Socrates

Serie A Week 19 - 6-1-13 (3:00 p.m.) - Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Paolo Valeri Peluso debut Juve call Jan 5, 2013 Federico Peluso could make his Juventus debut against Sampdoria on Sunday, but Kwadwo Asamoah has left for African Cup of Nations duty. The Bianconeri named their squad for tomorrow’s Serie A game, which includes defender Peluso just days after completing his transfer from Atalanta. Asamoah is not included, as he is working with Ghana to prepare for the African Cup of Nations. Giorgio Chiellini, Nicklas Bendtner and Simone Pepe are long-term injury absentees. Juventus squad for Sampdoria: Buffon, Storari, Branescu; Caceres, De Ceglie, Peluso, Bonucci, Barzagli, Marrone; Pogba, Marchisio, Padoin, Pirlo, Vidal, Giaccherini, Isla; Vucinic, Giovinco, Quagliarella, Matri http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 19 - 6-1-13 (3:00 p.m.) - Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Paolo Valeri Conte: 'If Juve do the Double...' Jan 5, 2013 Juventus are back in action tomorrow against Sampdoria and Antonio Conte is targeting history. “Doing the Double means we are building something truly important.” The Christmas break is over and the Bianconeri could train safe in the knowledge they are already Winter Champions thanks to an eight-point lead. They welcome Delio Rossi’s Sampdoria to Turin on Sunday afternoon. Click here for a match preview. “There are always risks after coming back from a break, but we have worked very well over the last few days. “Winning the Scudetto can be a one-off, but doing the Double means that we are building something truly important here. “The Champions League is also a wonderful dream that we should keep chasing. However, we must also know how to be patient and focus on our project of growth. “Sampdoria are a well-drilled side in a difficult position that they are unaccustomed to. We need to be alert, but are fully prepared for this encounter.” Stephan Lichtsteiner is suspended, while Giorgio Chiellini, Simone Pepe and Nicklas Bendtner are long-term absentees. “Mirko Vucinic is feeling much better, his training is being monitored and he will be available for tomorrow,” noted the Coach. The squad has been augmented by the arrival of Federico Peluso from Atalanta, signed on loan at €1m with option to buy for another €4m. “Peluso can cover several roles and represents an intelligent signing. I’m convinced he will make a big contribution to Juventus. “More signings? If the opportunity arises to bring players in, then I’m confident we’ll make the right moves. I really believe in this group and nobody will be leaving in January.” Conte was asked about the rumours of an offer for Didier Drogba and Athletic Bilbao confirming Juve’s interest in Fernando Llorente. “I keep reading about Drogba, but the club never proposed him to me or vice-versa. There are economic parameters to be taken into account. Transfers must be intelligent and low-cost. “Llorente is a Spanish international and has done very well at Bilbao, so he is an appetising prospect. If we have the chance to sign a big player on a free transfer and he chooses us, then good. “I can certainly say that a year ago Llorente wouldn’t have taken us into consideration, but we are back to a high level and are now very appealing to big players. Would I be surprised to have him at my disposal in January? Yes, because he is an Athletic Bilbao player.” During his Press conference, Conte was also asked about Kevin-Prince Boateng and Milan’s decision to walk off the pitch during a friendly with Pro Patria due to racist chanting. “Racism in football is a very serious problem that must be faced by ensuring the rules are respected.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 19 - 6-1-13 (3:00 p.m.) - Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Paolo Valeri Conte: Winning the double would prove we are creating something The Juventus boss wants his team to show that their Serie A triumph last term was no coincidence and confirm that they are creating a lasting legacy. Jan 5, 2013 Antonio Conte believes that winning the double this season would prove that Juventus' Serie A triumph last season was no coincidence. The Bianconeri were crowned Italian champions without losing a match in 2011-12, but the 43-year-old is determined to show that his side are creating a lasting legacy. "Winning the Scudetto can be a one-off, but doing the double means that we are building something truly important here," he told reporters at a press conference. "The Champions League is also a wonderful dream that we should keep chasing. However, we must also know how to be patient and focus on our project of growth." Juve host Sampdoria on Sunday as they return to domestic action, and the former Siena boss urged his side to remain alert and prepare for the game properly. "There are always risks after coming back from a break, but we have worked very well over the last few days. Sampdoria are a well-drilled side in a difficult position that they are unaccustomed to. "We need to be alert, but we are fully prepared for this encounter." Juventus have been boosted by the arrival of Federico Peluso on loan from Atalanta, and Conte is confident that he will prove to be a shrewd acquisition. "Peluso can cover several roles and represents an intelligent signing. I'm convinced he will make a big contribution to Juventus." http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 19 - 6-1-13 (3:00 p.m.) - Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Paolo Valeri Pirlo just part of problem Juventus pose, says Sampdoria coach Rossi The Bluerchati will travel to the Turin-based club on Sunday hoping to put a dent in the impressive form that the reigning Serie A champions have forged this season. Jan 4, 2013 Focusing on restricting Andrea Pirlo’s play will not be part of Sampdoria’s plan on Sunday, head coach Delio Rossi has revealed. Many sides opt to man-mark the veteran Italy international such is his talent on the ball, to varying degrees of success. However, the midfielder is just one of a host of concerns for the Bluerchati boss, who believes his side have a chance of beating the Bianconeri but says it will not be remotely easy. “I'm not a technician who likes to match up with the opponent’s formation,” he told a press conference. “They are a very strong side, but we believe we can win. “We will not focus purely on Andrea Pirlo - he is a special player, but there are others who can cause us problems.” Sampdoria sit 15th in Serie A after 18 games in the 2012-13 campaign, just two points above the relegation zone. Antonio Conte’s men, on the other hand, are seven points clear at the top of the table on 44 points and are in a solid position to retain the Scudetto. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 19 - 6-1-13 (3:00 p.m.) - Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Paolo Valeri Rossi: Samp will play their own game Jan 4, 2013 Sampdoria Coach Delio Rossi has refused to give Andrea Pirlo special treatment when his side face Juventus this weekend. The Bianconeri host the Bluerchiati on Sunday, and the 52-year-old has admitted that he needs to pay special attention to all of the home team's players. “I'm not a technician who likes to match up with the opponent’s formation,” he told a Press conference. “They are a very strong side, but we believe we can win. “We will not focus purely on Andrea Pirlo – he is a special player, but there are others who can cause us problems.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 19 - 6-1-13 (3:00 p.m.) - Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Paolo Valeri Vucinic a worry for Juventus Jan 4, 2013 Mirko Vucinic is a doubt for the Sampdoria game as the Juventus man continues to struggle with an ankle problem. The Montenegrin international is having issues with his Achilles tendon and may not be risked at the Juventus Stadium. Boss Antonio Conte could thus opt for a front-two of Sebastian Giovinco and Alessandro Matri. The latter scored twice in the club’s last game of 2012, a 3-1 win against Cagliari played at Parma’s Stadio Tardini. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A - 19^ Giornata - Andata - 6-1-2013 (ore 15:00) - Juventus Stadium - Torino Arbitro: Paolo Valeri Confronti ufficiali 117 - 108 (Serie A) - 9 (Coppa Italia) Vittorie Juventus 58 - 50 (Serie A) - 8 (Coppa Italia) Pareggi 36 - 36 (Serie A) Vittorie Sampdoria 23 - 22 (Serie A) - 1 (Coppa Italia) Goals Juventus 192 - 164 (Serie A) - 28 (Coppa Italia) Goals Sampdoria 117 - 104 (Serie A) - 13 (Coppa Italia) Juventus - Sampdoria a Torino Confronti ufficiali 54 Vittorie Juventus 32 (L'ultima il 28.10.2009, 5-1) Pareggi 18 (L'ultimo il 12.09.2010, 3-3) Vittorie Sampdoria 4 (L'ultima il 02.02.2005, 0-1) Goals Juventus 100 Goals Sampdoria 41 Giocatori con più presenze e goals contro la Sampdoria a Torino 12 presenze Boniperti Giampiero 10 Del Piero Alessandro 10 Salvadore Sandro 9 Furino Giuseppe 9 Stacchini Gino 8 Bettega Roberto 8 Castano Ernesto 8 Tacconi Stefano 7 Anastasi Pietro 7 Causio Franco 7 goals Bettega Roberto 4 Boniperti Giampiero 4 Charles John William 4 Hansen Karl Aage 4 Vivolo Pasquale 3 Amauri Carvalho de Oliveira 3 Anastasi Pietro 3 Inzaghi Filippo 3 Muccinelli Ermes 3 Zigoni Gianfranco Ultimi confronti diretti 26.10.2005 Serie A Juventus-Sampdoria 2-0 04.03.2006 Serie A Sampdoria-Juventus 0-1 20.01.2008 Serie A Juventus-Sampdoria 0-0 17.05.2008 Serie A Sampdoria-Juventus 3-3 27.09.2008 Serie A Sampdoria-Juventus 0-0 15.02.2009 Serie A Juventus-Sampdoria 1-1 28.10.2009 Serie A Juventus-Sampdoria 5-1 21.03.2010 Serie A Sampdoria-Juventus 1-0 12.09.2010 Serie A Juventus-Sampdoria 3-3 23.01.2011 Serie A Sampdoria-Juventus 0-0 Giocate 10 - Vittorie Juventus 3 - Pareggi 6 - Vittorie Sampdoria 1 - Goals Juventus 15 - Goals Sampdoria 9

Buffon close to contract renewal with Juventus Both club and player continue to dispute the length of the deal, but an agreement is expected to be reached between both parties in the near future. Jan 3, 2013 EXCLUSIVE By Romeo Agresti Gianluigi Buffon is close to agreeing a new contract with Juventus, Goal.com understands. The 34-year-old has been in discussions with the Old Lady for some weeks over an extension to his current deal, with the player admitting his desire to end his career with the Scudetto champions. However, negotiations began to falter over the length of the renewal, with the Italy international keen to sign a short-term contract in order to avoid resting on his laurels and risk becoming "a normal goalkeeper". The club, meanwhile, are keen to tie him down for a more lengthy period, with Giuseppe Marotta having proposed a renewal until at least 2015, with a basic salary of €3.5 million per season plus bonuses. Despite the disagreements, Goal.com understands that both parties are keen to extend the deal, which is set to expire at the end of the season, and a breakthrough in negotiations could happen as early as January. AS Monaco coach Claudio Ranieri was reportedly interested in signing the veteran keeper, but Buffon has made it clear he intends to see out his career with the club he joined back in 2001, and is therefore expected to put pen-to-paper on a new deal soon.

The 10 Best Juventus Happenings From a Memorable 2012 "Memorable" can be replaced by any kind of word you want. "Awesome." "F'ing awesome." "Fantastic." Whatever you want to roll with, I don't mind. Dec 31, 2012 To steal a line from Frank Sinatra, I feel pretty safe in saying that 2012 was a very good year. There were plenty of moments that will live within our respective memory banks for a long time. There were some pretty goals and a few fancy celebrations that came with some of them. There was controversy, and the typical Italian reaction that comes with it. And there were records broken — most recently the most amount of points (94) collected in one calendar year. It was 2012, a year where Juventus became Juventus again. It's only fitting that on the first day of 2013, we look back at the previous year and remember all those moments that made us feel warm and fuzzy. Or made us jump out of our recliners and scream happy things. Or made us wonder what the heck just happened because we were forced to watch Juventus games on crappy internet streams. 10. All of the goals. ALL OF THEM. Juventus seemed to score in just about every way possible this year. There were incredible individual efforts — bicycle kicks, slick one-on-one moves, all of the above. There were so many memorable goals, and so many different players played a hand in them. Midfielders, strikers, wingers, defenders. Everybody — who weren't legally allowed to use their hands and wear gloves on an everyday basis. It's hard to say what exact goal was the best one of them all because a lot of them were just so darn good, but this next one certainly ranks up there, doesn't it? 9. Del Piero's 700th appearance capped off with a goal (duh) The man just knows when to rise to the occasion — and his game-winning goal against Lazio wasn't any different. I'm just gonna watch because it's pretty. Oh so pretty. 8. Supercoppa glory in Beijing Even with all the drama surrounding off-the-field sporting justice rigmarole, Juventus hopped on a plane and flew to a completely different continent for the first official match since capturing the Scudetto in May. Even without Antonio Conte on the sidelines, Juve claimed the second trophy of the Andrea Agnelli era in mid-August. It was Kwadwo Asamoah's first game in a Juve jersey — and he delivered big time, putting in a MOTM performance along the way. 7. Andrea Pirlo's brilliance and the formation of MVP Even before the beard, Andrea Pirlo was dominating the world. Even before the beard, Andrea Pirlo teamed up with Claudio Marchisio and Arturo Vidal to form one of the best midfields in all of Europe. Each player so unique, each player so incredibly important to what Juventus does on a game-by-game basis. Pirlo had one of the best years of anybody in the world. Vidal proved to be an absolute bargain — see what Real Madrid were reportedly offering Juve to sign him this past summer — for the €9.5 million he was signed for. And Marchisio continued to prove why he should be the next captain of Juventus whenever Gigi Buffon decides to retire. 6. Defense, defense, defense. It was pretty noticeable early in the season that Juventus had a pretty good defense. But when Conte made the switch to the 3-5-2, Juventus' defense got even better. Conte's men finished with the best defense ever in Serie A. For a team to drastically switch how it plays defense tactically and personnel-wise, it not only speaks to the players the team has, but how it is organized and how well-drilled they really are. Just one stat that proves just how good the defense was over the past 12 months: Juventus recorded 26 shutouts in all competitions in 2012. That's, uh, absolutely remarkable. 5. Completely manhandling Chelsea and Champions League advancement While Juventus' Scudetto-winning season was flat out fantastic (more on that later), there was something missing: Champions League football. But, the second part of the year saw Juve return to European competition and there may not have been too many victories — circumstances included — than how Juventus rolled through the defending champs. If there's ever a model for a statement win, this was it. Juventus crushed Chelsea and all of Europe took notice. 4. Juventus Stadium's evolution into a complete fortress When Juventus Stadium celebrated its one-year anniversary, it had already seen a lot take place on the field. Now that another four months has passed, there has been But, as we have seen, it's much more than just a place where Juventus wins matches. It's the atmosphere. It's the fact the crowd is right on top of the field instead of being 10 miles away because of a running track. It's everything. In it's short existence, Juventus Stadium The new stadium may not be just one of the best things to happen to Juventus in recent memory, but possibly one of the best ever as time goes on. Yes, Juventus Stadium is just that damn important to this new Juve era. 3. The undefeated runs comes and goes After 49 games in Serie A, Juventus' near-record-breaking run had to come to an end. Some wins were impressive. Others made our heart rates and blood pressure go through the roof. Either way, it was one of the best runs Italian football has ever seen. Three men roamed the Juventus sidelines 1b. Lo Scudetto comes back to Turin Just your average night Trieste, right? Well, not really. The final push towards title No. 30 had quite the conclusion. The victory, the storming of the field, the players and coaches trying to avoid said pitch-stormers — it was all beautiful. Even putting up with Marco Borriello's porn-stache became a little easier to tollerate. Looking back on it, with Conte taking this team from one of its worst two-season period in a long time to Serie A champions in just under a year made the crown jewel of Juve's 2012 achievements that much more remarkable. 1a. Alessandro Del Piero's farewell — and the Scudetto celebration that came with it Not a lot of things can overshadow a title celebration on the final day of the Serie A campaign. Well, Il Capitano certainly found a way to do exactly that. A goal in his final match at Juventus Stadium and more, impressively, a lap of honor just minutes after he was substituted off the field for the last time. I know I've said it before, but how many times do you see a player — club legend, whatever his standing is — take a lap during the game? For those 40,000 or so people who were in attendance on May 13, it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Oh, and there was also the whole matter of being crowned champions.

Are the Old Lady Good Enough to Win the Champions League? Dec 31, 2012 Michel Platini is no stranger to dropping disparaging comments about English football, but the UEFA president has provoked the ire of Scottish football this week by claiming Celtic have no chance of beating his former employer Juventus in the Champions League Round of 16. Speaking at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai, the Frenchman said (via The Daily Record): If we look at the Champions League draw, it's clear that Juventus are already through to the quarter finals. Given Celtic's impressive record in the competition this season—including a famous defeat of Barcelona—and the fact that the head of Europe's football governing body should at least give the facade of being neutral, the comments have caused outrage in Scotland. Celtic legend Tommy Gemmell blasted Platini's supposition as "silly" and "nonsense," while many Scottish columnists have called for an apology. Even if Mr Platini's memory does not stretch back as far the evening of Halloween 2001—where Martin O'Neill's Bhoys enjoyed an epic 4-3 victory over their Turin rivals—he also added that Juve are not strong enough to win their first European Cup since 2003. A certain outspoken Portuguese manager, however, is among those who believe Juventus can triumph in Europe this season. After his Real Madrid side were drawn against Manchester Utd, Jose Mourinho told Italian newspaper Tuttosport (via tribalfootball.com) that he "fears" Juventus. The fact that they lack a star striker at the top of Europe's scoring charts, he reasons, is an indication that goals can come from anywhere. He added that Antonio Conte's side remind him of his Porto side that won the competition in 2004. High praise indeed. Mou is right to fear Juve's strength across the park. Up front, Mirko Vučinić, Seb Giovinco and Fabio Quagliarella have scored 6 Champions League goals in this campaign. Arturo Vidal, Caludio Marchisio and Leonardo Bonucci have provided a further five. Only Paris Saint-Germain finished the group stage with a better goal difference. Juve are one of few European sides that use a 3-5-2 formation with wing backs, so the likes of Stephan Lichtsteiner, Mauricio Isla and Kwadwo Asamoah are able to control the flanks and provide extra threat to opposing defences. As B/R's Adrian Agius notes, Juve's central midfield of Arturo Vidal, Claudio Marchisio and the majestic Andrea Pirlo is one of the best in the world. Equally, Juventus' defense is nothing to be sniffed at. They let in just four goals in this season's group stage—only PSG conceded fewer—and with nine clean sheets and eleven conceded goals in Serie A in this campaign, the Italians have the second best domestic defense in Europe. They may be without defensive rock Giorgio Chiellini for the Celtic matches, but they have already proven they can cope in his absence. Juve's enviable home form will also be of concern for visiting European sides. Since it opened in 2011, The Old Lady have lost only once at Juventus Stadium: their shock 3-1 defeat at the hands of Internazionale in November. In three Champions League games at home this season, they have scored 7 times and conceded just once, in their draw with Shakhtar Donetsk. The Ukrainians, incidentally, are probably the only other side in Europe who can boast such impressive home form. Juve's exceptional form since moving into their new home virtually coincides with the reign of manager Antonio Conte, who has now returned from his sideline ban. Conte won the Champions League with Juventus as a player in 1996, and was part of a team that finished as runners-up in 1997, 1998 and 2003. Three silver medals will surely give Conte all the experience—and yearning—he needs to win this competition as a manager. But while there is a strong case for Juventus' imminent triumph in Europe—and president Andrea Agnelli seems to be treating the Champions League as his top priority—Michel Platini's assessment may ultimately be correct. The Italians have the nous and skill to defeat Celtic, but it is hard to see either Bayern Munich or Borussia Dortmund being outclassed by a side from Serie A (which is arguably a weaker league since Juventus last appeared in the upper echelons of the Champions League). Understandably, Barcelona and Real Madrid also have shorter odds to lift the European Cup. Mourinho may fear Juventus, but he is throwing all his eggs in the European basket this season and it is difficult to see him faltering to the Italians (if they meet). Conte's side have the momentum, tactics and personnel to make a big impact in the Champions League knockout stages in this season, but victory at Wembley this May would be quite surprising.

Buffon hails Celtic's Forster Dec 31, 2012 Juventus face Celtic in the Champions League and Gigi Buffon is very impressed with goalkeeper Fraser Forster. “Of course I know about Fraser,” he told the Daily Record newspaper in Scotland. “I watch all the top young goalkeepers in the world and I’m sure he can become one of them. The top three young goalkeepers in the world for me are Joe Hart, Manuel Neuer and Salvatore Sirigu. It will be one of those three who will go on to be the best in the world. “But if Forster keeps on playing like he is there is no reason he can’t be close to or even in that group. “In a goalkeeper I don’t just look for the great saves but for the authority and confidence he shows. As a goalkeeper you can make only one or two mistakes a season if you want to be the best. “It’s in the big games where you see character because that is where you are most likely to make mistakes. I have seen both games he played against Barcelona now and not only did he make great saves, he looked confident. He didn’t look like a goalkeeper who was going to make a mistake.” Juventus visit Glasgow on February 12 and play the second leg in Turin on March 6. “Fraser is about to play in two big games in the last 16 of the Champions League and it is clear to me he has not only the talent but the character for games like this,” continued Buffon. “He has another two big games to show Europe what he can do and from what I have seen in him I am sure he will show Europe again.”

Buffon reflects on ‘beautiful’ 2012 The goalkeeper was a key member of the Serie A-winning Juventus side and helped Italy reach the Euro 2012 final, but he is hopeful he can achieve even more in 2013. Dec 31, 2012 Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon is elated with how his year went, and is aiming for even more success in 2013. The goalkeeper was a crucial member of the Serie A-winning Juve team under Antonio Conte and helped Italy reach the final of Euro 2012, though Spain beat them comfortably. The 34-year-old wrote on his official Facebook page: "2012 gave me a lot of joy. "Juventus bounced back to win the Scudetto, I had a beautiful European adventure with the national team, I lifted my first trophy as captain and then [Juve had] a really superb beginning to this season. "This group aims higher in every competition. In 2013 I hope to convey all my determination and confidence so that the team keep being able to fight on every front." The Bianconeri currently sit top of Serie A on 44 points after 18 matches, seven points clear of second-placed Lazio. In Europe, Conte's team have been drawn against Celtic in the last 16 after knocking Champions League title holders Chelsea out at the group stage.

Michel Platini: 'Juventus will beat Celtic' Dec 30, 2012 UEFA president Michel Platini has said that Juventus will have no problem in disposing of Celtic in their Champions League tie. The teams have been drawn to face each other in the last 16 of Europe's elite club competition, but Platini believes that is as far as the Hoops will go. "If we look at the Champions League draw, it's clear that Juventus are already through to the quarter-finals," the Daily Mail quotes the Frenchman as saying. Platini played for Juve between 1982 and 1987.

In Praise of Pirlo, My Ballon D’or Winner! Dec 30, 2012 You may have heard that the Ballon d’Or — the award for the best football player in the world for this calendar year — will be awarded on January 7. You may have seen the leaked pictures of the trophy with Lionel Messi’s name on it. And you may deduce from that evidence that Andrea Pirlo cannot win it. For Juventini, this sad verdict probably falls somewhere between “unfortunate” and “unfair,” depending on mood, degree of bias (let’s call it “passion”) or more rational criteria. So Andrea can’t win it; in that case, he should be among the three finalists, a (barely) just reward for serving with flair and distinction as the beating heart and brain of a team that went unbeaten in its path to the championship of a very competitive league, as well as leading a country with little-to-no expectations to the finals of the European Championships. Alas, FIFA and affiliated journalists have failed to include him therein. That, my friends, is outrageous. True, this was a year in which Lionel Messi scored a barely conceivable 91 goals, Cristiano Ronaldo led Real Madrid to a La Liga championship, and Andres Iniesta was a talismanic figure in Spain’s historic second-straight Euro Cup and third-straight major international victory, all while carrying out his crucial role in the thriving commune/platonic ideal that is Barcelona. But if Messi is indeed the winner, his selection bucks the recent trend of awarding a player whose team or country won a major trophy during the year (Barcelona did win the Copa del Rey, but seriously, come on). World football media, with the tacit approval of FIFA itself, usually errs on the side of big victories. Not this year. Because this calendar year, in terms of the mysterious combination of collective success and a player’s influence thereupon, Andrea Pirlo was the best soccer player on Earth. The following is a simple appreciation, devoid of intensive tactical analysis or too many facts and figures. It is foolhardy at best to engage in a stat war with the three finalists (especially Messi). For all its many arguments, it’s mainly a reminder of what I saw this year, and what I wish to take from 365 days worth of brilliance. Rebirth Most comeback stories are just that — stories. A neat way to reduce a player’s experience to a single word. In Pirlo’s case, his return as champion of Serie A, leader of a resurgent Italy and official reentry into the conversation of best players in the world is more than a comeback; it’s a rebirth. The fact that he achieved all this at 33 — after a dispiriting season at Milan in which he was passed over in favor of a more athletic midfield, thought to be all but washed up, and given away for free — makes it all the more impressive. Still, this success, like Pirlo himself, is not likely to call attention to itself. And we follow a sport defined by peacocks. Messi and Ronaldo influence matches in the most direct, quantifiable way: They score goals, in wholesale quantities. Many times, even their assists feel like goals. Somehow, Pirlo’s 86.9% pass completion just doesn’t sound sexy, which also goes some way in explaining why Iniesta is not a favorite, being the most similar of the three to Pirlo. Moreover, Messi and Ronaldo score prolifically with the media, being two of the biggest providers of the journalist’s daily bread. With a 24-hour news cycle and up to a week between matches, their sound bites, injury reports, training sessions and off-the-field antics fill columns. There’s not much interest in a man who speaks mainly through his game. Messi is obviously a genius, and Ronaldo must be very talented indeed to play so well, distracted as he is by his enduring, devoted love affair with himself. Iniesta is perhaps unfairly hampered by the subtlety of his greatness (again, see Pirlo), not to mention sharing the spotlight with Messi and so many other stars at both club and international level. But Pirlo’s genius, more than that of any of the three finalists, is not readily quantifiable in terms of personal success. It needs to be seen, which is why we Juventini are in the best position to argue for his inclusion, and unfortunately the least likely to be believed. We saw the world-leading 2,778 passes that opened up an opponent’s defense, some of which should be hanging in the Louvre, others that may have led to a goal only two or three plays later. We registered the elegance, the sense of occasion in a dribble, a feint, a through-ball. We felt the internal tempo he set each match and thus sensed Juve’s dominance well before the score finally ratified it. And we saw the work he does in all phases of the game, everywhere on the pitch, unlike the three finalists. Pirlo alone exists between the boundaries of offense and defense, and for Juve is responsible for both, as are all of his teammates. Under Antonio Conte, Pirlo drastically improved in terms of both stamina and defensive performance. He defied not only his critics, but also the stereotype of the lazy fantasista/regista whose flashes of inspiration make up for his indolence on the pitch. He pressed, won the ball back, led breaks and finished them, as needed. Remember, he’s playing deep, just above the back line; his increased defensive responsibilities, especially on counterattacks, allowed Marchisio and Vidal to play further up; to press and to risk making those runs that were so frequently decisive. And when they made runs, who protected Pirlo, a player dogged throughout his career by criticism that he is vulnerable when exposed, a liability on defense? No-one. And he did just fine. The old notion that Pirlo needs a Gattuso to protect him has proved to be not only false, but laughably so. Pirlo is his own Gattuso now. Call it less of a comeback or rebirth than a full (if late) bloom. Team Success Messi’s Barcelona won the Copa del Rey, a competition of tertiary importance for their club, while ending the La Liga season nine points behind Ronaldo’s Real Madrid and making the semi-finals of the Champions League. Iniesta, in addition to his role with Barcelona, also won the European Championships with Spain. Ronaldo won La Liga and made it to the semi-finals of the Champions League. In the semi-final of the Euros, his insistence on taking the final penalty saw him lamely watch from midfield as Portugal lost to Spain with only four kicks necessary. Pirlo won Serie A without losing and made it to the final of the European Championships. When laid out this way, it seems plausible that Pirlo’s chances for the Ballon d’Or were mortally wounded by Juventus’ absence from the Champions League. That Pirlo was passed over for the shortlist perhaps says more about Juve’s current status as European giants in hiding, as well as their diminished prestige for the international media. But once again — beyond the 49-game unbeaten streak and Scudetto — the success of Pirlo’s teams this year cannot be quantified. As fans of Juventus or the Nazionale, we were in the best position to qualify Pirlo’s success with both squads this year. We shared the relatively low expectations for Juve at the beginning of last season and were cautious even at the winter break, when the Scudetto became a distinct possibility. As Azzurri fans, we knew intimately the shame of the disastrous World Cup in South Africa and its subsequent effect on Italy’s international standing, as well as the anxiety and feared hopelessness of fielding several young players with little or no experience. Whereas Real Madrid, Barcelona or the Spanish national team were expected to win in style, and their results ultimately measured against those expectations, Juventus and Italy, forever conjoined, were simply hoping to win, or in the worst case, to give a good account of themselves. That they exceeded those tasks by revolutionizing Italy’s tactical and stylistic image to help begin a new cycle for the balance of power in world football speaks volumes — but, unfortunately, only for those actually listening. Juventus and Italy were remade in Pirlo’s image: subtly pervasive, tactically intelligent and quietly devastating. None of these traits makes for a good headline when it’s time to vote. Catalyst and Focal Point Here’s a relevant rhetorical question for you: Which one of Messi’s 91 goals this year actually won a major championship or team trophy? And while Ronaldo’s scoring and playmaking snatched the La Liga title from Messi’s Barcelona, did he not play in a two-horse league with zero competitive (re: economic) parity? And did he not also play with world-class teammates referred to with straight faces the world over as Galacticos (admittedly much less galactic than in previous years)? Messi, of course, had his share of interstellar teammates as well, namely Xavi and Iniesta. And Iniesta, for that matter, played in Messi’s shadow at Barcelona, and although he was named Player of the Tournament at Euro 2012, will you remember Spain’s victory as a collective effort, as their publicity emphasizes, or as Iniesta’s achievement? When you think of these players, do you immediately swoon over how they make their teammates better? Or are you too busy marveling at their highlight reels? But now look at Pirlo: The catalyst and focal point of an unbeaten, championship-winning Juventus with limited funds and diminished prestige, the man who led a young, ragtag group of Italian internationals to the Final of the European Championships. And though Italy would ultimately lose, it’s impossible to deny that Spain’s collective talent and years of experience playing together made them superior from the outset. Thanks in large part to Pirlo, both Juventus and Italy did much more with much less. Domestically, Pirlo was the one objectively irreplaceable player on a club that went unbeaten in its run to the championship of a very competitive league. Many players were crucial, but if you took away Pirlo, even with Conte as coach — no Scudetto. Then, as now, he ran the entire offense, and we all saw the deleterious effects of the rare instances in which he was rested or suspended. Also, in reference to my previous comment on Galacticos: Messi and Ronaldo play with almost uniformly world-class talent, bought by two very rich teams with seemingly infinite resources. At the beginning of this season, Pirlo didn’t have any Galaticos on his side, but match after match, he elevated the performances of his teammates to galactic levels; some of his teammates even seem to have reached permanent world-class status. Look at Arturo Vidal: surely a great player to begin with, but one who is now mature and dominant beyond his years, highly coveted by the giants of world football. Look at Stephan Lichtsteiner, whose almost telepathic understanding with Pirlo has made all the difference in his emergence as a player of international reputation. Acknowledging his tireless running and tactical understanding, it was Pirlo who literally put Lichtsteiner in the thick of things. He’s a star when Pirlo’s directing. And for heaven’s sake, look at Claudio Marchisio! He’s gone from a frequently great but frustratingly inconsistent player to one of the best midfielders in the game. In the past, he’s either been an engine or a game-changer, rarely both at once. Pirlo’s influence on him has made him not only reliable, but transcendent. He’s even starting to be known solely by his last name—outside of Italy! We all knew he had it in him, but who brought it out of him? As far as the National Team is concerned, Pirlo was once again the center of attention, and despite the alteration in tactics, he led a potentially very underwhelming team to perform much better than their modest collective talent warranted. Whether it was his play in general (calmly orchestrating the offense) or a specific instance (that penalty kick), he was crucial to inspiring Italy to go much further than almost everyone predicted. Perhaps more importantly, Pirlo’s mastery and leadership, despite the constant two-pronged threat of tabloid insanity from Mario Balotelli and Antonio Cassano, did more to improve Italian soccer’s image than anyone has at any time since the fallout from Calciopoli. The tactical emphasis on possession and ball movement, both of which focused on Pirlo, upended the tired catenaccio stereotype and made Italian soccer actually entertaining for the neutral, casual viewer. That in itself warrants some kind of international award. What Success Means The Ballon d’Or is historically a measurement of success, both individual and collective. Pirlo was indispensable to the wild success of both club and country, while Messi collected individual awards but won nothing with Barcelona or Argentina, and Ronaldo won a championship with a team rich in resources and players — world economy be damned. And despite his greatness, I think it can be argued that Iniesta was simply not as crucial to Barcelona as Pirlo was to Juventus. Awarding Messi or Ronaldo — and more importantly, omitting Pirlo — is as close to a definitive statement as possible from world football. It offers a very specific collective opinion as to the very purpose of a soccer match, what success means, and thus what makes a player most valuable. Casual fans of soccer in general skew toward an individual, statistical and inevitably commercial bend. The players, coaches and journalists voting on the Ballon d’Or, their memories reinforced respectively by intense contests swayed by single moments, tactical nightmares in man-marking, or the blessings of a year’s worth of good copy, will ultimately support that predilection. In the end, this is an award designed to promote a sport. I personally thought the purpose of a soccer match was to win, or (allowing for draws) to at least get the better of your opponent. It’s a struggle for dominance, whether qualitatively or quantitatively. This year, Pirlo had more success than Messi and was equally or more responsible for his team’s success against more difficult competition than was Ronaldo or Iniesta. Of course, it doesn’t always show up in the official record. Antonio Conte stated that “even if Messi had scored thousands of goals, I would give the Ballon d’Or to Pirlo.” Conte is biased, and so am I, but nevertheless it’s hard to shake the feeling that he’s right. It’s also hard to shake the feeling that it doesn’t matter anyway. Pirlo will be Pirlo regardless, and his achievements will always be more impressive in our memories than they would have been in the record books. And given how he’s conducted his career (and his teams), it’s easy to believe that he’s fine with that. by Vittorio Pazzini. http://youtu.be/fLodZXnYaMA

Capello: Victory over Chelsea was a turning point for Juventus The 66-year-old feels Antonio Conte's side made a leap of faith in their rout of the European champions, but added that Serie A is not as strong as it was in 2005. Dec 30, 2012 Russia coach Fabio Capello believes Juventus' victory over Chelsea in the Champions League was a turning point in their season. The Bianconeri recored an impressive 3-0 win over the European champions on their way to winning the group, and Capello feels the result and the performance could be the catalyst for further success for Antonio Conte's men in 2013. "Juventus have a solidity and continue to be very convincing. Conte is doing a very good job," he told giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. "I think the turning point of the season coincided with a clear victory over Chelsea. The team made the leap, even in terms of belief. "This team has people that make the difference. Mirko Vucinic, Gianluigi Buffon, Giorgio Chiellini, Andrea Pirlo." Juventus' 3-1 win over Cagliari in their final game of 2012 saw them accumulate 94 points over 12 months, surpassing the record for a calendar year set by Capello's side in 2005. However, the 66-year-old believes his side cannot be compared properly to Conte's as Serie A was more competitive during his tenure, adding that the sanctions imposed upon Napoli further undermine the current state of the league. "The league was much more combative in 2005, there were at least five teams equipped for victory," said Capello. "I would like to clarify that in the table Napoli were docked two points for the events of Scommessopoli. A decision that affects the fight for the Scudetto for the events that occurred in 2010 does not seem right." A resurgent AC Milan have been linked with a move for Didier Drogba recently, and while Capello believes the Cote d'Ivoire star could be a valuable addition to the Rossoneri, he insists there remains only one side who can stop the Old Lady from reclaiming the title. He added: "A guy like Drogba can make the difference. However, for me the only team that on paper is troublesome to Juventus is Roma."

Why Andrea Pirlo Was My Favorite Player of 2012 Dec 29, 2012 "I thought God exists because it's truly embarrassing how good he is," said Gianluigi Buffon of his Juventus teammate Andrea Pirlo in 2011. (FIFA) Pirlo arrived at Juve on a free transfer. He was 31 and a decade at AC Milan had ended with a Serie A title, but with Pirlo cast as a fading force and his place in their starting lineup no longer assured. Milan's faith extended to just a one-year deal and with that, Pirlo, fired by a sense of betrayal, plotted his exit. Where Milan saw a bit-part player, Juventus coach Antonio Conte saw a man to build a team around. Pirlo was handed the conductor's baton in their midfield for the start of the 2011-12 season and would lead the Old Lady of Turin through an unbeaten league campaign and to the Serie A title. The tone was set 17 minutes into Pirlo's league debut against Parma in September 2011 at the new Juventus Stadium. Collecting a pass from Stephan Lichtsteiner, Pirlo instinctively flicked a delightful return ball into the box and Lichsteiner put Juve on their way to a 4-1 win. It was a sign of things to come. Pirlo would go on to deliver 13 assists in 36 Serie A appearances, operating as Juve's resplendent regista. He was the most influential midfielder in Italy and a footballer reborn under Conte. His mastery was mesmerising. Opposition midfielders pressed and harried, but Pirlo could not be denied the space he thrived in. When they did get close he dipped a shoulder and left them behind. And when he saw a pass he played it with such deft weight his teammate received it in stride. Euro 2012 arrived with Italian football embroiled in its latest match-fixing scandal, but Pirlo's majestic performances at the hub of Cesare Prandelli's Azzurri midfield would soon put that story to the back of our minds. For their first test in the group stage, Italy would face the might of Spain and a midfield boasting the talents of Xavi, Sergio Busquets and Xabi Alonso. But it was Pirlo who stole the show, ghosting past Busquets to play in Antonio Di Natale for their opener and controlling the rhythm of the game. Spain knew what they were up against. Xavi had talked of Pirlo being Italy's "genius with the ball" before the two teams came together, but there was nothing the world champions could do to stop him in Gdansk, Poland, that afternoon. The game finished 1-1, but it was Italy who edged the midfield battle. Pirlo's influence grew stronger still against Croatia. He was at his imperious best during the first half and capped his masterclass with a curled free-kick into the top corner to put Italy ahead. Pirlo finished with man-of-the-match honors, but Croatia fought back for a 1-1 draw. It was the Republic of Ireland next and Pirlo was once again to the fore. His corner led to Antonio Cassano's opener and Italy's 2-0 win saw them safely through to the quarterfinals, where they would face England. What followed was one of the most one-sided 0-0 draws you're ever likely to see. Despite England having had three Euro 2012 group games and an entire Serie A to draw on, Roy Hodgson's team found themselves completely dictated to by Pirlo. They could find no answer to his influence and might very well have been beaten out of sight on his command. They clung on. But as if Pirlo's superiority hadn't been obvious enough during those 120 minutes, he proceeded to put a paneka past Joe Hart in the penalty shootout to leave the England goalkeeper sprawling on the ground as the ball floated elegantly down the middle of the goal. Italy advanced and faced Germany in the semifinals, where the battle of contrasting styles would unfold in midfield. Writing for the Indepedent, Miguel Delaney described it as, "the abrasiveness of Bastian Schweinsteiger against the velvet control of Andrea Pirlo." Pirlo's velvet touch once again won out. Italy took the match 2-1 thanks to two Mario Balotelli goals and had negotiated their way to the final. The fitting end Pirlo deserved was denied by a rampant Spain, who came out firing and took down Italy 4-0. It was Andres Iniesta who was crowned UEFA player of the tournament, but Euro 2012 will be remembered as the tournament that very nearly belonged to Pirlo. The 33-year-old had won over a new audience with his elegant brand of play-making and gone about his romantic quest with a dignity that footballers everywhere should aspire to. We end 2012 with a now bearded Pirlo's Juve eights points clear at the top of Serie A and with the vision of his latest free-kick masterpiece—against Atalanta—to remind us of his enduring, seemingly effortless brilliance. He won't win the Ballon d'Or, but Pirlo won many, many hearts in 2012—mine included.

Buffon: 'What a splendid 2012' Dec 29, 2012 Gigi Buffon looks back over 2012, ahead to “at least another three years at the top” and claims Andrea Pirlo is on the same level as Leo Messi. “I am 34 and for a goalkeeper I don’t consider myself old. I am mature,” the Juventus star told Sport Mediaset. “I know where I can push myself and I think I have at least another three years at the top level. “This year has been very satisfying both on the field and off, so 2012 will be remembered for a long time. After two consecutive seventh-place finishes, we even surprised ourselves by doing something memorable. “It was all down to hard work, sweat and the fortune of being led by a great Coach. “As for Italy, nobody expected us to reach the Euro 2012 Final. It’s true, getting there isn’t the same as winning, but at the starting gate I dare anyone to say we were among the favourites to reach the Final.” It was hoped that Pirlo would win the Ballon d’Or after a year in which he took Juve to the Scudetto and was instrumental in Italy’s revival. “I think it’s impossible to say Messi isn’t the best player in the world, as it’ll be incredible if anyone is ever able to replicate his figures,” continued Buffon. “However, a striker always gets the front page headlines. For example, Pirlo is on the same level with Messi and anyone else in terms of quality, but he is a midfielder and won’t be treated the same way.”

Agnelli: 'Juve best is yet to come' Dec 29, 2012 Juventus President Andrea Agnelli looked back over his favourite memories of 2012 and promised “the best victory is always the next one.” The patron spoke to the official club website and was asked to comment on a year in which they won the title, reached the Coppa Italia Final, won the Italian Super Cup and qualified for the Champions League knockouts. “I think my favourite memory from 2012 was seeing 400,000 people on the streets on the day we won the Scudetto. That was something extraordinary. “I live up in the hills and heard the noise after the team’s victory against Cagliari in Trieste. Watching from afar, hearing and sensing what was going on, was something magnificent.” Agnelli was questioned over what present the Bianconeri supporters could expect under the tree this Christmas. “There are many things, but Juventus fans are perfectly aware that what happened in the past no longer counts for anything. “Juventus fans always want the next target, so we know we’ll have to work with professionalism, attention and tenacity, because the best victory is always the next one. “There certainly won’t be a lack of determination, knowing that 2013 will possibly be even tougher than this last year.”

Agnelli: There's more to come from Juventus The Bianconeri supremo reflected on the club's achievements during the past year, and insisted that the Old Lady must work even harder to achieve success in 2013. Dec 29, 2012 Juventus president Andrea Agnelli has warned that there is still more to come from his side in the future. The Turin outfit enjoyed a memorable 2012 as won the Scudetto and finished the year back on top of Serie A. The Bianconeri are also through to the round of 16 of the Champions League, where they are set to meet Celtic. Agnelli is confident that the club can reach new heights if they continue to work hard and fight to the end on all fronts. "I think seeing 400,000 people out and about on the day we won the Scudetto was something extraordinary," the Juventus president told the club's official website. "I live up in the hills, and I heard the noise after the team's triumph in Trieste. Watching from afar, hearing and sensing what was going on, was something magnificent. "Juventus fans are perfectly aware that what's happened in the past no longer counts for anything. Juventus fans always want the next target. "So we know we'll have to work with professionalism, attention and perseverance, because the best victory is always the next one. "There certainly won't be a lack of determination from me, knowing that 2013 will possibly be even tougher than last year."

Capello: Only Roma can challenge Juventus for Scudetto The experienced coach believes the Giallorossi are the only team in Italy capable of putting up a fight against the Bianconeri, and dismissed the chances of the Milanese clubs. Dec 29, 2012 Russia coach Fabio Capello has stated that only Roma are in any position to challenge Juventus for the Scudetto this season. The former England boss believes neither AC Milan nor Inter are capable of emerging victorious in the title race, and stated that the Giallorossi - who are 12 points behind the Old Lady in the standings - have a better chance. "I think that on paper the only team that can challenge Juventus is Roma," Capello told Sky Sport Italia. "This Juve team is doing well, you have to congratulate them even if they do not have any real competitors. In my days in charge of Juve, our opponents for the title were Milan, Inter and Roma. "Milan are now without many important players, but Roma are still up there and can put up a fight for the title." Capello then went on to comment on the rumours linking Daniele De Rossi with an exit from Roma in the upcoming transfer window. "I gave De Rossi his debut, as I did with Aquilani," the Italian added. "He is an important player and Zeman knows that, but he will have to adapt to the ideas of the coach. "I do not know what will happen in the future. The important thing is that the player is happy and hopefully this will rub off on his team-mates. De Rossi is a key player, who makes the difference."

Buffon believes Pirlo is 'same quality' as Messi The Old Lady's captain says his team-mate is as good as the Barcelona star, and adds that he wants to continue playing until he is 37 years old. Dec 29, 2012 Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon says that team-mate Andrea Pirlo is as good as Lionel Messi, but says his team-mate does not get as much recognition because he does not score as much. Messi has hit 91 goals during a record-breaking 2012, and while the Italy international praised the Barcelona legend, he believes Pirlo has similar abilities. “He's a once in a generation player. I think it's unlikely that any human being again will repeat the numbers that Messi is getting,” Buffon told Sport Mediaset. “But he is a striker, so numbers are on his side. I think Andrea Pirlo has the same sort of quality. “He does not have to envy anyone, but in the world of football, awards go to those who score goals.” The Juve captain also said his own recent success makes him believe he can play until he is at least 37-years-old, and admitted that last season's success had given him added confidence in his abilities. "I'm 34 and I do not feel old but mature," he said. "I know where I can go and I think I can play at least three more years at the highest level." Buffon led Juventus to a domestic double last term, winning the Serie A title and Super Cup, before captaining the Italian national team to the European Championship final, eventually losing out 4-0 to Spain. "2012 was a year full of sporting satisfaction, personal and otherwise," he added. "It was a year that I will remember for a long time. We were able to do something memorable thanks to hard work and sweat as well as the good fortune of being led by a great coach. "No one expected we were able to get to the final, we were not even remotely favorites."

Mourinho: I fear Juventus in the Champions League The Blancos boss compared the structure of the Italian champions' side to that of his triumphant 2004 Porto team. Dec 29, 2012 Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has admitted he is wary of the threat posed by Juventus in the Champions League. The Serie A champions finished top of a difficult qualifying group to progress to the knock-out phase, and the Portuguese boss has acknowledged that Antonio Conte's side will be tough to beat in this season's tournament. "I'll be honest: I do not like Juventus because I'm afraid of them," he said in an interview with Tuttosport. "And I say that Conte's team can win the Champions League. "It is a collective, an extremely compact, solid, almost unsinkable ship. Missing a top player in attack? That's just as well, I believe. This means that the goals can come from anywhere and at any time: a midfielder, a striker from outside the box. I mean it: it does not matter if there is a Benzema or Higuain in a team structured like that. "This reminds me of my Porto in 2004. And if anyone, by chance, had forgotten, Porto won the Champions League final in Gelsenkirchen."

Marchisio: Balotelli would struggle to adapt at Juventus The midfielder is of the opinion that the Italy international would have problems with the strict rules at the Bianconeri, and would not fit the team if he arrived in Turin. Dec 28, 2012 Juventus' Claudio Marchisio does not believe that Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli is disciplined enough to play for the Serie A title holders. The controversial striker has recently been linked with a move to the Old Lady, but the midfielder does not believer the former Inter player will be a good fit at the Bianconeri. "I would put a question mark over a potential transfer of Mario to the club," Marchisio told Il Messaggero. "Here, we have rules. He has tremendous talent, but I'm not sure whether he will be able to change here. "I don't think there's any money for a striker. Karim Benzema is someone I liked even before he went to Real Madrid – he reminds me of the first Ronaldo." Marchisio then went on to dismiss comparisons between Juve and Barcelona, insisting that the Old Lady try to play "purposeful" football. "Comparisons with Barca are nice, but they are exaggerated. The numbers speak for themselves. We are on the start of a path, trying to win by playing spectacular, but also purposeful football. "I want 2013 to be at least equal to 2012. We have to lift at least one trophy." Juventus currently top the Serie A table with an eight-point advantage over Lazio.

Marchisio on Balotelli, De Rossi & trophies Dec 28, 2012 Juventus midfielder Claudio Marchisio has claimed that he wants to win at least one trophy with the team this season. The Bianconeri won their 28th Scudetto last season, going the entire campaign unbeaten. And the 26-year-old has admitted that he would like to retain the title this year. “I want 2013 to be at least equal to 2012,” he told Il Messaggero. “We have to raise at least one trophy.” He also commented on the rumours that Mario Balotelli could move to the Old Lady, as well as revealing his friendship with Daniele De Rossi. “I would have a question mark over Mario's move here,” he said. “Here, we have rules. He has tremendous talent, but I'm not sure whether he will be able to change here. “De Rossi and I have so much in common. We came through the youth ranks at the team we supported. He is a true friend that has been built through the national team. “Daniele should be the focus of the project at Roma. He is the image of the club, along with Totti.” The Italy international then remarked on the comparisons between Juve and Barcelona, and also disclosed which striker he thinks the team should buy. “Comparisons with Barca are nice, but they are exaggerated. The numbers speak for themselves. “We are on the start of a path, trying to win playing spectacular but also purposeful football. “I don't think there's any money for a striker, however, Karim Benzema is someone I liked even before he went to Real Madrid – he reminds me of the first Ronaldo.”

Friday return for Juventus Dec 27, 2012 Italian champions Juventus will return to training on Friday after being given a week off for Christmas following the win over Cagliari. The squad will face a double session at Vinovo as boss Antonio Conte prepares his side for the January 6 home game against Sampdoria. Giorgio Chiellini, Nicklas Bendtner and Simone Pepe will not train as all three are struggling with injuries. Stephan Lichtsteiner will miss the Sampdoria encounter at the Juventus Stadium as the right-sided wing-back is suspended.