JUVENTINI ONLY

Felipe melo swap with marchioni

2009-07-07T17:22:00.000-07:00

Fiorentina have reached an agreement with Juventus for the joint ownership of midfielder

Marco Marchionni. Marchionni will now play for the Viola next season, provided he can agree personal terms, after the two clubs struck an accord.

Reports in Italy suggest that Juve could now open negotiations with their Serie A rivals in a bid to bring Felipe Melo in the opposite direction.

The Brazil international, who has also been linked with a switch to Arsenal, insists he is happy at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.Meanwhile, Fiorentina have also confirmed the signing of defender Cesare Natali from Torino.

Grosso ready move to juventus

2009-06-26T16:26:00.000-07:00

News in France are claiming that Fabio Grosso will leave Lyon for a return to Italian football with Juventus.

The defender has been strongly associated with the Old Lady in recent weeks after it became clear that a new left-back was a transfer objective for the club.

A two-horse race developed between Grosso and fellow Azzurri international Andrea Dossena and it looks like the 2006 World Cup winner has pipped the Liverpool man at the post.Sources in France claim that the move is inevitable, even if they don’t confirm Italian whispers that Mauro Camoranesi could be part of the deal.

The Argentine-born winger has been a long-term target of Lyon and his Juve future is in doubt after a couple of disappointing campaigns affected by injury.

Diego want to make lots of goals

2009-06-11T16:38:00.000-07:00

New Player of Juve Diego Ribas has revealed he will be officially unveiled as a Juventus player in July and intends to score lots of goals next season. The 24-year-old former Santos youngster left Werder Bremen last month and put pen to paper on five-year deal with the Bianconeri.

“Soon I will speak Italian and I will repay everyone with goals and victories,” Diego explained.

“I did my job at Werder and I will continue to do it at Juventus. I will prepare myself as best as I can to grow from a tactical point of view.

“The objectives are to win and score lots of goals. In this way I can get back into the national team.

“My last game with Brazil was a 0-0 draw against Bolivia on September 10, 2008 at the Maracana. In a recent friendly against Portugal I didn't get on the pitch.”

When asked about his time in Germany, Diego said: “They were three wonderful years. I learned a lot. I put maturity together with titles.

“I received the affection of the Werder fans, whom I showed good football. I left them with the German Cup, a happy moment.”

Diego then went on to describe how Juventus went about trying to buy him.

“It was a long courtship. We made contact on various occasions, so everything was well defined. Things happen at the right moment,” he insisted.

“I am happy and excited. To have said goodbye to Germany with a trophy was positive. Now I am confident I will be able to show my football in a competitive championship like Serie A.

“I know that at the beginning I will have to adapt, but I have also received the support of the club. I will overcome any obstacles and repay Juventus in goals and victories for the trust they have given me.

“I have dual nationality, but I still do not speak Italian. I understand almost everything, but I am still not ready to speak in public. I will learn it soon.

“From Portuguese, Italian is easier to learn with respect to German. The club will officially unveil me at the beginning of July,” he concluded.

Diego is widely regarded as one of the most talented players in Europe. He managed to score 38 goals in 84 appearances for Werder.

U21: Juve youngster bring Four-star Azzurrini to the top

2009-06-09T17:37:00.000-07:00

Pierluigi Casiraghi’s Azzurrini got ready for the European Championships by thumping Denmark 4-0 in a friendly.The Italy Under-21 squad made short work of their Danish hosts in Farum, which bodes well for Tuesday’s tournament opener against Serbia. The team includes three bianconeri: Giovinco, Marchisio and De Ceglie who after the tournament will end their adventure with the Under 21 squad.Mario Balotelli took just 13 minutes to break the deadlock with one of the Inter hitman’s trademark fierce free kicks.Denmark had only one real scoring opportunity neutralised by Atalanta goalkeeper Andrea Consigli.

The trident attack of Balotelli, Robert Acquafresca and Sebastian Giovinco had only been tested once before this game, but already seems to be gelling.
Cagliari striker Acquafresca was quick to react when Balotelli’s shot was parried by the Danish ‘keeper and double Italy’s lead.
Casiraghi switched to a 4-4-2 system for the second half and made numerous substitutions, but they also proved effective.Daniele Dessena had been on the field for only two minutes when he ran on to Giovinco’s through ball and cheekily chipped the goalkeeper.

Bari man Andrea Ranocchia, who helped his club to promotion this season, scored the fourth in this rout late on.The Danish ‘keeper fumbled a corner kick and Ranocchia was ready to tap in the loose ball from six yards.

JUVENTUS PERFORMANCE 2008 - 2009

2009-06-08T16:45:00.000-07:00

This is statistics from beginning serie A 2008 / 2009, from the summary attendance until the sequence rapidly.

Performance
Highest Gate	25000 Genoa
Lowest Gate	10500 Atalanta
Average Attendance	21329
Aggregate Attendance	383930
Biggest Home Win	4-0 Reggina
Biggest Away Win	AS Roma 1-4, Siena 0-3
Heaviest Home Defeat	1-2 Palermo, 2-3 Cagliari
Heaviest Away Defeat	Napoli 2-1, Internazionale 1-0, Udinese 2-1, Genoa 3-2
Highest Aggregate Score	4-2 AC Milan, 3-3 Chievo Verona

Current Win Sequence	2 games: at Siena, Lazio
Current Unbeaten Sequence	7 games: Internazionale, at Reggina, Lecce, at AC Milan, Atalanta, at Siena, Lazio
Longest Win Sequence	5 games: at Palermo, Napoli, at Torino, Bologna, at AS Roma
Longest Unbeaten Sequence	8 games: at Catania, Sampdoria, at Palermo, Napoli, at Torino, Bologna, at AS Roma, Chievo Verona
Current Losing Sequence	0 games
Current Winless Sequence	0 games
Longest Losing Sequence	2 games: at Udinese, Cagliari
Longest Winless Sequence	7 games: Chievo Verona, at Genoa, Internazionale, at Reggina, Lecce, at AC Milan, Atalanta

Juventus Search diffense player

2009-06-05T17:39:00.000-07:00

1. Marcell JansenThe Bianconeri are short in that left back area, as Cristian Molinaro is out until October and Paolo De Ceglie lacks experience.Now Juventus are scouting Hamburg defender Marcell Jansen, who could solve their problems at left-back, according to Il Corriere dello Sport.
Jansen has impressed this season, helping Hamburg to the UEFA semi-finals and a fifth place finish in the Bundesliga. He joined Hamburg last April after just one-year at Bayern Munich where some said he couldn't stand the pressure. “Marcell feels good in Hamburg, but in football anything can happen,” his agent, Gerd Vom Bruck, said.
2. Christian Zapata

Beside that juve interest with Udinese defender Cristian Zapata. The 22-year-old Colombia international finished the season strongly after missing the first half of the campaign through injury. “I repeat I have a contract until 2013, but if Udinese receive a good offer they will sell me,” Zapata told calciomercato.com.
“Udinese have no need to sell me quickly. I am 22 and I have become a guarantee. We will see what happens in the future,” he concluded.

3. Andrea Dossena

Dossena endured a difficult inaugural season with the Reds, only making 16 appearances in the Premier League in 2008-09 and failing to make an impact under coach Rafa Benitez.The former Udinese man has spoken about his desire to return to Serie A throughout the course of the campaign. And juventus interest swap deal with De ceglie

FERRARA OFFICIALLY BE JUVENTUS CARETAKER

2009-06-05T16:55:00.000-07:00

Ciro Ferrara has officially signed a two-year contract as the new Coach of Juventus, extending his caretaker role.
The Bianconeri announced the decision at 18.00 UK time Yesterday evening and Ferrara was spotted driving in to the club headquarters.
His contract expires on June 30 2011 and he will hold a Press conference later this evening.
“Ferrara, who is by now a founding column at Juventus, has the confidence of the directors and made himself available for this new and exciting challenge,” read a statement.
“He will be the Coach of a team where he won everything as a player and remained faithful, leading the club’s youth sector for the last three years.”
The former defender and youth sector co-ordinator had been brought in for the final two weeks of the season after Claudio Ranieri’s dismissal.
He won both games against Siena and Lazio, qualifying for second place, but was only given the job permanently after Antonio Conte and Luciano Spalletti opted to remain with Bari and Roma respectively.
Ferrara drove to Turin by leaving the Italy get-together at Coverciano, where he had been working as Marcello Lippi’s assistant manager.

Good Bye Nedved you will be Always in Our Hearts

2009-06-04T09:03:00.000-07:00

It has been such a longtime that a Juventus legend has bid farewell to the crowd, I didn’t remember how hard it would be. I won’t lie to you all, when the Olimpico rose to its’ feet to applaud him, I teared a bit. When the Gladiator music was playing during his lap of honor, they were free-flowing.

We all know his hard work and dedication; the stories of him as a child, running after practice when the lights were turned off are well known. Naturally left-footed, you would have never known because as a kid he practiced so much to make them both equally brilliant. This is the player who runs everyday, regardless whether there is training or not.

When Pavel was first signed from Lazio to replace Zidane, there were a lot of eyebrows raised. Could this man ever replace the legendary Zizou? (yes) But at age 29, people questioned the decision to spill out €41 million on the Lazio midfielder. After 8 seasons, 4 scudetti, a Ballon d’Or, a Serie B title, and 357 games played with 65 goals and countless assists…money damn well spent.

His long-range efforts for which he is famous for was not a secret. When we first signed him, Moggi said “we bought him solely to stop him from scoring goals against us.” We all know the story of his legendary 2002-2003 season, where he singlehandedly carried us to the final only to be cruelly denied a place in it because of a yellow-card suspension. His goals against Barcelona at Camp Nou, against Real Madrid in Turin, it is not a stretch to say had he been in the final, a different outcome was very likely.

Pavel always wanted to win that trophy, so when Juve was demoted to Serie B, you might forgive the Czech Fury for considering his position at Juventus, given his 33 years. But there was none of it. Pavel was one of the first to come out and unequivocably say that he was staying. There was no wavering, no attempts to get out, no complaints. Few expected Juve to return to the Champion’s League so quickly, and Pavel’s exit will long live in my memory. Playing with a broken rib, Pavel kept trying to soldier on but after a collision with Anelka, he could do it no more. The chorus rang out the first time he went down to the ground…and the 2nd. As he lied on the ground in pain, the stadium was drowned out by deafening chants of “PAVEL PAVEL NEDVED! NEDVED.” Ranieri asked Pavel to wait a few minutes to give Salihamidzic time to warm up, and as Pavel gingerly walked around the pitch, the chants continued. He left the Champion’s League pitch for the last time, to a round of applause and continued songs from the Drughi.

In an interview after the game, Pavel said he would stay in Turin with his family. He said he enjoyed life in Turin, and he wanted his children to grow up watching Juventus first-hand. I always found Pavel’s devotion to his family and his wife refreshing from all the stories of WAGs. You see, Pavel married Ivana when he was 21, back when he was still living in Prague and a footballing unknown. The two met when Pavel was 15 and Ivana was 13. He’s said he would give up everything, including his beloved golf rounds with Alex and Mauro to win the Champion’s League, but never his family, who are the primary motivation for his retirement.
His children are named Pavel and Ivana as well, as he has said, it is so when he and his wife die, there will still be a Pavel and Ivana who love each other. A great man on and off the pitch.

Juve interested in Lovren

2009-06-04T08:14:00.000-07:00

Defender

Personal information
Date of birth	July 5, 1989 (1989-07-05) (age 19)
Place of birth	Zenica, SFR Yugoslavia
Height	1.88 m (6 ft 2 in)
Playing position
Club information
Current club	NK Dinamo Zagreb
Number	6
Youth career
NK. Karvolac
Senior career¹
Years	Club	App (Gls)*
2005- 2006-2008	Dinamo Zagreb → NK Inter Zaprešić (loan)	14 (1) 50 (1)
National team

The possible new reinforcement for the Defense of Juventus comes from Croatia. He is 20 years old, plays in Dinamo Zagreb and is part of the national Under-21.

Dejan Lovren was seen constantly this year by observers from Manchester United, Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, Juventus and Milan. Lovren can play in the center of the defence and on the right, and despite his young age, already has three seasons experience at the highest level.

One of the Italian scouts who has seen him in action told calciomercato.com, "Lovren is the new Vedran Corluka, he plays in the same way but has greater physical power".

Dejan Lovren, estimated at about two million euro, has a contract until 2011.

Gaetano D'Agostino be juve player end of this week

2009-06-02T17:45:00.000-07:00

Juventus are expected to sign Udinese midfielder Gaetano D'Agostino by the end of this week, according to the Italian Press.

The 26-year-old former Roma youngster has been a revelation this season, scoring 11 Serie A goals in 36 appearances for the Zebrette. Juventus are believed to have offered £15m for D'Agostino, who was called up to the Italy squad in November 2008.

Udinese President Giampaolo Pozzo confirmed Juventus' interest in the player during an interview yesterday evening. “I hope that someone doesn't come and unsettle him, but Juventus are interested,” Pozzo revealed.

Juventus have already been active in the transfer market, signing Fabio Cannavaro from Real Madrid and Diego from Werder Bremen. The Bianconeri finished second in Serie A this year and are looking to close the gap between themselves and Italian champions Inter.

Transfer target of Juve

2009-06-01T17:39:00.000-07:00

IN

Gaetano D’Agostino : The Udinese player would be ideal to partner Momo Sissoko in midfield, as well as newly signing Diego, but the Friulani have set a high price.

Goran Pandev : could also move to Turin this summer although Lazio President Claudio Lotito won’t let go of him easily.“Goran has already expressed his wish to go and Juve would be a good option for him,” mused Pallavicino.

Eduardo Salvio : he 19-year-old Argentine has been linked to the Old Lady in the past and has made himself known following the South-American U-20 Championship played in Venezuela.

“Salvio is a great player with a fantastic future ahead of him,” noted his agent Augustin Jimenez.

“Juventus seem very interested but they will have to beat the competition of many other Italian clubs who are just waiting for the right moment to make an offer.”

OUT

Paolo De Ceglie : Juve’s left-back could be heading out the door after it was revealed that Liverpool have cast their eyes over the Italian youngster.

“Liverpool are seriously interested,” explained De Ceglie’s agent Carlo Pallavicino. “It all depends on Andrea Dossena and whether they will sell him. If they do then they would like to replace him with De Ceglie.”

JUVENTUS VS LAZIO 2 - 0

2009-05-31T16:29:00.000-07:00

Juventus: Buffon; Zebina, Legrottaglie, Chiellini, Salihamidzic; Camoranesi, Marchisio, Zanetti (Amauri 55), Nedved (Tiago 84); Iaquinta (Giovinco 72), Del Piero

Lazio: Carrizo; Lichtsteiner, Siviglia (Tuia 78), Rozehnal, De Silvestri; Brocchi, Dabo (Meghni 64), Ledesma, Foggia; Kozac, Del Nero (Mendicino 52)

Ref: Peruzzo

Vincenzo Iaquinta's brace secured second place for Juventus, but the day was dedicated to Pavel Nedved. Both teams went into this fixture knowing they had achieved their aims of European qualification. Ciro Ferrara won on his debut as caretaker manager and admitted his chances of staying on next season were only 33 per cent.

He missed Momo Sissoko, Paolo De Ceglie, Christian Molinaro, Zdenek Grygera and Dario Knezevic. Lazio had Goran Pandev suspended plus Tommaso Rocchi, Mauro Zarate and Stefan Radu, so fielded an impromptu front line. Pavel Nedved announced this weekend he was quitting Juve, but not necessarily retiring from football, so this was his farewell to the Turin fans and he wore the captain's armband. It took three minutes for Juve to open the scoring, as Claudio Marchisio threaded through with the outside of his foot for Vincenzo Iaquinta to run between the central defenders and place an angled drive through the legs of the on-rushing Juan Pablo Carrizo.

Alessandro Del Piero had a goal ruled offside, probably incorrectly, while Kozac threatened an equaliser for Lazio when clear on goal and placing his lob just too high. Gigi Buffon needed two touches to deny Pasquale Foggia's effort, but just before half-time Del Piero's spectacular overhead kick skimmed the bar. Nicola Legrottaglie had to come sliding in to take a dangerous cross off Simone Del Nero's foot from six yards. Iaquinta completed his brace with an assist from Nedved, who spun round between two defenders to immediately thread through for his teammate.

Carrizo plucked a Del Piero lob out of the air, while Libor Kozac's glancing header skimmed the far post with the aid of a deflection off Legrottaglie. Nedved was substituted seven minutes from time so he could receive a standing ovation from the entire stadium. Kozak took advantage of a Chiellini hesitation to get between his legs and hit the post from point-blank range.

PREVIEW JUVE VS LAZIO

2009-05-30T20:06:00.000-07:00

"We have already sobered up from the win against Siena and we're already thinking about our next encounter, against Lazio on Sunday,'' Ferrera said.

Juventus need to find a new coach for next season and have already begun rebuilding their squad, but this year's campaign is not yet over as they look to snatch second place against Lazio tomorrow.Ciro Ferrara will again be in charge of the team following Claudio Ranieri's sacking, but the rumour mill is in full swing trying to identify the likely long-term successor.

The likes of Laurent Blanc and Antonio Conte are reportedly being considered alongside Ferrara.The incumbent did himself no harm last week with the way Juventus went about beating Siena 3-0 to stay in contention for second place.However, he is keen to put that to one side now and focus only on tomorrow."We have already sobered up from the win against Siena and we're already thinking about our next encounter, against Lazio on Sunday,'' Ferrera said.

The future of the coach is not the only thing likely to be decided in the coming days, with Vicente Iaquinta claiming he is on the verge of a new deal, while there are reports that Pavel Nedved is also set for a further extension to his career.Another win will be enough for Juve to finish second courtesy of their superior head-to-head record against Milan.Juventus will hope to get it against a Lazio side that have nothing left to play for but pride.

A Europa League place was secured through the Coppa Italia, but Delio Rossi will want to see some fight from his players against a side they have already beaten twice this season.One of the players who has been key to Lazio's best performances this season has been Goran Pandev, a reported target of Juventus who will miss the chance to impress his prospective new employees due to a suspension.Club president Claudio Lotito, for his part, is insisting that the 25-year-old forward is not for sale."Why would we want to let go of such a great player, whose contract expires in June 2010?'' Lotito asked in Corriere dello Sport."I'm happy that there is interest in our player from big clubs, however before attempting to speak with the player, Juve should pay us some respect and speak with me."I have never received any interest on the part of Juve, or any other team for that fact, about Pandev.''Rossi is missing Mauro Zarate, Cribari and Christian Manfredini through injury.

Simone Inzaghi is also out after shoulder surgery and Rossi may give several youth players their chance.For Juventus, Mohamed Sissoko has returned to training, but this game has come too soon.Mauro Camoranesi sustained a knock in training on Wednesday, but he is likely to be fit for action.However, Dario Knezevic, Albin Ekdal, Cristian Molinaro and Zdenek Grygera are all out.

Official: The relationship between Juventus and Pavel Nedved is about to come to an end.

2009-05-30T18:21:00.000-07:00

“I won four Scudetti and the Ballon d’Or in Turin. I particularly want to thank my wife Ivana and our children, who have accompanied me during this extraordinary journey. From Monday onwards, I will think about my future.

Pavel Nedved has announced he is leaving Juventus, but not necessarily retiring from football. “It’s time to say goodbye.”
The Juventus midfielder turns 37 in August and the club had tried to change his mind the same way they did a year ago, when he had threatened to retire.
A new contract was offered, but meetings at the headquarters last night and again this morning failed to reach a consensus.
“After eight years at Juventus the time has come to say goodbye and thank all the fans, teammates and the club for all the support I have received in this time.
“I won four Scudetti and the Ballon d’Or in Turin. I particularly want to thank my wife Ivana and our children, who have accompanied me during this extraordinary journey. From Monday onwards, I will think about my future.
“I will continue to feel close to Juventus and I’m particularly grateful to the Agnelli family for giving me the opportunity to play for this great club. I can assure you economic reasons had nothing to do with this decision.”
It is curious that the Czech is leaving Juve, but not necessarily hanging up his boots for good, as confirmed by his agent.
“For now we say goodbye to Juve, a decision that was already very difficult,” noted Mino Raiola on Sky Italia.
“From Monday we will think about the future. Sunday will be his last game in the Bianconeri shirt.
“I have already received many requests from Italy and abroad. We never asked Juventus for guarantees on tactics, players or a future as a director.”
Nedved began his career at Sparta Prague in 1992, moving on to Lazio in 1996 and then Juventus in 2001.

Pavel Nedved will continue running in one season

2009-05-30T04:30:00.000-07:00

Juventus veteran Pavel Nedved had met the club's directors today to resolve his future.Earlier in the season, the Czech international declared his intention to hang up his boots at the end of the current campaign.

But recently his agent Mino Raiola stressed that he expected Nedved to play on for another year.Reports suggest that the 36-year-old had met club President Giovanni Cobolli Gigli later today to make a final decision.

After that meeting According to juventusnews.tk, it has been reported that Juventus midfielder Pavel Nedved will continue running on the playing fields for another season following a meeting with his club, who managed to convince him not to retire and instead accept a one-year deal extension.

Nedved is expected to receive around €1.7 million, including bonuses tied to the number of appearances he will make next term.

The 36-year-old had announced that he would retire at the end of this campaign and in fact, following the elimination from the Champions League, he had stated that one of his biggest regrets was that he never won the trophy with the big ears.

However, now he will have another shot at glory as he will have the opportunity to fight another season in Europe's most prestigious competition and maybe finally make his dream come true.

Nedved has been at Juventus since 2001 following his move from Lazio, and has made 246 league appearances for the club, scoring 51 goals in the process.

Italy: Lippi call all italian defender of juve

2009-05-29T15:50:00.000-07:00

Marcello Lippi has called 21 players for the friendly that Italy will play against Northern Ireland in Pisa on Saturday June 6 (20.50). Eight new faces: the goalkeeper of Cagliari Marchetti, the defenders of Lecce Esposito, del Palermo Cassani and of Inter Santon, the midfielders Biagianti (Catania), Galloppa (Siena), the attackers Mascara (Catania) and Pellissier (Chievo). The coach has also announced the names of 13 of the 23 players who will participate in the Confederations Cup: the list will be completed by Thursday June 4th.

Here is the list of those summoned for the friendly in Pisa
Goalkeepers: De Sanctis (Galatasaray), Marchetti (Cagliari), Defenders: Cassani (Palermo), Dossena (Liverpool), Gamberini (Fiorentina), Grosso (Olympique Lyon), Esposito (Lecce), Legrottaglie (Juventus), Santon (Inter) ; Midfielders: Biagianti (Catania), Brighi (Rome), D'Agostino (Udinese), Galloppa (Siena), Gattuso (Milan), Montolivo (Fiorentina), Palombo (Sampdoria), Forwards: Foggia (Lazio), Mascara (Catania ), Pazzini (Sampdoria), Pellissier (Chievo), Rossi Giuseppe (Villarreal).

Here is the list of 13 players already invited to the Confederations Cup
Goalkeepers: Buffon (Juventus), Amelia (Palermo) Defenders: Cannavaro (Real Madrid), Chiellini (Juventus), Zambrotta (Milan) Midfielders: Camoranesi (Juventus), De Rossi (Roma), Pepe (Udinese), Pirlo ( Milan) Forwards: Gilardino (Fiorentina), Iaquinta (Juventus), Quagliarella (Udinese), Toni (Bayern Monaco).

2009-05-28T17:06:00.000-07:00

Juventus are planning to raid the Bundesliga again and close a deal for highly rated Stuttgart defender Serdar Tasci.

The 22-year-old German of Turkish origin has made 29 appearances for Stuttgart this season, scoring a single goal.Tasci has been a regular for Stuttgart for three years and played a part in their title winning side in 2007.

He made the first of seven appearances for Germany in a 2-0 victory over Belgium on August 20, 2008.Juventus believe Tasci can provide Fabio Cannavaro with some much need competition at centre-back.

He has a contract with Stuttgart until 2010 and, rather than waiting for it to expire, the Bianconeri want to open negotiations now.Juventus are looking to gradually overhaul their ageing squad and rejuvenate it with promising young players.

Diego is officially a Juventus player

2009-05-26T16:53:00.000-07:00

WELCOME DIEGO RIBAS
THIS IS OUR NEW PLAYMAKER

Diego Ribas Da Cunha - For more funny videos, click here

“I chose Juve because they are one of the best teams in the world and we have been discussing this move for two and a half years now,” said the man who took Werder Bremen to the UEFA Cup Final.

Interview with ferrara after siena match

2009-05-24T17:07:00.000-07:00

“Siena had a very strong start and created a few problems for us, but for the rest of the time I think Juve played with a real spirit of sacrifice from all its men" Said Ferrara after match

He made his debut with a few but very significant words: "Everything worked perfectly. I couldn’t ask for better". “It was a wonderful day, but above all I am happy with the reaction and performance of the squad,” said the new Coach who replaced Claudio Ranieri this week. Then he went on: "It was a very intense week during which I experienced various feelings. Happiness on one side, worry on the other. Then I came to the stadium, before the match and I felt better. Thanks to the 3-0 victory away to Siena, Fiorentina's 1-1 at Lecce and Milan's 3-2 home defeat to Roma, Juve are guaranteed a top three finish".

The Juventus seen on the field today gave the results which all had hoped for: "I thank the boys for the commitment shown during the week. I spoke clearly to them as fro the first day: it is difficult to work on the tactical aspect two weeks from the end of the championship and so I tried to work on motivation, on self-appreciation and on the intensity during the training sessions and they responded well"

One cannot miss out on a comment about the performance of the captain who scored twice and passed the ball of the other goal notwithstanding the injury suffered during the week: "I chose to field him- concluded Ferrara – because during the week he trained well and only slowed down a bit because of that blow during training. However, even during the fine-tuning session he played the mini-match and took the free-kicks. I had to choose who to field alongside Iaquinta and I chose him and I did well: great play, goals, passes and perhaps he could have been even more incisive when it came to scoring but he reacted like a captain"
He also commented about siena performance “Siena had a very strong start and created a few problems for us, but for the rest of the time I think Juve played with a real spirit of sacrifice from all its men.

“I believe that when there is a change of management, there is always going to be a shake-up in terms of motivation. Even if it wasn't me on the bench, the players would've felt responsible and realised exactly what it is we're gambling with here".

“We had to go and get the direct Champions League qualification and perhaps something a little more.” Ferrara has said he wanted to make it a permanent job on the Bianconeri bench, but faces competition from Bari boss Antonio Conte.

“Conte sent me a message wishing me luck.”

SIENA VS JUVENTUS 0 - 3

2009-05-24T08:05:00.000-07:00

Ciro Ferrara had the perfect debut as Alessandro Del Piero and Claudio Marchisio sent Juventus into second place! On Monday Claudio Ranieri became the first Juventus Coach in 40 years to be sacked mid-season, so legend Ferrara was promoted from chief co-ordinator of the youth sector for his Serie A bow.

Time was of the essence, as they were only one point clear of Fiorentina and finishing fourth would be disastrous by forcing them into the Champions League preliminary round. The Bianconeri were without a win in seven and missed Momo Sissoko, Zdenek Grygera, Christian Molinaro, Albin Ekdal and Dario Knezevic. Alessandro Del Piero recovered from a bruised thigh to start. Siena had nothing to play for but pride and the only real injury loss was Houssine Kharja. He had scored the only goal here last season, which interrupted Juve's 100 per cent record in Siena in three visits.

After 40 seconds Gigi Buffon had to grab a Jarolim free kick, but Iaquinta should've opened the scoring on 15 minutes. He sprung the offside trap and was totally clear on goal, but hesitated and hit a weak effort straight at goalkeeper Gianluca Curci. Del Piero scored the first goal of the Ferrara era for Juventus, as he curled a trademark free kick into the near top corner from just over 20 metres, more distant than Il Capitano is accustomed to. It was a particularly special moment for Alex, who had been repeatedly dropped by Ranieri. Del Piero volleyed over from a promising position, but Juve doubled their lead just before the break.

Del Piero was the provider this time as he went on the counter and placed a slide-rule pass between defenders for Claudio Marchisio to score with the outside of his right foot. Curci was at full stretch to keep out another Del Piero free kick and a central snapshot from the captain. The second half was significantly quieter for all concerned, as the heat and tiredness took its toll. Del Piero completed his brace by waltzing round the goalkeeper in the final minute after springing the offside trap.

PREVIEW SIENA VS JUVENTUS

2009-05-23T17:04:00.000-07:00

"The players need to understand that it only takes a little to change this negative period. This is a big occasion for me and the best response will be to get the results by winning. Ferrara

Juve have not won since March 21, a run of seven consecutive games which has left the club just one point clear of fourth-placed Fiorentina with two games left.

Fans have protested and there have been disagreements in the dressing-room, all of which led to the club sacking their coach for the first time in 40 years.

John Elkann, president of Juve's parent company, hopes Ferrara gets off to a winning start to boost the mood in the Bianconeri camp.

"What's important is to return to winning,'' he said. "I believe that Ferrara is a person who is capable, very convincing and who has all the cards to stimulate the squad and start again on a route to victory which we need.

"We are very close to the squad and to Ferrara and I hope that Juve return to winning: we believe a lot in the capacity of the coach and the players.

"Now we will play well the two remaining games.''

Alessandro Del Piero is facing a race against time to be fit for the clash against Siena after picking up a knock in training, while Cristian Molinaro, Mohamed Sissoko, Dario Knezevic, Albin Ekdal and Zdenek Grygera are definitely out.

Siena have nothing to play for but pride in their last home game of the season as Marco Giampaolo's side have already assured themselves Serie A football next season having collected 43 points in 36 games.

However, they will want to put on a good performance to erase memories of last week's 3-0 loss at Inter Milan.

Siena midfielder Daniele Galloppa is wary of a Juve backlash and hopes his team are up to the challenge.

"Our aim was safety and we hoped for a season as calm as this,'' he said. "We have always been outside the relegation zone and that has given us a lot of calm and serenity.

"Now we are up against a team with so much motivation and that could spur us on, regardless of the heat and tiredness accumulated in these past few months, to give a great performance.

"Personally I am happy to be able to play against Juventus at this moment, it will be another important test and we have to give a great performance.''

Giampaolo has an almost full-strength squad to choose from apart from the injured Mirko Guadalupi and goalkeeper Dimitrios Eleftheropoulos.

A day of training with special jerseys sporting

2009-05-22T17:21:00.000-07:00

Juventus' Mauro Camoranesi, left, and Amauri of Brazil sport team jerseys with their names written in Chinese, to celebrate 20 years of Serie A soccer broadcasting by CCTV5 in China, during a training session at the Vinovo center, near Turin, Italy, Friday, May 22, 2009.

The Chinese television troupe which has been in Italy for the last 15 days filmed the principle football towns in Italy that is Turin, Milan and Genova and interviewed the protagonists of the Italian championship. The special programme will speak of the historical relationship which unites Fiat, the report’s sponsor, and Juventus through an interview with John Elkann.

Ferrara : I want to make different juve

2009-05-22T16:58:00.000-07:00

"At this moment we really need the supporters to reach a difficult objective that is the direct qualification to the Champions League and therefore we have to work together".

Ferrara has been given a chance to impress after replacing Claudio Ranieri for the last two games of the season.After working as youth team boss and an assistant to Marcello Lippi for the national side, Ferrara has promising credentials.

“What is important is that we get back to winning,” Elkann told Juve's website.
“I think that Ferrara is capable and very convincing. He has what it takes to motivate this squad and get us the wins we need.

“We believe completely in the players and the Coach we have and for now it's just important to focus on the two remaining games.”

Ferrara makes his debut against Siena this weekend before a final-day test against Lazio.
He had little time to think about his decision and yet he accepted the challenge without blinking an eyelid: "I was very direct with Jean-Claude Blanc. I would like to thank all those who beleievd that I could be useful at this moment. Perhaps it is partially due to my recent past with this jersey. I did not ask questions or make any requests but I made myself available for the club. I have been part of this club since 1994 and after retiring in 2005 I was given a managerial role and therefore I feel I should make myself available. For me it is a great honour. I told Blanc and Secco to feel completely free with regards to the next coach were it to be me or somebody else. If I am not the coach next season I will return to my post as director of the youth sector without any problems. The club should not feel obliged to confirm me for next year. I am proud to have been chosen for these two day at least. When it comes to the future we’ll see but the club should do what it thinks is best".

The team’s performances have been rather bleak recently, to say the least, with no victories in the last 2 months and therefore a drastic change is necessary: "My intention is to see a different Juve. I know I have little time and that I must intervene but i can’t change a team completely in these two weeks. Hopefully by the end of the week I will be more precise with regards to details. Apart from the technical, tactical and physical aspect of the role i think I will have to work on other things. I think I will have to show the players the difficult time the club is going through. Sometimes little details are necessary to make big changes. I think the problem is not the scarce physical condition but that the players must find the right motivation for these two matches".

Ciro, as he is amicably known, may boast of a great past as a player and a great present as the director of the youth sector and now as from tomorrow his future is that of Juventus coach: "It is clear that it is difficult to judge me technically since I have two weeks to work. I will try to work well and try to bring out the players’ capabilities even because I know them. Since I took on the managerial post I have put my footballer days behind me. I want to be judged on the work that I will do as coach from now on. I felt obliged to give my contribution and do not fear risking in this strange moment".

The new Juventus coach played with a few of the current members of the squad and now finds himself as their boss: "I don’t think I will need to spend much time speaking to the boys. I will use the right words but most of all get on the field and work intensely. We have 10 training sessions left in these two weeks and these 10 sessions must be intense so as to achieve the right results. I am sure to find players who are intelligent and who understand my position and the final objective. They are all fundamental to me. At this point I am the coach and even though I am friends with some of the players we must be able to distinguish a friendly relationship and a work relationship. When Ancelotti was our coach even though I knew him well from the national side I always tried to understand his choices. I don’t care if they call me Mister or simply Ciro, what interests me is working well".

Finally a word about the supporters: "At this moment we really need the supporters to reach a difficult objective that is the direct qualification to the Champions League and therefore we have to work together".

Edin dzeko want to play with juventus

2009-05-21T17:34:00.000-07:00

"I know Chelsea want me and they have already spoken to my agent," "But my dream is to play in Italy, with Juventus."

Wolfsburg striker Edin Dzeko has claimed Chelsea have spoken to his agent over a possible transfer.

The highly-rated Bosnian has been linked with a summer move away from Volkswagen Arena, with a number of sides credited with an interest in his services.

Dzeko, who has netted 25 Bundesliga goals this season, has suggested Chelsea have enquired about his services, although he would favour a move to Serie A.

"I know Chelsea want me and they have already spoken to my agent," said Dzeko in the Daily Mirror.

"But my dream is to play in Italy, with Juventus."

The 23-year-old Dzeko is under contract at Wolfsburg until the summer of 2011.

Juve prepare Fabio transfer

2009-05-20T17:29:00.000-07:00

Juventus have stepped up their interest for Udinese ace Fabio Quagliarella as Inter threaten to move first.

The Old Lady will be looking to strengthen their striking line this summer with French international David Trezeguet expected to leave.

Azzurri marksman Quagliarella continues to impress at the Stadio Friuli and he has been widely tipped to join one of the peninsula's giants.

Juve have been watching Quagliarella for months, but Inter boss Jose Mourinho is also an admirer of the talented hitman and the champions are said to be preparing a bid.

Stunned into action, Juve sporting director Alessio Secco met with Udinese counterpart Pietro Leonardi yesterday and they reportedly began formal negotiations for a transfer.

Reports suggest that Quagliarella would fetch around £14m and Udinese could demand full rights to rising star Michele Paolucci.