Socrates

ATALANTA: Consigli; Raimondi, Stendardo, Canini, Del Grosso; Carmona, Cigarini, Biondini; Moralez, Bonaventura; Denis Atalanta panchina: Parra, Frezzolini, Ferri, Scaloni, Capelli, Contini, Bellini, Brivio, Radovanovic, Giorgi, De Luca, Polito JUVENTUS: Storari; Caceres, Marrone, Chiellini; Isla, Padoin, Pirlo, Giaccherini, De Ceglie; Matri, Quagliarella Juventus panchina: Rubinho, Branescu, Bonucci, Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Marchisio, Peluso, Giovinco, Vucinic, Anelka

Serie A Week 36 - 8-5-12 (8:45 p.m.) - Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo Referee: Marco Guida Line-ups: Atalanta-Juventus May 8, 2013 Atalanta will be hoping Juventus have a Scudetto hangover when they meet in Bergamo this evening. The midweek round continues at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT) at the Stadio Azzurri d’Italia. Antonio Conte and his men partied into the night on Sunday with an open-top bus tour of the city after securing their second consecutive Scudetto. Gigi Buffon, Andrea Barzagli, Nicklas Bendtner and Kwadwo Asamoah miss out, while Paul Pogba begins his three-match ban for spitting at an opponent. It gives rare starts to Marco Storari, Luca Marrone, Mauricio Isla, Paolo De Ceglie, Alessandro Matri and Fabio Quagliarella. Atalanta still need a point to be safe from the threat of relegation, but have dropped Marko Livaja for disciplinary reasons for the second time in a month. Franco Brienza, Guido Marilungo, Igor Budan and Riccardo Cazzola are on the treatment table. ATALANTA: Consigli; Raimondi, Stendardo, Canini, Del Grosso; Carmona, Cigarini, Biondini; Moralez, Bonaventura; Denis Atalanta bench: Parra, Frezzolini, Ferri, Scaloni, Capelli, Contini, Bellini, Brivio, Radovanovic, Giorgi, De Luca, Polito JUVENTUS: Storari; Caceres, Marrone, Chiellini; Isla, Padoin, Pirlo, Giaccherini, De Ceglie; Matri, Quagliarella Juventus bench: Rubinho, Branescu, Bonucci, Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Marchisio, Peluso, Giovinco, Vucinic, Anelka http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 36 - 8-5-12 (8:45 p.m.) - Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo Referee: Marco Guida MATCH PREVIEW May 8, 2013 Atalanta could mathematically secure their Serie A status with victory over the champions, who will be looking to finish the season in style. A 2-0 defeat away to Parma last week prevented the Orobici from achieving safety, but it would now take a monumental disaster for them to be relegated. Palermo would need to win their last three games and Atalanta would need to collect no more than a point for that to occur. Juventus meanwhile are kings of the mountain and are currently 10 games unbeaten in Serie A. Antonio Conte knows that it is job done but will not want to see his results slip as the Bianconeri face a team against whom they have a very strong record. Just one more point will match last season’s Scudetto winning 84 points, whilst three more wins will beat the ill-fated 2005-06 campaign in which they accrued 91. Franco Brienza, Cristiano Del Grosso, Guido Marilungo and Riccardo Cazzola are all injured for the hosts, while Igor Budan, Stefano Lucchini and Facundo Parra are also doubtful to start. The champions are without the injured Gianluigi Buffon, Simone Pepe and Andrea Barzagli. Paul Pogba is suspended for spitting at Salvatore Aronica. Keep an eye on: Fabio Quagliarella (Juventus) - The Neapolitan should have a rare start with which to entertain the crowd and add to the eight goals and three assists he has contributed in the League this season. Form Guide: Atalanta (W L D D L) Juventus (W W W W W) Last season: Atalanta 0-2 Juventus Stat fact: In the last 10 editions of this tie, Atalanta have won just one, back in February 2001. They have drawn one, and lost eight. Atalanta (probable): Consigli; Raimondi, Stendardo, Canini, Del Grosso; Carmona, Cigarini, Biondini; Bonaventura; Moralez, Denis Juventus (probable): Storari; Caceres, Marrone, Chiellini; Padoin, Giaccherini, Pirlo, Marchisio, De Ceglie; Quagliarella, Matri http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 36 - 8-5-12 (8:45 p.m.) - Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo Referee: Marco Guida Juventus like Bonaventura – agent May 8, 2013 The agent of Atalanta’s Giacomo Bonaventura says his client has a reason to impress Juventus officials this evening. The 23-year-old has been one of the Nerazzurri’s most consistent performers this season and he could be targeted by bigger clubs at the end of the campaign. “It is no secret that Bonaventura is held in high esteem by boss Antonio Conte and sporting director Fabio Paratici,” Giocondo Martorelli told Tutto Juve. “And it is obviously pleasing to know that he is being followed and is rated by the big clubs, but for now he is just concentrating on Atalanta. “Anyhow, any side that is interested will have to firstly talk to Atalanta given that he is under contract with them. “Right now, there is no one between Inter, Fiorentina, Napoli, Juventus and Roma who are leading the chase.” Bonaventura has scored seven goals in 32 League games this term. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 36 - 8-5-12 (8:45 p.m.) - Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo Referee: Marco Guida Colantuono praises champions Juventus May 8, 2013 Stefano Colantuono is content Atalanta had a little part to play in Juventus’ Scudetto success this season. The Old Lady wrapped up their second consecutive title on Sunday with the help of former Nerazzurri players Simone Padoin and Federico Peluso. “I congratulate Juventus on their Scudetto triumph and boss Antonio Conte on the extraordinary job he’s done over the past two years,” the 50-year-old noted. “I’m happy for Padoin and Peluso as well,” he added. “They are two magnificent lads who have earned their opportunity to play for a big club. “They did well with us and are also doing a good job in Turin.” Atalanta will entertain Juventus in Serie A this evening. “They are the best team in Italy and it will be very tough,” the former Palermo man commented. “We’ll need to be extremely alert and try to stop them from playing. “A positive result wouldn’t be impossible with a bit of luck on our side. We’ll give it a go.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A - 17^ Giornata - Ritorno - 8-5-2013 (ore 20:45) - Stadio Atleti Azzurri d'Italia - Bergamo Arbitro: Marco Guida Confronti ufficiali 115 - 101 (Serie A) - 12 (Coppa Italia) - 2 (Campionato a gironi) Vittorie Juventus 59 - 55 (Serie A) - 3 (Coppa Italia) - 1 (Campionato a gironi) Pareggi 42 - 35 (Serie A) - 6 (Coppa Italia) - 1 (Campionato a gironi) Vittorie Atalanta 14 - 11 (Serie A) - 3 (Coppa Italia) Goals Juventus 210 - 184 (Serie A) - 23 (Coppa Italia) - 3 (Campionato a gironi) Goals Atalanta 100 - 82 (Serie A) - 17 (Coppa Italia) - 1 (Campionato a gironi) Atalanta - Juventus Serie A a Bergamo Giocate: 50 Vittorie Juventus: 22 (L'ultima il 21.01.2012, 0-2) Pareggi: 21 (l'ultimo il 02.02.2003, 1-1) Vittorie Atalanta: 7 (l'ultima il 03.02.2001, 2-1) Goals Juventus: 81 Goals Atalanta: 48 Giocatori con più presenze e goals contro l'Atalanta a Bergamo in Serie A dal 1929/1930 12 presenze Boniperti Giampiero 9 Leoncini Gianfranco 8 Del Piero Alessandro 8 Salvadore Sandro 8 Viola Giovanni 7 Castano Ernesto 7 Del Sol Luis Cascajares 7 Muccinelli Ermes 7 Parola Carlo 7 Sarti Benito 9 goals Boniperti Giampiero 6 Del Piero Alessandro 6 Sivori Omar Enrique 3 Hansen John 2 Anastasi Pietro 2 Astorri Mario 2 Baggio Roberto 2 Banfi Raul 2 Carapellese Riccardo 2 Muccinelli Ermes Ultimi confronti diretti 30.01.2005 Serie A Atalanta-Juventus 1-2 09.12.2007 Serie A Juventus-Atalanta 1-0 20.04.2008 Serie A Atalanta-Juventus 0-4 21.12.2008 Serie A Atalanta-Juventus 1-3 17.05.2009 Serie A Juventus-Atalanta 2-2 07.11.2009 Serie A Atalanta-Juventus 2-5 28.03.2010 Serie A Juventus-Atalanta 2-1 21.01.2012 Serie A Atalanta-Juvantus 0-2 13.05.2012 Serie A Juventus-Atalanta 3-1 16.12.2012 Serie A Juventus-Atalanta 3-0 Giocate 10 - Vittorie Juventus 9 - Pareggi 1 - Vittorie Atalanta 0 - Goals Juventus 27 - Goals Atalanta 8

Serie A - 16^ Giornata - Ritorno - 5-5-2013 (ore 15:00) 1 - 0 Arturo Vidal (59′ - R) Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Andrea Romeo Attendance:‬38000‎ Serie A - Juve, un altro 5 maggio: 31° Scudetto! La squadra di Conte batte il Palermo 1-0 e diventa Campione d'Italia. Secondo titolo consecutivo per i bianconeri, arrivato grazie al gol di Arturo Vidal su calcio di rigore nella ripresa. Per la Juventus è l'ottava vittoria di fila, in una serie iniziata con il Catania alla ventottesima giornata. Nel finale espulso Pogba per aver sputato ad Aronica. Eurosport - Domenica, 5 maggio 2013 Vince ancora la Juventus. Vince, domina e porta a casa il suo titolo numero 31. Proprio il 5 maggio, 11 anni dopo l’incredibile finale thrilling del 2002. Dai gol di Del Piero e Trezeguet a Udine e il contemporaneo 4-2 subito dall’Inter all’Olimpico con la Lazio, al rigore di Arturo Vidal, che permette ai bianconeri di battere il Palermo per 1-0 e di infilare l’ottava vittoria consecutiva. Un trionfo annunciato e meritato, che arriva con tre giornate d’anticipo e certifica lo splendido lavoro fatto da Antonio Conte sulla panchina dei bi-campioni d’Italia. Nel finale espulso Pogba per uno sputo ad Aronica. JUVE A RITMI BASSI ALL'INIZIO. La squadra di Conte, sistemata con il solito 3-5-1-1, fatica molto a imporre il suo gioco nel primo tempo. Il possesso palla dei bianconeri è costante, ma, nonostante i continui tagli di Vucinic e Marchisio, e la spinta di un sontuoso Pogba, il Palermo di Sannino concede pochissimo ai padroni di casa. I rosanero giocano chiusi, compatti e ben organizzati, soffrendo uniti e puntando sulle accelerazioni di Ilicic per alleggerire la pressione juventina. L’occasione migliora capita sui piedi di Vucinic alla mezz’ora, ma il montenegrino viene fermato ottimamente da Sorrentino in angolo. Così, col passare dei minuti, è la squadra siciliana a prendere campo, impedendo, di fatto, alla Juve di rendersi davvero pericolosa. LA SBLOCCA VIDAL SU RIGORE, ESPULSO POGBA. Lo 0-0 di fine primo tempo rischia di sbloccarsi ad inizio ripresa, quando Miccoli, servito da Ilicic, colpisce con un destro il palo a Buffon battuto. Dal possibile vantaggio rosanero, al gol Scudetto firmato dall’uomo simbolo del nuovo ciclo della Juventus: Arturo Vidal. Il cileno al 59° trasforma perfettamente un rigore concesso dall’arbitro Romeo per spinta di Donati su Vucinic. Dagli 11 metri è perfetta la trasformazione: 15° gol in stagione, 10° in Serie A, per uno dei centrocampisti più forti al mondo. Dopo il vantaggio la Juve ha più volte l’occasione per raddoppiare, ma ne Marchisio, ne Vucinic, ne Quagliarella (traversa) hanno la giusta fortuna. Il Palermo piano piano sparisce dal campo e i bianconeri possono gestire il vantaggio fino alla fine, nonostante l’espulsione nel finale di Pogba (comunque migliore in campo), mandato sotto la doccia per avere sputato ad Aronica. 1-0 e Juve campione d’Italia per la 31esima volta. LA SVOLTA COL CATANIA E LE VITTORIE CONSECUTIVE. La vittoria sul Palermo è l’ultima di una lunga serie. Una serie positiva, quella bianconera, iniziata otto giornate fa, con la rete nel recupero con il Catania firmata da Giaccherini. Poi Bologna, Inter, Pescara, Lazio, Milan, derby: 8 gare senza mai sbagliare. Ed è stato proprio questo filotto a fare il vuoto, staccando Napoli e Milan e permettendo alla Conte’s band di vincere il tricolore con tre giornate d’anticipo. I NUMERI DEL TRIONFO. Uno Scudetto meritato e voluto, con la testa della classifica ben salda da inizio stagione. 26 vittorie, 5 pareggi e 4 sole sconfitte. Un dominio che in Italia non è mai stato in discussione, basato su una solidità difensiva impressionante (solo 20 reti subite in 35 giornate), su una forza in mediana, dove si è definitivamente consacrato quel fenomeno classe 1993 chiamato Paul Pogba, dove la regia di Pirlo ha illuminato come al solito, e su un attacco senza vere stelle, ma capace di far diventare protagonisti a turno i vari Vucinic, Giovinco, Matri e Quagliarella. Conte ha creato un’armata perfetta, che nella nostra penisola non ha rivali e che per essere competitiva anche in Europa ha bisogno solo di qualche aggiustamento. Il condottiero bianconero sta pressando la società per rinforzare un gruppo già fortissimo. Con lui e con i vari Vidal, Pogba, Bonucci si può davvero aprire un ciclo duraturo e vincente, imitando magari quello di Lippi avvenuto a fine anni 90. Enrico Turcato http://it.soccerway....regular-season/

Serie A Week 36 - 8-5-12 (8:45 p.m.) - Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo Referee: Marco Guida Atalanta - Juventus Betting Preview: Champions to maintain their strong form after clinching the Scudetto Antonio Conte may have already led his side to a second successive title, but Al Hain-Cole thinks the boss will be as determined as ever as he chases a club record. May 8, 2013 After securing their 29th Serie A title at the weekend, Juventus interrupt their celebrations for tonight’s trip to face Atalanta. La Vecchia Signora’s first back-to-back title in a decade was clinched courtesy of a highly impressive eight-match winning streak, and they are favourites at 23/20 (2.15) with BetVictor to extend that run to nine in Bergamo. With just one win in their last seven, the hosts will be grateful for the seven-point cushion that currently separates them from the relegation zone with three games remaining, and they are outsiders at 13/5 (3.60) to come out on top this evening. Five of the last nine matches at the Stadio Atleti Azzurri d'Italia have resulted in a draw, and you can get odds of 23/10 (3.30) on this one finishing all square. While one might expect the champions to relax after getting their hands on the Scudetto, the fiercely competitive Antonio Conte has targeted maximum points from the last three games in order to break the club’s previous record points haul of 91, set under Fabio Capello. Although some players may be rested, the former Siena coach is still set to field a strong enough team to maintain the Bianconeri’s dominant record over Stefano Colanutano’s side. La Dea have not beaten Juventus in almost 10 years, and have lost nine of their last 10 encounters with the Turin giants, making those 23/20 (2.15) odds look far too good to miss on the away win here. Conte’s men ran out 2-0 winners in this fixture last season, and it would come as no surprise if we see a repeat performance this time out. The visitors have won three of their last four league away games by that same 2-0 margin, while Atalanta have been on the wrong end of the same result twice in their last four matches, so it is well worth having a tipple on the 11/1 (12.00) odds on offer for that scoreline coming in on Wednesday. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Boniperti: Juventus too weak to win Champions League The 84-year-old believes his ex-team will struggle to compete with the continent's best until they become more physically imposing. May 7, 2013 Juventus legend Giampiero Boniperti says his former club need to improve on the physical aspect of their game in order to replicate their domestic success on the European stage. Antonio Conte's men have coasted to their second Scudetto in as many years this season, but their fortunes in the Champions League did not prove as fruitful after bowing out 4-0 on aggregate to Bayern Munich in the quarter-final stage of the competition. Speaking to Corrierre dello Sport, Boniperti belives the Bianconeri boast the personnel required to compete with Europe's finest but stressed the need for physical improvement before launching another assault on the competition next season. "To win in Europe we need to improve on our physical power. We need to get into this mentality of being physically strong as well as mentally." The 84-year-old, who won five Serie A titles with the Turin-based club, also hit back at claims Juventus were the strongest in a mediocre field by suggesting the club's detractors were envious of their achievements. "Winning a championship is always difficult, but to win two in a row is far more difficult," he continued. "Some say we won a mediocre championship but maybe they're jealous. We should remember how difficult it is winning a title in Italy. It was [difficult] in the 70s, 80s, 90s and it still is. Conte's men need a further point to match their points total from last season (84) and, with the league title already wrapped up, Juve will now set their sights on breaking the club record for points won in a single season - which currently stands at 91.

Serie A Week 36 - 8-5-12 (8:45 p.m.) - Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo Referee: Marco Guida Atalanta punish Livaja again May 7, 2013 Atalanta have dropped Marko Livaja for tomorrow’s game with Juventus due to ‘disciplinary reasons.’ This is the second time the Inter-owned striker has been left out of the squad since joining in January. It is reported Livaja reacted angrily towards a teammate during a game between ranks in training and is punished by Coach Stefano Colantuono. This was due to be his comeback, as the forward missed the last round due to suspension. Atalanta are also without the injured Igor Budan, Riccardo Cazzola, Guido Marilungo and Franco Brienza. Atalanta squad for Juventus: Bellini, Biondini, Bonaventura, Brivio, Canini, Capelli, Carmona, Cigarini, Consigli, Contini, De Luca, Del Grosso, Denis, Ferri, Frezzolini, Giorgi, Lucchini, Moralez, Parra, Polito, Radovanovic, Raimondi, Scaloni, Stendardo, Troisi http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 36 - 8-5-12 (8:45 p.m.) - Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo Referee: Marco Guida Juve lose stars for Atalanta May 7, 2013 Juventus are making the trip to Atalanta without Gigi Buffon and Andrea Barzagli tomorrow evening. Already crowned champions of Italy for the second year running, the Bianconeri visit Bergamo for the midweek Serie A round. The official club website confirms Buffon is suffering from an inflamed tendon in his left thigh and Barzagli has an inflamed Achilles tendon. Also absent with minor injuries are Nicklas Bendtner and Kwadwo Asamoah, while Paul Pogba begins his three-match ban for spitting at an opponent. Juventus squad for Atalanta: 3 Chiellini, 4 Caceres, 8 Marchisio, 9 Vucinic, 11 De Ceglie, 12 Giovinco, 13 Peluso, 18 Anelka, 19 Bonucci, 20 Padoin, 21 Pirlo, 23 Vidal, 24 Giaccherini, 26 Lichtsteiner, 27 Quagliarella, 30 Storari, 31 Branescu, 32 Matri, 33 Isla, 34 Rubinho, 39 Marrone http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Nedved: Juve want to keep winning May 7, 2013 Juventus are only at the start of their winning cycle, insists former player and current club director Pavel Nedved.The Old Lady won their second consecutive Scudetto on Sunday, but Nedved insists there is still plenty of work to be done. “We’ve already heard director general Giuseppe Marotta and Coach Antonio Conte talk about the next steps,” the Czech noted. “Even after two Scudetti and an Italian Super Cup victory, there are still other targets in mind. We have to sit down and discuss how we can improve and what’s required to keep on winning.” Although the club’s title triumph last year came as a surprise, Nedved insists this victory was more difficult. “Everyone’s done really well, be it the Coach or the group of players,” added the 40-year-old. “I think they’ve all improved since last year’s triumph, so you can only take your hat off to them. “Someone who symbolises the success? It’s tough to pick just one, I think the applause should go to the Coach and all the players because, like I said, everyone’s improved in so many aspects. “Progressing in the Champions League and winning the Scudetto by this kind of margin is a really difficult thing to do. “A great deal of credit should also go to President Andrea Agnelli. He hired this management three years ago and everyone’s putting in a lot of hard work.”

Nedved hails Juventus winning mentality The former Czech Republic international believes the current squad's exploits are hugely commendable and has set his sights firmly on helping the side progress even further. May 7, 2013 Pavel Nedved has hailed Juventus' winning mentality after they secured their second consecutive Serie A title with a 1-0 win over Palermo at the weekend. The former midfielder, currently part of Juve's board of directors, feels the current crop of players has progressed rapidly in the last couple of seasons and is confident they can continue to deliver trophies in the near future. "The players possess the winning mentality that Juventus is all about. Everyone’s done really well, be it the coach or the group of players. I think they’ve all improved since last year’s triumph, so you can only take your hat off to them," Nedved told the official Juventus website. "I think the applause should go to the coach and all the players because, like I said, everyone’s improved in so many aspects – progressing in the Champions League and winning the Scudetto by this kind of margin is a really difficult thing to do. "Even after two Scudetto titles and a Super Cup victory, there are still other targets in mind, so we have to sit down and discuss how we can improve and what’s required to keep on winning." Juventus meet Atalanta, Cagliari and Sampdoria in their remaining three Serie A games. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Buffon: Conte is the best coach I've worked with The Juventus captain has praised his boss for bringing a winning mentality to Turin after the club had suffered a couple of years in the wilderness. May 6, 2013 Juventus and goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon says that Antonio Conte is the best coach he has worked with in his career. The former Siena boss took the reins at the Turin giants in the summer of 2011 and has since delivered two successive Serie A titles and led the Old Lady to the Champions League quarter-finals. “I think every coach has had a decisive impact on my career development but I have to say that Conte is definitely the best coach I’ve worked with," he told Fifa.com. “In a short space of time he’s breathed new life into a team who in two seasons could do no better than seventh place. And he was a winner straightaway." Buffon, who captains Italy as well as Juve, went on to say that Cesare Prandelli has revolutionised the Azzurri team since taking over in 2010. "Thanks to the excellent job Cesare Prandelli is doing, I think we've found a balance between defensive solidity and an attacking approach that allows our great forwards to express themselves better," he added. Prandelli led Italy to the Euro 2012 final in his first tournament in charge of his country.

Scudetto a huge weight off Juve's shoulders, says Buffon The experienced goalkeeper is over the moon with his side's Serie A success and believes they always performed at the important moments. May 6, 2013 Gianluigi Buffon has voiced his delight with Juventus' Scudetto win and has admitted that a weight been lifted off their shoulders now they have wrapped up the title. The Turin giants recorded a 1-0 win over Palermo at the weekend to secure the Serie A title and the Italy captain feels they fully deserve their success as they always performed when it mattered most. "It’s a huge weight off our shoulders, a responsibility we've had from the start of the season. When you’re favourites and expected to win, it’s only yours to lose. We did well," he told the official Juventus website. "I’ve really enjoyed this particular Scudetto triumph as we’ve shown our group spirit right from the first match. "We never put a foot wrong when it counted and in recent matches, we took the decisive steps by winning difficult games that were anything but guaranteed victories." Juventus take on Atalanta, Cagliari and Sampdoria in their remaining three Serie A games.

If Juventus play their cards right, they can now build a Serie A dynasty With a second successive Scudetto now under their belts, Antonio Conte's side could dominate the Italian league for the foreseeable future. May 6, 2013 COMMENT By Kris Voakes If last season’s Scudetto was about redemption, this one has made a serious statement. Juventus are champions of Italy again and the celebrations witnessed on the streets of Turin on Sunday could well become an annual feature of Serie A over the foreseeable future such is the Bianconeri’s position of dominance right now. There were fanciful claims at various stages this term that a veritable Scudetto ‘race’ was on, but the truth is that the Bianconeri have been simply untouchable since beating Parma on opening night. They may well have lost their 18-month long unbeaten league record to Inter in November and gone down in three further games since then, but their consistency of force has been such that there is little hope of a true challenge to them for a couple of years at least. Last term they drew a huge number of games, but this time they’ve had the wherewithal to eke out three points where previously they may have had to settle for one. Whenever any side has got even remotely close to Juve’s points tally, the champions have upped their game and pulled clear once more. They have clinched the title with three rounds to spare and that is a more than fair reflection of just how superior they have been. One of the charges levelled at Antonio Conte this season has been his unwillingness to shuffle the pack ahead of Champions League fixtures, but that has simply exemplified his will to make Juve the undisputed number one in Italy. In the bel paesemore than anywhere else, success in the league comes above and beyond everything else, and Conte’s approach has summed up Juventus’ burning desire to leave their traditional rivals trailing far behind. For four years after Calciopoli, Inter dominated. They won the heavily-handicapped 2007 title by 22 points and also triumphed with something to spare in 2009, but in 2008 and 2010 it took goals in the second halves of their final games to clinch the title. In comparison, having secured their first crown since those dark days in Serie B in the penultimate round of 2011-12, this season has shown just how much Juventus are building a potential empire, one which will take quite a coup to halt. With Gianluigi Buffon set to go on in goal for a number of years yet, there has been a great consistency about their defensive line this term. And when Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci or Giorgio Chiellini have been missing, Martin Caceres has shown to be an able enough replacement. Ahead of them, the first-choice ‘MVP’ midfield has been superbly supported – infiltrated even – by the rise of Paul Pogba, with Emanuele Giaccherini only 11 months removed from participating in Euro 2012 for Italy and the versatile Simone Padoin and talented Luca Marrone still to show their best. Consider the form of Stephan Lichtsteiner, arguably the best wing-back in the game right now, and Kwadwo Asamoah, who has slotted in superbly on the left, and Juve are perhaps two good strikers away from boasting the kind of quality and quantity in every position that many other clubs are struggling to attain in more than one department. AC Milan have a forward line which could be truly explosive in the coming years, but their defence is regularly shot to pieces and the midfield line needs serious attention too. Inter, meanwhile, need a severe overhaul, while Napoli have flair but no depth in the attacking departments and nothing much of anything defensively. It all adds up to a huge advantage for the Old Lady on the pitch, and simply mirrors the gap which currently exists off it. The club’s balance sheet is something of an anomaly in Italian football in the 21st century, with huge profits being made since the move to Juventus Stadium. With the muscle necessary to strengthen their first team, the international pull to continue making money like no other Serie A club and the kind of matchday revenue that only they can rake in due to their unique ownership of their own stadium, the Bianconeri simply appear to be an unstoppable machine at this moment in time. The truth is that the only thing that can possibly stop Juventus from dominating Serie A for at least the next half-decade is Juventus themselves. With anything approaching careful management, they will win the Scudetto again next year, and it will take something extraordinary for them to even be challenged in the following campaign. And given two more years of trophies, profits and increased revenue streams, they can surely only be in an even stronger position in relation to the rest of the country. So congratulations once more to Juventus, the best team in Italy last season, this season and a few seasons still to come. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Bonucci: Juventus have dominated Serie A The Italy international was delighted with his side's domestic success and believes they were the outstanding team in Serie A this season. May 6, 2013 Leonardo Bonucci has claimed Juventus fully deserve their Serie A success as they have dominated the Italian top flight this season. The Turin powerhouse beat Palermo 1-0 on Sunday to clinch their second consecutive Serie A title with three games to spare, and Bonucci was over the moon with his side's success. "We’ve dominated from start to finish and shown ourselves to be a united and tight-knit group that fights together for a single objective," Bonucci told the official Juventus website. "It’s been demonstrated in recent matches when - even against top-level teams - we’ve been able to pick up crucial points. And now we’ve won the Scudetto with three games remaining. "I felt more pressure in some matches last year, but that’s all part of football. In any case, winning in this way means that everyone has improved." Juventus hold an unassailable 11-point lead over second-placed Napoli with three rounds of matches to play.

Pogba: Conte gave me a chance May 6, 2013 Paul Pogba has praised Juventus Coach Antonio Conte, claiming that the tactician has given him a chance this season.The 20-year-old France international has enjoyed a revelatory campaign in Serie A, winning the Scudetto at the first attempt. And the midfielder has insisted that the 43-year-old has been important in his development, whilst also commenting on the League success. “Conte has done nothing but push me,” he told fifa.com. “It is easy to end up nowhere, so I have to keep working hard. “It is my first year, but the Coach has shown he is not afraid to give me a chance, and that age does not mean a thing. “I immediately had a good feeling when I signed and he spoke to me. “My choice to come to Juventus last summer has been rewarded with the title. “It is a great joy and I'm glad to be at such a great club.”

'Prandelli doing an excellent job' May 6, 2013 Gianluigi Buffon has claimed that Cesare Prandelli is doing an 'excellent job' at the Italian National Team.The Azzurri reached the final of Euro 2012 last summer, and currently sit top of their World Cup qualifying group. And the goalkeeper has insisted that the former Fiorentina Coach is doing well in the job, whilst also commenting on his senior status in the squad. “Thanks to the excellent job Cesare Prandelli is doing, I think we’ve found a balance between defensive solidity and an attacking approach that allows our great forwards to express themselves better,” he told a Press conference. “That time stops for no man. I made my debut when I was 17 and now I’m 35. I can’t stop the clock from ticking, but I’m very much at peace with myself and I’m not worried about it. “The future belongs to the youngsters and I’m just trying to pass on the experience I’ve acquired over the years.”

Buffon: Conte the best Coach May 6, 2013 Juventus captain Gianluigi Buffon has admitted that Antonio Conte is the best Coach he has ever worked with.The pair won their second consecutive Scudetti on Sunday, as the Bianconeri defeated Palermo 1-0. And the goalkeeper has revealed what playing for the Turin giants means to him, whilst also commenting on his responsibilities as captain and who he has the best relationship with. “I don’t want to be boring but I think every Coach has had a decisive impact on my career development,” he told fifa.com. “I have to say, though, that Antonio Conte is definitely the best coach I’ve worked with. “In a short space of time he’s managed to breathe new life into a team that in two seasons could do no better than seventh place. And he was a winner straightaway. “Juventus, for me is a life of success, struggle and commitment. It’s a family I’ve grown up in and helped others to grow in. “It’s a kind of life choice, a way of life. “I’ve never felt that being a captain is just about wearing an armband. A real captain is one who plays an important role for the team on the pitch and in the dressing room, regardless of the position they play in. “There are five defenders, no question who I've had the best relationship with: Fabio Cannavaro, Lillian Thuram, Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini.”

Pogba banned for three games May 6, 2013 Paul Pogba’s season is over after the Juventus midfielder was banned for three games after his dismissal against Palermo. The heavy punishment was expected after the 20-year-old was sent off for spitting in the direction of Palermo stopper Salvatore Aronica. Given that there are just three games left this term, the former Manchester United youngster’s campaign has been brought to a premature end.

Three-match ban for Pogba? May 6, 2013 Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba risks being handed a three-match ban for his spitting dismissal, reports the Corriere dello Sport. The young Frenchman was red-carded on Sunday in the 1-0 win over Palermo after spitting in the direction of Salvatore Aronica. If the Corriere is correct and Pogba is stopped for three matches then his season will be brought to a premature end. Pogba, 20, has been a revelation in Turin since his summer move from Manchester United. He’s scored five goals in 27 League games this term.

Barzagli: 'Stronger this year' May 5, 2013 Andrea Barzagli believes Juventus are “stronger than last season” and are building their way towards European success.The Bianconeri are celebrating their second consecutive Scudetto, which is officially their 29th, but the club and fans consider it to be their 31st. “From Bologna onwards we met some really strong teams and didn’t lose, so that gave us a real boost,” he told Rai Sport. “The game we won at the last minute against Catania was a really tough one. Napoli were hungry and really wanted to win, but we were stronger than last season. “We defenders tend to be out of the spotlight, but that’s fine. The important thing is that the team wins.” Juve also reached the Champions League quarter-final and are targeting even more next term. “It takes experience to win in Europe and this year was our first approach. We faced Bayern Munich, who are the strongest side, so we must focus only on improving.”

Marotta: 'Juve winning project' May 5, 2013 Director general Beppe Marotta assures Juventus will share Antonio Conte’s vision to make them competitive in Europe too.The team is driving around Turin in an open-top bus to celebrate their second consecutive Scudetto. “It is extraordinary being part of Juventus history,” said the transfer guru. “We knew it would be difficult to repeat ourselves, but we experience this with emotion and joy because the work done has been extraordinary.” Coach Conte warned in his Press conference yesterday that he’d need to sit down and discuss their plans before confirming his future. “There is a great rapport with Conte and the whole club. I would define Juventus as a winning project. Clearly there is always the desire to win again and we won’t forget that. “Conte wants to win and it’s only right that all together we work to achieve that. We have created a project and want to continue this positive trend, as we had originally thought it would take us two or three years to lift silverware. “In Europe there is still a gap to be covered, as Bayern Munich right now are an unreachable war machine. We will absolutely try to breach that gap with Conte. “There is also an economic crisis in Italy and guidelines the club has to respect, but that doesn’t mean we’re being remissive. We want to have winning ideas. “People keep talking about us signing a ‘top player,’ but I’d like to point out Juventus have still scored more goals than anyone else in Serie A this season. “We will sit down with President Andrea Agnelli and Conte to analyse the situation we have today in order to create a tomorrow as protagonists. Juventus must continue to win, that is our imperative.”

Bonucci: 'Juve superpower' May 5, 2013 Leonardo Bonucci feels “this is the Scudetto that confirms Juventus are a superpower.” The Bianconeri celebrated a second consecutive Serie A title today and will go round Turin on an open-top bus. “I’m still sober because we’ve got to go all round the city now!” grinned the defender. “We started this season well and dominated the League. This is the Scudetto that confirms Juventus are a superpower. “The secrets to our success are sacrifice, hunger and a sense of humility. Antonio Conte has a project with us, the club believes in him and there will be no problems for him to stay.”