Socrates

Bonucci: 'We changed Italy's identity' Jul 1, 2012 Leonardo Bonucci was in floods of tears after Italy’s defeat to Spain, but insists the victory was “shaking off the reputation of catenaccio.” The defender was distraught at the final whistle of a 4-0 defeat that ended their Euro 2012 adventure. “It’s a heavy blow. You can lose a Final, but it hurts to lose it like this,” he told Rai Sport. “If we had been a different side from the start then we wouldn’t have lost 4-0. Spain probably would’ve won anyway, but we would’ve made it more difficult for them. “There was also such bad luck with two thigh strains and no substitutions left, so that knocked the wind out of our sails. “We came into the tournament off a friendly defeat to Russia, but we showed that we had character. That character was perhaps what was missing tonight, as we reached the Final completely exhausted. “When you play certain games, everyone wants to push through the pain and be there. Andrea Barzagli and Daniele De Rossi looked tired yesterday, so they rested for the training session. “I think we got the wrong approach from the start, as with a team of this level you can’t give them any space. “We came on after the break with a different level of determination, but then Iker Casillas saving from Toto Di Natale and Thiago Motta’s injury knocked us for six. There was no way back. “Spain are certainly a step above the rest and we have to keep working to reach their level, but we are on the right track. “We have earned our identity, shaken off the reputation of catenaccio and must now continue along this path.” Bonucci was part of an almost entirely Juventus-based defence along with Gigi Buffon, Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini. “When there is a block of players from the same club, they know each other well and so there was an excellent rapport. But this is also Cesare Prandelli’s side and he gave us an important identity, which was playing the ball at all times. “We showed against a great side like Germany that we could be united, solid and determined enough to run the game. We were missing something this evening.”

Chiellini: 'We were shattered' Jul 1, 2012 Giorgio Chiellini reveals he suffered the third different thigh strain of the last six weeks. “There was no time to recover.” The defender limped off in the opening minutes of the 4-0 defeat to Spain in the Euro 2012 Final. “There is certainly bitterness at the way the match went. We were tired beforehand, as shown by my injury and that of Thiago Motta, as it’s not easy to recover in two days from an intense game like the one against Germany,” Chiellini told Rai Sport. “Spain absolutely deserved to win, but it’s a shame we were unable to play the way we did in the group game. “In any case, nobody can doubt the effort we put in, as we have worked so hard and should still be proud of this tournament. It represents a starting point for our future, when we will aim to win.” Chiellini looked tired and off the pace during the opening goal, when Cesc Fabregas burst past him to set up David Silva, and went off injured soon after. It is his third thigh strain over the last six weeks, as Chiellini was also injured before the competition and in the Republic of Ireland game. “The fatigue of Thursday that led to the thigh strain – which is in a different place to the one against Ireland – showed my muscles just weren’t able to recover. “For many of us, this was the most important game of our careers. We really thought we could win this trophy and make the dream come true, but we have to admit Spain deserved the victory.”

Buffon: 'Hats off to Spain' Jul 1, 2012 Gianluigi Buffon took his hat off to Spain. “Italy had a wonderful journey, but they have an inestimable value.” The Azzurri had been unbeaten up to the Final in Kiev, but were defeated 4-0 by a side that made history with a third consecutive major tournament. “The game with Germany felt like a Final, but tonight there was nothing to be done,” the goalkeeper told Rai Sport. “They were too superior and so the regrets about losing are possibly less hard, as when you face a powerful and invulnerable force like this, you can accept the defeat easier. “We had a great tournament, it was a wonderful journey and clearly you want to win when in the Final, but here you do meet a side of your level. Tonight we met a team with an inestimable value. “We thank the fans with all our hearts, as they never abandoned us and it gave us pride to give them these emotions. At times you meet someone stronger and so credit to them. “The Nazionale belongs to everyone and is the only vehicle that reanimates and brings some joy back into the homes of fans.”

Marchisio: 'Italy deserve Final' Jul 1, 2012 Claudio Marchisio assures Italy are “confident” ahead of tonight’s Euro 2012 Final with Spain. “We deserve to be here.” These sides met on June 10 for a 1-1 draw in the group phase and are reunited in Kiev to fight for the trophy. “We can beat Spain, because our team has improved game after game, we deserve to be here and will give our all,” said the midfielder. “We both start on an even keel. Spain are a great side, but we are not beneath them. We’re confident. “It is a fundamental match and it doesn’t matter who steps on to the field, as all that counts is bringing home the victory that would be very important for all of Italian football. “Cesare Prandelli did very well to give us his ideas both on the field and off.”

Barzagli: 'Italy strength is unity' Jul 1, 2012 Andrea Barzagli believes Italy’s star man will be “the group” in tonight’s Euro 2012 Final against Spain. “We know what to do.” The Azzurri opened their tournament against the reigning World and European Champions in a 1-1 draw on June 10, but now they face off again. “Now for the most difficult game against the champions of everything,” said Barzagli, who was injured for that first encounter. “There is tiredness, but we watched videos and have been playing together for a month, so we know what to do. We’ve got positive sensations.” Andrea Pirlo is the favourite to be named MVP of the competition, but Barzagli believes Italy’s strengths lie elsewhere. “Who is our star man? The group, then clearly we hope that we put some individuals in a position to come out with a world class moment. “Spain might not fear us, but they respect us a great deal.”

Chiellini: 'Spain are only human' Jun 30, 2012 Giorgio Chiellini is confident Spain “are only human and we can beat them” in tomorrow’s Euro 2012 Final. Italy drew 1-1 with the reigning World and European Champions in the group phase on June 10, but they face off again in Kiev on Sunday. “They are only human and we can beat them,” smiled the Juventus defender. “Tomorrow we’re not going into the game to take revenge on anyone, but to make our dream come true. “Even through the fatigue, we can always find the energy to play a Final.”

Buffon: Prandelli has made Balotelli a better player The veteran goalkeeper has hailed the 21-year-old Manchester City striker's recent improvement ahead of the Azzurri's Euro 2012 final showdown with Spain. Jun 30, 2012 Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has declared that team-mate Mario Balotelli has improved as a player under coach Cesare Prandelli. The Manchester City striker turned in an impressive display in Italy's 2-1 victory against Germany in the Euro 2012 semi-finals, scoring two goals to move to the top of the competition's scoring charts. Prior to the tournament, Balotelli's antics on and off the pitch almost saw him left out of the squad, but Buffon is happy that the 21-year-old is finally showing signs of improvement. "Mario has been playing very well because before he had all these great qualities, and that is always a good start," Buffon told reporters at a press conference. "He is also part of a fantastic group of players, and he found a great coach like ours, who has made him a better player. "But obviously the main merit on his improvement is on himself because he has worked hard to reach this level." The Azzurri's opponents in Sunday's final, Spain, could have sealed Italy's exit before the knockout stages had they drawn 2-2 with Croatia in their final Group C match. And Buffon praised La Roja's honesty and quality, adding: "I wanted to pay my respect to Spain because they were honest and did not draw against Croatia to eliminate us. "Spain's best player? They have so many good players that it is very difficult to state my preference for one. "It would be a lack of respect to a collective that has dominated the world's football scene in the last 4-6 years. I respect all of them, cannot just say one." When questioned about Italy's chances, the Juventus goalkeeper acknowledged that Spain are favourites following their recent successes. "I am very happy that Spain are extremely motivated to play a final after winning a World Cup and Euro 2008," he stated. "They know now how it is to win and will have a small advantage because of that." Earlier in the tournament, Buffon cast doubt over Italy's chances of vicotry, but the 34-year-old thinks that his side have improved with each game. "I said that we would not win the Euros if we kept on playing like we did against Croatia, because we were not able to reflect our superiority in matches," he explained. "This has obviously changed, but we still have to wait for tomorrow to see if we are good enough to win the tournament."

Buffon wants to win Euro 2012 for Italy fans Cesare Prandelli's men take on Spain in the competition decider on Sunday, and the Juventus goalkeeper is eyeing glory as a way of repaying the supporters' loyalty. Jun 30, 2012 Gianluigi Buffon has stated that he wants to win Euro 2012 as a reward for Italy fans' loyalty. Cesare Prandelli's men take on Spain in the competition decider on Sunday, and the Azzurri captain is eyeing glory as a way of repaying the supporters for sticking with the side despite controversies in the game in Italy. “We are there, lads... We are there, fans... We are there, people,” the veteran Juventus stopper wrote on his Facebook page. “We are doing it for us, but also for you, who fire me up and take away two hours of every day so I can watch the street celebrations on YouTube. “For you who never abandoned us, for you who would’ve honoured the shirt the same way we are doing it... but also for The Dream. “The Dream that I found at the end of July 2011 when reading ‘The Dolphin’ by Sergio Bambaren. But we are still compact and vigil, as nothing has been achieved other than giving dignity and joy back to our country. “At these moments I like to remember the banner that I read as a child, when I used to collect the Supertifo fanzine and guard it jealously. “It was written by Foggia fans and read: ‘It is better to suffer so we can rejoice than kid ourselves and die.’ “This is also the reason behind my burst of anger after the Germany game. “A hug for everyone. AVANTI ITALIA!!!” he concluded.

Buffon and Casillas have been the best goalkeepers in the world for 10 years, says Pagliuca The two experienced keepers will go head-to-head in the Euro 2012 final between the Azzurri and La Roja on Sunday, and have been praised by the former Nazionale international. Jun 30, 2012 Former Italy international Gianluca Pagliuca has stated that Gianluigi Buffon and Iker Casillas have been the best goalkeepers in the world for the last 10 years. The experienced duo will go head-to-head on Sunday as Spain face the Azzurri in the final of Euro 2012 in Kiev, and the retired shot-stopper feels it will be a top-quality clash. "They are the two goalkeepers that have dominated the international scene for years," he told Goal.com Italy. "If the Azzurri win, Gigi [buffon] will equal the titles won by Casillas; a World Cup and the European Championship. "Although they have different characteristics, they are undoubtedly the two best goalkeepers of the past 10 years. "Buffon is taller and has a great sense of position, while Casillas is more responsive, but in the end they will undoubtedly be counted among the greatest goalkeepers in the history of football." The 45-year-old went on to state that he feels Spain would have rather faced Germany at the final hurdle and that Cesare Prandelli's men will win the competition. "Spain, despite being the favourites on paper, we should not fear. In my opinion the Spaniards would have preferred to meet Germany in the final, who would have been a much easier opponent," he added. "For me the Azzurri have a good chance of winning. The Furia Roja have a really strong team, but watch out for Italy; the enthusiasm of the team can make a difference. "I see Italy winning; 2-1 to the Azzurri," he predicted.

Casillas: I always wanted to be like Buffon The Spain goalkeeper has spoken of his admiration for his Italian counterpart ahead of Sunday's Euro 2012 final in which both men will captain their national sides. Jun 30, 2012 Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas has revealed he has always aimed to emulate Italy counterpart Gianluigi Buffon. Both shot-stoppers will captain their national sides in the Euro 2012 final on Sunday, hoping to further add to their numerous honours at club and international level. And, despite the 31-year-old having matched the Italian in the eyes of many observers, Casillas admits he still looks up to the Juventus star. "Buffon has my admiration and maximum respect," he told Onda Madrid. "He is an exceptional goalkeeper and at 34 is still amongst the best. "For goalkeepers that are a little younger than him he has been a reference, he has driven us and we wanted to be like him. We have a good relationship and every time we meet it is a pleasure." The Spaniard also insisted that the Azzurri will be a tough nut to crack in Kiev, after they knocked out Joachim Low's much-vaunted Germany in the semi-finals. "At the end we will return to face the team we opened the tournament against," he added. "The opponent didn't matter to me because Germany, like Italy, appeared very good, each one with their own style of football. "Italy is a dangerous rival that will make it difficult for us."

Sirigu: Buffon is not only a great player and captain, but also a problem-solver in the group The Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper praised the current Italian number one, insisting ahead of the Euro 2012 final against Spain that he provides comfort to the squad. Jun 30, 2012 Italy goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu has spoken of his admiration for captain Gianluigi Buffon, despite the fact that he is yet to feature at Euro 2012. The Paris Saint-Germain shot-stopper has only been capped twice by the Azzurri, but maintained that he has no qualms about playing second-fiddle to the Juventus goalkeeper. Buffon has been in inspired form in the European Championship, making a number of key saves, whilst also saving an Ashley Cole penalty in the 4-2 shoot-out victory over England in the quarter-final. Sirigu insists that Buffon remains a key figure - not only for him as a goalkeeper, but for the entire squad as a leader. "His most important quality, before being a great player or a great captain, is that Gianluigi [buffon] is a very down-to-earth man," the 25-year-old told RMC Sport. "It's nice, he is amiable. He is the person who solves problems, who comforts us, that's a reference point in the group."

Buffon: 'Same emotions as 2006' Jun 30, 2012 Gianluigi Buffon admits he feels “the same emotions and belief” as before Italy’s 2006 World Cup Final, but notes Spain have shown “superiority” over recent years. “Clearly these are the same emotions and the same belief. Whether it ends the same or not, we just have to wait and see. When you start a certain journey in a tournament at this level, there are evidently many analogies,” said the goalkeeper in his Press conference. Buffon had noted after starting the group with two 1-1 draws against Spain and Croatia that Italy could not win Euro 2012. “I said we wouldn’t win because in my view the way Euro 2012 started saw a team that showed its superiority. The only problem is we are facing them tomorrow! At least we’re starting out from 0-0. “Spain have so many champions, from goalkeepers, defenders and midfielders to strikers, that singling one out as the biggest danger would be a lack of respect to the other players who have been part of this squad for the last glorious six years. “They have dominated the football world in that time and so I compliment them, but it’s right to face Spain in their best condition, so I hope everyone is ready.” “I think it is right for the best and most talented to win. Spain have a greater chance of winning, as after four years they have great confidence, belief and individuals. “Italy have been a surprise, so we hope we can continue surprising to the end.” Buffon conceded the Nazionale has changed its approach to become the most entertaining and openly attacking side at Euro 2012. “Despite the fact we won four World Cups, there comes a time when you need the humility and strength to change. The Coach did very well to give us the right direction, otherwise it would not have been easy.” The pressure on Spain to make history with three major titles in a row, but the shot-stopper doubts that will be damaging. “I think I’d be happy and probably within me would have more belief if I was facing a Final after winning a World Cup and Euros. These are sensations they have already experienced and that can be a slight advantage. “Iker Casillas? I think he is a great goalkeeper and I admire him very much. I’m very happy to be here, as a year ago I plummeted down the standings of best goalkeepers in the world, so I hope to be up to the task now.” Just as in 1982 and 2006, the Azzurri have reached the Final of a major tournament during a scandal back home. “There is something in the Italian mentality. Quite aside from all the chatter, Italians have a sense of responsibility, respect and love for the shirt that goes beyond any limitation. To raise our flag and make people proud of it is key and we tend to create a group that thinks with a single mind-set. That is our strength.” Mario Balotelli appears to have found a sense of responsibility within the Italy camp and Buffon explains why. “Mario played very well, because first of all he is a player who has immense qualities and that is a good start. Secondly, he entered into a group of great champions, both in football and human terms. He also found a Coach like ours who in many ways managed to get the best out of him. “The credit for Balotelli’s success lies with Mario, because he wanted this and fought for it. A little credit goes to the others too. “It’s true, I sing the anthem with emotion and trepidation, because I care. Italy are my country, the nation I was born in and where I lost two great-grandfathers in war, so this is the least I can do to show my recognition.” Buffon was asked whether it was true that a strong Juventus has given Italy a solid foundation to build upon. “It is useful to have a group of players who already work well together and that can make the Coach’s job easier. They needn’t be Juventus players, but Milan, Inter or any other club too.” He was also asked why Italian clubs struggle in the Champions League compared to Premier League sides, yet on an international level the Azzurri always out-perform England. “Having a competitive League does not mean you have competitive players. England have for a few years shown entertaining football at club level, but are also the nation with the most buying power, so they can afford to spend millions on imports. “This is why I think England – but it happens in Italy and Spain too – no longer feel represented by their League. With the globalisation of football, you struggle. I will also say England are not lucky, as they keep going out on penalties, so that really is a fine line between success and failure.”

Ramos: 'Pirlo is unique' Jun 30, 2012 Sergio Ramos hailed “unique” Andrea Pirlo, but trusts Spain can make history in tomorrow’s Euro 2012 Final. These sides met in the first game of their groups for a 1-1 draw on June 10 and come back together in Kiev on Sunday night. “It is always good to know more on your opponents. As we faced Italy in the group phase, that is handy,” said Sergio Ramos. “We know their strengths, just as we know their weaknesses. Pirlo is a unique player and one of Italy’s leaders. However, we must be wary of everyone and not just one individual. They reached the Final thanks to their team performances.”

Buffon: 'Avanti Italia!' Jun 30, 2012 Gianluigi Buffon sent another passionate message to fans ahead of the Euro 2012 Final. “It is better to suffer so we can rejoice than kid ourselves and die. Avanti Italia!” Italy go head-to-head with Spain in Kiev on Sunday evening, repeating their first game of the tournament that ended 1-1. “We are there, lads... We are there, fans... We are there, people...” wrote Buffon on his Facebook page. “We are doing it for us, but also for you, who fire me up and take away two hours of every day so I can watch the street celebrations on YouTube. “For you who never abandoned us, for you who would’ve honoured the shirt the same way we are doing it... but also for The Dream. “The Dream that I found at the end of July 2011 when reading ‘The Dolphin’ by Sergio Bambaren. But we are still compact and vigil, as nothing has been achieved other than giving dignity and joy back to our country. “At these moments I like to remember the banner that I read as a child, when I used to collect the Supertifo fanzine and guard it jealously... “It was written by Foggia fans and read: ‘It is better to suffer so we can rejoice than kid ourselves and die.’ “This is also the reason behind my burst of anger after the Germany game. “A hug for everyone. AVANTI ITALIA!!!” Buffon was livid at the final whistle of the 2-1 semi-final victory over Germany and later explained it was because he couldn’t believe Italy had risked extra time when in command for so long.

Watch out Messi & Ronaldo: Pirlo is now a real contender for the Ballon d'Or The magnificent midfielder has been at the centre of Italy's charge to the Euro 2012 final, and a victory on Sunday would confirm him as a front-runner for the world player award. Jun 29, 2012 'Stop Andrea Pirlo to stop Italy' has been the modus operandi of the Azzurri’s opponents at Euro 2012, and with good reason. But just as was the case for Juventus' Serie A rivals in 2011-12, it is proving much easier said than done. And with the four-time world champions standing just 90 minutes from a second taste of continental glory, the regista is making the greatest claim imaginable to be crowned the world’s best footballer. In an age when the bickering between Messi-ites and Ronaldo-ites can sometimes reach a level of utter tedium, Pirlo has delivered some magnificent performances in crucial fixtures to carry both his club and country to important victories. Another mesmerising display against England on Sunday and a man of the match performance in Thursday’s semi-final win over Germany have further strengthened the former AC Milan man’s position as one of the modern game’s very best players. PERFECT PIRLO SPAIN - GROUP C 3.5 - His delivery was uncharacteristically poor early on but he soon played a few exquisite passes. Was quiet for much of the rest of the game until he slid a beautiful pass to Di Natale who slotted in. CROATIA - GROUP C 3.5 - His all-round performance was of the highest class, with a series of fine corners and many great passes capped by a glorious free kick. IRELAND - GROUP C 3.0 - Had a really poor start but then rose to his usual role for Italy and again was at the centre of each of his team's attacks. ENGLAND - QUARTER-FINAL 3.5 - Played a few good passes as he was afforded too much space on the ball, creating a good opportunity with an exquisite pass before the break. He continued to dictate the game in the second half and pulled all the strings. Put his penalty down the middle with a classy Panenka. GERMANY - SEMI-FINAL 4.0 - Italy's midfield architect, he oozed class once again. Never panicked on the ball and picked his passes at will as Italy were able to retain possession. On the face of it, it wasn’t necessarily a vintage Pirlo effort which helped Italy through to the final as they beat Joachim Low’s side 2-1, but he played no small part in their triumph. On an uneven surface, Pirlo was able to master the conditions perfectly as he turned in another metronomic display in the centre of the park. Germany struggled to maintain position, but Pirlo didn’t. Again, he laid the platform for the Azzurri on the ball, guiding them around the park from his position at the axis, dictating operations in the unflustered manner to which we have all become so accustomed over the years. But there has been something more about him in the past 12 months. Back to full fitness after a long lay-off in 2010-11, the midfielder has also been able to show a burning desire, the like of which was arguably missing for a couple of years at the end of his Milan career. He has a real thirst to be the catalyst for everything that is good about Juventus and that has extended into his displays for the national team, too. At a time when Italian football is castigated at the drop of a hat, admiration of Pirlo is only increasing, and with good reason. But perhaps last night was the greatest proof yet that he is in the running to gatecrash the duopoly of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in the Ballon d’Or race. In a game where massive contributions by Daniele De Rossi, Mario Balotelli and Andrea Barzagli were arguably more worthy of the official man of the match award, it was Pirlo who was deigned the game’s stand-out by the sponsors, proving that he is a man currying favour at the right time. While league displays are all well and good, it is common practice for the big awards to be reflective of contributions at major international tournaments. Ronaldo (of Brazil) won the Ballon d’Or a decade ago on the strength of his magnificent performances at the World Cup in Japan and South Korea, while Fabio Cannavaro’s story was much the same four years later. Pirlo is now in a great position to follow them, and victory for Italy over Spain on Sunday can surely only strengthen his case. In the Twitter age in which we now live, it is also notable, studying many a timeline, that Pirlo is receiving increasing praise from the world’s media on a daily basis, and as they hold voting rights in the awarding of the honour, that can only help the midfielder’s case. The one drawback in his bid to win the Ballon d’Or at the moment is his lack of games at Champions League level, with Juve having missed out on any European involvement last time out. However, by the time the votes are tallied at the end of the year, the Bianconeri will have played in the 2012-13 group stages, meaning a couple more man of the match performances on the continental stage remain a possibility before the year is out. And if, by then, he is a European champion at national level and a key man in a successful Juventus side making strides in the Champions League, few will even remember that he wasn’t involved in the competition last season. Being the best player in Serie A and the player of the tournament at the Euros in the first half of the year will surely be more than enough to satisfy the doubters as long as next season starts well. What must also be reiterated is that his contribution for Juve could not have been more crucial. A minnow in the world game they may not be, but they were not on the firm foundations of a Barcelona or Real Madrid when their assault on the Scudetto began. Far from it. Yet Pirlo steered them towards the prize almost single-handedly at times, and with his performances in the national colours matching those at club level, hatfuls of goals against the Granadas and Zaragozas of the world just don’t compare. So if Italy do topple Spain from their perch as Europe’s best on Sunday, expect their No.21 to follow with a huge prize of his own. In a modern game full of hyperbole, it is delivering on the big stage that really counts, and nobody has done that better than the unstoppable Pirlo so far in 2012.

Priceless Pirlo is the best signing of my career, says Marotta After a string of fine performances for the Azzurri, Juventus director has hailed the impact the former AC Milan midfielder has made on his squad since arriving in Turin. Jun 29, 2012 Juventus general director Giuseppe Marotta has heaped praise on Andrea Pirlo, saying that it is impossible to put a price on the Italy regista. The 33-year-old has played a leading role in the Azzurri's Euro 2012 campaign, racking up one goal and two assists so far, and was named man of the match in the team's 2-1 victory against Germany on Thursday. Such performances have followed up a fine domestic season, where Pirlo helped Juve to their first Scudetto since 2002-03, and Marotta hailed the impact the midfielder has made. "Pirlo has been amazing, I think he is the best signing of my career," he told Rai Sport. "The circumstances were favourable for us to land him, just like when Sampdoria signed Antonio Cassano. "An improved contract? He is a great professional, so that is just trivial. The most important thing is that he continues to make the difference. "How much he is worth? Players like him are priceless.

Giovinco or Marchisio could inherit Del Piero's shirt The Italy duo are the main contenders for the jersey, but the Bianconeri could wait until the end of the summer before making a decision given their pursuit of Robin van Persie. Jun 29, 2012 Both Claudio Marchisio and Sebastian Giovinco are reportedly in contention to inherit Alessandro Del Piero's No.10 shirt at Juventus next season. According to the Corriere dello Sport, the former is a major candidate for the coveted jersey given that he is Turin born and raised, and Bianconero true and true. Indeed, bar a season-long loan at Empoli during the 2007-08 campaign, Marchisio, who currently wears No.8, has been at Juve since he was seven. However, the paper claims that Giovinco is also being considered. The 25-year-old attacker is also a product of the club's youth academy and has been considered the heir to Del Piero's throne since his days with the Primavera. Giovinco, though, has only just returned to the club after two seasons with Parma and the feeling is that if the No.10 shirt is to go to a new arrival, it should be bestowed upon their most high-profile summer signing. Indeed, given the Serie A champions are currently doing their utmost to tempt Arsenal striker Robin van Persie to Turin, and it is believed that the club will await the outcome of that particular pursuit before making a final decision, particularly in light of the Dutchman's fondness for the jersey.

Merkel hails artistic Pirlo Jun 29, 2012 German youngster Alexander Merkel has hailed the ability of Italian international Andrea Pirlo. “He is football.” The 20-year-old played alongside Pirlo at Milan before the latter joined Juventus and Merkel moved to Genoa. “Pirlo is football,” the midfielder told Stuttgarter Zeitung. “It is incredible what he can do with the ball and how he can anticipate situations. “The way that he had the courage to chip that penalty in the shoot-out against England was pure art – it left you speechless. “I’m happy that I was able to play alongside a player like him and I learned from him on a daily basis. He used to give me useful advice to help me improve.”

Kompany: Milan made Pirlo error Jun 29, 2012 Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany has questioned Milan’s decision to let Andrea Pirlo leave the club on a free transfer. The Diavolo didn’t offer the midfielder a new contract last summer and he subsequently joined Juventus on a Bosman. In less than a year, he masterminded the Old Lady’s Scudetto victory and he’s been immense at Euro 2012 so far. “Milan believed Pirlo was finished and let him go to Juventus,” the Belgium international stated on his Twitter account. “He has now won the title with Juventus and leads his country to the Final. He’s a top player.”

Peerless Pirlo is priceless, say Juve Jun 29, 2012 Italy and Juventus playmaker Andrea Pirlo is priceless, insists the man who signed him on a free transfer from Milan. Pirlo has had a season to remember after guiding Juve to the Scudetto and now masterminding Italy’s progression to the Final of Euro 2012. “Players like that have no price, but he has an absolute value,” Bianconeri director general Beppe Marotta stated. “He is a great professional and the most important thing is that he continues to make the difference next season too. “Pirlo was superb against Germany in the semi-finals and I think he has been the best signing of my career. “Sometimes favourable opportunities appear and you have to take them, it was like when I signed Antonio Cassano for Sampdoria from Real Madrid.” Pirlo, 33, left Milan last summer on a Bosman after the Diavolo opted against offering the playmaker a new contract.

Pirlo: 'We've done nothing yet' Jun 28, 2012 Andrea Pirlo received another Man of the Match award against Germany, but warns Italy “haven’t done anything yet.” The Azzurri swept Germany aside 2-1 in the semi-final and now face Spain on Sunday in Kiev. “I have always tried to give my best and work for the team. After the World Cup we had a few problems and failed to get more success, but we earned this Final and now have to go for it. “We haven’t done anything yet, as it’d be like going to Rome and not seeing The Pope. We are in the Final, but we need the victory. “We require the same spirit, determination and mentality as we showed both against England and Germany tonight.” Pirlo was a key figure in the 2006 World Cup victory and was asked if this Euro 2012 campaign reminded him of that adventure. “There are similarities, as we want to experience these sensations and there are many players who have never really enjoyed this level. Now we are preparing for a great Final.”

Bonucci: 'Now bring on Spain' Jun 28, 2012 Leonardo Bonucci warned Italy “must not rest on our laurels” after sweeping Germany aside to face Spain in the Euro 2012 Final. “The credit goes to the whole team, as we attack and defend in a united fashion, so that makes it easier for the defenders. “Now we mustn’t rest on our laurels, as Sunday is very close and we want to win this trophy. “Considering the way Spain play, it’s not easy when dealing with those who come up from deep and run into space, but we showed in the group game that we were equal to them and can counter them.” Italy opened their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Spain, but at the time adopted a 3-5-2 system. Will they return to that for the Final? “That is something the Coach will decide, also looking at the lessons from the group game, but we are ready for any system.”

Buffon: 'I was so angry!' Jun 28, 2012 Gianluigi Buffon reveals he was livid at the final whistle of a 2-1 win over Germany. “We can’t play with fire after a performance like that.” The Azzurri had dominated the match, but conceded a late penalty and risked throwing away their 2-0 lead. “We are playing for something unique and totally prestigious, so it’s not right with the performance we put in to risk it in the last five minutes and play with fire. “If they had scored with a lucky ricochet for 2-2, we’d end up losing in extra time 9-2. We are playing in the Euros here and cannot take it lightly. “I always evaluate performances and attitudes rather than strictly wins or losses. We are still young, apart from a few old men in the squad, and need to learn. It’s only right for the old men to tell them off and stir up trouble. “We played a great game and could’ve won with a larger result, but there were times when we were even and made the most of incidents. It doesn’t take much to change a match. It went well for us tonight.” Buffon made a sensational save on Sami Khedira and Mario Balotelli scored moments later. “For a goalkeeper like me I think it was a good response, but it’s nothing new. I’m sorry if someone is surprised… There were two or three ricochets that we were lucky with and must be honest to evaluate everything not just the result. “I know there are many people who love me and I try to repay them with performances. I will smile when we’ve won and we haven’t done that yet.” The goalkeeper also revealed how he prepared for the Euro 2012 semi-final against Germany. “I barely slept, but did not study our opponents, I spent an hour and a half watching YouTube clips of the celebrations in the streets in Italy after our victory over England. That gave me goosebumps and I can only imagine what’s happening now.”

Chiellini: 'Dream isn't over' Jun 28, 2012 Giorgio Chiellini admits it was “a dream” just to be in the semi-final after his injury and now Italy “want to lift that trophy.” The Azzurri defender went off during the Republic of Ireland game with a thigh problem and many thought his tournament was over, but he played the whole 90 minutes of this 2-1 semi-final win over Germany. “To be honest, 10 days ago it was just a dream to be here and I must thank the medical staff for getting me back so quickly. “We are certainly living a dream and with us millions of Italians. We want to keep dreaming and make it come true on Sunday. We will enjoy this victory for a few more minutes, but then our thoughts go to the Final.” Germany had won their last 15 competitive matches in a row, but confirmed their tradition of never beating Italy in a major tournament. “Tradition or not, the present is what counts and we believed from the start. I don’t know about others, but we were convinced we could win this game and had everything to trouble Germany. “It’s natural they have great players and were dangerous, but we defended well and in all honesty 3-0 would’ve been a fitting result,” said Chiellini. The Azzurri now face Spain in the Final on Sunday in Kiev, a repeat of their opening group game that ended 1-1. “This was a stepping stone and now we have the final peak to conquer. We believed in this dream from the start to the 95th and now we want to lift that trophy.”

Marchisio: 'So tired!' Jun 28, 2012 Claudio Marchisio reveals he missed a great chance to score a third against Germany because he was “so tired I could barely see.” The midfielder drilled wide rather than pass to Antonio Di Natale, who may have been offside, in the 2-1 win over Germany. “I apologised to Di Natale, as I could barely see any more I was so tired and so had to try a shot. “The greatest moment will be the next game if we win the Euros. We’re utterly exhausted. It was such a good start with Mario (Balotelli) and we were clinical, which we haven’t been so far. “It was a fantastic performance, we have shown that we are up to the task against Spain and Germany. “Now we’re facing Spain again and it’s about bringing out what we have left after all this fatigue. “This victory is for the fans and we hope this success can bring solace and enjoyment during this time of crisis.”