in Europe while retaining the Italian crown, and Conte and co have duly delivered. The first phase of the Conte/Marotta/Agnelli project was to re-establish Juve’s dominance in Italy and get back into the Champion’s League. The next step is to maintain domestic dominance while becoming a legitimate perennial contender again in Europe, a big step. But there’s one small step left to take care of. Juventus have beaten every single team in the league except for Sampdoria, having lost at the Juventus Stadium in January. It was the first match back after the winter break, and it seemed Juve had finally broken the January curse. The team was up 1-0, Sampdoria had a man sent off, and the team was cruising to an easy win at home. But it wasn’t to be. A disastrous debut from Federico Peluso and a rare bad performance from Gianluigi Buffon handed Sampdoria all 3 points. The Genoa-based club had a new coach, Delio Rossi, and tore Juventus apart on the counter-attack. Both goals came from the left flank, and it started a period of poor form for Juventus that only really ended with the Celtic tie. It’s time for revenge. SAMPDORIA It’s been a very turbulent season for Sampdoria. The storied club was relegated the same year they played in the Champion’s League preliminary stages, but bounced back into the top division quickly. The club secured Ciro Ferrara as coach, who had turned around the Italian U-21 squad to a dominant competitor once again, but like his tenure at Juventus, a stunning early start led to a crash. Ferrara’s Samp started out with 3 wins in a row, then lost a stunning 7 games in a row. They picked themselves up with 2 wins, but 1 draw and 2 losses followed and Sampdoria, hovering in the relegation zone, was forced to make a change. Ferrara was sacked before Christmas, and Delio Rossi was brought on board. Shortly after, Sampdoria owner and patron Riccardo Garrone passed away. Rossi immediately got an impact, with his side defeating Juventus as mentioned in an energetic and counter-attacking manner. They’ve had a reasonably successful season since and comfortably will avoid relegation, currently sitting on 39 points. Considering the minimum for the club was avoiding the drop, mission accomplished. If it wasn’t for the extraordinary drop in form under Ciro Ferrara, Sampdoria could’ve achieved a lot more. They aren’t a relegation battling team, but one put together well. There are “competent” Serie A players who are reliable if unspectacular, as well as young creative or pacey talents. It’s no surprise that Serie A big clubs are after a number of Sampdoria’s players. In midfield, Juventus and Milan have been linked to both Andrea Poli, who briefly spent time at Inter, as well as Obiang, who many consider to be a potential Pirlo successor. Up top, former Serie B capocannoniere Eder has settled in nicely as well as Mauro Icardi, a fast finisher who Juventus courted in January, and will likely sign for Inter this summer. It’s a team with solid veterans (Palombo, Gastaldello) and young talent, similar to how Palermo performed highly under Delio Rossi a few years ago. Another name of note is Marcelo Estigarribia- the Paraguayan winger was on loan last season at Juventus, and while he didn’t do enough to warrant a transfer, the wingback held his own and scored a few important goals here and there. There was little talk about his departure, but he left as a champion of Italy. Probable Formation: (3-5-2) Da Costa; Mustafi, Gastaldello, Castellini; Rodriguez, Poli, Palombo, Obiang, Estigarribia; Eder, Icardi JUVENTUS The Bianconeri are already on vacation. Having drawn Cagliari 1-1, the team can no longer surpass the points record won by Fabio Capello back in 2005-2006. The only remaining record would be defeating Sampdoria, the only team left in the league unbeaten by the Bianconeri. Since officially winning the title, Conte has practiced a fair amount of rotation, and that will certainly continue. Players like Giaccherini, Padoin, Peluso, De Ceglie, Isla, Giovinco, Matri, Quagliarella, and Marrone will get some playing time, but their futures are undecided. Giaccherini, Padoin, and Peluso are all very much “Conte’s men” and so will likely stick around, and Isla’s price tag, potential, and recent playing time suggests he will be confirmed as well. It very well might be a last hurrah for Quagliarella, Matri, Giovinco, De Ceglie, and Marrone, all of who are heavily rumored to leave the club this summer. Quagliarella is certainly on his way out – despite being a solid goalscorer, he’s completely fallen out of favor since his outburst vs Alessio during the Milan defeat in October. De Ceglie and Marrone have to consider their futures, the former’s age means he will likely be sold off, whereas Juventus will try and maintain a stake in Marrone. Giovinco and Matri are both probably 50-50 to stay; Conte believes in Giovinco and will keep him unless a decent offer comes in, and Matri has somewhat proven himself in Conte’s eyes in the 2nd half of the season. While it’s uncertain if either Vidal or Pirlo will play, do not take it as a sign of their departure. Real Madrid is supposedly interested in Pirlo if Ancelotti arrives, and everyone under the (Middle Eastern) sun has been eyeing Vidal, but surely a key component of Conte’s big meeting with Marotta & Agnelli was insistence that key parts of the team must stay with the team. Probable Formation: (3-5-2) Storari; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Isla, Marrone, Giaccherini, Marchisio, De Ceglie; Giovinco, Matri http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 38 - 19-5-12 (8:45 p.m.) - Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa Referee: Andrea Gervasoni MATCH PREVIEW May 17, 2013 Sampdoria are aiming to protect a recent unbeaten streak against Juventus, while the Bianconeri want to end on a positive note. Samp’s Serie A status was already secured following their Round 36 draw with Catania. They were in the capital last weekend, suffering a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Lazio. The port-city club have stumbled towards the finish line and are winless in their past 10 matches. There was good news for Delio Rossi midweek, with the Coach signing a new two-year contract with the club. He took over from Ciro Ferrara in December and steered the team to safety. Rossi’s first win, in his second match, came at the Juventus Stadium. Nenad Krsticic has been ruled out, but Lorenzo De Silvestri, Andrea Costa and Jonathan Rossini could play some part in the clash. Defender Renan is suspended. Juventus missed the chance to set a club points record thanks to a 1-1 draw with Cagliari last Saturday. Victor Ibarbo’s mazy dribble set the Sardinians on their way, but Mirko Vucinic responded on the hour mark to ensure a share of the spoils. That means Juve will fall short of the 91-point mark set in 2005-06. It also ended a nine-game winning run for the Turin club, and was the first goal they’ve conceded since Round 31 against Pescara. Antonio Conte has brushed aside speculation about his future, urging his side to finish the term as strongly as possible. Paul Pogba serves the last match of his suspension, while Nicklas Bendtner, Andrea Barzagli, Simone Pepe and Kwadwo Asamoah are injured. Andrea Pirlo returns from a one-match stop. Their records in Genoa are near-identical. Both sides have won 18 matches, with 18 further draws. The Bianconeri have scored 64 goals, Sampdoria just one less. Meanwhile, the Blucerchiati are on a four-match unbeaten run against the Turin giants. Keep an eye on: Mauro Icardi (Sampdoria) – This is expected to be the Argentine’s last match for Sampdoria. He will look to finish on a high note and end his Marassi tenure by hitting double figures for the season. Icardi is currently on nine goals. Form guide: Sampdoria (D L L D L) Juventus (W W W W D) Last season: Not played Stat fact: A goal for Mirko Vucinic on Saturday will be his 100th in Italy. The Montenegrin’s tally includes 94 strikes in Serie A. SAMPDORIA (probable): Da Costa; Mustafi, Gastaldello, Castellini; Rodriguez, Poli, Palombo, Obiang, Estigarribia; Eder, Icardi JUVENTUS (probable): Storari; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini, Isla, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, De Ceglie; Vucinic, Matri http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Juventus line up Piszczek as Lichtsteiner replacement The Serie A champions could decide to cash in on the Switzerland international and have their eyes on the Bundesliga star. May 17, 2012 EXCLUSIVE By Romeo Agresti Juventus are keeping tabs on Borussia Dortmund defender Lukasz Piszczek as they line up replacements for Stephan Lichtsteiner, who has caught the attention of a number of foreign clubs. The Serie A champions have yet to receive a formal offer for Lichtsteiner, yet they are aware of the interest of both Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid in the right-back. The 29-year-old has a contract with Juve until June 2015, but the Turin giants are ready to cash in on the Switzerland international if PSG or Madrid make a big-money offer. Sporting director Fabio Paratici is confident that Juventus can find an adequate replacement for Lichsteiner and sees the 27-year-old Piszczek as the perfect alternative. The Poland international signed a new contract with Dortmund until 2017 back in December, but Juventus are hopeful that an offer in the region of €15 million will be enough to lure him away from the Champions Lague finalists. Piszczek joined BVB from Hertha Berlin on a free transfer in the summer of 2010 and has since developed into a key player at the Bundesliga giants.

Serie A Week 38 - 19-5-12 (8:45 p.m.) - Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa Referee: Andrea Gervasoni Conte puts medical staff on the spot May 17, 2013 Antonio Conte sat in the front row and asked questions at today’s Press conference, as the Juventus medical staff took centre stage. Last week the Coach left his assistant managers Angelo Alessio and Massimo Carrera to speak with the media, while this time the 11 members of their medical staff sat at the desk ahead of Saturday’s game with Sampdoria. “Thank you to Antonio for giving us this opportunity to present the staff who work behind the scenes to cure injuries and also prevent them,” said co-ordinator Fabrizio Tencone. “My collaborators are Gianluca Stesina, Luca Stefanini, Gianluca Scoraro, Maurizio Pincella, Marco Luison, Emanuele Randelli, Maurizio Delfini, Francesco Pieralisi, Ennio Cavidoni and Dario Garbiero.” Tencone confirmed the on-going injury problems for Simone Pepe were something of a freak occurrence. “He had a minor muscular injury, then the healing process transformed and he started to develop scar tissue in the muscle. It is the first time in our careers we had to operate on a player to eliminate scar tissue on muscles. It’s premature to say when he will be back on the pitch.” Stesina revealed Conte said in his first meeting that he would take care of minor knocks, so players only go to the medical staff when something is seriously wrong. “Arturo Vidal is the most impressive member of the squad on a physical level, without a doubt. When he leaves the field, it’s because he can barely stand up. The whole team gave their all this season without ever complaining.” The medical staff also joked with Conte and director Pavel Nedved about their time as players. “When Nedved fell to the ground I never worried, as he’d just bounce straight back up again. However, when Conte fell to the ground there was reason to worry!” Conte was in the front row of the Press conference and asked “how stressful is it dealing with injuries and does it make you anxious having to tell the Coach?” Stesina laughed and replied: “The Coach always takes it very well!” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Pirlo: Verratti the future May 17, 2013 Andrea Pirlo believes that Paris Saint-Germain youngster Marco Verratti is the future of the Italian National Team. The 20-year-old midfielder joined the French champions from Pescara at the start of the season, and has gone on to star in their League-winning campaign. And the veteran Juve playmaker has insisted that his international teammate has real quality, whilst also commenting on his future. “There have been stories running over the past few days about my future, but I am happy here,” he told Radio Capital. “We have come from two League titles and that makes me happy. “I want to continue winning with Juventus. “I really like Verratti. I think he is the future of the National Team. “I really like the way he plays.”

Pirlo on CL, Conte and his future May 17, 2013 Andrea Pirlo has insisted that Juventus have to 'think big' if they want to win the Champions League next season. The Bianconeri were knocked out at the quarter-final stage this term, losing over two legs to Bayern Munich. But the midfielder has claimed that a European challenge is not impossible, whilst also commenting on his, and Antonio Conte's, future. “This year we saw the gap that measures between us and the other great teams in Europe,” he told Corriere dello Sport. “But we came up against a very strong Bayern side who have got to the final sweeping past Barcelona. “We need to grow and improve – but we will do that. “To win the Champions League is tough, but we have to think big. “Never say never. When I get older I might make a choice like Del Piero did. “In the past I have been on the verge of transfers abroad and I always thought it would be a positive experience. “Personally, I never had any doubt about Conte's future here. He will be the Coach of Juve for many years.”

Marotta wants 'gradual' improvement May 16, 2013 Juventus director general Beppe Marotta has insisted that the club will not try to revolutionize itself over the summer. The board member revealed yesterday that the Bianconeri were looking at a number of options in the transfer market, with Gonzalo Higuain and Stevan Jovetic both being mentioned in an interview with Secolo XIX. But the administrator has today admitted that changes to the team will be gradual. “I am satisfied with the clarification I made yesterday,” he told reporters. “We have established where we want to go next season. “'Substantial change' is a big phrase – I don't think that will happen. “We want to improve gradually. “We'll see what happens. Not all goals are achievable.”

Bonucci never feared Conte exit May 16, 2013 Leonardo Bonucci says that none of the Juventus squad were concerned that boss Antonio Conte could leave the club. Conte had refused to commit himself to the outfit until he held talks about the vision for the future. That meeting took place last night which satisfied the tactician. “There was never a whiff that the marriage born two years ago between Juventus and Conte could end,” the defender noted. “That was confirmed by the events of yesterday. “It is only normal that discussions take place in certain situations, but they are more than welcome if they are constructive. “Like in all big families, you argue, you discuss, you come to an agreement and marriages continue,” Bonucci added. “We are ambitious, we want to keep winning and I think the decision made by the club and the Coach is the one that suits everyone. “We want to keep building something important and we want to keep dreaming.”

Serie A Week 38 - 19-5-12 (8:45 p.m.) - Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa Referee: Andrea Gervasoni Complete Serie A Final Day Preview May 15, 2013 The final game of the 2012-13 season is upon us. It would be nice to say that there was a lot riding on the matchup between Sampdoria and Juventus at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris. Unfortunately, that isn't the case. Juve clinched the title with three matches to go. The relegation battle is now over with Samp seven points and three places clear of the drop that claimed them two seasons ago. Even Juve's quest for a club record for points in a season was nixed last week at the Juventus Stadium when they drew 1-1 against Cagliari. So what is at stake on Sunday? For Juve there's revenge—Sampdoria came from behind on a pair of second half goals to beat Juve in their house on the return from the winter break. Antonio Conte's men have likely not forgotten that night, but they are also not going to be playing at full strength. Conte has been resting starters since clinching the title, and injury and suspension will mean changes on the bianconeri's vaunted back line. Let's take a look and see what this game has to offer the fans who won't be glued to the battles for the league's final three European qualification places. Sampdoria Overview Sampdoria has acquitted itself well since returning to the top flight following a year's absence. It was a surprise to see Samp back in Serie A this year. They finished in sixth before barreling through Sassuolo and Varese in the playoffs to get back to the promised land. The Genoese club immediately positioned themselves to stay in the top flight. Midfielder Andrea Poli returned from a loan spell at Inter. Maxi Lopez was brought in on loan from Catania, as was winger Marcelo Estigarribia—who spent last year at Juventus—from Uruguayan club Deportivo Maldonado. They started the season with a bang, beating Milan 1-0 on the season's first day and garnering 11 points in the first five rounds of the season. From there, the bottom fell out. Seven straight losses put them as far back as 17th, and from the end of September through the winter break they garnered only seven more points. They came roaring out of the gate in 2013, claiming their biggest scalp at the Juventus Stadium and going on a 5-3-1 (W-D-L) run from the start of the year through the beginning of March. Since their 1-0 win against Parma on March 3, however, they haven't won a single match. They've drawn enough that their good start has kept them out of the relegation zone all year long, although they did get some help from point penalties to teams like Siena and Torino (and were on the receiving end of one themselves). Safe in the top flight next season, Sampdoria will look to end on a high note and build up the squad to finish higher up the table next season. Juventus Overview Last week's 1-1 draw might have ended Juve's quest for a record number of points in a season, but the night was rocking as the bianconeri were presented with their second straight scudetto. Juve gained first place in the second week of the season and never relinquished it. They carried their unbeaten streak from last year to 49 games before losing at home to Inter. A controversial loss to Milan, the shock to Samp and an away loss against Roma were the only blemishes on their record. The team's three-game victory lap will conclude in Genoa, and eyes will look towards the summer acquisition of Fernando Llorente—and any other strikers that the team may bring in to finally solidify the final phase of the team. Key Players: Sampdoria Mauro Icardi Twenty-year-old La Masia product Mauro Icardi is Samp's leading scorer despite having not scored a goal in nearly two months. Still, the Argentine has been impressive since the turn of the calendar. Eight of his nine goals have been scored since the winter break, including a brace against Juve and four goals against Pescara. His scoring spree in the new year has attracted attention, however. Three weeks ago he was included in an alleged statement by Inter director Marco Fassone as one of five confirmed summer signings. Inter immediately denied that Fassone gave such an interview in the immediate aftermath of the report, but only Tuesday Samp president Garrone confirmed that Icardi will be playing for Inter next year One thing is for sure, if Samp are to scalp the Turin giants one more time, Icardi will need to have a stellar performance in his last game in a Sampdoria shirt. Andrea Poli Poli spend last season on loan at Inter, and this year he's been a fixture in the center of Sampdoria's midfield. A defensive force with plus potential as a passer, Poli has averaged three tackles and 1.8 interceptions per game this season to go along with three goals. He'll be the man tasked with bottling up Andrea Pirlo—or whoever is playing in his place on Sunday—and keeping the passing lanes between Juve's midfield and forwards clogged. Poli was expected to have gone to Juventus on a co-ownership this past winter, but a foul-up in communications lines at the hotel that teams were using as a communications hub on deadline day delayed the deal too long for it to go through until the summer. It is expected that the deal will go through over the summer, with Poli adding depth behind Juve's MVP midfield—although recent reports say that AC Milan is looking to hijack the deal. Eder Icardi's strike partner at the top, Eder has scored six times this year and notched four assists in 29 games. A veteran of Serie A after seasons with Brescia and Cesena, the Brazilian likely knows Juve's back line better than any other of the forwards likely to see the team sheet. If anyone other than Icardi is likely to steal a goal against the bianconeri, Eder is one of the likely candidates, especially against a back line that is going to be missing some key pieces. Key Players: Juventus Alessandro Matri Alessandro Matri has started both games for Juve since the team clinched the title. With a high-profile attacking option arriving next season and more possibly on the way, I think the Juve brass are seriously evaluating what he has to offer to the club before deciding on his fate after the season. Matri has scored 10 times this season in all competitions, and has been surprisingly efficient. He has converted 21 percent of his shots into goals this year over league competition and the Champions League. Compare that to Manchester United's Robin van Persie, who has scored 28 times between the EPL and Champions League but scored on only 18 percent of his shots. Still, Matri is much-maligned for having never replicated the form he had in 2010-11, when he scored 20 goals between Cagliari and Juve. A pure goal-poacher, Matri's first touch is key for him. If it's true, he is as dangerous as anyone—but if it's off, he'll usually look silly. It's been his inability to put himself in position for more shots that has Juve fans clamoring for his exit. His hold-up play also leaves something to be desired—against Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarterfinal it was one of the reasons Juve was never able to get a foothold in possession. Matri can use this last game to show everyone that he's worth having around next year. Otherwise, he's going to be playing for another, lesser team. Luca Marrone Is he a midfielder or a centre-back? That's been the question about Marrone this season. In 11 matches between the league and Champions League he's played in the midfield only once, with a few other turns in the middle in the Coppa Italia. In that midfield role Marrone hasn't really impressed. Starting in Andrea Pirlo's deep role in the Coppa quarterfinal against Milan, Marrone was eventually hauled off for the man himself in the 77th minute after not doing much to influence play. Last week against Cagliari he again wasn't particularly impressive when sent to the middle of the field. He does have the skills to make it in the midfield. He's completed 91.8 percent of his passes this season in league play and averages 6.1 successful long balls per game. He has done well when moving to the back three, and was especially valuable there when Giorgio Chiellini and Martin Caceres were out injured. He may be back there this week with Chiellini suspended for yellow card accumulation and Barzagli uncertain after leaving the Cagliari game due to injury. Look for the youngster to play as much as possible again, so that the team can decide just where his future lies. Mauricio Isla Arguably the worst move of the Conte/Marotta era, the Chilean was expected to be Juve's vice-Lichtsteiner, but has done little and less this season. He's only contributed one assist and no goals, only finding his way onto the field 10 times in the league and another five in the Champions League. In the team's November loss to Milan he was abused on the right-hand side and was hauled off at halftime for Simone Padoin. Some also point to him for conceding the penalty that was the difference in the match, but in that he's blameless—the handball call against him was terrible. Regardless, he didn't play again until the middle of January. Isla will likely play on the right again this week, and he'll need to show something very, very special to Juve's brass, or else he'll find himself back at the Stadio Friuli while his traveling companion Kwadwo Asamoah stays in Turin. Manager: Sampdoria It's really quite amazing that Delio Rossi has a job in soccer anywhere after his actions last season. For those who don't remember, Rossi was in charge of Fiorentina last year when he substituted Adam Ljaijc in the 32nd minute of the third-to-last game of the season against 19th-placed Novara. Down 2-0 at the time and not far from the drop themselves, Rossi decided he needed to do something. Ljajic, however, took offense at being hauled off in the first half and sarcastically applauded his coach, then gave him a further thumb-up from the dugout. The lack of respect apparently caused something to snap in Rossi, who shoved Ljajic and then jumped down after him throwing punches. The viola immediately fired him, and FIGC gave the coach a three-month suspension. Rossi took over the job at Samp in December after Ciro Ferrara, who after picking up 11 points in the team's first five games only managed seven in the next 12. Rossi has won five games since coming on and has ensured that the Genoese outfit will stay up next season. He's a proponent of the 3-5-2 that has been sweeping Italy, using it in most matches, including Samp's last three. Manager: Juventus Not much more can be said about Antonio Conte than what has already been said. The former Juve captain took over a team that had suffered through back-to-back seventh-place finishes—the ramifications of calciopoli finally hitting them full in the face—and led them to a 49-match league unbeaten run from September of 2011 to November of 2012 and consecutive scudetti. The hallmark of his great run has been tactical adaptability. On his arrival, he willingly gave up on the 4-2-4 formation that he had made his name with as a manager in Serie B in order to play to the strengths of newly-arrived Andrea Pirlo. The team's shape morphed from a 4-4-2 to a 4-3-3 until a lack of a decent left-back and an abundance of quality centre-backs saw the 3-5-2 installed, and Juve has never looked back. Conte has recently tinkered to a 3-5-1-1 to give Paul Pogba more playing time and to cover his lack of a killer edge at the forward position. The biggest questions, though, are about the future. There are rumblings that Conte is dissatisfied with the transfer limitations Juve—and all Italian clubs—are being forced into by the Italian financial crisis, and he has no shortage of interest elsewhere. Chief amongst the theoretical destinations for the coach are London side Chelsea, but president Andrea Agnelli said Tuesday that he is confident that his coach will stay next season. Recent Matchups The teams met for the first time in two years on January 6 at the Juventus Stadium, and Samp pulled a huge surprise. Sebastian Giovinco opened the scoring with a penalty in the 24th minute, and the champions were further out on the front foot seven minutes later when Gaetano Berardi was shown a second yellow card. But an uncharacteristic error in goal by Gianluigi Buffon gifted Mauro Icardi an equalizer seven minutes into the second half, and the Argentine completed the comeback 16 minutes later with a screamer that Buffon had no chance to stop. Juve couldn't even press for an equalizer despite being a man up, with Sampdoria looking always the better team throughout the second half. In the two seasons before Sampdoria's relegation after the 2010-11 season, the two sides played to two draws (3-3 and 0-0 in '2010-11) and split in 2009-10, Juve winning the first game 5-1 and Samp taking the return match 1-0. Key Matchup 1 Sebastian Giovinco v Daniele Gastaldello Sebastian Giovinco has appeared in 30 games for Juve in Serie A this year, but until last week's game against Cagliari, he hadn't played in a month. Much was expected of the Atomic Ant after his return to the team from Parma, but he just hasn't delivered. There's no guarantee that he starts here, but I think he will, as Juve will need to know what they have in him. Ironically, Juve's recent move to the 3-5-1-1 might be most beneficial to Giovinco if he were plugged into the system. He's much better as a "secunda punta" than he is as one of a striking pair. Much of his struggle this season can be attributed to playing in a spot that doesn't maximize his abilities. Unfortunately, the point of the formation shift was to get Paul Pogba on the field while keeping Claudio Marchisio there, so the Italy international has stayed on the bench, and the 3-5-2 has returned ever since Pogba's season-ending suspension after the Palermo game. On the other end, Gastaldello has been Samp's most consistent defender this season. He is tied for the team lead with 32 starts and has been playing excellently in Delio Rossi's own three-man back line. He is averaging 1.2 tackles, 2.1 interceptions and a whopping 8.7 clearances per match. He will be the key to keeping Juve away from Sergio Romo stealing some more points from the champions. Key Matchup 2 Leonardo Bonucci v Mauro Icardi With Giorgio Chiellini suspended and Andrea Barzagli unlikely to be risked after leaving Saturday's game with an injury, Antonio Conte probably doesn't have many options in the back, and Bonucci will likely start. He will instantly become the team's best defender in the case and will be handed the assignment of locking down Icardi. Added to his defensive abilities are his passing skills, easily the best for any defender in Italy and possibly in Europe. His skill with the long ball is unmatched by any of his teammates except Pirlo, and he's completed 88.7 percent of his passes on the season. As already said, Icardi leads the team with nine goals and is bound for Inter. He scored twice against Juve—once on a gift and once on an unstoppable screamer—in January and hasn't scored since March, so he will be motivated to show that his huge run of form when 2013 began was no fluke and that he deserves his move to a big club. Prediction This is a game with nothing riding on it except pride. That being said, even Juve's reserves should have enough to handle a team like Samp. I do, however, think that the potentially indifferent attitude towards the matchup and the likely presence of many secondary players in Juve's lineup—especially in the back—will make for a dull affair low on entertainment. There are players with individual points to prove, but this game is played with 11 men a side, and I feel the overall attitude towards the game will be to stay in shape for upcoming summer international duty. I say the score ends 1-1. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Marotta on the new Juventus May 15, 2013 Juventus director general Beppe Marotta has today talked transfers in an interview with Il Secolo XIX. Having wrapped up their second consecutive Scudetto, the focus has now turned to whom the Old Lady will sign in the summer to aid their European Cup bid. “The Champions League is what we all want, the President, the Coach, the club,” the former Sampdoria official noted. “It’s now up to me to retouch the squad by listening to the indications of the Coach. We are working on having an even more competitive side. “I’d like to sign some more champions to add to the likes of Gigi Buffon, Giorgio Chiellini, Andrea Pirlo, Arturo Vidal and Claudio Marchisio.” There have been suggestions that Juve could look to cash in on some of their stars to boost their transfer budget. “Juventus have historically been a buying club, not a selling one. Clearly we have to keep one eye on the budget, but the most representative players will be confirmed. Vidal and Marchisio are obviously among them.” The Old Lady have been paired with swoops for Paris Saint-Germain’s Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Gonzalo Higuain of Real Madrid and Fiorentina’s Stevan Jovetic. “President Andrea Agnelli was clear on Ibra, he will not return. As for Higuain, I’m not saying anything new when I say he is a great player. “Jovetic too is a great, but there are no negotiations. If a player is offered to us by an agent, it doesn’t mean that there are talks going on.” Marotta was also asked about Ciro Immobile, who they co-own with Genoa, as well as the Sampdoria trio of Andrea Poli, Pedro Obiang and Simone Zaza, the latter who has been on loan at Ascoli this term. “We would have liked Immobile to have been used a bit more regularly by the Rossoblu. We’ll meet them in the next few weeks and decide what to do next. “For Poli, we almost did a deal in January and the talks may be re-opened. Myself and Fabio Paratici signed Zaza for Samp… “Obiang and Zaza are interesting players, but I have maximum respect for Samp. We’ll see.” Marotta was also adamant that boss Antonio Conte would be remaining in Turin. “There is perfect harmony between myself and Antonio,” he stated. “There really is no problem and I’ve already met with him. “Some would have you understand that there are opposing views, but that is not true. Conte will train Juventus next season. “There are all the conditions for him to stay, the President has said that too. It’s useless to try and manipulate individual comments.”

Buffon sees Conte at Juventus May 15, 2013 Gigi Buffon is confident that Antonio Conte will still be the Juventus boss as the club try to challenge for the Champions League next season. Conte’s future in Turin is unclear after the tactician refused to commit to the outfit until he held talks with officials. The club captain, however, insists that meeting will only re-affirm Conte’s desire to lift more honours in Turin. “We all know how dear the club is to the Coach,” the Italian international goalkeeper commented to journalists. “He’s got a well-established relationship with the President and that’s why I don’t think he’ll have any problem in staying with us.” Juve have won their second consecutive Scudetto since Conte arrived, but their European Cup hopes were ended by Bayern Munich. “We hope to bring home another prestigious trophy as soon as possible,” he noted when asked about the Champions League dream. “We all saw how Bayern have become an example to follow in Europe, but we have the desire to improve. “We’ve been chasing the European dream for years. Ability and also an element of good fortune are what’s required to get there.”

Marotta rules out Ibrahimovic Juventus return The Bianconeri have been linked with a summer swoop for their former forward, but any possible deal now appears to be dead in the water. May 15, 2013 Juventus director general Beppe Marotta has ruled out the possibility of the club re-signing Zlatan Ibrahimovic this summer, as well as rubbishing reports that Antonio Conte could quit as coach. The Bianconeri have been heavily linked with the Paris Saint-Germain forward in recent months, with the Sweden international reportedly keen on a return to Italy, where he has also lined up for Inter and AC Milan. However, Marotta explained that Juve president Andrea Agnelli will not fund a move for the 31-year-old attacker, telling Il Secolo XIX, "He was very clear: Ibra will not return." Marotta also insisted that there is no tension between him and Bianconeri boss Conte, who has won back-to-back Serie A titles since arriving from Siena. "We are in perfect harmony," he declared. "There really is no problem. "Some people would have you believe that there are opposing views among us, but that is not the case. "Conte will coach Juventus again next year - and even the president has said that." Indeed, Marotta has claimed that Conte will be given up to four new players to work with this summer, but dismissed speculation that Juve have already agreed terms with Fiorentina forward Stevan Jovetic. "He is a great player, but there are no talks with him," he explained. "Even if a player is being touted by the agent, that does not mean that there are any negotiations. "We are working to have a more competitive team, like the one that has allowed us, thanks to Conte's extraordinary work, to get back to winning again. "This season was a triumphant march [towards the title], but I would like to add four champions to the current squad."