Fabio Paratici

[Socrates 8949]

'Scudetto race not over yet' -
Marotta warns Juventus to be wary of Roma threat

The Bianconeri lead Serie A by eight points but the club's director
general says that Antonio Conte's men cannot afford to ease up.

Apr 9, 2014

Giuseppe Marotta has warned Juventus against writing off Roma as they look to wrap up their third straight Scudetto.

With just six rounds of the Serie A season remaining, the Bianconeri have an eight-point lead over the Giallorossi, who have been rocked by the news that in-form forward Mattia Destro will miss four games through suspension.

However, the Bianconeri general manager has no doubt that Rudi Garcia's men will still be able to maintain their surprise title challenge.

"Destro is a little champion, but Roma can do without him, as they are a great team," Marotta told reporters. "The club is highly motivated, play well together and can cover for his absence.

"We have a good lead at the top, consolidated with an extraordinary campaign, but there are still 18 points to go and the Scudetto race isn’t over yet."

Marotta also stressed that being the dominant team in Italy has not been easy for Juve.

"For three seasons we have been the pace-setters and this puts a lot of strain on a side," he explained.

"But thanks to Antonio Conte we have maintained our position at the top and will try to stay there for even longer."

Juve's success this season has been founded on the sensational goalscoring form of summer signings Carlo Tevez and Fernando Llorente and Marotta finds it extraordinary that neither the Argentine nor his Spanish accomplice are likely to travel to Brazil with their respective nations.

"Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente have scored 31 goals between them and I think they both deserve to go to the World Cup," he stated.

[Socrates 8949]

Marotta dismisses Pogba-PSG Link:
Juventus would reject €70 million

The Bianconeri official has dismissed talk of the 21-year-old leaving Turin,
insisting that he is confident of persuading the midfielder to sign a contract extension.

Apr 11, 2014

Juventus general manager Giuseppe Marotta has rejected rumours of a possible deal with Paris Saint-Germain for Paul Pogba, claiming the club would reject the reported €70 million on the table for the France international.

The 21-year-old enjoyed a fine first half to the season but his poor form since January has sparked speculation that he has had his head turned by PSG's reported interest in signing him this summer.

Marotta, though, insists that there is no truth in stories that Juve have already agreed to sell the midfielder for €70 million.

"The rumours about the transfer of Pogba to PSG have no foundation," he told La Repubblica. "We want to keep Paul and prolong his contract.

"It's true that €70 million would be an attractive figure, but Juventus is a club that always aims to win trophies.

“In the past, these kind of sacrifices have been made - for example, we sold Zidane to take Buffon and Nedved - but this is not the case.

“Anyway, today we do not have a concrete proposal, so there is nothing to talk about.”

With Juve currently eight points clear at the top of Serie A, Marotta admitted that he is hoping that Antonio Conte's men pull off a league and cup double by winning the Europa League at Juventus Stadium on May 14.

He said: “A third consecutive title would go into history and as for the cup, the final in our stadium gives us even more reason to honour this competition.”

[Socrates 8949]

Marotta: Scuffet has great promise

Apr 15, 2014

Beppe Marotta has commented that Simone Scuffet ‘has great promise’, as he enthuses at Juventus’ fitness as a group.

The Old Lady defeated Udinese 2-0 on Monday evening with director general taking a pre-match interview and the subject of conversation the Zebrette’s promising 17-year-old ‘keeper.

“I will say that he has great promise, because whilst he has yet to confirm it, I believe he has all the requirement to do something important in the game,” Marotta told Sky Sport Italia.

“This begins with a quality that I think is enough for him to truly cover the goal excellently.”

Marotta also considered that the Udinese match was the club’s 48th of the season.

“Yes this really is remarkable, the great professionalism shown by the group, an extraordinary group because we have played 47 [sic, now 48] matches so far.

“And then we can even add to that the eight official games played by the national team players. We have demonstrated that whilst we cannot always go at the maximum, we definitely want to round off this season with two objectives that are clearly important.”

[Socrates 8949]

Marotta: Juve are a buying club

Apr 16, 2014

Juventus sporting director Beppe Marotta has insisted that the club will endeavour to keep Paul Pogba this summer.

Several of Europe’s biggest clubs, including Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, have been linked with a move for the France international at the end of the season.

But the Bianconeri board member has claimed that the Turin outfit would do all they could to keep the youngster, after Gianluigi Buffon admitted earlier on Wednesday that he would ‘understand’ if Pogba was sold.

“Buffon’s statement on Pogba and financial equilibrium? Buffon made an argument not only as a player but also as a businessman,” he told Sky Sport Italia.

“We will make the appropriate evaluations on the squad, but I reiterate that Juve are a buying club not a selling one.”

[Socrates 8949]

'Conte extension at end of season'

Apr 16, 2014

Beppe Marotta has revealed that Juventus will sit down with Antonio Conte at the end of the season and discuss a contract renewal.

The 44-year-old has a deal with the Bianconeri until June 2015, but the sporting director has admitted that they are likely to sign an extension soon.

“Conte has already said that a renewal will be discuss at the end of the current season,” he told Sky Sport Italia.

“We, as a club, are fully satisfied with the work of our Coach. He has a contract with us, and is our leader.

“We are really proud to have Antonio with us.

“We have already spoken, and by mutual agreement we have agreed to meet after winning something special - whether that's the Scudetto or the Europa League...or both!"

[Socrates 8949]

Marotta 'not aware' of Zidane call

Apr 29, 2014

Juventus general manager Beppe Marotta has said he is not aware of any call from Real Madrid's Zinedine Zidane to Paul Pogba.

Speculation about the 21-year-old France international's future continues to mount, even though he still has two years to run on his contract in Turin.

Reports in Spain have suggested that Zidane, Carlo Ancelotti's assistant at Real, had been in contact with Pogba about a move to the La Liga giants.

But Marotta told Sky Sport Italia: "I am not aware of this phone call taking place, nor am I aware of there being any interest from Real Madrid.

"Our player is focused on finishing the season with Juventus, and then he will turn his thoughts to the World Cup."

Pogba has also been linked with a move to Paris Saint-Germain -- although Marotta stressed that it would take a huge bid for his club to even consider negotiating.

"You all know how much was paid for Bale," he said. "We have the fortune of being able to decide Pogba's future for ourselves. He's a lad who's maturing well, and we're delighted to have him."

[Socrates 8949]

Marotta: Hands down on Conte

May 1, 2014

Beppe Marotta has called for an end to the dispute between Juventus and Roma over comments exchanged between Coaches.

Rudi Garcia’s call last week for opponents to up their game against the Bianconeri drew Antonio Conte’s ire and criticism that in turn saw the Giallorossi’s director general Mauro Baldissoni get involved.

Now though, the Old Lady’s dg has stepped in and has looked to put an end to the war of words.

“That’s enough, hands down on Conte, and no lessons from others, thanks,” Marotta has commented to the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport this week.

“I can assure you that when Roma win, we will be the first to applaud.”

[Socrates 8949]

Marotta: 'Credit to Conte'

May 4, 2014

Beppe Marotta gave Antonio Conte much of the credit for a third consecutive Juventus Scudetto and will try to keep Paul Pogba.

The club hadn’t been able to win three on the bounce since the 1930s, but celebrated today after Roma’s 4-1 defeat at Catania.

“Conte drilled this mentality into the squad from the first day he arrived, so much of the credit for this Scudetto goes to him, as it’s an historic occasion,” general manager Marotta told Sky Sport Italia.

“It is a victory for everyone, even the invisible team that works in the background. It is a hugely important achievement.

“We knew from the start it would be tough between European competition and Serie A. We were really hungry and motivated to secure this title.”

Marotta was asked about Conte’s contract renegotiations, which they said would only resume after the season was over.

“We’ll have an opportunity to see each other calmly next week. I consider Conte among the best Coaches in the world, both for his football strategy and the way he motivates the group. He is precious for Juventus and we are holding on tight.”

The same goes for midfielder Pogba, who is reportedly at the centre of a €70m bidding war between Real Madrid and PSG.

“We told him our intention of renewing his contract and obviously to keep him here. We need to meet again in order to work out the numbers, but we do want to go forward together.

“Paul is intelligent and knows professionally he has the chance to grow in good time here. It’s difficult to predict his exit.

“Last summer we improved with Carlos Tevez, Fernando Llorente and Angelo Ogbonna. We’ll improve even more next season, albeit keeping in mind Financial Fair Play, so there will be no crazy spending.”

[Socrates 8949]

Marotta drops Juve transfer hint

May 5, 2014

Juventus director Beppe Marotta confessed “one signing will arrive from Ligue 1, the Liga or Premier League.”

The general manager spoke to Sky Sport Italia ahead of the Scudetto celebrations in tonight’s game with Atalanta.

He was asked whether the Bianconeri had made a bid for Atalanta midfielder Giacomo Bonaventura, who is also wanted by Fiorentina.

“Bonaventura is a complete player who has grown a great deal in recent years, but we do not have any agreement with him,” replied Marotta.

“We are still looking for players who are tactically versatile and can take different roles. I can say one signing will arrive from Ligue 1, the Liga or the Premier League.”

Marotta refused to name names, but was asked about recent meetings with Real Madrid President Florentino Perez.

“He asked me for many more players than I asked him.”

This nonetheless confirms Juventus have requested some Real Madrid players and vice versa.

[Socrates 8949]

Marotta: Conte? Next week…

May 15, 2014

Beppe Marotta has reiterated that talks over Antonio Conte’s future at Juventus will only happen after the season has officially ended.

The Old Lady has already wrapped up a third consecutive League title with a record points haul, and attention has now shifted to Coach Conte’s future, amid his hints of late that he could be set to leave.

The 44-year-old was yesterday at Juventus Stadium to watch the Europa League Final and was pictured sitting alongside former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

Asked if this was significant, Juve’s director general made clear the situation regarding Conte will only be discussed after Week 38’s match with Cagliari.

“Yesterday was a festive atmosphere, a final of a major competition like the Europa League and it is always a reason to meet with other protagonists, such as icons like Sir Alex Ferguson,” Marotta began in conversation with Sky Sport 24.

“So it is right that Conte could perhaps take some advice from him regarding his future as a Coach.

“I just have to point out that the climate between us is absolutely calm. On the matter with Conte much has been said and written, even by me in previous weeks.

“We have this final week, as we have said, to seal the achievement of an extraordinary goal, whilst we prepare for this party.

“After the game, the season officially ends, then next week we will talk about the future, including the question of the Coach.

“Our first target is to retain Conte? We have said it more than once. Now I cannot add anything else because you are likely to misunderstand.

“Next week, as I have said, after the game with Cagliari, the season is closed, work will begin for the next season and then it will be dealt with correctly and necessarily, including the theme related to the Coach.

“Should fans be worried about Conte’s statements? Absolutely not. It seems right to give fair recognition for what Conte has done, as we have repeatedly pointed out - Conte is a prepared Coach, a Coach who has had a profound effect in reaching the objectives achieved by the club, whilst clearly the concern from the fans is a wise concern.

“Can I imagine a Juventus without Conte? I can tell you that today I reserve appreciation for what Conte has demonstrated and is demonstrating, he is one of the best Coaches out there. That’s it.”

Juve missed out on the chance of making yesterday evening’s final, after a semi-final elimination to Benfica, who ultimately lost out to Sevilla on penalties.

“This is football, unfortunately we must accept the verdict of the field. Certainly there was regret because it was a goal that in our minds we could reach, but we did not succeed and that is football.

“Sunday’s celebrations? The protocol is the delivery of the Scudetto by Lega Calcio President Roberto Beretta, then we will do a tour of the city by coach and there will be many other initiatives to give proper recognition to a team that has had a great season.”

[Socrates 8949]

Marotta: 'Big Juve buys impossible'

May 15, 2014

Beppe Marotta said Juventus will concentrate on keeping Antonio Conte, but warned big investments are “impossible.”

The Coach has refused to commit his future to the club unless there are reassurances over transfer strategy, forming a team that can compete for the Champions League.

“Conte showed not just with his extraordinary results, but also his modus operandi that he is among the best,” general manager Marotta told Sky Sport Italia.

“Now we are concentrated on celebrating the Scudetto, which is the end point of a remarkable run. We are focused on this and will celebrate with our fans in the best way possible.

“From Monday or probably Tuesday we will concentrate on next season and the first objective is to make the coaching situation definitive.”

Marotta was asked about reports former Roma and Zenit Coach Luciano Spalletti is in Turin for talks after an approach from Milan hit problems.

“Newspapers are having fun with various theories on available Coaches, but we are not concentrated on that.”

However, Conte’s demands for strong reinforcements appear to be falling on deaf ears at the club.

“It’s true to say big investments are impossible for next season. Our duty is to achieve an excellent sporting result via a competitive squad, but it must be conjoined with strong work behind the scenes and respecting the economic parameters.

“Certain transfer plans are nothing more than a utopia.”

[Socrates 8949]

Marotta 'optimistic' on Conte

May 18, 2014

Juventus general manager Beppe Marotta is “optimistic” on Antonio Conte’s future, but warned not to expect news today.

“There will certainly be no announcement today. This is the day for a celebration, the crowning moment of a wonderful season and we hope for the icing on the cake of 102 points,” Marotta told Sky Sport Italia.

The final game is this afternoon against Cagliari and will be followed by the presentation of the Serie A trophy, then an open top bus parade through the streets of Turin.

“From tomorrow a new sporting season begins and the first thing to discuss is the coaching situation. We are all very calm and relaxed.

“There is absolutely optimism, as we consider Conte a great Coach and are very proud to have him with us. We’ll do all we can to keep him.

“Having said that, there are some issues that need to be confronted and based on those discussions we’ll see what happens.”

Marotta was also asked about reports of a bid for Barcelona talent Alexis Sanchez.

"Sanchez is a great player who every top club would like, so clearly Juventus would also love to have him, but we must take into account he is also a very expensive player."

[Socrates 8949]

Juventus want Alexis Sanchez - Marotta

The Italian champions are looking for a select type of attacker
as they look to strengthen during the summer ahead of the 2014-15 campaign.

May 18, 2014

Juventus CEO Beppe Marotta has admitted that the Serie A side would love to sign Barcelona attacker Alexis Sanchez.

The Chilean forward meets a very specific criteria that the Bianconeri are looking for as they aim to strengthen their squad to become a major force in Europe.

“We're looking for a versatile player who can operate in several positions,” Marotta told Sky Sport.

“We are looking for a quick wide attacker. We would like to have a player like Sanchez but there aren't many players like him at the moment.

“And we shouldn't forget that Barcelona made a big investment to get him. But I repeat, he's a player we would like to have.”

On the subject of transfers, it is unknown whether Antonio Conte will remain with the Serie A champions, but Marotta could only speak highly of the Italian trainer.

“I have always said that the relationship with Conte is a wonderful one. We consider him a great coach and hope to continue with him.

“However, there are issues that need to be addressed before any announcements are made in the coming weeks.”

[Socrates 8949]

Marotta: Stars won't leave

May 28, 2014

Juventus CEO Beppe Marotta has confirmed that the club’s star players will not leave this summer.

The likes of Arturo Vidal and Paul Pogba have been heavily linked with moves away from the Bianconeri during this off-season.

Barcelona and Real Madrid are both thought to have registered an interest in the pair, but the board member has insisted that the best players will remain in Turin – thanks to Antonio Conte’s recent admission that he will stay.

“We have clear ideas,” he told reporters at Milan’s Bocconi University. “We’re a winning team that has a leader for a Coach.

“For this reason, I’m excluding the possible departures of our stars.

“Real Madrid have shown an appreciation of Vidal, but that’s it. And with Pogba we hope to meet in the coming weeks to renew his contract.”

Marotta then commented on potential signings in the transfer window.

“Drogba is available on a free and we have made an offer. For Pereyra we have spoken with Udinese, but discussions are ongoing.

“Alexis Sanchez? We really like him, but we haven’t made a move.”

[Socrates 8949]

Marotta reveals European aim

Jun 7, 2014

Juventus CEO Beppe Marotta has revealed what the club’s aims are for next season.

The Bianconeri won their third straight Scudetto last term, becoming the first team in the history of the Italian game to break the 100-point barrier.

However, having crashed out of the Champions League at the group stages, and losing in the Europa League semi-final, the board member has insisted that they will attempt to better their performances on the continent.

“Next season our goal is to improve our level of performance in Europe,” he is reported as saying in Tuttosport.

“We want to have a good Champions League next time.

“And in Antonio Conte we have the ideal leader to do that. The results of the last three years show that.”

[Socrates 8949]

Marotta: 'Finalising more deals'

Jul 19, 2014

Juventus director Beppe Marotta praised Alvaro Morata and promised “we are finalising other deals over the next few days.”

The general manager spoke at the presentation Press conference for Morata, who arrived from Real Madrid for €20m.

“Morata is a young player born in October 1992. He comes from Real Madrid and is one of the world’s best talents.

“He won the European Under-21 Championship with Spain, winning the Golden Boot, took part in the recent Champions League victory and over seven seasons at Real Madrid has developed a winning mentality.”

The transfer took longer than expected and the details are still not entirely clear.

Juve paid €20m to take Morata, but Real Madrid have a buy-back option of up to €30m depending on the number of games he plays for the Bianconeri.

“It was a very difficult negotiation process because Real Madrid wanted to keep him,” explained Marotta.

“At the end of the day, his desire to come to Juventus won out. The player signed a five-year contract. For the first two years the player is entirely ours, then there is a very complicated contract that I won’t outline in its entirety here.

“We have a very strong rapport with Real Madrid and will discuss it later along the line, but the fact he signed a five-year contract shows we are determined to keep him.”

Marotta was naturally asked whether the transfer strategy had changed with Antonio Conte’s sudden departure, to be replaced by Massimiliano Allegri.

“There is no revolution, even if the Coach changed. We don’t need massive changes, as this is a winning group that secured five trophies in three years between Scudetti and Super Cups.

“Conte was a great leader, we worked with a great club and fans. We will try to work on the market finding the players who are the right mix of quality and price.

“We are finalising some other deals and hope to announce them formally over the next few days.”

Those are expected to be Roberto Pereyra from Udinese on loan with option to buy for €12m and Patrice Evra from Manchester United.

[Socrates 8949]

Marotta: 'No reason for Vidal exit'

Jul 25, 2014

“There is no reason” for Arturo Vidal to quit Juventus and Beppe Marotta would be “very surprised” if he requested a transfer.

Director Marotta was naturally asked about Vidal’s future during a presentation Press conference for Roberto Pereyra.

“It’s very simple. Vidal extended his contract with us last season, as there was a reciprocal desire to continue this rapport,” noted Marotta.

“There is no reason for him to leave. Yesterday he gave an interview in a rushed and embarrassed manner, as he was getting his luggage and so was misinterpreted.

“I can assure and confirm Vidal is happy to be with us and there’s no reason for alarm. He had these problems with the knee injury and rushing the recovery for the World Cup, so will take a while to find his fitness.

“Nobody can doubt the quality of the player, nor how strong his bond is with Juventus.”

Would Marotta be surprised if Vidal asked for a transfer?

“Absolutely yes. It is a very remote chance, considering what the lad is like, and so I’m not even considering the possibility.

“The situation around him is typical of the transfer market when several big clubs admire him. Vidal exploded in a fairly unexpected way over the last two years to become one of the most important players in the world.

“He is naturally linked to big clubs, but I’ll point out Juventus are a big club too and we intend to hold on tight. I don’t get the sensation he wants to leave us.”

Marotta was also asked about their search for a striker after a knee injury ruled new arrival Alvaro Morata out for 50 days.

“So far we are satisfied, as we achieved the targets we were aiming for, when it comes to the profile of the player needed.

“We are keeping a close eye on the evolution of the market, though obviously there are many problems with clubs who own the players we are interested in. It changes hour by hour.”

The main name linked with the Bianconeri is Samuel Eto’o, who is a free agent.

“We’ve never talked about Eto’o. The squad needs at least five strikers, so we are missing someone, especially considering Alvaro Morata’s injury.

“Whether the target is Eto’o or someone else, I prefer not to say. As Giovanni Trapattoni said, in this market don’t say cat unless it’s in the bag.

“I can confirm we are looking for another forward.”

[Socrates 8949]

Juventus In The Market For A
Back-Up Striker Admits Marotta

Jul 26, 2014

Juventus director general Giuseppe Marotta has denied rumours linking the Italian club with a move for Samuel Eto’o despite the club’s interest in signing another striker.

New signing Alvaro Morata suffered a second grade tear of the medial collateral ligament in his left knee during his first training session with the club that has ruled him out for a minimum of seven weeks.

The injury, along with the sale of experienced striker Fabio Quagliarella to city rivals Torino has left the Bianconeri with a shortage of attacking options upfront for the beginning of the new season though Marotta told reporters at a press conference that they have no interest in the Cameroonian striker.

“We’ve never talked about Eto’o, but the club needs at least five strikers, so we are missing someone,” Marotta stated.

“Considering that Morata will be absent for a couple of months, I can confirm that we are looking for another forward, but I will not say too much because the market is constantly changing.”

Eto’o has been a free-agent since his Chelsea contract expired at the end of last season and has been linked with a move to newly promoted English club Queens Park Rangers.

[Socrates 8949]

Coherent or not? Looking at
the 2014-15 Juventus summer mercato

Jul 27, 2014

We're all shocked that Antonio Conte is out. He's one of the main reasons Juventinita is back and has been for the past three years. There are pros and cons about his leaving so abruptly but I'm not here to talk about Conte. Juventus have moved on. A stop-gap solution, as many believe in Max Allegri's appointment, but we have moved on.

It's July, almost August, so let's talk about Juve's mercato. I'm intrigued with a few Juventini who said that this mercato was incoherent, no visible strategy or direction, and so on.

These critics, obviously, are related to goals. What are our realistic goals? Let's draw a line and agree that the goals are to sustain being champions of Italy, year in and year out, and competitive in Champions League, reaching quarterfinals and beyond every year. Sustainable is the key word.

So is it incoherent?

I respect my fellow Juventini's opinion but I humbly disagree. The mercato is young and it's too soon to say. But so far, I can see where we're going. However, before we delve into it, let's see where we stand, coaching-change excluded, by the end of the 2013-14 season.

STRENGTHS

• Overall squad quality. In the 2013/14 season, Juve had the best starting XI. Locally. We also had the deepest squad. Locally.

• The best midfield and attacking partnership in Italy. In M(archisio)-V(idal)-P(irlo)-P(ogba), midfield was our main strength. In Fernando Llorente-Carlos Tevez, we probably had the best attacking duo in Serie A.

• Leadeship. Gianluigi Buffon, Andrea Pirlo, Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini were the senatori that all players respected.

• Squad unity. In the 2011/12 season, it's clear to me that it was all Conte but in the 2013/14, I think the squad was unite and the Juventinita was strong.

• Keeping the core. Beppe Marotta has said numeruosly that Paul Pogba and Arturo Vidal won't be sold, unless they ask for it.

WEAKNESSES

• Aging squad, not enough quality depth in Europe.

• Lack of speed and not enough creativity in the final third. This was excruciatingly on display when Juve faced Benfica over the two-legged matches in the Europa League semifinal.

• Leaking. The backline was still solid, but had shown cracks here and there — especially in the middle — probably due to age and, again, lack of speed.

• No real starting-quality left back. Kwadwo Asamoah was servicable as a left wingback in 3-5-2, but still, not a real left back.

• Decreased revenue. Less revenue compared to the previous season because we earned less money from Europe.

OPPORTUNITIES

Now so far, at the start of the 2014-15 season, we've made a few purchases and termination to tackle those issues:

• Left back issue — check. Federico Peluso was sold and Patrice Evra was brought in. At 33 years old, he's no spring chicken, but he's considerably cheap and should be able to shore up the problematic position for the next two years while we're going to spend the little money we have on forwards/wingers.

• Getting younger, faster and better in front — check. Out went Mirko Vucinic (30) and Fabio Quagliarella (31) and Alvaro Morata (21) was signed.

• Getting younger and faster in the middle and on the wing — check. Kingsley Coman (18) and Roberto Pereyra (23) were signed.

• The plan to swap Mauricio Isla with Romulo won't improve the quality of the team, but it will be financially. Romulo will come on loan so we can use the Isla sale money elsewhere.

• We're much more dynamic. With Evra, a four-man defense will be available and with Coman, Pereyra and even Morata, Allegri can play 4-3-3, 4-3-2-1, or even 4-2-3-1, providing we add another AM/winger.

And we're not stopping there. Rumors keep circulating that we're aiming to add another center back, either Matija Nastasic (Manchester City, loan), Stefan Savic (Fiorentina, swap with Isla) or Shkodran Mustafi (Sampdoria, probably loan as well). All between 21-23 years old and all are quite fast for a center back.

Rumors on playmaker/winger are also circulating, either Xherdan Shaqiri (Bayern Munich), Ezequiel Lavezzi (P$G), Stevan Jovetic (Man City) or to a lesser extent, Giacomo Bonaventura (Atalanta).

If it happens, Samuel Eto'o is a vice-Morata, who's injured and not expected to be back in 50 days, not a playmaker/winger. He's also a one-year gun-for-hire, not part of the long-term plan.

THREATS

• As always with young players, Coman and Pereyra are still unproven. And while they can improve the team, they also have the potential to be bidoni. Morata has shown his credibility with Real Madrid, but he still has to learn the system in Italy. However, he's less of a risk than Coman and Pereyra.

• Evra will bring leadership and experience. But on the other hand, he was poor in his last EPL season with Man United, especially when he played against the fast wingers. Luckily there are not many of those in Serie A.

• Pogba has said to Marco Messina (@Marcocalcio22) that he's staying but his agent is Mino Raiola. (Still, I feel better Pogba said that.)

• Vidal has said he wouldn't go to Manchester, but he also said he didn't know whether he'd stay or not and he'd like to speak with Allegri first. If he stays, we're good. If he's not, well, we won't be as good.

• Squad chemistry. Young players bring new dimension and if they cannot be reeled in, it could threaten the squad unity. I don't know anything about Coman but so far though, I like what I see from Morata and Pereyra.

So as you can see, I think the plan is coherent and is in-line with the (presumably) limited money we have.

Other than the coherence, the most general argument from Juventini is why not sign one Alexis Sanchez, who's proven, instead of signing three players in Morata, Pereyra, and Stefano Sturaro (who's on loan to Genoa).

Personally, the whole mercato this year is a classic short-term vs. long-term plan to me. Is the team near its peak so the club push for the top? Or is the cycle over and the club start a new one?

Let's get back to the goals I've mentioned earlier. Signing Sanchez would indicate that the goals were short-term as we wouldn't be able to shore up other departments. By not being able to shore up other departments, we had to keep the old guards as well, like Vucinic and Quagliarella, and keep paying high salaries. Will we reach our goals with just adding Sanchez? If yes, with an aging squad, will sustainability be at risk?

Signing the 18-to-23-year-olds indicates that the goals are both short and long-term. Sustainability can be kept intact while we keep being the favorites for the scudetto each year. Champions League chance? We won't win it any time soon, but maybe, just maybe, we'll be close within five years. These young players need time but they are also hungry for success and will freshen the hungriness within the squad. In the mean time, more money will be coming in from Adidas next year, the new main sponsor (now Jeep, will end in 2015) and Continassa, probably within 1 to 2 years.

In my opinion, we're starting a new cycle and taking the long-term plan. Look at our under-23 players who will play or have played in Serie A this season:

Leali (21)
[Vrsaljko (22)] - Rugani (20) - [?] - [?]
Sturaro (21) - Pogba (20) - Pereyra (23)
Berardi (19) - Morata (21) - Coman (18)

There are still others like Richmond Boakye at Atalanta, Manolo Gabbiadini at Sampdoria and Simone Zaza at Sassuolo (whom we hold the buy-back option). We're also looking to add Adrien Rabiot (19) from P$G next season.

Sime Vrsaljko is a Sassuolo players, but there was gossip saying that Sassuolo had Juve's help in acquiring him from Genoa in return for a future access. Make sense, since Stephan Lichtsteiner is already 30 this year.

Back to the first team. With such signings, will Juve win the scudetto this season? I don't know. With Roma and Napoli getting better, not to mention Milan and inter Milan as well, we're probably not the lone favorite anymore. But if we keep Pogba and Vidal, I'm pretty sure we're at least up there with Roma (if they don't lose Mehdi Benatia) and Napoli. Anyway, the summer mercato hasn't ended yet so let's see what happens.

In conclusion, I think we're coherently aiming for a sustainable win long-term, within five years from the 2015/16 season (when I think we will appoint a new coach) to come close to the European holy grail, where the financial foundation will be much stronger instead of chasing a short-term glory and risking being the intermilan 2010: Winning treble but crashing and burning just two years later.

[Socrates 8949]

Marotta on Romulo and Vidal

Jul 28, 2014

Juventus dg Beppe Marotta confirmed Romulo within 24 hours and “we’ll be happy to keep Arturo Vidal if he wants to stay.”

The Bianconeri chief spoke to Sky Sport Italia ahead of the Serie A fixtures being drawn up this evening.

“I certainly cannot deny talks with Verona for Romulo. There are situations that need to be defined, but we can complete the move within 24 hours.”

Marotta was also asked about Manchester United’s on-going interest in Chile midfielder Vidal.

“We recently renewed his contract because we knew that we could count on an important element. He has not taken any different position to what he thought before.

“Transfer gossip is normal on one of the best players in circulation. We have never activated a plan to sell the player.

“We’ll be happy to keep the player if he wants to stay.”

Many have suggested Roma are the new favourites for the Scudetto, especially after Antonio Conte quit to be replaced by Massimiliano Allegri.

“Our squad is well constructed, we are reigning champions and the group deserved its praise. We are ready to take any opportunities that present themselves.

“A defender and a striker can be objectives, but I won’t say anything so as to avoid creating expectations.

“We are targeting a fourth consecutive Scudetto. Roma have without doubt reinforced and were already a fearsome prospect last season.”

Juventus and Roma were the only clubs not to support Carlo Tavecchio for FIGC President, though others are joining them after a racism row.

“We always considered him inadequte for the role and our position has not changed. We’re seeing some other clubs are reconsidering their position, so we’ll see what happens.”

[Socrates 8949]

Marotta: We will not sell Vidal
unless he asks to leave

Manchester United look set to miss out on a key target as the Juventus director
insists they intend to keep hold of the €54 million-rated Chile international midfielder.

Jul 28, 2014

Juventus CEO Guiseppe Marotta is adamant that Arturo Vidal will not be sold as long as the Chilean is happy in Turin.

The 27-year-old has been one of Manchester United's top targets this summer, with a €54 million bid being prepared, and Goal understands that Vidal met with his agent and senior officials on Sunday evening to discuss the possibility of a transfer to Old Trafford.

However, after Vidal stated that he is "not going to Manchester" on Thursday, the move looks even more unlikely following Marotta's comments.

Marotta told Sky Italia: "We have clear ideas. We renewed [Vidal's] contract a few months ago just because we knew we could count on an important element.

"We don't want to sell Vidal, there are only rumours because he is a player among the best in the world. We never activated a clause to try to sell him - if he doesn't show an intention to leave, our position won't change."

United had hoped to tempt the goalscoring midfielder into a move to the Premier League by offering a wage package of €316,000 per week and had made the Chile international one of their key targets this summer as Louis van Gaal's overhaul begins to take shape.

Despite United's interest, though, Vidal looks almost certain to remain with the Scudetto holders.

[Socrates 8949]

Marotta: Vidal is our player

Jul 31, 2014

Beppe Marotta has reiterated that Juventus and Arturo Vidal are happy with each other, whilst he updates on Romulo.

Speculation continues to suggest Manchester United may come in with an offer for Vidal this summer, but the club’s director general remains insistent.

“Vidal is one of our players, we renewed the contract last season,” Marotta told Sky Sport Italia before Juve’s draw with Cesena last night.

“We are happy with him, he is pleased with us, he is wearing the shirt of the most prestigious club in the world. I do not think there will be any problems.”

Romulo was expected to sign for the Bianconeri earlier this week, but has seen delays hit his move from Verona. Marotta was asked if the player will sign in time for the tour of Asia and Australia coming up.

“I think so, we talked to Verona [yesterday] afternoon. I think that if he does not arrive then the situation would have to be particularly negative, he could arrive in the coming days.

“Since the departure to Singapore is set for Sunday, I hope that we can include him in the group.”

Marotta also considered the transition so far from Antonio Conte and Max Allegri.

“I must say that first of all that from the grid of contenders for the Scudetto, we are the only ones that has changed Coach, so this has definitely created some problems.

“Especially I think in the legacy that Allegri has had, in replacing a Coach who has given so much to Juventus and Juventus are grateful, but I think that he is one of the best Coaches in circulation.

“The obligation of the club is to support the work of the Coach in what problems occur day to day, so from this point of view we will be next to him for every little problem.

“It is clear that Juventus has in its DNA the desire to win, so we do not hide - we need to start the season trying to achieve something even more extraordinary, which would be the fourth consecutive League title.

“As I often say, I believe that next to a winning team there must be a winning club. We try to be and we are certainly aware of the role we have.”

[Socrates 8949]

Marotta to unlock Romulo

Jul 31, 2014

Beppe Marotta will reportedly meet with Verona officials today to finalise terms of agreement for Romulo.

The Brazilian-born midfielder was seen as on his way to Turin this week for a medical and to sign off on a transfer to the Old Lady, only for delays to hold things up.

However, on from meeting with the Gialloblu yesterday, director general Marotta is expected to once more hold talks with the club to unlock the current situation.

It was feared that another club had entered into talks and potentially raised Verona’s asking price, but the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport believe Juve will get their man on loan for an initial €1m, with a purchase option of €7m.

Reports are that the details to be settled today involve terms of payment on that €7m, with Verona hoping for a lump sum, just as the Bianconeri are keen to defer over a period of three years.

Marotta commented yesterday of his expectancy to have Romulo signed and ready to join the squad in time for their tour of Asia and Australia, which they depart for this weekend.

[Socrates 8949]

Marotta on Romulo, Vidal & Evra

Jul 31, 2014

Juventus director Beppe Marotta has claimed that Romulo will sign for the champions as soon as tomorrow.

The Verona midfielder has been heavily linked with a switch to the Bianconeri this summer, after impressing for the Gialloblu last time out.

And the board member has revealed that the move is to be confirmed on Friday, as well as briefly commenting on Arturo Vidal.

“Romulo is likely to be a Juve player tomorrow,” he told reporters. “Tomorrow his agent will arrive in Turin.

“Vidal in Manchester? No, he was here yesterday.”

Marotta then commented on Patrice Evra’s arrival from Manchester United.

“Evra is a player that’s known throughout Europe. We’re delighted to have him in our team.

“We have had our eyes on him for a long time.

“He’s 33 so brings great experience to our team. Beyond his technical capabilities, we chose him because he has played in a culture at Manchester United that is a lot like ours – we win.”

[Socrates 8949]

Marotta: 'Vidal only sold if...'

Aug 2, 2014

Juventus chief Beppe Marotta confirmed Arturo Vidal “would only be sold if he wanted to leave” and ruled out Samuel Eto’o.

The general manager spoke at the presentation Press conference of new signing Romulo, who arrived from Verona on loan with option to buy for a total €7m.

“I want to thank Verona for their patience in getting the details of this negotiation process. Romulo’s option to buy will become mandatory if he plays in at least 60 per cent of the games this season.

“He is a versatile and eclectic player, so will be very useful for us.”

Marotta also confirmed Mauricio Isla will undergo his QPR medical tomorrow, on loan with option to buy, but shot down more questions on Manchester United’s interest in Vidal.

“We have already said Vidal is not on the market, but what the player wants is decisive. Vidal has never said he wants to leave and Juventus would only sell him if he wanted to leave.

“Obviously there are also some timing issues to fulfil such a request, but there’s absolutely no reason to even be discussing this now.”

Roma denied Portuguese reports they would pick up free agent Eto’o and Marotta said Juventus are in the same boat.

“With all due respect for the champion, he does not represent the profile we are looking for.

“The squad is more than competitive, but our market is not closed yet. We still need to do something in defence and attack.”