Socrates

Juventus keen to take up €9 million Asamoah option The Serie A leaders plan to take permanent ownership of the Ghana midfielder, and want another campaign of co-ownership with Mauricio Isla. Mar 27, 2013 EXCLUSIVE By Romeo Agresti Juventus are keen to seal a deal to take full ownership of midfielder Kwawdo Asamoah at the end of the season, Goal.com understands. The Ghana international is currently co-owned by both Udinese and the Serie A leaders, but Bianconeri coach Antonio Conte is planning on taking up the option to sign the player on a permanent basis for an additional €9 million fee. The Italian champions also want to extend their co-ownership deal with Zebrette for versatile Chile international Mauricio Isla, as they remain reticent to pay another €9m to secure the 24-year-old's signature permanently. It is understood that the Udinese owners, the Pozzo family, would be happy to acquiesce to Juventus’ offer for Asamoah, with the family enjoying a good working relationship with the board at Juve. Udinese are also thought to be keen to generate funds this summer as they look to rebuild the squad ahead of the 2013/14 season. Isla and Asamoah both initially moved to Juventus Stadium in the summer of 2012.

Buffon unhappy with Italy performance The Azzurri did enough to bag the full three points against Malta, but their captain was not impressed with their display. Mar 27, 2013 Gianluigi Buffon has expressed his disappointment with Italy's performance in Tuesday's 2-0 World Cup qualification win over Malta. Two goals from Mario Balotelli helped the Euro 2012 finalists to the full three points as Buffon kept out a Michael Mifsud penalty, but the Juventus goalkeeper feels the Italians allowed their opponents too much space throughout the match. "There were some difficult playing conditions, as it was very windy and the pitch was extremely wet. Plus if there isn't 100 per cent focus and concentration, then you are going to run into trouble," Buffon was quoted as saying on the Fifa website. "I wasn't the only one who got angry, as we all did. These situations happen when there are games that aren't high profile. It is a characteristic we have had for years, as we always seem to leave it open for ourselves, our fans and our opponents. "The penalty was an incident, but added to the other five or six chances it showed it was not a walk in the park. Those no longer exist in football, especially away from home." Italy top Group B with 13 points from five games, holding a three-point lead over second-placed Bulgaria.

Pogba: Red card was harsh The 20-year-old feels his dismissal in Tuesday's crucial World Cup qualifier was an unfair punishment. Mar 27, 2013 France midfielder Paul Pogba has voiced his frustration with referee Viktor Kassai's decision to dismiss him in Tuesday's 1-0 World Cup 2014 qualification loss against Spain. The Juventus starlet was booked after 77 minutes of play for a high challenge on Xabi Alonso, only to receive his second yellow card hardly 60 seconds later for a late tackle on Xavi, and Pogba feels Kassai's decision to send him off was harsh. "I hardly touched him. Yes, there was contact with his foot, but he started screaming and only then did the referee pull out the second yellow card," Pogba was quoted as saying by Ouest France. "That's football, though. There's nothing I can do to change what happened. "I feel bad about it because it weakened the team when we tried to get back in the game." France have dropped to second spot in Group I following Tuesday's loss, trailing la Roja by a single point with three games left to play.

Prandelli applauds captain's performance from Buffon The Azzurri coach was full of praise for the Juventus shot-stopper who marked his landmark 126th cap with a penalty save. Mar 26, 2013 Cesare Prandelli singled out Italy captain Gianluigi Buffon for praise after the Azzurri's 2-0 2014 World Cup qualifying victory away at Malta but conceded that he was not too impressed with the side's performance. A first-half double from Mario Balotelli ensured Italy secured all three points but they were thankful to Buffon, who marked his 126th Azzurri cap in style. The Juventus shot-stopper kept a clean sheet and prevented the hosts from equalising in the 16th minute when he saved expertly from Michael Mifsud's spotkick. Speaking to reporters after the match, Prandelli said: "Buffon marked this landmark like a captain with a great save at the crucial moment." After an impressive fightback against Brazil last Thursday, Prandelli had hoped for another convincing display but witnessed a rather lacklustre performance from his side. "We take away an excellent performance against Brazil and these three points. When there are no spaces and a team is very organised, we must learn to be quicker in our build-up. “We knew there would not be spaces and were perhaps a little too slow in construction, so ran into trouble. We still maintained possession throughout the game. We lacked a bit of intensity in the finishing. “We were too distant between defenders and midfielders, so the passes got misplaced. It may seem absurd, but the wind affected the long passes too. “We did some things well, others not so well. We must learn from this that against clammed-up teams we have to pass the ball short and quick.” Riccardo Montolivo was also keen to pay tribute to the performance of his Milan team-mate Balotelli who has now scored 10 goals in nine games for club and country in 2013. "Malta were clammed up and it was tough to find spaces. Luckily we had that superstar in attack and he sorted it out for us. “I think Mario has become fully aware of his abilities and has learned not to fall into the trap of provocation. He has had a remarkable impact on Milan too and I hope he won’t stop. “Balotelli is a centre-forward and is therefore the leading point of the attack. We can even give him the ball badly, as he is so physically strong that he can hold off defenders and find space. Right now, he is a complete player." Montolivo concluded by praising Serie A clubs Milan and Juventus, who between them, made up the complete starting 11 for the Azzurri - the first time the national side has comprised of players from solely two clubs since 1947. “It means these two teams focus on home-grown talent, so that is a good sign for Serie A and the Nazionale." Bulgaria's 1-1 draw with Denmark ensured that Italy moved three points clear at the top of group B. Cesare Prandelli's side return to qualifying action away against Czech Republic on June 7.

Serie A Week 30 - 30-3-2013 (3:00 p.m.) - "Giuseppe Meazza" Stadium - Milan Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Juve tie vital, says Stramaccioni Mar 26, 2013 Andrea Stramaccioni is hoping to celebrate his year in charge of Inter by beating Juventus on Saturday. “This game is absolutely vital to us, both in terms of the importance for the standings as well as for how much it means to us,” he told Inter Channel. “We’ll tackle it giving even more than our all, giving 101 per cent. We’re going to work hard this week and be ready for kick-off in a full San Siro.” The young tactician was handed the Nerazzurri hotseat a year ago today after a loss at Juventus saw Claudio Ranieri axed. “It changed my life,” he added. “Sometimes I still can’t believe it because it’s a dream for me to be experiencing this job on this stage in the first person.” On receiving the phone call from President Massimo Moratti informing him that he was to take over, Stramaccioni said: “Time comes to a standstill in a moment like that… You feel emotion, pride and even a bit of fear over whether you’ll be up to it or not.” The former Roma youth team sector tactician also remembers two victories in particular on the Inter hotseat. “The win in the first derby will always remain in my memory. Seeing a packed San Siro coloured blue and black, and such a strong Milan side, even if they didn’t win the League. It was an incredible rush. “And then the win in Turin against a Juventus side that hadn’t lost for 50 games. “Inter stunned the Juventus Stadium and we got to see our fans celebrating in their section as the rest of the stadium emptied out.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

'Transfers depend on results' Mar 25, 2013 Juventus director Giuseppe Marotta has revealed that the club will only discuss summer transfer targets once the season is over. The Bianconeri have been linked with a number of players for next term, including Stevan Jovetic and Alexis Sanchez. But the board member has insisted that the team is concentrating entirely on the current campaign. “We are focusing on the end of this season,” he told Rai Sport. “The team we have now is giving us a lot of satisfaction. “We are fighting to win the championship and soon we'll be playing in the [quarter-finals] of the Champions League. “We'll talk about the transfer market later. What we do also depends on the final results that this team achieves.”

Milan rejected €4m Chiellini Mar 25, 2013 Milan turned down the chance to sign Juventus and Italy stopper Giorgio Chiellini while he was at Livorno. “I dined with Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri, Vice-President Adriano Galliani and Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis on Saturday,” Livorno chief Aldo Spinelli told Radio RAI. “Talking to Galliani, we remembered when he didn’t want to spend €4m for my Chiellini who was with us at the time. “We had a little laugh…” The centre-back, who started his career as a left-back, was netted by Juventus in the summer of 2004 from Livorno. He spent the 2004-05 campaign on loan at Fiorentina before moving to Turin the season after. Chiellini, a Scudetto winner with the Old Lady, has won 57 caps for his country.

Buffon cools talk of Champions League glory The 35-year-old goalkeeper is hesitant to discuss how far Juventus can progress in this year's tournament with the challenge of Bayern Munich looming. Mar 24, 2013 Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has played down talk of Juventus going all the way in this year's Champions League. The Bianconeri have enjoyed a successful return to Europe's elite competition so far, having emerged as group winners before coasting into the quarter-final with a 5-0 aggregate victory over Celtic. However, two meetings with German giants Bayern Munich in the next round mean Antonio Conte's side will face a rigorous test of their Champions League credentials and, speaking to Canal +, Buffon erred on the side of caution in discussing Juventus' aspirations. "It would be a bit too optimistic, presumptuous, to say that Juventus can win the Champions League," he said. The 35-year-old has spent 12 years with the club, but says he will continue playing amid rumours of retirement as a decision to prematurely hang up his gloves would betray the "gifts" he was given. "I will keep on playing as far as I am stimulated to continue. Nature gave me something important, and I must respect these gifts," he added. "It would not make sense to finish my career as a normal goalkeeper, I've never been and I will never be one." The veteran also offered his sentiments on the emergence of potential future Juve stars, including Paul Pogba, and tipped the Frenchman to enjoy a successful career. "Pogba is a great player, we have noticed this early at the first trainings. He has the right state of mind to become a famous player, he has great qualities."

Buffon: 'Racism is a disease' Mar 24, 2013 Gianluigi Buffon agrees with Kevin-Prince Boateng that “racism in football is like malaria and must be wiped out, but it’s different from general mickey-taking.” This week Milan midfielder Boateng gave a speech to the UN on the problem of racist abuse in the sport. “Boateng is right, racism in football is like malaria and must be wiped out,” Buffon told Rai Sport. “It is a delicate issue. It’s right to stigmatise certain incidents and there are some truly very seriously offensive insults. It’s different from general mickey-taking.” Buffon was asked about his private life and what he’s like at home with his slippers on. “It’s not something you see often! I have too many professional commitments for that. I am a perfectly normal person, though. I stay home with my family, change nappies and read fairy tales to my kids. “My wife is a great cook, so she focuses on that area. When I lived alone in Parma I’d do my own cooking and my speciality was pasta with tuna. “Am I jealous? No. I like respect and trust, as if there is love then these ingredients are crucial. I have many hobbies and passions, as I’d really like to learn English.” Buffon was also impressed by Pope Francis I, the new pontiff. “He has a wonderful face and a wonderful soul too. He has the face I dreamed a Pope should have.”

'I have to say thank you to Magath' - Barzagli The Juventus defender believes that his former coach was instrumental in his development into a consistent performer. Mar 24, 2013 Andrea Barzagli has paid tribute to ex-Wolfsburg boss Felix Magath, revealing that his influence changed his mental approach to football. Barzagli joined Juventus from the Bundesliga outfit in January 2011 for a fee of around €300,000 and has gone on to make 94 appearances for the club so far. Speaking to giornalaccio rosa dello Sport, the 31-year-old Italian praised his former coach and highlighted the changes he made to his game under the German's tutelage. "Magath was the coach who has changed my level mentally," the former Palermo defender stated. "I was able to force myself into rigidity and consistency at the level of work during the week." It was this psychological training, Barzagli believes, that has enhanced his reputation and allowed him to now be considered one of Italy's finest defenders. "There are potentially defenders stronger than me, but in certain areas, namely concentration and physical preparation, I am among the best in the league." The Old Lady currently sit top of Serie A with 65 points from 29 games and their central defender is very clear on his ambitions for the remainder of the campaign. "I want to finish the season with at least one success at club level and World Cup qualification in my pocket," he added. "We are holding the championship and it's ours to lose. We will not give an inch because we don't want to look foolish come the end of the season."

Serie A Week 30 - 30-3-2013 (3:00 p.m.) - "Giuseppe Meazza" Stadium - Milan Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Vidal: Inter clash will be a fight to the death The Chile midfielder is looking forward to the Old Lady's first game after the international break, and has stressed the reigning champions are in fine shape physically. Mar 23, 2013 Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal is eagerly anticipating next weekend's match against Inter and expects a heated encounter at the Giuseppe Meazza. Both sides have developed a fierce rivalry over the years, and Andrea Stramaccioni's men prevented the Bianconeri from going 50 league games unbeaten back in November. It seemed like Inter's challenge for the title was beginning to take shape but a dip in form has left them well off the pace. However, Vidal believes Juve face a tough task as the Nerazzurri still have everything to play for in Serie A as well. "It’s the ‘Derby d’Italia’ and I think it’ll be a tough game," the Chile international told Sky Sport. "They need a good result against us to improve their league standing. They’re fighting for a place in the Champions League next season and there is a lot of competition. "Much like a final, the match will be a fight to the death." The combative midfielder then went on to discuss Juventus' busy calendar and stressed that they are in fine shape physically. "Physically, we’re in good shape. The work we’ve been doing with the coach and all the staff is paying off," he added. "Over the last year and a half, we have been training really well. Everyone is showing their great ability and we’re ready for anything, be it the league or the Champions League." Juventus currently sit atop of the Serie A table holding a nine-point lead over second-placed Napoli whereas Inter lie in 6th, seven points off a Champions League place. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Barzagli claims Balotelli is better than Neymar The 31-year-old believes the Milan striker is more capable than his South American contemporary, and anticipates great things from his compatriot at Brazil 2014. Mar 23, 2013 Italy defender Andrea Barzagli has tipped Mario Balotelli to be the star of the 2014 World Cup ahead of Neymar, prompted by his international team-mate's display against Brazil on Thursday. Cesare Prandelli's men had found themselves 2-0 down to the Selecao before Balotelli struck a superb equaliser to cap a fightback, leading Barzagli to claim he believed the striker to be a more complete player than his Santos counterpart. "Who seems to be more ready to become the star at the next World Cup? For me, Balotelli is more ready, because he already has had important experiences," the Juventus stopper told La Stampa. "Neymar is a phenomenon and only lacks European experience to be the best, but as I mentioned, Balotelli is proving to be more ready at this point." Following their credible draw, the Azzurri now travel to Malta for their World Cup qualifier, and Barzagli has called for the squad to maintain similar focus against the relative European minnows. "We did well against Brazil, but now we need to keep up that attitude against Malta," the 2006 World Cup winner insisted. "It will be a difficult match, and we cannot afford to lose momentum for the three points then." Lazio custodian Federico Marchetti is an injury doubt for Tuesday after Giorgio Chiellini pulled out of the squad earlier this week, but Claudio Marchisio and Ignazio Abate are newly expected to be at Prandelli's disposal.

Pogba: 'France thanks to Juve' Mar 23, 2013 Paul Pogba made his senior France debut and publicly thanked Juventus. “I would never have reached this stage without Juventus and am very grateful.” The midfielder turned 20 last week and played in France’s 3-1 World Cup qualifying victory over Georgia last night. “I am happy to have my first cap and always try to ensure I am ready, both for France and my club,” said Pogba. “Obviously, I would never have reached this stage of the national team without Juventus, so I am very grateful to the Bianconeri.” It was another message to Manchester United, who Pogba left on a free transfer last summer after complaining of being ignored.

Serie A - 10^ Giornata - Ritorno - 16-3-2013 (ore 20:45) 0 - 2 Mirko Vučinić (62′) Claudio Marchisio (74′) Stadio "Renato Dall’Ara" - Bologna Arbitro: Mauro Bergonzi Spettatori: 34415 Serie A - Vucinic e Marchisio lanciano la Juve a +12 I bianconeri passano anche al Dall’Ara grazie alla coppia gol che si scatena nella ripresa: nona vittoria in trasferta per gli uomini di Antonio Conte che salgono a 65 punti dopo l’anticipo serale della 29esima giornata. Eurosport - Sabato, 16 marzo 2013 La Juventus soffre, fatica a trovare spazi. Ma al momento opportuno sente “l’odore del sangue” e affonda il colpo espugnando un Dall’Ara vestito a festa con un 2-0 tanto netto quanto cinico. Gli uomini di Antonio Conte confermano ancora di più la propria leadership in campionato nell’anticipo serale della 29esima giornata di Serie A, battendo anche un Bologna reduce da tre vittorie consecutive. Dopo un primo tempo di pura sofferenza, ci pensano Mirko Vucinic e Claudio Marchisio a garantire i tre punti. Un gol del montenegrino con assist del centrocampista e un gol del centrocampista con assist del montenegrino. Una coppia micidiale che lancia la Juventus a quota 65, temporaneo +12 sul Napoli secondo. KONE TITOLARE, LICHTSTEINER IN PANCA - Stefano Pioli cambia di quattro undicesimi la formazione che una settimana fa ha sbancato San Siro schierando Cherubin al centro della difesa e Garics sull’out di destra, con Kone ala destra al posto del connazionale greco Christodoulopoulos. Confermatissimo Gilardino al centro dell’attacco, con Diamanti e Gabbiadini a supporto. Fuori per infortunio l’ex Sorensen. Antonio Conte riporta in panchina Pogba, con il trio di centrocampo composto dai titolari Vidal, Pirlo e Marchisio. A centrocampo la novità è sugli esterni, con Padoin a destra e Peluso a sinistra. Soltanto panchina per Lichtsteiner, mentre in attacco partono dal 1’ Vucinic e Giovinco. Ancora ai box Bendtner e Pepe. DIAMANTI SPAVENTA, MA E’ 0-0 - La partita inizia nel migliore dei modi. Squadre che si affrontano a viso aperto, su ritmi alti e con una fisicità ben connotata sin dalle prime battute. Il Bologna sembra andare sull’onda lunga della prestazione vista contro l’Inter, con Diamanti che dopo 6’ va vicinissimo al gol dopo un’uscita disperata di Buffon su Gilardino. Chiellini devia e salva il risultato tenendo in partita una Juventus che sale progressivamente, esprimendosi al meglio poco dopo il quarto d’ora. Al 18’ Giovinco salta Antonsson con un tunnel ma calcia lentamente su Curci, mentre al 19’ spara alto da buona posizione dopo una sponda al bacio di Vucinic. È l’ultimo squillo di un primo tempo che progressivamente si affloscia. Il Bologna chiude bene gli spazi ma rinuncia a giocare al cospetto di una Juventus che manca del piglio giusto per sfondare. Le ultime emozioni sono nel recupero, con Pirlo che colpisce Diamanti con una gomitata involontaria eppure dolorosa. E con Vidal che spara alto un contropiede ben orchestrato da Giovinco. VUCINIC E MARCHISIO ED E’ 2-0 – La partita si alza decisamente di livello nella ripresa. Giovinco si divora due clamorose occasioni tra 47’ e 54’, prima calciando a lato e poi sparando su Curci da posizione centrale. Il tutto mentre Gilardino si vede annullare giustamente (fuorigioco) un gol nato da una punizione dalla sinistra di Diamanti al 52’. In un match ad alta tensione e ricco di molti cartellini gialli, Pioli capisce che i suoi rischiano qualcosa di troppo per le vie centrali e opta per un cambio radicale. Fuori Kone, dentro Naldo e passaggio al 3-4-2-1 (57’). Una mossa che non paga, anzi. Marchisio vede Vucinic spalle alla porta in area e lo serve. Il montenegrino si gira sul destro, Naldo salta come un birillo e sul tiro di punta del centravanti bianconero Curci si fa bucare (62’) per l’1-0. Pioli torna al 4-2-3-1 con Christodoulopoulos per Garics, ma la partita è finita, come testimonia eloquentemente il 2-0 di Marchisio, servito sul filo del fuorigioco su imbeccata di Vucinic (74’). Non restano che i titoli di coda, una girandola di cambi inutile. Finisce 2-0 per la Juventus, sempre più padrona del campionato. VANTAGGIO SIDERALE PER LA JUVE - Finisce con Conte che manda baci alle telecamere e alza le braccia ai tifosi bianconeri, aizzando il popolo juventino. Pioli non la prende bene. Ma il verdetto del campo non cambia. La Vecchia Signora ipoteca una volta di più il campionato con la nona vittoria esterna stagionale, con 30 dei 65 punti complessivi conquistati lontano da Torino. Un vantaggio che sa tanto di scudetto, come forse l’esultanza scomposta di Conte stava a significare. Il Bologna si deve accontentare di una prestazione generosa sì, ma insufficiente per portare a casa la quarta vittoria consecutiva che mancava dal 1967. Ci sarebbe voluto un mezzo miracolo per battere la capolista. I campioni d’Italia passati e presenti. Al 99,99% anche futuri. Mattia Fontana http://it.soccerway....regular-season/

Gomez a doubt Bayern-Juve Mar 22, 2013 Mario Gomez could be a doubt for Bayern Munich's Champions League clash with Juventus, according to reports. The 27-year-old has had to withdraw from the Germany squad for their two World Cup qualifiers against Kazakhstan through injury. And Calcio News believe that the forward may be out for up to two weeks – meaning he will miss the game against the Bianconeri in the quarter-finals of the European Cup.

Italy on right road, says Bonucci Mar 22, 2013 Leonardo Bonucci expects his Italy side to be a threat at the Confederations Cup and the World Cup. The Juventus stopper made the claim after last night’s 2-2 draw with Brazil, the country which will host both competitions. “It was a great Italy,” he stated following the Geneva international friendly. “We created so many scoring opportunities. “We’ve been doing some great work for the last two and a half years, we have a style of play and an identity. “We can have our say at the Confederations Cup in the summer and the World Cup next year.” The latest Azzurri squad contained eight Juventus players and five from Serie A rivals Milan. “The Juventus block? There is a good base on which to build something important,” he added. “Look how well Emanuele Giaccherini played – he’s someone you can always rely on. “Milan’s Mattia De Sciglio and Mario Balotelli? De Sciglio is a great talent,” he explained of the debutant. “He played a great game. “Balotelli has important qualities and I congratulated him for his display. When he wants to make the difference then he does.”

'Balotelli has the right attitude for Italy' - Buffon The veteran goalkeeper has hailed the AC Milan star's positive attitude and feels he proved himself worthy of the Italy jersey. Mar 22, 2013 Gianluigi Buffon has nothing but praise for Italy team-mate Mario Balotelli's performance in Thursday's 2-2 friendly draw against Brazil. The Azzurri fell two goals behind before the break, but a second-half strike from the 22-year-old helped them to a share of the spoils, and the goalkeeper was impressed with the his positive attitude as well as his fine goal. "Balotelli was superb. I would also have said that if he hadn't scored the equaliser," Buffon told reporters. "The way he sacrificed himself for the team and worked very hard was a great thing to see. "For me, Balotelli has shown that he deserves the respect of his team-mates with this performance. He showed that he has the attitude needed for the national team." Italy will now start their preparations for the World Cup qualifier away against Malta on Tuesday.

Bayern can win the Champions League, says Toni The former Roten forward believes the Bundesliga leaders have the potential to beat another of his old clubs, Juventus. Mar 21, 2013 Fiorentina striker Luca Toni believes his former side Bayern Munich have the potential to go all the way in the Champions League. The Bavarians take on another the veteran's old teams, Juventus, in the quarter-finals, and though the forward thinks the Bianconeri will be concentrating fully on the match, he feels Jupp Heynckes' men could reach the final in May. "It will be nice to watch the game. Juve will have to be very careful because Bayern can go all the way," he told Tuttosport. "They will be two tough games because we are talking about two big clubs. Juve will have the advantage of being able to concentrate on the Champions League after creating a big gap at the top of Serie A. "The Bianconeri and the Bavarians are two very different teams. Bayern have a lot of quality but sometimes lose incredible matches." The 35-year-old spent three years in Munich and one in Turin, and he conceded that he would not be supporting either side in the encounter due to have still having friends at both clubs. "I have many friends from both sides, so I'm just going to be watching to see who is the strongest. In my opinion, Bayern really are a team that can go all the way," he added.

Juventus back among European elite, says Marotta The Old Lady director feels proud with his side's return to the European top this season, and is dreaming of winning more silverware. Mar 21, 2013 Juventus general director Giuseppe Marotta has voiced his delight with his side's return to the Champions League and has set his sights on both European and domestic glory. The Bianconeri qualified for the quarter-finals of the competition for the first time since 2005-06, and the 57-year-old has urged the team to keep up their current form and claim silverware. "We feel pride and satisfaction at reclaiming our place among the most important European clubs, but also absolute determination to reclaim our Scudetto title," he was quoted as saying on the club's official website. "Last season we just had the championship, whereas this year we've also got the Champions League. The most difficult aspect is managing the group on a physical and psychological level. There are still 27 points to play for in the league and we’ll need to sustain our good form. "Perhaps there’s a little more luck involved in the Champions League, because incidents can play an important role over 180 minutes. The Bayern clash, however, will be very useful to work out our strength and at what point we are."

Chiellini a doubt for Inter Mar 21, 2013 Giorgio Chiellini is a doubt for Juventus' match with Inter on March 30, according to reports. Calcio News have claimed that the central defender could be a doubt for the game with the Nerazzurri after being sent home from international duty. The 28-year-old picked up a pair of ankle injuries whilst training for the Azzurri this week, and the website believe that he may not be fit to play Andrea Stramaccioni's men in nine days' time.

Marchisio set to miss Italy friendly Mar 21, 2013 Claudio Marchisio could be out of Italy's friendly match with Brazil this evening because of a fever. Calcio News have reported that the Juventus midfielder may miss the Azzurri's game with Luis Felipe Scolari's side tonight, with Riccardo Montolivo set to replace him. Cesare Prandelli had been expected to line-up with a 4-3-1-2 formation, based on a midfield triumvirate of Daniele De Rossi, Andrea Pirlo and Marchisio. But if reports are to be believed, the Milan playmaker will start in place of the Bianconeri man.

Chiellini ruled out of Brazil game The Juventus defender will not have recovered from his ankle injury in time to take part in Thursday's friendly encounter. Mar 20, 2013 Italy coach Cesare Prandelli has received some disappointing news on the injury front in the build up towards Thursday's international friendly at home against Brazil as he will have to make do without the services of Giorgio Chiellini due to injury. The Juventus defender picked up an ankle knock in his side's 2-0 win over Bologna at the weekend, and will not have recovered in time for the game versus the 2014 World Cup hosts. "We conducted new tests on Chiellini's condition this morning and, although recent therapy has improved his condition, I can say with certainty he will not be available for the Brazil game," national team doctor Enrico Castellacci told the official FIGC website. "The player is also in doubt for the Malta game." Italy take on Brazil in Geneva on Thursday, before the World Cup qualifier against Malta on March 26.

Who's the greatest? Buffon v Zoff The Juventus goalkeeper is measured up against the World Cup-winning captain in the second part of our series comparing current stars with their nation's legendary figures. Mar 20, 2013 ANALYSIS By Mark Doyle On November 15, 2011, Gianluigi Buffon equalled Dino Zoff's tally of 112 caps for Italy in a friendly against Uruguay. “I have always tried to be like Zoff,” Buffon admitted before the game in Rome. “He was a real maestro and the reference point for all the goalkeepers that followed him.” The question now is whether Buffon, who will make his 125th appearance for his country against Brazil on Thursday evening, has since surpassed his idol not only in terms of caps, but also eminence. Is it Buffon who is now the reference point when it comes to discussing Italian goalkeeping greats? Comparing players from different eras is obviously an exercise in subjectivity. However, what is also beyond dispute is that Buffon now warrants comparison with a man who in 2003 was voted Italy's best player of the preceding half century. Zoff acknowledges that himself. "I give my compliments to Buffon," he told GQ magazine ahead of the current Azzurri captain's aforementioned appearance against Uruguay in Novermber 2011. "Now he can be considered my heir. I believe that we have been two great goalkeepers." That much is most definitely true. Zoff led the Nazionale to World Cup glory in Spain in 1982 at the age of 40, making him the oldest player to have ever lifted the game's grandest prize, while Buffon played an integral role in his country's surprise success in Germany seven years ago. The parallels extend into their club careers, too. Both men have a Uefa Cup triumph to their names, while Buffon will almost certainly equal Zoff's haul of six Serie A titles later this season. When it comes to silverware, there really is nothing to choose between the two. On the face of it, though, Buffon is the more impressive physical specimen. The offspring of a discus-throwing mother and a weightlifting father, the Carrara native represents an imposing presence in between the posts. However, it is Buffon's body that, ironically, may also prove his undoing in his quest to establish himself as Italy's greatest goalkeeper. The Bianconeri No.1 has been blighted by back problems and while he recently penned a new three-year contract with the Italian champions, doubts remain over whether he can really hope to match Zoff in terms of longevity, given his idol played at the highest level for a staggering 22 years. Indeed, when it comes to reliability, there really is only one winner. Zoff didn't miss a game for Juventus for 11 years, making a total of 330 consecutive appearances during that remarkable period, and the former Azzurri boss has previously suggested he feels that durability is key when it comes to debating Italy's all-time No.1. "Gigi was stronger than me in his youth," Zoff mused. "But then, perhaps it has been the other way around thereafter, because I made some notable improvements from my younger days going forward, not forgetting that I played for the national side until I was 41." I give my compliments to Gigi. Now he can be considered my heir. I believe that we have been two great goalkeepers for Italy. - Zoff on Buffon in 2011 There is also a commonly held view that, despite his undeniable brilliance, Buffon is more accident prone, as evidenced by his miscue against Lecce last season. However, there is a mitigating factor there in that he is operating in an era in which goalkeepers have to be far more adept with the ball at their feet on account of the abolition of the back-pass rule. In addition, it should also be acknowledged that Buffon has not benefited from the same level of protection that Zoff was afforded, particularly at club level. The latter was stationed behind some of the finest defenders ever to have played the game, during what was a golden age for Italian football. Context, therefore, is key. Yes, Zoff managed to go 1143 minutes without conceding an international goal between 1972 and 1974 - a record which still stands today - but Buffon's goal went unbreached for 453 minutes during the 2006 World Cup. The former Parma shot-stopper kept five clean sheets during that tournament in total, beaten just twice, by a Cristian Zaccardo own goal and Zinedine Zidane penalty. Gigi was stronger than me in his youth, but then, perhaps it has been the other way around thereafter because I made some notable improvements from my younger days. - Zoff When it comes to leadership, Zoff comes up trumps in that he is a World Cup-winning captain. But again, Buffon leading a side without as many world-class performers to the final of Euro 2012 is perhaps just as notable an achievement. Zoff was clearly a fine skipper. An incredibly self-critical perfectionist, he was the consummate professional; one of those who preferred to lead by example: "I have always preferred deeds to words," he explains. Buffon, by contrast, is never one to bite his tongue - either in or out of the dressing room. He is regarded as a fine motivational speaker by team-mates and supporters alike (witness his stirring rallying cry on Facebook ahead of the Euro 2012 semi-final against Germany last summer), while he has never been afraid to lock horns with the media. Whereas Zoff was exemplary, Buffon is inspirational. Choosing between the two, therefore, really is a matter of taste. However, even those firmly in the Zoff camp would concede that Buffon has the talent, the desire and, fitness permitting, the time to end this debate once and for all. Indeed, as Zoff himself conceded when pressed on whether he will be usurped as Italy's finest No.1: "Time will tell ... When he is doing well physically, Gigi has no rivals."

Buffon: Bayern won't be happy to face Juventus The Italy international has little doubt that FCB realise they face a tough task in eliminating the Serie A champions from Europe. Mar 20, 2013 Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon believes Bayern Munich will not be pleased to have been paired with the Serie A champions in the quarter-finals of the Champions League. The experienced shot-stopper admits Bayern have a better record than Juve in European club football's elite competition, but has stressed the Bianconeri are a force to be reckoned with, too. "We should approach the Champions League in the same way we’ve done up until now, hoping to gain the plaudits for a pro-active style of play, whilst also looking to gain the respect of our opponents. By and large we’ve achieved this objective," Buffon was quoted as saying on the official Juve website. "In the quarter-finals it's only right for us to encounter a team with a worldwide reputation like Bayern. I don’t think they’ll be happy to face us, meaning we’re respected and possess a certain fear factor. "It will be tough to try and win it. There are three or four teams, including Bayern, who have a better Champions League record than ours in recent years. "But the good thing is that everyone starts off on a level playing field. A slice of luck or detail could be the difference between winning or losing, but it’s important to know that you’re able to play the game." The first leg of the tie between Juve and Bayern takes place at the Allianz Arena on April 2.

Pirlo on Brazil and Totti Mar 20, 2013 Andrea Pirlo has labelled the Brazil friendly as fundamental and welcomed Francesco Totti’s proposed return to the Italy side. “Games against Brazil are never normal,” the Juventus playmaker noted. “It could be fundamental for our growth as a team. “It may tell us a lot about what we can achieve in the Confederations Cup this summer and the World Cup in 2014. “Italy often don’t play great in friendlies, but we’ll look to do well, to give our best, also for our supporters. “This Italy team is getting better and we are one of the top 10 sides in the world.” Pirlo was inevitably asked about the possible return of 2006 teammate Totti for the World Cup Finals next summer. “The doors to the national side are always open for champions such as him,” the former Milan man commented.