Italian Calcio Blog

Prandelli welcomes back the smiles

2010-09-08T11:47:00.003+01:00

Italy coach Cesare Prandelli is relieved his side have brought smiles back to the faces of their fans after their dismal FIFA World Cup showing.

However, after wins over Estonia and the Faroe Islands in their first two qualifiers for UEFA Euro 2012, the former Fiorentina boss has warned of tougher tests to come.

Goals from Alberto Gilardino, Daniele De Rossi, Antonio Cassano, Fabio Quagliarella and Andrea Pirlo sunk the Faroes, the group minnows, at Prandelli's former Florence stomping ground of the Stadio Artemio Franchi.

And the coach said: "We wanted to bring a smile and the enthusiasm back to people, we are working on that.

"It was strange to see the national team go out in Italian stadiums without being applauded. We are creating excitement with these victories. In the future we can play good football, with attacking intent. The philosophy of play is important and we had the right attitude, the desire to play the ball on the ground."

A trip to Northern Ireland - who opened their campaign with an impressive win in Slovenia at the weekend - and a home clash to Serbia follow next month, and Prandelli said: "We expect the most important games of the year. We should be more of a team, more organised."

Source: PA

[Azzurri] Italy make Prandelli feel at home

2010-09-07T21:54:00.017+01:00

Italy won for the second match in succession as Cesare Prandelli enjoyed a five-star return to the Stadio Artemio Franchi and a convincing win in UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying group Group C against the Faroe Islands.

Prandelli, back at the stadium that was his home as Fiorentina coach for five years until this summer, made five changes to the side that beat Estonia 2-1 on Friday, including Alberto Gilardino, who headed the hosts in front on 11 minutes.

Daniele De Rossi and Antonio Cassano added further first-half strikes before Fabio Quagliarella pounced nine minutes from time and Andrea Pirlo curled in a late free-kick to send the Azzurri top of Group C.

Italy hit the ground running and could have twice taken the lead before Gilardino's opener. First the lively Cassano shot wide after a neat one-two on the edge of the area with Gilardino, and then the influential Pirlo sent a free-kick narrowly beyond the far post.

As in Estonia, it was a set piece from the Italy captain that produced the first goal, Gilardino rising to glance his 17th international goal past Gunnar Nielsen in front of his delighted home fans.

The next two strikes owed much to Luca Antonelli, the Parma full-back beginning by embarking on a forceful run before cutting the ball back to De Rossi, who rifled a deflected shot in off Atli Gregersen at the second attempt.

Following further sterling approach play down the left by Antonelli, Cassano then picked up possession 22 metres out and scored with a powerful strike.

But for the intervention of Nielsen, the visitors, whose only threat before half-time was a tame free-kick by Christian Mouritsen, could have been worse off. In fact, it was a surprise that the hosts had to wait until nine minutes from time to make it 4-0, Juventus striker Quagliarella finally poking in from close range after Giampaolo Pazzini's shot had been blocked on the line.

After Cassano was again thwarted by Nielsen, Pirlo capped a polished performance with a curling effort that cemented Italy's place atop the section, two points clear of Serbia, who drew 1-1 with Slovenia in the other match in the group.

Prandelli's charges will next be tested in Northern Ireland on 8 October, before they welcome Serbia to Genoa four days later.

Group C Results
Tuesday 7 September
Italy 5-0 Faroe Islands
Serbia 1-1 Slovenia

Group C Standings
[1] ITA - PLD: 02 - PTS: 06
---------------------------
[2] SER - PLD: 02 - PTS: 04
---------------------------
[3] NIR - PLD: 01 - PTS: 03
[4] EST - PLD: 02 - PTS: 03
[5] SLO - PLD: 02 - PTS: 01
[6] FIS - PLD: 03 - PTS: 00

Next Group C Fixtures
Friday 8 October
Northern Ireland v Italy
Serbia v Estonia
Slovenia v Faroe Islands
Tuesday 12 October
Estonia v Slovenia
Faroe Islands v Northern Ireland
Italy v Serbia

Source: UEFA

[U21] Italy reach Euro play-offs

2010-09-07T18:19:00.022+01:00

Italy took top spot in Group 3 and a place in the 2011 UEFA European Under-21 Championship play-offs with a narrow win against nearest rivals Wales.

Mattia Mustacchio's strike handed the three points to Pierluigi Casiraghi's side, who had to secure a 1-0 scoreline or a win by a two-goal margin in Pescara to go into Friday's draw.

The only goal of the game came after just 14 minutes, with a fine cross from Luca Marrone picking out winger Mustacchio to score his first international goal at this level via a finish into the far corner.

It was a relief for coach Casiraghi, whose side also held their nerve to win another crucial qualifier in Bosnia and Herzegovina by the same margin on Friday.

As for Wales, who finish behind the Azzurrini on the head-to-head record, they have not qualified for the play-offs as one of the four best runners-up.

Romania, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Sweden, Croatia, Ukraine, Greece and Scotland clinched the other places in the play-off draw as group winners with Spain, England, Belarus and Iceland completing the line-up as best runners-up.

The play-offs will take place between 9 and 13 October, with the seven winners joining hosts Denmark in the final tournament next June.

Group 3 Results
Saturday 4 September
Hungary 0-1 Wales
Tuesday 7 September
Hungary 0-0 Bosnia-Herzegovina
Italy 1-0 Wales

Group 3 Standings
[1] ITA - PLD: 08 - PTS: 16
---------------------------
[2] WAL - PLD: 08 - PTS: 16
---------------------------
[3] HUN - PLD: 08 - PTS: 13
[4] BOS - PLD: 08 - PTS: 08
[5] LUX - PLD: 08 - PTS: 04

Play-offs
Group winners: Romania (Group 1), Switzerland (Group 2), Italy (Group 3), Netherlands (Group 4), Czech Republic (Group 5), Sweden (Group 6), Croatia (Group 7), Ukraine (Group 8), Greece (Group 9), Scotland (Group 10).
Four best runners-up: Spain (Group 4), England (Group 9), Belarus (Group 10), Iceland (Group 5).

Source: UEFA

Prandelli expecting to dominate possession

2010-09-06T18:21:00.001+01:00

Italy coach Cesare Prandelli is expecting his team to dominate possession against the Faroe Islands at the Stadio Artemio Franchi in Florence on Tuesday evening.

And the former Fiorentina coach, who spent the last five years guiding La Viola, believes that this should help his reconstructed team to develop more quickly.

Prandelli has completely overhauled the team and squad that his predecessor Marcello Lippi had faith in, bringing players like Antonio Cassano back in from the cold and promoting a host of new names to the international set-up.

And he believes that beginning his UEFA Euro 2012 qualification campaign against some of the continent's minnows can only help. On Friday, Italy, 11th in the FIFA World Rankings, beat the world 94th ranked Estonia 2-1 in Tallinn and tomorrow they host a team considered the 118th best in the world.

"In Tallin we had 75 percent of possession and in theory we should also have this amount of the ball tomorrow, hence having a lot of the ball allows you to construct your game and make things happen and that's important," Prandelli said today.

"The more time we can spend together and work together on the pitch, the more we will develop our pride and desire to win and with that the desire to collaborate will grow."

Prandelli also believes it will be an emotional experience for him to be back so soon at the stadium he called home for so many years, although he said he won't know just how emotional it will be until he gets out onto the pitch.

"Emotions are spontaneous, it's impossible to know now what I will feel, I won't know that until tomorrow night," he added before dismissing any concerns that some local fans embittered by his choice to leave the club will jeer him or the team.

"Absolutely not, I've no fear of that because I'm convinced that everyone will come to the stadium to watch the team and celebrate a great night of sport, I have faith in the Fiorentina fans."

Prandelli has announced several changes to the team from the one that lined up in Tallinn, most notably in goal where Emiliano Viviano of Bologna will get the nod over Palermo's Salvatore Sirigu.

But Prandelli denied that was because Sirigu was at fault for Estonia's goal in Tallinn. "From the beginning we always wanted to give both goalkeepers a chance because we felt they're at the same level so (Viviano) will play," he said.

The other changes will be at full-back where Luca Antonelli and Fiorentina's Lorenzo De Silvestri replace Cristian Molinaro and Mattia Cassani.

There will be some turnover as well up front with Alberto Gilardino coming in for Giampaolo Pazzini and Giuseppe Rossi, if fit, replacing Simone Pepe.

Source: AFP

Prandelli believes Italy are becoming a team

2010-09-04T11:26:00.001+01:00

Cesare Prandelli praised his fledgling Italy team and claimed they were on the right path following their 2-1 win against Estonia.

Italy were far from impressive in their UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying Group C opener but they did grind out the victory despite falling behind to Sergei Zenjov's surprise first half goal.

Antonio Cassano and Leonardo Bonucci hit back after the break to give Italy their first win in eight matches and first of this calendar year.

Prandelli said that his players are slowly developing into a cohesive unit. "Without a good footing you can't go very far but it was more than just (Andrea) Pirlo and Cassano that pleased me, we're becomming a team," he said.

Prandelli has made sweeping changes since taking over from Marcello Lippi following Italy's hugely disappointing FIFA World Cup campaign - only 10 of his squad travelled to South Africa and he has already given six players their debut.

He knows that the team will take time to gel but even so he was dismayed with some of their defending. "Frankly I thought the mistakes we made on dead balls and counter-attacks were absurd," he moaned.

That lack of concentration was most evident with Estonia's goal as goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu spilled Konstantin Vassiljev's 35-yard free-kick and all but Mattia Cassani in the Italy defence stood ball-watching as Zenjov drove home the rebound.

"I thought someone's having a laugh," said Prandelli. "I wasn't afraid but I told the players in the dressing room (at half-time) to ditch any negative thoughts because we were playing well in general.

"We've rediscovered the ability to play football with courage. These are three points but they're worth a lot more."

Prandelli reserved special praise for Cassano, scorer of the first and architect of their second with a cheeky backheel.

"He's an example for anyone who wants to play for the national team," Prandelli said of the Sampdoria forward whose last Italy goal was at UEFA Euro 2004 and who had not been part of a squad for two years before Prandelli took over.

"He fought to get back in the squad and this week he's shown how much the shirt means to him."

Midfielder Daniele De Rossi, who generally had a quiet game, described Cassano as the brightest player in the squad.

"Cassano is important, he's the most talented player. He made the difference and that's what we expect from someone like him," he said. "I like playing with good players and there's many of them in the national team."

Bonucci said his goal was down to Cassano's invention. From a Pirlo corner to the near post, Cassano let the ball run between his legs and backheeled it into the danger area where the unmarked Bonucci tapped in from three yards out.

"Cassano did really well to get the ball in the middle on my goal," said Bonucci. "As for the rest, Antonio's a superstar and he can do these things."

Source: AFP

[Azzurri] Italy scrape comeback success in Estonia

2010-09-03T21:39:00.019+01:00

Two second-half goals in quick succession allowed Italy to come from behind to start UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying Group C with a 2-1 win in Tallinn against Estonia, their first victory in 2010.

Overseeing his first competitive game since replacing Marcello Lippi following the FIFA World Cup, Cesare Prandelli watched his charges head into the interval 1-0 down after Sergei Zenjov punished a mistake by visiting goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu.

A pair of Andrea Pirlo corners nonetheless spared the Azzurri's blushes as Antonio Cassano finished on the hour mark and Leonardo Bonucci struck three minutes later, earning their side three points ahead of Tuesday's home meeting with the Faroe Islands in Florence.

Estonia, who already had three points secured thanks to their 2-1 win over the Faroe Islands in August, caused much of the early danger and they threatened with just 13 minutes gone when a headed pass from Sergei Zenjov released Konstantin Vassiljev with only Sirigu to beat. The midfielder fired over, but after Sergei Pareiko saved well from Giampaolo Pazzini's close-range effort, Sirigu failed to deal with a long-range Vassilijev free-kick and Zenjov converted the rebound.

The hosts nearly doubled their lead three minutes into the second half when Sander Puri's powerful shot from distance hit the bar with Sirigu beaten.

Italy were struggling to find space in attack, but Cassano eventually levelled the scores by heading in a Pirlo corner from the right. The AC Milan playmaker then helped Italy take the lead when he delivered from the opposite corner, with Cassano's back-heel at the near post allowing Bonucci to finish.

Elsewhere in Group C today, Serbia thumped Faroe Islands 3-0 in Torshavn and Northern Ireland recorded a surprise 1-0 win against Slovenia in Maribor.

Group C Results
Friday 3 September
Estonia 1-2 Italy
Faroe Island 0-3 Serbia
Slovenia 0-1 Northern Ireland

Group C Standings
[1] SER - PLD: 01 - PTS: 03
---------------------------
[2] ITA - PLD: 01 - PTS: 03
---------------------------
[3] NIR - PLD: 01 - PTS: 03
[4] EST - PLD: 02 - PTS: 03
[5] SLO - PLD: 01 - PTS: 00
[6] FIS - PLD: 02 - PTS: 00

Next Group C Fixtures
Tuesday 7 September
Italy v Faroe Islands (1950)
Serbia v Slovenia (1930)

Source: UEFA

[U21] Nervy Italy keep Euro hopes alive

2010-09-03T18:21:00.021+01:00

Italy drew level on points with Group 3 leaders Wales to remain in the play-off hunt thanks to a nervy 1-0 victory against Bosnia and Herzegovina in their penultimate UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifying fixture.

Wales can reclaim top spot in the section with a win against Hungary on Saturday but now know that anything less than three points will open the door for Pierluigi Casiraghi's side in the race for an automatic play-off berth.

The Azzurrini, who welcome Wales to Pescara on Tuesday, prevailed against Bosnia-Herzegovina thanks to Roberto Soriano's goal 15 minutes from time, reward for their first-half superiority.

Cristian Pasquato's free-kicks proved particularly threatening in Sarajevo but it was Stefano Okaka who spurned the best chance when he shot wide after Soriano's clever pass.

The visitors were equally dominant in possession after the break but again struggled to find a way through, Ibrahim Sehic smothering Guido Marilungo when the substitute appeared to be in on goal.

The deadlock was finally broken courtesy of an sharp Italy counterattack, Marilungo providing the incisive pass and Soriano the emphatic finish.

Ahead of the Hungary-Wales clash on Saturday, the Welsh lead Italy on goal difference in the Group 3 standings, on 13 points, with Hungary one point behind in third spot.

Casiraghi will hope Wales avoid defeat in Hungary ahead of next Tuesday's final games, to keep play-off qualification in their own hands.

The 10 group winners and four best runners-up will qualify for the play-off stage, with the seven winners joining hosts Denmark in the finals in June 2011.

Group 3 Results
Wednesday 11 August
Bosnia-Herzegovina 0-2 Hungary
Friday 3 September
Bosnia-Herzegovina 0-1 Italy

Group 3 Standings
[1] WAL - PLD: 06 - PTS: 13
---------------------------
[2] ITA - PLD: 07 - PTS: 13
---------------------------
[3] HUN - PLD: 06 - PTS: 12
[4] BOS - PLD: 07 - PTS: 07
[5] LUX - PLD: 08 - PTS: 04

Remaining Group 3 Fixtures
Saturday 4 September
Hungary v Wales (1630)
Tuesday 7 September
Hungary v Bosnia-Herzegovina (1600)
Italy v Wales (1600)

Source: UEFA

Azzurri turn focus to Euro 2012

2010-09-02T19:00:00.000+01:00

Italy are eager to banish memories of their nightmare FIFA World Cup as they head into Friday's opening UEFA Euro 2012 qualifier against Estonia in Tallinn.

The Azzurri were knocked out of the competition in South Africa after finishing bottom of their group with two points.

Under new coach Cesare Prandelli, who replaced Marcello Lippi at the helm in July, the Italians will be looking for their first win of the year in Estonia.

"We have to leave behind these negative thoughts," said Prandelli. "The thought of not having won a game this year could have a psychological weight on the team."

The Azzurri expect to clinch six points from their opening games, in Estonia and then at home to the Faroe Islands next Tuesday.

"If we lose these two games it would be almost a disaster," said Prandelli. "But there are no easy games and that's the truth."

Prandelli's first game in charge was a 1-0 friendly defeat by Ivory Coast in London last month.

"I'm calm," he said. "If I already felt the pressure you would have to probably take me tomorrow to hospital!"

Prandelli will be boosted by the news Antonio Cassano appears to have overcome a back problem after he sat out of training earlier this week.

Cassano is set to be included in the starting XI playing alongside Simone Pepe and Giampaolo Pazzini in attack.

"From a psychological point of view, Cassano is 100%," said Prandelli. "We will just evaluate during the game if he can play for 90 minutes."

Fiorentina striker Alberto Gilardino, who has not scored for the Azzurri since last October, will be relegated to the bench.

With goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon sidelined until December with a back injury, Palermo's Salvatore Sirigu will be between the posts.

Prandelli has warned his players to be ready for a battle.

"Estonia have four good players," said Prandelli. "They play in a small stadium and they will have a good atmosphere."

Tarmo Ruutli's side go into the encounter looking for their second straight win in qualifying after winning 2-1 at home to the Faroe Islands last month in the opening game of the group.

As well as Estonia and the Faroe Islands, Italy will also face Serbia, Northern Ireland and Slovenia in Group C.

Malesani replaces Colomba at Bologna

2010-09-01T16:31:00.001+01:00

Bologna have appointed Alberto Malesani as coach in place of Franco Colomba, who was sacked on the eve of the club's opening Serie A game of the season.

Malesani has been out of work since leaving relegated Siena at the end of last term. The 56-year-old has signed a one-year deal with the Rossoblu, who drew 0-0 against champions Inter on Monday with youth team coach Paolo Magnani at the helm.

Malesani made his name at Chievo in the early 1990s before joining Fiorentina and Parma, with whom he won a Coppa Italia, the Italian Super Cup and the 1999 UEFA Cup.

"I had the chance to coach Bologna a few times during my career but it never happened," said Malesani, who had a spell in charge of Panathinaikos in 2005-06. "I'm very happy to be able to do it now as this is a very prestigious club."

His opening match in charge will be a trip to Rome to play Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico after the international break.

Source: UEFA

[Mercato] Cesena switch for Jimenez

2010-08-31T18:19:00.008+01:00

Former Inter player Luis Jimenez has joined newly-promoted Cesena on a season-long loan deal.

Jimenez had been facing an uncertain future after third tier side Ternana secured his rights at an auction earlier in the summer.

Ternana had previously co-owned his rights along with Inter, who loaned the 26-year-old out to West Ham United last June.

Jimenez struggled to make an impact during his time in the English Premier League and endured a similarly frustrating spell with Parma during the second half of the campaign.

The Chilean forward will now be looking to resurrect his career after a difficult 12 months and help Cesena stay in Serie A.

Cesena have also snapped up Croatian striker Igor Budan on a season-long loan deal from Palermo.
Budan has fallen down the pecking order in Sicily and has been allowed to go out in an effort to get more regular football.

Source: Sky Sports

[Mercato] Bologna snap up Perez

2010-08-31T17:51:00.008+01:00

Bologna have bolstered their midfield with the signing of Uruguayan international Diego Perez and the arrival of Serbian Ivan Radovanovic on loan.

Perez who has signed a four-year deal, arrives from Monaco where he has played for the past six seasons.

The 30-year-old was one of Uruguay's standout players at the 2010 FIFA World Cup where they reached the semi-finals.

He joins several compatriots at Bologna including defender Miguel Britos and midfielders Henry Gimenez and Gaston Ramirez.

Meanwhile, Serie B club Atalanta have loaned out Radovanovic for a year with an option to buy.

Bologna, without a coach, opened their Serie A campaign with a solid 0-0 draw with champions Inter on Monday.

Source: AFP

[Mercato] Roma snatch Borriello

2010-08-31T17:39:00.004+01:00

Marco Borriello secured a late switch to Roma on deadline day after a deal with Juventus could not be agreed.

Borriello has joined Claudio Ranieri's side on loan from AC Milan with a view to a permanent move next summer.

Roma only stepped up their pursuit with hours remaining of the transfer window as the striker had looked set to link up with Juve.

Juve ultimately abandoned their bid to sign Borriello because they were only interested in a loan spell.

The 28-year-old has now opted to go to Roma, with the prospect of UEFA Champions League football thought to be a key factor in his decision.

Ranieri will be delighted to have recruited a player with international experience for Italy as Roma look forward to a packed schedule of domestic and European games.

Source: Sky Sports

[Mercato] Robinho joins Milan

2010-08-31T16:54:00.011+01:00

AC Milan have signed Brazil forward Robinho on a permanent basis from Manchester City.

The Brazil international was initially thought to have been heading to the San Siro on loan, but he has now agreed a four-year contract with the Serie A giants.

Robinho will now link up with fellow new signing Zlatan Ibrahimovic and international team-mates Ronaldinho and Alexandre Pato in a star-studded strike force.

The 26-year-old moved to Manchester City exactly two years ago on transfer deadline day in an astonishing £32.5million deal from Real Madrid.

But despite the move being seen as a statement of intent from the Premier League outfit on the same day they were taken over by the mega-rich Sheikh Mansour, he failed to settle.

A decent first season was followed by criticisms over his commitment and Robinho was sent out to Santos in January for the remainder of the season.

With plenty of competition in Roberto Mancini's squad, Robinho was not a guaranteed starter and has now moved on for an undisclosed fee, believed to be in the region of £22million.

A statement from AC Milan read: "AC Milan announces it has acquired player Robinho on a permanent deal from Manchester City.

"The Brazilian player has signed a four-year contract with the Rossoneri club."

Earlier in the day, Robinho expressed his satisfaction about joining the Rossoneri.

"I am very happy," he said. "Milan is an excellent club."

Source: Sky Sports

[Mercato] Kaladze joins Genoa

2010-08-31T16:33:00.000+01:00

Genoa have signed Kakha Kaladze on a permanent deal from AC Milan.

The 32-year-old Georgia captain joins Genoa after nine seasons with Milan, and has signed a two-year contract.

A statement from Genoa read: "Genoa announces the signing of Georgian international Kakhaber Kaladze on a permanent transfer from AC Milan.

"In the next few days the defender will join Giampiero Gasperini's side in training."

Source: PA

[Mercato] Juve take Traore, Rinaudo on loan

2010-08-31T16:19:00.001+01:00

Juventus continued their massive recruitment drive by taking Arsenal's French left back Armand Traore and Napoli defender Leandro Rinaudo on season-long loans on transfer deadline day.

"Freshness, physical strength and technique in abundance: the left side of Juventus has been enriched with quality thanks to the arrival of Armand Traore from Arsenal," a Juve statement said about the 20-year-old. A second statement announced 27-year-old Rinaudo's arrival.

Twice European champions Juve brought in 10 players during the transfer window as they look to recover from last term's dismal seventh-place finish in Serie A, although efforts to offload left back Fabio Grosso look to have been unsuccessful.

French defender Jonathan Zebina left for Brescia and Mauro Camoranesi joined Stuttgart.

Juve's new-look squad negotiated the Europa League qualifiers to make the competition proper but lost 1-0 at Bari in their opening Serie A game on Sunday.

Source: Reuters

[Mercato] Double deal for Lecce

2010-08-31T15:44:00.005+01:00

Lecce have strengthened their squad with the signings of David Di Michele and Jeda.

Di Michele spent the second half of last season on loan with Lecce and was an instrumental figure in their promotion-winning campaign.

He has now joined on a permanent basis after officially leaving Torino earlier in the summer.

The 34-year-old will be joined at Lecce by fellow striker Jeda, who arrives for an undisclosed fee from Serie A rivals Cagliari.

The Brazilian, 31, provides Lecce manager Luigi De Canio with another experienced option up front.

Source: Sky Sports

[Mercato] Cesena sign Benalouane

2010-08-31T12:42:00.002+01:00

Yohan Benalouane has joined newly-promoted Serie A side Cesena from Saint-Etienne, the French club has announced.

The fee for the 23-year-old centre-back, who was thought to be close to a move to Juventus, was reportedly 1million euros.

Benalouane came through the youth ranks at Saint-Etienne and has played for France's U-21 team, but he recently announced that he wishes to represent Tunisia at senior international level.

Source: AFP

[Mercato] Palermo pick up Joao Pedro

2010-08-30T17:03:00.007+01:00

Palermo have confirmed the signing of highly-rated Brazilian teenager Joao Pedro from Atletico Mineiro.

Reports in the Italian press suggest that Palermo have paid around 6million euros to sign the 18-year-old, whose full name is Joao Pedro Geraldino dos Santos Galvao.

"I don't remember his name, I only know that he cost me a lot of money, yes I've signed him," joked Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini.

Pedro caught the eye of Palermo after progressing quickly through the youth ranks with homeland club Mineiro.

He began to establish himself as a regular starter for Mineiro earlier this year, while he has previously represented Brazil at Under 17 level.

Source: Sky Sports

[Mercato] Camoranesi and Zebina leave Juve

2010-08-30T15:58:00.002+01:00

Italy international Mauro Camoranesi has joined Stuttgart from Juventus, while defender Jonathan Zebina has also left.

Camoranesi has signed a one-year contract with the Bundesliga side on the final day of the transfer window having parted company with the Turin giants.

A World Cup winner with Italy in 2006, the 33-year-old Camoranesi scored 32 goals in 288 appearances for the Juve after joining the club in 2002 from Verona.

Juve also confirmed they had parted company with veteran defender Zebina. The French right-back has joined newly-promoted side Brescia.

Source: ESPN

[Mercato] Chievo capture Fernandes

2010-08-30T14:54:00.002+01:00

Chievo have bolstered their ranks with the loan signing of Gelson Fernandes from French outfit St Etienne.

The Switzerland international only made the move to St Etienne 12 months ago after a two-year spell with Manchester City when he showed promise but failed to establish himself as a regular starter.

He is now embarking on a fresh challenge in Italy after joining Chievo on a season-long deal with the option for a permanent transfer next summer.

Chievo made a winning start to the new Serie A campaign with a 2-1 victory over Catania at the weekend and will be delighted to add Fernandes to their squad.

The 23-year-old midfielder scored the only goal of the game in Switzerland's shock victory over eventual champions Spain at the World Cup.

Source: Sky Sports

[Mercato] Napoli snap up Sosa

2010-08-30T12:39:00.002+01:00

Argentina midfielder Jose Ernesto Sosa has joined Serie A club Napoli on a four-year deal from Bayern Munich.

The 25-year-old has terminated his contract with the Bundesliga champions a year early to link up with the Italian outfit.

Sosa, who arrived in Munich from native club Estudiantes three years ago, has failed to establish himself at Bayern, scoring two goals in 35 league appearances.

The midfielder, who spent time on loan at his former Argentine club last season, joins Napoli for an undisclosed fee.

Source: Sky Sports

Bologna dismiss Colomba

2010-08-29T16:11:00.000+01:00

Bologna have parted company with coach Franco Colomba on the eve of their first Serie A game of the season at home against Italian and European champions Inter.

"We came to Bologna with a long-term project based on a squad with several young players," explained new Bologna President Sergio Porcedda.

"Initially, we wanted a new coach but then we had the chance to get to know Colomba better and changed our minds. Unfortunately, we finally understood that he did not fully share our vision.

"We want a coach who is eager to work with youngsters and we will announce his name by Wednesday. We took this decision today in order to give Colomba the chance to find another team to work for this season."

Colomba, 55, spent much of his playing career with Bologna and returned to the club to replace Giuseppe Papadopulo last season, before helping the side avoid relegation.

Reacting to his departure, Colomba said: "It's a club decision, that's all. Now they will speak and then I too will have my say, calmly."

Youth-team coach Paolo Magnani will now sit on the bench against Inter at the Stadio Renato Dall-Ara on Monday and take over coaching duties until Colomba's successor is appointed.

Source: UEFA

[Mercato] Bocchetti heads to Russia

2010-08-29T15:38:00.003+01:00

Salvatore Bocchetti has joined Rubin Kazan on a three-and-a-half-year deal from Genoa.

The Russian side have reportedly spent 10million euros to land Bocchetti, who made 60 appearances for Genoa during a two-year spell.

An accomplished performer who can play at left-back or centre-half, Bocchetti has also been capped five times by Italy.

He was part of the Azzurri squad that went to the FIFA World Cup in South Africa and will now be looking to take his game to the next level with the Russian champions.

Source: Sky Sports

[Mercato] Milan confirm Ibrahimovic deal

2010-08-28T20:41:00.016+01:00

AC Milan have confirmed the signing of striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic from Barcelona on loan, with the option to buy him next summer.

The former Inter player, who arrived at Camp Nou last summer in a big-money switch, has been heavily linked with a return to Serie A.

And a four-year deal worth 24million euros has now been agreed, with Swedish frontman Ibrahimovic set to join Milan on a year-long loan before signing a permanent contract at the end of the season.

The 28-year-old striker is due to undergo a medical on Monday before completing the deal.

"We have agreed a deal for a season's loan and then the right to buy for 24million euros," said Milan vice-President Adriano Galliani.

"He will undergo a medical on Monday and sign a four-year contract."

Ibrahimovic was delighted to finally see the two clubs reach an agreement over his future.

"I'm really happy. Everything has been solved in a positive way," Ibrahimovic told Sky Sport 24. "Now I come back to the city of Milan but with another team.

"They are an important side and with a big tradition.

"The attack is fantastic. I hope to win the Champions League and everything."

Having left city rivals Inter 12 months ago, Ibrahimovic scored 16 goals in 29 Primera Liga games last season as Barcelona retained the Spanish title, but never quite settled in Josep Guardiola's side.

Source: Sky Sports

Pirlo returns to Italy squad

2010-08-28T18:37:00.030+01:00

AC Milan midfielder Andrea Pirlo has been brought back into the Italy squad for next month's UEFA Euro 2012 qualifiers against Estonia and Faroe Islands.

But Cesare Prandelli's squad does not feature a single player from Inter, the reigning Italian and European champions.

Pirlo was injured for Prandelli's debut on the bench earlier this month in a 1-0 friendly defeat against Ivory Coast in London.

With first choice goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon and Cagliari's Federico Marchetti still injured, Parma's Antonio Mirante has been called up to join Palermo's Salvatore Sirigu and Emiliano Viviano of Bologna.

Forwards Mario Balotelli of Manchester City and Juventus's Amauri miss out with injury with Alberto Gilardino and Giampaolo Pazzini, who both played for Prandelli during his Fiorentina days, recalled.

Prandelli made the most changes in defence with the uncapped foursome of Luca Antonelli of Parma, Palermo's Cesare Bovo, Lorenzo De Silvestri of Fiorentina and Sampdoria's Daniele Gastaldello all added to the squad.

Serie A champions Inter do not provide a single player in the squad while their neighbours Milan only have one - Pirlo. Juventus are the most represented with five players followed by Sampdoria with four and both Palermo and Fiorentina with three each.

Prandelli has picked just two players who play outside Italy, Villarreal's Giuseppe Rossi and Cristian Molinaro of Stuttgart.

The Azzurri play away to Estonia on 3 September before hosting the Faroes on 7 September in Florence.

The squad will gather on Monday at the FIGC's Technical centre in Coverciano, before their flight to Tallinn on Thursday.

Italy squad
Goalkeepers: Antonio Mirante (Parma), Salvatore Sirigu (Palermo), Emiliano Viviano (Bologna).
Defenders: Luca Antonelli (Parma), Leonardo Bonucci (Juventus), Cesare Bovo (Palermo), Mattia Cassani (Palermo), Giorgio Chiellini (Juventus), Lorenzo De Silvestri (Fiorentina), Daniele Gastaldello (Sampdoria), Cristian Molinaro (Stuttgart).
Midfielders: Daniele De Rossi (Roma), Andrea Lazzari (Cagliari), Claudio Marchisio (Juventus), Riccardo Montolivo (Fiorentina), Angelo Palombo (Sampdoria), Andrea Pirlo (Milan), Simone Pepe (Juventus).
Forwards: Antonio Cassano (Sampdoria), Alberto Gilardino (Fiorentina), Giampaolo Pazzini (Sampdoria), Fabio Quagliarella (Juventus), Giuseppe Rossi (Villarreal).

Source: FIGC

[Mercato] Burdisso makes Roma return

2010-08-28T17:12:00.003+01:00

After prolonged negotiations, Roma have reached an agreement with Serie A rivals Inter to re-sign defender Nicolas Burdisso for 8million euros.

The 29-year-old has penned a four-year contract, having impressed during a season-long loan with the Giallorossi last term during which he scored twice in 33 league appearances.

Confirmation of the move comes two weeks after Roma secured the services of Burdisso's younger brother, 22-year-old Guillermo, on loan from Rosario Central with a view to a permanent move next summer.

Roma start their Serie A season on Saturday at home to promoted Cesena.

Source: Sky Sports

[Mercato] Huntelaar set for Schalke

2010-08-28T16:26:00.005+01:00

Klaas-Jan Huntelaar looks set to join Schalke from AC Milan after the two clubs agreed a 14million euros fee.

The Dutch international is likely to be deemed surplus to requirements if Barcelona star Zlatan Ibrahimovic returns to Serie A with the Rossoneri, with Milan looking for extra cash to fund the deal.

Huntelaar has never recaptured the form he showed in his time at Ajax after departing to first Real Madrid, then Milan, and looks set to link up with former Real team mate Raul at the Bundesliga outfit.

Even if Ibrahimovic's move to the San Siro collapsed, Huntelaar's agent Arnold Oosterveer confirmed that it was likely he will still depart.

"Milan told me we would decide this weekend what will be best for Klaas-Jan Huntelaar," Oosterveer said.

"He thought he could stay, but within two days the situation changed. There will be four strikers for only two positions, so that's not that attractive.

"Milan have let us know Klaas-Jan is able to leave.

"It would be a quick move as the transfer market is about to close. He still has a contract at Milan. So we have to decide what the best is for him."

Source: Sky Sports

[Mercato] Trezeguet joins Hercules

2010-08-28T15:22:00.013+01:00

Juventus have cancelled the contract of David Trezeguet by mutual consent, with the former France forward expected to join Spanish side Hercules.

The announcement ends a decade of service for the 32-year-old with the Bianconeri. In total, Trezeguet – who joined Juventus from Monaco in 2000 – scored 171 goals in 320 appearances, winning two Scudetti, two Italian Super Cups and a Serie B title.

Andrea Agnelli, the Juventus President, said: "Like all the Juve fans I have great feelings for David and his 171 goals in ten years.

"You don't need many comments to describe a player who scored 17 goals every season on average. It was a real love affair and David will always remain in the hearts of Juventus fans."

Trezeguet will arrive in Alicante next week to complete his move to Hercules, where he will have a medical and sign a two-year contract. He becomes the club's ninth signing of the summer following their return to the Spanish top-flight.

Source: UEFA

[Mercato] Yebda agrees Napoli loan

2010-08-28T13:29:00.008+01:00

Midfielder Hassan Yebda has joined Napoli on loan from parent club Benfica, the Portuguese champions have confirmed.

The former Portsmouth loanee has failed to establish himself at Estadio da Luz since his move from Le Mans in 2008, and will once again spend a season out on loan.

Italy's Serie A is the 26-year-old's latest destination where he will turn out for UEFA Europa League qualifiers Napoli.

The Azzurri also have the option to sign the Algeria international on a permanent basis when the loan deal expires next summer.

Source: Sky Sports

[Mercato] Palermo take on Maribor midfielders

2010-08-28T12:21:00.011+01:00

Palermo have signed once-capped Slovenian international midfielders Armin Bacinovic and Josip Ilicic from Maribor, the club the Rosanero eliminated to reach the UEFA Europa League group stage.

Bacinovic, 20, and the 22-year-old Ilicic have both agreed five-year contracts with the Sicilian outfit, who will meet CSKA Moscow, Sparta Prague and Lausanne in Europa League Group F.

The players passed medical tests on Friday, the day after Palermo got the better of Maribor in the play-off round despite a 3-2 defeat in Slovenia, with Ilicic scoring the second of his side's goals.

Bacinovic has spent his entire career with Maribor, while Ilicic only joined the Slovene First League pacesetters this summer following spells with Bonfika and Ljubljana.

Palermo begin their Serie A campaign at home to Cagliari on Sunday.

Source: UEFA

[Mercato] Armero makes Udinese move

2010-08-28T11:24:00.002+01:00

Udinese have announced the signing of Pablo Estifer Armero from Brazilian outfit Palmeiras.

The Colombian left-back is currently in Italy putting the finishing touches to his move and undergoing a medical.

The 23-year-old came close to signing for Udinese's Serie A rivals Parma earlier in the summer, but saw that switch collapse.

He has, however, now completed a move away from Palmeiras, who he had been with since early 2009.

Armero joins the sizeable South American ranks at Udinese, with the club already boasting five Colombians within their first-team squad.

Source: Sky Sports

[Mercato] Juve loan Quagliarella

2010-08-27T16:03:00.012+01:00

Juventus have confirmed the loan signing of Napoli striker Fabio Quagliarella with the view to a permanent deal.

The Turin club have mustered up 4.5million euros for the initial loan, while an additional 10.5million euros fee has been agreed, should Juventus wish to make the move permanent.

The signing is the ninth of the summer for Luigi Del Neri's new-look side as the Old Lady look to rebuild after a disappointing seventh-place finish in Serie A last term.

The 27-year-old Italy international joins Serbian Milos Krasic, Uruguayan Jorge Martinez plus compatriots Simone Pepe and Davide Lanzafame among the new faces at the club.

Quagliarella, who has 22 caps and five goals for his country, will reportedly earn 2million euros per season at the Stadio Olimpico while Juve are expected to pay their fees in three instalments.

Source: Sky Sports

[Mercato] Diego returns to Germany

2010-08-27T13:03:00.002+01:00

Wolfsburg have completed a deal to bring Diego back to the Bundesliga from Serie A giants Juventus.

The Brazilian playmaker penned a four-year contract late on Thursday night, having moved for an undisclosed fee.

Reports suggest Wolfsburg have splashed out around 15million euros to secure the Samba star's signature.

The former Werder Bremen midfielder is now free to make his debut for his new employers in Saturday's home date with Mainz.

Having headed back to Germany, Diego will be hoping to repeat the success he enjoyed during his spell at Bremen.

He played for Bremen for three years, scoring 38 goals in 84 appearances and inspiring them to the UEFA Cup final and German Cup crown in 2009.

Identified as the leading light in that hugely-successful side, he was snapped up by Juventus last summer.

However, he failed to live up to expectations in Italy and heads to Wolfsburg just 12 months after agreeing a five-year contract in Turin.

Source: Sky Sports

Inter monopolise UEFA club awards

2010-08-26T18:33:00.003+01:00

Inter have achieved a clean sweep at the 2010 UEFA Club Football Awards in Monaco, the first time such a feat has been achieved since the awards' inception in 1998.

Diego Milito, who scored both goals in Inter's 2-0 UEFA Champions League final defeat of Bayern Munich in Madrid in May, secured the overall prize as UEFA Club Footballer of the Year, voted for, like all these accolades, by the coaches of the teams that reached the round of 16 last season.

Milito was also named UEFA Club Forward of the Year, emulating the double claimed by Ronaldo for Inter in 1998, after beating off fellow nominees Lionel Messi – who lifted both prizes in 2009 – and Wayne Rooney.

Inter playmaker Wesley Sneijder took the plaudits as UEFA Club Midfielder of the Year, for which his Netherlands colleague Arjen Robben and Xavi Hernandez were also nominated.

Full-back Douglas Maicon was voted the UEFA Club Defender of the Year, a category in which his Nerazzurri team-mate Lucio was a nominee along with Gerard Pique.

And Julio Cesar completed the Inter clean sweep, getting the nod as UEFA Club Goalkeeper of the Year ahead of Hugo Lloris and Victor Valdes.

Source: UEFA

Viola make charitable gesture

2010-08-25T17:59:00.002+01:00

Fiorentina have become the first Serie A club to hand over shirt sponsorship to a charity after agreeing to have Save the Children's logo on the team's jersey.

The Florence-based club's agreement mirrors the move made by Barcelona in 2006, which broke from their tradition of having a sponsorless shirt to link-up with UNICEF.

Aston Villa had a similar agreement with children's hospice Acorns during the 2009-10 season, with Fiorentina now following suit to raise awareness of Save the Children's Every One initiative, which aims to dramatically reduce child mortality by 2015.

"Today we decided that our support to this international organisation, for an important project like Every One, should grow to a higher level," said Fiorentina vice-President Mario Cognigni.

"And we decided to offer, from the beginning of the championship, the most visible platform of communication that we have available - our shirt."

The Save the Children logo will be visible on the Fiorentina jersey from the first Serie A game with Napoli on August 29 and the partnership will also include a number of jointly-developed initiatives for promotion and fundraising during 2010.

Source: Sporting Life

[Mercato] Juve acquire Aquilani

2010-08-25T11:24:00.002+01:00

Alberto Aquilani has completed his season-long loan move to Juventus from Liverpool, becoming the seventh major new signing at the Turin club.

"Juventus announce that an agreement has been reached with Liverpool for the loan of Alberto Aquilani with the option to buy the player at the end of the season for 16 million euros," Juve said in a statement.

The central midfielder joined Liverpool from Roma a year ago for around 17 million pounds but had fitness problems and then barely featured under Liverpool's previous manager, Rafael Benitez.

Aquilani also missed out on a place in Italy's squad for the World Cup in South Africa.

He underwent an exhaustive medical at Juventus before the loan was confirmed.

Juve, who finished a dismal seventh in Serie A last season, open the new campaign at Bari on Sunday hoping new coach Luigi Del Neri and acquisitions such as Serbia winger Milos Krasic can help them challenge at the top again.

Media reports suggest the club is also poised to buy Udinese striker Antonio Di Natale and sell forwards Diego to Wolfsburg and David Trezeguet to Spain's Hercules.

Juve have not commented on the reports, and Di Natale, last season's Serie A top scorer, has said he is happy in Udine.

Aquilani has been drafted in with Juve low on numbers in midfield after Christian Poulsen left for Liverpool last week and Tiago rejoined Atletico Madrid on loan.

Source: Reuters

[Mercato] Brescia bag Diamanti from West Ham

2010-08-24T16:42:00.003+01:00

Alessandro Diamanti has joined Serie A newcomers Brescia from West Ham United on Tuesday after just a year with the London club.

West Ham's website said Brescia had paid 2.2 million euros for the 27-year-old who scored eight goals in 29 appearances for the English Premier League outfit last season.

Diamanti returns to Italy having joined West Ham from Livorno for an undisclosed fee at the start of last season.

The striker scored eight goals in 29 appearances last term, with four coming from the penalty spot.

Source: Sporting Life

Inter trophy run continues with Supercoppa

2010-08-21T21:57:00.017+01:00

Internazionale recovered from a goal down to beat Roma 3-1 at San Siro and win the Supercoppa Italiana for the fifth time.

It is Inter's fourth trophy in as many months having won the Serie A title, Coppa Italia and UEFA Champions League last season, and the first for Rafael Benitez as Inter coach after replacing Jose Mourinho in the summer.

Roma were dangerous on the counterattack in the early stages and, after Mirko Vucinic and Jeremy Menez had wasted promising chances, it was no surprise when they took a 21st-minute lead. John Arne Riise sprung the offside trap and dispatched Francesco Totti's defence-splitting pass beyond Julio Cesar.

Inter posed the greater threat thereafter, primarily through Douglas Maicon's thrusting runs down the right, though it took a defensive mistake to bring them level four minutes before the break when Vucinic played a risky pass to Juan, whose failure to control let in Goran Pandev.

The Giallorossi started the second half as they did the first, threatening through a Menez volley and a long-range effort from Riise.

Diego Milito then had an effort disallowed for offside but was instrumental in helping Inter take the lead after 71 minutes, finding space on the right and crossing low for Samuel Eto'o to finish from close range. Nine minutes later the Cameroon striker confirmed victory by dispossessing Rodrigo Taddei and finishing with a precise low shot after a one-two with Wesley Sneijder.

After the match Benitez said: "We showed very strong character, especially after conceding the goal. It was the first competitive game of the season so it's normal not to have fresh legs right from the start but I'm very happy with the reaction of the team."

More silverware could be forthcoming on Friday when the Nerazzurri play Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Super Cup in Monaco.

Roma coach Claudio Ranieri, meanwhile, said: "The key to the game was probably our mistake just before the interval when we gave them the chance to equalise. However, we continued to play well in the second half and I don't think 3-1 is a fair result considering the performances of the two teams."

The new Serie A season kicks off next weekend with Roma welcoming newly-promoted Cesena to the Italian capital next Saturday evening, while Inter begin with a trip to Bologna on the Monday night.

Source: UEFA

[Mercato] Lucarelli joins Napoli on loan

2010-08-21T16:37:00.004+01:00

Former Italy striker Cristiano Lucarelli has joined Napoli on loan from Serie A rivals Parma with an option to make the move a permanent deal.

"Lucarelli is with Napoli now and he can feel like a part of our family," Napoli President Aurelio de Laurentiis told Radio Marte.

The highlight of Lucarelli's career was a four-year spell at Livorno from 2003 to 2007 where he scored 92 goals in 146 appearances and was the Serie A top scorer in 2004/05 with 24 goals in 35 games.

The 34-year-old had a quiet season with Ukraine side Shakhtar Donetsk and returned to Italy, scoring 16 goals in 45 games for Parma before netting 10 times in 28 matches while on loan at Livorno last season.

Lucarelli scored three goals in six appearances for Italy and his presence should fill the void left by the departure of Argentina's German Denis to Udinese.

Napoli play Swedish side Elfsborg in the return leg of their UEFA Europa League third qualifying round on Thursday after winning the home fixture 1-0.

Source: Reuters

[Mercato] Juve seal Krasic transfer

2010-08-20T15:43:00.000+01:00

Juventus have announced the signing of Serbia international Milos Krasic from CSKA Moscow after a protracted transfer saga.

The 26-year-old moves to the Serie A giants for a fee of €15million (£12.3m), and is set to fly to Turin to sign a five-year contract with the Old Lady.

Krasic, who was named Serbian footballer of the year in 2009, moved to CSKA in 2004 and won two Russian titles, four Russian Cups and a UEFA Cup during his time in Moscow.

A statement on the club's official website said: "Juventus have signed PFC CSKA midfielder Milos Krasic, who will travel to Turin to sign his personal contract within the next few days."

Krasic told TuttoSport: "I am the happiest man in the world. I have always believed in Juventus, even when everything seemed difficult, I was sure everything would be solved and I was right.

"The project of Juventus convinced me right away, I like very much the idea of being one of the players who have the responsibility of creating a new cycle and a winning group.

"This club has a history. I am happy to join it."

Krasic has been compared to former Czech Republic international Pavel Nedved, who spent eight years with Juve and became a club legend.

When asked if he liked the comparison, Krasic added: "Pavel is a great person and a football legend of world, not just of the history of Juventus.

"In short, even being compared to him fills me with pride. I am not yet equal to Nedved, but I'll work even harder to be able to follow his own steps."

Source: Sky Sports

[Mercato] Milan take Boateng from Genoa

2010-08-18T19:28:00.003+01:00

AC Milan have signed Ghanaian international midfielder Kevin-Prince Boateng on a season-long loan from Genoa.

The 23-year-old, who spent last term with Portsmouth, completed the formalities of his undisclosed transfer from the English club to Genoa on Tuesday.

The Rossoblu then immediately loaned him to their Serie A rivals, who have the option of making the deal permanent at the end of the campaign.

The length of contract signed by Boateng remains undeclared.

The left-footed player started his career with Hertha Berlin before joining Tottenham Hotspur in summer 2007. A loan move to Borussia Dortmund followed in January 2009 prior to his permanent switch to Portsmouth seven months later.

Born in Berlin, Boateng chose to represent Ghana earlier this year despite playing at every level of Germany's youth programme.

He appeared against the country of his birth, and brother Jerome, in the group stage of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. He scored his first international goal in Ghana's second-round victory against the United States in South Africa.

Source: UEFA

[Mercato] Acquafresca back with Cagliari

2010-08-18T15:23:00.003+01:00

Italy Under-21 international Robert Acquafresca has rejoined Cagliari on a season-long loan deal from Genoa.

The 22-year-old has struggled to make an impact having moved to Stadio Luigi Ferraris from Inter as part of the deal that took Diego Milito and Thiago Motta to the Italian champions.

Acquafresca has spent two previous seasons on loan with Cagliari, the first as part of a co-ownership deal with the Nerazzurri.

The forward was shipped out by Genoa to Atalanta only to return to his parent club halfway through last season, but was unable to make his mark.

Acquafresca is now eager to put the past campaign behind him and enjoy further success with Cagliari.

He said: "The truth is I don't want to go through another year like last season, I know that I can be regenerated here."

Source: Sky Sports

[Mercato] Parma grab Gobbi

2010-08-18T13:34:00.002+01:00

Parma have snapped up former Italy international Massimo Gobbi on a free transfer.

Gobbi, who appeared once for his country in 2006, had been looking for a new club since his contract with Fiorentina expired at the end of last season.

Roma and Schalke had also been linked with the versatile 29-year-old, who can play at left-back as well as in midfield.

But he has now headed to Parma after four seasons with Fiorentina, having previously spent time with Cagliari.

Parma also announced the signing of teenage midfielder Danilo Pereira from Benfica, although they gave no more details on the 19-year-old from Guinea-Bissau.

Source: Sky Sports

[Mercato] Denis seals Udinese move

2010-08-17T17:31:00.002+01:00

Udinese have finalised the signing of Argentina striker German Denis from Serie A rivals Napoli.

Denis' agent revealed last week that the former Independiente forward was being lined up for a move to Udinese after struggling to secure a place in the Napoli side.

Reports had suggested that the deal was in danger of collapsing over personal terms, but Denis has now signed a five-year contract.

He will beef up an Udinese side which will be hoping for a better season than last time around after narrowly avoiding relegation from the top flight.

Denis scored 13 goals in 63 appearances during his two seasons at Napoli and also has five caps for Argentina.

Source: Sky Sports

[Mercato] Balotelli joins Manchester City

2010-08-13T19:56:00.003+01:00

Mario Balotelli has left Internazionale and signed for Manchester City for a reported 28million euros.

Balotelli, who turned 20 on Thursday, has penned a five-year contract with the English Premier League club, reuniting him with the coach who gave him his Inter debut in 2007, Roberto Mancini.

"I think that Mario is one of the best players of his age in Europe, and I'm very happy to be working with him again," said Mancini.

The transfer to the City of Manchester Stadium completes a memorable week for the player after he made his Italy debut in a 1-0 defeat by Ivory Coast in London on Tuesday.

Having started his career with Lumezzane, Balotelli joined the Nerazzurri in summer 2006. In his first two seasons at San Siro, Balotelli won the Scudetto twice and the Italian Super Cup and was a regular in the team which completed a historic treble of Serie A, Coppa Italia and UEFA Champions League under Jose Mourinho last term.

In total, Balotelli scored 28 goals in 86 matches for Inter.

Source: UEFA

[2010-11] Lega Pro fixtures released

2010-08-13T13:21:00.073+01:00

The Lega Pro have today drawn up and presented the fixtures for the 2010-11 season at a ceremony held in Florence.

During the summer, the Lega Pro had to deal with the aftermath of 20 clubs being thrown out from its Prima Divisione and Seconda Divisione for financial problems.

Last week the governing body for the third and fourth tiers of Italian football confirmed the replacement clubs, albeit short in numbers, and released the geographic groups for the five groups, and today the 85-member clubs finally found out their calendars for the new season.

Lega Pro 1's Girone A and Girone B will both consist the normal 18 clubs each, but Lega Pro 2's Girone A will only have 17 clubs and Girone B and Girone C will have 16 each, meaning the relegation format in the fourth tier has had to be changed.

The brand new season kicks off on August 22, which is on the same weekend as Serie B. However, the season dates - including for breaks during the season, the final day of the regular phase of the campaign, the end-of-season promotion play-offs and relegation play-outs - vary from division to division.

[Lega Pro clubs bankrupt] - [2010/11 Lega Pro groups]

> Lega Pro Prima Divisione - Girone A [Season Fixtures]
Automatic Promotion: 1st / Play-offs: 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th
Automatic Relegation: 18th / Play-outs: 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th

Opening Day: August 22.
Breaks: December 26, January 2, January 30, March 6, April 3.
Final Day: May 15.
Play-off Semi-Finals & Play-out Finals: May 29 / June 5.
Play-off Final: June 12 / June 19.

Week 1 Fixtures: Bassano Virtus-Spal, Como-Ravenna, Cremonese-Gubbio, Lumezzane-Pavia, Monza-Pergocrema, Paganese-Verona, Sorrento-Salernitana, Spezia-Alessandria, Sudtirol-Reggiana.

> Lega Pro Prima Divisione - Girone B [Season Fixtures]
Automatic Promotion: 1st / Play-offs: 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th
Automatic Relegation: 18th / Play-outs: 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th

Opening Day: August 22.
Breaks: December 26, January 2, January 30, March 6, April 3.
Final Day: May 15.
Play-off Semi-Finals & Play-out Finals: May 29 / June 5.
Play-off Final: June 12 / June 19.

Week 1 Fixtures: Andria Bat-Viareggio, Benevento-Gela, Cavese-Foggia, Cosenza-Juve Stabia, Foligno-Virtus Lanciano, Lucchese-Barletta, Pisa-Nocerina, Siracusa-Atletico Roma, Taranto-Ternana.

> Lega Pro Seconda Divisione - Girone A [Season Fixtures]
Automatic Promotion: 1st / Play-offs: 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th.
Automatic Relegation: 17th / Play-out*: 15th, 16th.

Opening Day: August 29.
Breaks: December 26, January 2, January 9.
Final Day: May 8.
Play-off Semi-Finals & Play-out Final: May 22 / May 29.
Play-off Final: June 5 / June 12.

Week 1 Fixtures: Casale-Pro Patria, Feralpi Salo-Canavese, Mezzocorona-Valenzana, Montichiari-Tritium, Renate-Rodengo Saiano, Sacilese-Sambonifacese, Sanremese-Lecco, Virtus Entella-Pro Vercelli. (Resting: Savona).

> Lega Pro Seconda Divisione - Girone B [Season Fixtures]
Automatic Promotion: 1st / Play-offs: 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th.
Play-out*: 15th, 16th.

Opening Day: August 29.
Breaks: October 17, November 21, December 26, January 2, January 9, February 6, March 20.
Final Day: May 8.
Play-off Semi-Finals & Play-out Final: May 22 / May 29.
Play-off Final: June 5 / June 12.

Week 1 Fixtures: Carpi-Gavorrano, Carrarese-Villacidrese, Chieti-Poggibonsi, Fano-Bellaria Igea Marina, Giacomense-Celano Olimpia, Giulianova-Sangiovannese, Prato-L'Aquila, San Marino-Crociati Noceto.

> Lega Pro Seconda Divisione - Girone C [Season Fixtures]
Automatic Promotion: 1st / Play-offs: 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th.
Play-out*: 15th, 16th.

Opening Day: August 29.
Breaks: October 17, November 21, December 26, January 2, January 9, February 6, March 20.
Final Day: May 8.
Play-off Semi-Finals & Play-out Final: May 22 / May 29.
Play-off Final: June 5 / June 12.

Week 1 Fixtures: Avellino-Milazzo, Campobasso-Aversa Normanna, Catanzaro-Neapolis, Isola Liri-Brindisi, Matera-Latina, Melfi-Fondi, Pomezia-Trapani, Vibonese-Vigor Lamezia.

* Play-out finals in Lega Pro 2 depend on points difference between the clubs.

Source: Lega Pro

[U21] Italy dig deep to hold Denmark

2010-08-11T22:11:00.020+01:00

Italy battled back from 2-0 down to claim a 2-2 draw with Denmark in a friendly match in Viareggio.

Denmark dominated the first half and went ahead on 20 minutes courtesy of a header from left-back Emil Lyng. They doubled their lead seven minutes into the second, Lasse Nielsen this time heading in from a corner, before Italy hit back.

Pierluigi Casiraghi's side face a real struggle to qualify for the UEFA European Under-21 Championships in the Scandinavian country next year but they showed their resolve to earn a draw thanks to goals from the returning Alberto Paloschi just past the hour and captain Andrea Ranocchia with eight minutes to play.

While Denmark have already qualified for next summer's finals as hosts, Italy still have it all to do to join them there.

The Azzurrini dropped to third in qualifying Group 3 today, three points behind Wales and one behind Hungary, following the latter's 2-0 win in Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Casiraghi's side will now face two difficult tests in their remaining fixtures in Bosnia-Herzegovina on 3 September and at home to Wales four days later as they look to make up lost ground.

UEFA U21 Euro 2011
Group 3 Standings
[1] WAL - PLD: 06 - PTS: 13
---------------------------
[2] HUN - PLD: 06 - PTS: 12
---------------------------
[3] ITA - PLD: 06 - PTS: 10
[4] BOS - PLD: 06 - PTS: 07
[5] LUX - PLD: 08 - PTS: 04

Group 3 Fixtures
Friday 3 September
Bosnia-Herzegovina v Italy
Saturday 4 September
Hungary v Wales
Tuesday 7 September
Hungary v Bosnia-Herzegovina
Italy v Wales

Source: UEFA

[Azzurri] Italy keep eye on late Estonia show

2010-08-11T20:23:00.014+01:00

Qualifying for the 2012 UEFA European Championships in Poland and Ukraine kicked off in thrilling fashion in Tallinn tonight as Estonia struck twice in added time to secure a dramatic 2-1 win over the Faroe Islands.

The Faroes looked to be heading for a surprise win in Group C, Italy's qualifying group, when Joan Edmundsson fired the visitors in front on 28 minutes.

Estonia wasted several chances to score before Kaimar Saag finally brought the home side level a minute into stoppage-time. There was still time for Saag to net the winner with almost the last kick of the game.

Italy coach Cesare Prandelli would have had a close eye on this match as the Azzurri travel to the Estonian capital in their opening Euro 2012 qualifier on 3 September before hosting the Faroes in Florence four days later.

Northern Ireland, Serbia and neighbouring Slovenia make up the qualifying section.

Group C Result
Wednesday 11 August
Estonia 2-1 Faroe Islands

Group C Standings
[1] EST - PLD: 01 - PTS: 03
---------------------------
[2] ITA - PLD: 00 - PTS: 00
---------------------------
[3] SER - PLD: 00 - PTS: 00
[4] NIR - PLD: 00 - PTS: 00
[5] SLO - PLD: 00 - PTS: 00
[6] FIS - PLD: 01 - PTS: 00

Next Group C Fixtures
Friday 3 September
Estonia v Italy
Faroe Island v Serbia
Slovenia v Northern Ireland
Tuesday 7 September
Italy v Faroe Islands
Serbia v Slovenia

Source: UEFA

[Mercato] Roma sign young Burdisso

2010-08-11T16:21:00.003+01:00

Roma have clinched the loan signing of Guillermo Burdisso from Argentine side Rosario Central.

The central defender is the younger brother of Inter's Nicolas, who spent last season on loan at Roma and is a target for a permanent transfer.

Guillermo Burdisso, 22, will stay with Roma for the whole of the forthcoming campaign and there is then the option for a 4.5million euros move next summer.

Standing at 6ft 3in, Burdisso has caught the eye with his performances in his homeland and is regarded as an exciting prospect for the future.

He also marked his first and only appearance for Argentina with a goal in a 2-1 friendly victory against Costa Rica in January.

Roma have yet to agree a fee with champions Inter for 29-year-old Nicolas, with his agent recently admitting a switch was looking less likely.

Source: Sky Sports

[Mercato] Cagliari seal double swoop

2010-08-11T13:19:00.007+01:00

Cagliari have completed the signings of Gabriele Perico and Simon Laner from Serie B outfit Albinoleffe.

Both players scored six goals for the Celeste last season as they secured a mid-table finish in Italy's second tier.

Wing-back Perico leaves after spending six years at the club, including a spell at Monza. Former Italy Under-20 midfielder Laner departs after two seasons, where he played over 50 games and scored 12 goals.

Both 26-year-olds have signed four-year deals at Cagliari, joining for an undisclosed fee.

"I'm honoured to be at such a major club," said Laner. "It's my first experience in Serie A and I'll make every effort to repay the trust which has been show in me."

Source: Sky Sports

Mixed reaction to Prandelli's new-look Italy

2010-08-11T11:04:00.002+01:00

There was a mixed reaction from the Italian press to the new-look Italy of Cesare Prandelli after the 2006 world champions were beaten 1-0 by Ivory Coast in London last night.

Some newspapers were harsh but in general there was an element of perspective towards the team Prandelli sent out, a side that included five debutants.

"Little Italy," said La Gazzetta dello Sport. "Prandelli beaten on his debut but there was a new spirit.

"Italy needs to grow, from (Marcello) Lippi to Prandelli we've been beaten again. Still no wins in 2010 but the coach asked for order and spirit from the team and he got it."

La Gazzetta was also kind to the two men most in the spotlight, Inter's Mario Balotelli, whom they described as Italy's best player, and Antonio Cassano of Sampdoria. It praised both for their efforts to create and score and claimed the rest of the team was behind the two players considered their country's best talents, neither of which made Lippi's squad to the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.

Corriere dello Sport was also sympathetic to the national team saying: "Courage, Italy. Prandelli lost on his debut, Cassano tried some things and Balotelli fought, but that wasn't enough for the Azzurri."

And there was a sobering thought, echoed also by La Reppublica: "The road is long," although the left-wing paper did describe Italy as fragile.

However, Il Giornale, La Stampa and Corriere della Sera were not so gentle in their assessment, each proclaiming a theme along the lines of, nothing has changed.

"Italy, everything is as it was before," said Corriere della Sera. "Prandelli starts badly, Ivory Coast won in London. Good intentions don't make miracles."

Il Giornale added: "Everything about the Italy team has changed, but the results haven't. Prandelli's debut didn't transform the national team, a seventh match in a row without a win and three defeats in 2010. Cassano and Balotelli, the two major World Cup omissions, did well but the team still needs to be invented. The defence failed as a block."

La Stampa proclaimed: "Prandelli hit the wrong note on his debut despite the revolution in attack. The new Italy lost like the old one."

Source: AFP

[Azzurri] Prandelli off to losing start

2010-08-10T21:57:00.006+01:00

Ivory Coast spoiled Cesare Prandelli's debut as Italy coach with a 1-0 defeat of the Azzurri at London's Upton Park stadium.

Defender Kolo Toure scored the only goal ten minutes into the second half, meaning that just like predecessors Giovanni Trapattoni, Marcello Lippi and Roberto Donadoni, Prandelli failed to win his first game in charge.

"I hope this defeat ends up bringing good luck as it did for Lippi," said the former Fiorentina coach after the friendly international.

Italy started brightly in the first half, with debutants Mario Balotelli and Amauri and the recalled Antonio Cassano much in evidence, but the best chance fell at the other end to Gervinho, the striker unable to beat Salvatore Sirigu, making his Azzurri bow in goal.

Marco Motta – another newcomer – hit the post after the break and moments later Toure headed in a Guy Demel cross.

Fabio Quagliarella and Marco Borriello were brought off the bench but Italy will begin their UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying campaign in Estonia on 3 September having not won a single game in 2010.

Prandelli reflected: "I knew that building a competitive team in a couple of days would be difficult, but the players gave all they can at the moment.

"To reach the required standard we must keep working with both enthusiasm and commitment. People love this team and [the fans] also showed their passion tonight, but we must improve as I'm sure they can do much better than this.

"Cassano played pretty well and for Balotelli it was his first game with the senior team, but I wanted him to be part of this squad and a couple of times he showed glimpses of his class.

"When we play with three strikers we need more balance and we are going to work on it. We must improve our quality: if we will be able to do that, we will grow in confidence."

Source: UEFA

Italian football returns on ESPN

2010-08-10T10:39:00.009+01:00

ESPN has renewed its agreement to broadcast live and exclusive coverage from Italy's Serie A in the United Kingdom (UK) and Ireland.

The American sports network will begin its coverage of over 80 live games during the 2010-11 season when the new campaign kicks on the weekend of August 27 and 28, covering at least two games live each week.

All matches will be shown live and exclusive on the ESPN channel, with the majority also available in stunning high definition (HD) picture quality on the ESPN HD channel.

As well as delayed coverage of other matches in ESPN's late night, weekend and midweek output, there will also be a preview show; Total Italian Football, to offer a look towards the weekend's action; and a highlights programme; ESPN Kicks - Serie A, to compliment the live coverage.

The Coppa Italia also returns to ESPN for a second consecutive season, with live matches set to be broadcast throughout the latter stage of the competition.

"The renewal of this agreement is an excellent result for all football fans in the UK, giving them access to live and exclusive coverage of one of the world’s most talked about leagues," vice-President of ESPN Europe Jeroen Oerlemans said. "We are building an excellent portfolio of live football and sport on ESPN."

Keep visiting the comments section of this page below as we will list all of ESPN's live Italian matches as they are announced throughout the season.

A world-renowned Disney-owned company, ESPN will also be covering live action from the English Premier League, FA Cup, Scottish Premier League, German Bundesliga and Cup, Dutch Eredivisie, Russian Premier League, UEFA Europa League, American Major League Soccer and International friendlies and UEFA Euro 2012 qualifiers this season, amongst other major European and international sporting events.

ESPN (UK & Ireland)
> ESPN is available on subscription in the UK on Sky channel 417, Virgin Media channel 529, Freeview TopUp TV channel 34, BT Vision channel 34 and on TalkTalk channel 555.
> ESPN HD (High-Definition) is available on subscription on Sky channel 442 and Virgin Media channel 530 for viewers with HD televisions and HD digital boxes.
> Sky and Virgin Media subscribers also receive ESPN America and ESPN Classic as part of their package. TalkTalk subscribers also recieve ESPN America.
> In the Republic of Ireland (ROI), ESPN and ESPN HD is available on subscription via Sky and UPC.
> More details and subscription information is available on: http://tv.espn.co.uk/

Source: ESPN

Prandelli and Italy facing new challenges

2010-08-09T17:44:00.002+01:00

Italy's FIFA World Cup victory in 2006 may have been a supreme achievement but it undoubtedly concealed the problem of a game in need of renewal, spreading dangerous levels of complacency within Italian ranks.

Four years later, a Squadra Azzurra side still in search of a first victory in 2010 paid a heavy price when they suffered the biggest humbling in their history on South African soil.

Instead of allowing the crisis to spread, the Italian Football Association (FIGC) moved quickly to address the issue head-on.

As a result, some of the country's most legendary names have agreed to take an active role in the rebuilding process and help restore the four-time World Cup winners to their former glory.

They have all been granted extensive powers to meet their ends, even if it means sweeping aside many long-held traditions and beliefs. Here's a closer look at the changes taking shape in the Italian game...

Elegant former forward Roberto Baggio struck 27 goals in his 56 appearances for Italy and, now aged 43, he has been appointed head of the technical sector with a responsibility for injecting a new attitude into youth development.

"In Italy, the results-based culture rules above all else," he said. "I remember being a young player and once attempting and pulling off a back-heel during a training session.

"The coach immediately started shouting, 'back-heels are for the circus.' In contrast, the culture of the beautiful game dominates in Spain. That's the mentality we have to start developing."

With that goal in mind, Il Divin Codino (The Divine Ponytail) has agreed to come out of retirement and leave his ranch in Argentina behind him in order to serve his country.

"Italy doesn't lack talented players," he explained. "We just need to let them express themselves, put our trust in them and find intelligent ways to help them. Technique should always come before the physical and tactical sides of the game."

Although he does not possess any coaching badges, Baggio has already won over observers.

"Roberto Baggio is football itself," said Sandro Mazzola, another Italian icon. "When he's on a mission, he always gives everything. And Baggio can't be accused of coming back for his own ends either, because he'll just be having his expenses reimbursed rather than being paid. Passion will be his only salary."

Another big name from the past eager to oversee widespread change is Demetrio Albertini, the 39-year-old having collected 79 caps before taking up his current position as FIGC vice-President in charge of Club Italia.

"We need to introduce a new code of ethics to all of Italy's national teams, including and in particular the youngest ones," he said. "The players need to understand that La Nazionale isn't a top-level club side but a broad team that represents an entire country and certain values."

The erstwhile AC Milan midfielder has likewise issued an unambiguous message to Italian club presidents.

"Few clubs have the necessary infrastructure for youth teams," he said. "Invest so that youngsters can play."

Determined to see the youth game flourish, Albertini has also made another proposal: "The big clubs should have a reserve team playing in a league that acts as a natural breeding ground and where winning games is not the only thing that matters. These B teams would help young players grow up in a truly competitive environment."

Pulling in the same direction will be Gianni Rivera, who fired 14 goals in his 60 international appearances and helped Italy finish runners-up at the 1970 World Cup. Now 67, the much-revered former midfielder has been placed in charge of the educational side of the youth department, where he will look to build functioning links between schools and the sporting world.

Finding the best way to develop promising youngsters will be similarly prominent in the thoughts of Arrigo Sacchi, coach when La Nazionale reached the World Cup final in 1994 and now technical co-ordinator of the youth teams from Under-16 level to the U-21s.

"Talented players are fundamental but they need to have passion," explained the 64-year-old. "We need talented players, but not soloists. They have to understand that football is a team sport."

Sacchi has also expressed his concern that, "Italy is currently a country of old players."

The figures certainly back him up, with the average age of a Serie A player standing at 27.44, the second highest figure in Europe behind Cyprus. Meanwhile, AC Milan boast the dubious honour of having the oldest team in Serie A with an average age of 29.28.

Opportunities for young players are therefore more limited than elsewhere, and a relative lack of exposure to competitive football may well explain why Italy have not collected an international title at youth level since their Under-19s claimed continental honours in 2003.

The final piece in the jigsaw is, of course, the new Italy coach himself, Cesare Prandelli, a fervent disciple of attractive football as he demonstrated in the Fiorentina hot-seat.

Perfectly echoing the priorities dear to the team of legends around him, the 53-year-old kept on just eight of the players who appeared at South Africa 2010 when he announced his squad for the upcoming friendly with Ivory Coast.

Opting to turn the page, he called up no fewer than ten newcomers, seven of whom are defenders, and in fell swoop cut the average age from 28.9 to 25.7.

With a minimum of fuss, the Italian game has therefore rolled up its sleeves and got back to work. The desire to introduce changes is obvious and the expertise in little doubt, but the results will only become clear four years from now in Brazil.

Then, with the eyes of the world watching once again, La Nazionale will hope to reclaim their traditionally lofty standing on the international stage.

Source: FIFA

Inter's Argentine duo pen extensions

2010-08-09T16:13:00.001+01:00

Inter have been boosted by the news that Diego Milito and Javier Zanetti have signed contract extensions with the European champions.

The Argentine duo were key members of Jose Mourinho's squad last season and are expected to feature heavily this time around under new coach Rafael Benitez.

Milito, who scored the winning goals in both the UEFA Champions League and Coppa Italia finals as well as in Inter's decisive, final Serie A game of the season, added 12 months to his deal which will now run until June 2014.

Club captain Zanetti, 36, added two years to his contract, which was due to run out at the end of the coming season.

"I'm delighted and very proud," Zanetti, who will be 39 when his contract runs out, told the club's official website.

"My thanks go out to my family, the Moratti family (of Inter President Massimo Moratti) and everyone at Inter and to our fans who have always supported me and always will."

Milito, 31, who only joined the Nerazzurri a year ago from Genoa, was the club's top scorer last season.

"I must always thank a great club for having chosen me and the President Moratti for the faith he's shown in me," he added.

Source: Sky Sports

[Mercato] Appiah signs for Cesena

2010-08-09T15:31:00.005+01:00

Serie A newcomers Cesena have revealed they have snapped up Ghana's 29-year-old midfielder Stephen Appiah on a one-year deal.

The Cavallucci Marini have also signed 19-year-old Greek Under-21 star Panagotis Tachtsidis on loan from Genoa.

Appiah, who was part of the Ghana squad that went on a memorable run to the quarter-finals of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, spent last season at Bologna but played only two games.

But the Black Stars captain, who nonetheless was used only as a substitute in South Africa, has a wealth of experience in Italy where he has also donned the jerseys of Juventus, Parma, Udinese and Brescia since arriving in the country in 2000.

Following two years with Juventus, from 2003-05, he spent three seasons with Fenerbahce in Turkey.

Source: AFP

Prandelli to entrust Italian youth

2010-08-08T16:36:00.009+01:00

Italy must not repeat their mistake of treating talented youngsters like spoilt children and instead show them respect as adults, according to new coach Cesare Prandelli.

The 52-year-old was speaking at the Italian Football Federation's (FIGC) Technical Centre in Coverciano just two days ahead of his debut at the reins against Ivory Coast in London.

Prandelli, who replaced Marcello Lippi in the hot-seat, is seeking to restore some pride after the country's humiliating exit from the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

In South Africa, the defending champions finished bottom of a comparatively easy group behind Paraguay, Slovakia and New Zealand.

The former Fiorentina coach said that emerging talents such as Inter's Mario Balotelli should be nurtured and not simply discarded for having the reputation of being difficult.

"Me, with players like Balotelli, I want to create an empathetic atmosphere," said Prandelli, who picked just nine of the Italians on duty in South Africa in his first squad.

"I am saying to him and the other young players: 'I am here, I will listen to you, what can I do for you?' We talk of young players who have a load of talent but who often also have a desire to demonstrate that they are adults, when all we do is treat them as spoilt kids."

Prandelli, who also guided Parma and Venezia, among others, after ending his playing career at Atalanta, revealed that what he had seen so far of the youngsters had encouraged him there was a new spirit within the Azzurri squad.

"The first signs are positive, they were all smiling," said the man who won three Serie A titles with Juventus during his playing career. "On the pitch I want to see a relaxed team. We must be hungry to take risks, to get over our fears and deliver quality football."

Prandelli also explained his decision to recall 28-year-old Antonio Cassano, who won the last of his 15 caps two years ago, after the forward had an impressive 2009-10 season for Sampdoria.

"He will have a prominent role and will be a point of reference for his team-mates," said the Italy coach. "Antonio has matured. It is an extraordinary opportunity for him."

Source: AFP

[Fixture Changes] Serie B Weeks 1-3

2010-08-07T17:33:00.012+01:00

The Lega Serie B has announced that Atalanta against Vicenza will open the 2010-11 Serie B season on Friday 20 August.

Fixtures for the new campaign were drawn up at a ceremony in Milan on Thursday, with all the matches from the first two rounds of the season scheduled for evening kick offs to avoid the August heat.

Recently-relegated Atalanta will host Vicenza in Bergamo at 1945 UK time to kick off the new second division season, with Torino against newcomers Varese closing the opening round in the Monday night game.

The rest of the fixtures on the opening weekend will take place on Sunday 22 August at 1945.

Novara against Triestina in Week 2 has been brought forward to Thursday 26 August, instead of the Friday to avoid clashing with the UEFA Super Cup final, while Empoli-Pescara will close the round on Monday 30 August. The rest of the games, on the weekend the new Serie A season kicks off, will take place on Saturday 28 August at 1730.

Week 3 is an international weekend so Serie B matches will take over the time slots left vacant by their top-flight counterparts.

Torino-Crotone will open the round on Saturday 4 September at 1945, Modena-Padova is the Sunday lunchtime game and Livorno-Siena will conclude the round later that evening. The rest of the fixtures kick off at 1400.

The Serie B schedule will then return to its normal pattern from Week 4, albeit with the Saturday games kicking off at a slightly earlier time this season.

This means weekly matches will be spread over three kick-off times over a normal weekend. On Fridays and Mondays there will be one match each at 1945, and the remaining nine matches will kick off at 1400 on Saturdays.

All kick-off times listed here are UK time (+1 for Italy/CET). Fixtures and kick-off times are subject to change.

Serie B - Week 1
Friday 20 August
Atalanta v Vicenza (1945)
Sunday 22 August
Frosinone v Empoli, Grosseto v Ascoli, Livorno v Sassuolo, Modena v Piacenza, Padova v Novara, Pescara v Siena, Portogruaro v Cittadella, Reggina v Crotone, Triestina v Albinoleffe (all 1945)
Monday 23 August
Torino v Varese (1945)

Serie B - Week 2
Thursday 26 August
Novara v Triestina (1945)
Saturday 28 August
Albinoleffe v Livorno, Ascoli v Modena, Cittadella v Torino, Crotone v Padova, Piacenza v Frosinone, Sassuolo v Grosseto, Siena v Reggina, Varese v Atalanta, Vicenza v Portogruaro (all 1730)
Monday 30 August
Empoli v Pescara (1800)

Serie B - Week 3
Saturday 4 September
Torino v Crotone (1945)
Sunday 5 September
Modena v Padova (1130)
Ascoli v Albinoleffe, Atalanta v Frosinone, Cittadella v Novara, Grosseto v Vicenza, Portogruaro v Sassuolo, Reggina v Piacenza, Triestina v Pescara, Varese v Empoli (all 1400)
Livorno v Siena (1945)

Source: Lega Serie B

[Mercato] Lazio complete Hernanes signing

2010-08-07T10:59:00.003+01:00

Lazio have completed the signing of highly rated Brazilian midfielder Hernanes from Sao Paulo.

The deal has been rumoured to be in the offing for some time, but Sao Paulo only wanted to announce the deal after the conclusion of their Copa Libertadores campaign, which came this week at the semi-final stage.

Lazio will pay a reported 13.5million euros for the 2008 Brazilian player of the year, who has signed a five-year contract with the capital club.

"His contract with the Italian club will last five years," read a statement from the Brazilian club.

The capture of the 25-year-old is a major coup for the Biancocelesti, who flirted with relegation from Serie A last season before a late run of form lifted them up to safety.

Source: Reuters

[U21] Squad named for Danish test

2010-08-06T17:27:00.026+01:00

Italy Under-21 coach Pierluigi Casiraghi has called up Torino defender Danilo D'Ambrosio and recalled Alberto Paloschi and Andrea Ranocchia in his squad for next Wednesday's friendly against Denmark.

The Azzurrini are struggling to reach next summer's UEFA European Under-21 Championships in the Scandinavian country with Bosnia-Herzegovina and Wales to come in September's final Group 3 qualifiers.

The five-time European champions sit three points behind group leaders Wales, with Hungary and Bosnia-Herzegovina, who meet in their game in hand next week, just three points and one point behind in the standings respectively.

Casiraghi will have an eye on that important clash in Zenica on Wednesday afternoon, just hours before hosting Denmark in Viareggio.

Parma striker Paloschi and Genoa defender Ranocchia return to the Under-21 squad following injuries last term, while D'Ambrosio is the only fresh face in the 20-man squad which will gather for training on Sunday evening.

Italy Under-21 squad
Goalkeepers: Vito Mannone (Arsenal), Mattia Perin (Genoa).
Defenders: Gabriele Angella (Empoli), Lorenzo Ariaudo (Cagliari), Giuseppe Bellusci (Catania), Danilo D'Ambrosio (Torino), Antonio Mazzotta (Pescara), Angelo Obinze Ogbonna (Torino), Andrea Ranocchia (Genoa).
Midfielders: Antonino Barilla (Reggina), Francesco Bolzono (Siena), Lorenzo Crisetig (Inter), Luca Marrone (Juventus), Cristian Pasquato (Juventus), Andrea Poli (Sampdoria), Ezequiel Matias Schelotto (Cesena).
Forwards: Fabio Borini (Chelsea), Federico Macheda (Manchester United), Stefano Okaka (Roma), Alberto Paloschi (Parma).

UEFA U21 Euro 2011
Group 3 Standings
[1] WAL - PLD: 06 - PTS: 13
---------------------------
[2] ITA - PLD: 06 - PTS: 10
---------------------------
[3] HUN - PLD: 05 - PTS: 09
[4] BOS - PLD: 05 - PTS: 07
[5] LUX - PLD: 08 - PTS: 04

Group 3 Fixtures
Wednesday 11 August
Bosnia-Herzegovina v Hungary
Friday 3 September
Bosnia-Herzegovina v Italy
Saturday 4 September
Hungary v Wales
Tuesday 7 September
Hungary v Bosnia-Herzegovina
Italy v Wales

Source: FIGC

Prandelli rings changes in first Italy squad

2010-08-06T17:13:00.036+01:00

New Italy coach Cesare Prandelli has named Antonio Cassano, Mario Balotelli and Amauri in his squad for his first game in charge against Ivory Coast in a friendly on Tuesday.

Internazionale's 19-year-old striker Balotelli, being courted by Manchester City despite a series of on-and-off the field problems, earns his first call-up alongside Brazil-born forward Amauri.

The inconsistent Juventus striker had the chance of making the Brazil squad last year but hung on to gain Italian citizenship only to be ignored by Marcello Lippi for Italy's World Cup humiliation in June.

In all there are eight new call-ups and only nine players remain from the squad which went to South Africa as defending champions but were dumped out in the group stage without winning a game.

Fabio Cannavaro and Gennaro Gattuso retired from internationals after the debacle and former Fiorentina boss Prandelli has signalled a possible end to the Italy careers of Antonio Di Natale and Gianluca Zambrotta by leaving them out.

Gianluigi Buffon and Andrea Pirlo are not fit so Roma's Daniele De Rossi is set to be captain for the game at West Ham United's Upton Park Stadium in London.

Sampdoria talisman Cassano, who has overcome his bad-boy image in recent seasons, was also overlooked by Lippi for two years but makes his return to the squad having last been involved at Euro 2008.

Alberto Gilardino of Fiorentina and Sampdoria's Giampaolo Pazzini, players who Prandelli has worked with in the past, haven't been selected.

There are new and internationally inexperienced faces in the squad with goalkeeper Emiliano Viviano and defenders Luca Antonini, Davide Astori, Mattia Cassani, Stefano Lucchini, Cristian Molinaro and Marco Motta .

Italy start their Euro 2012 qualifying campaign in Estonia on September 3 before hosting the Faroe Islands in Florence four days later.

The squad will gather on Sunday at the FIGC's Technical centre in Coverciano, before their flight to London on Monday.

Italy squad
Goalkeepers: Federico Marchetti (Cagliari), Salvatore Sirigu (Palermo), Emiliano Viviano (Bologna).
Defenders: Luca Antonini (Milan), Davide Astori (Cagliari), Leonardo Bonucci (Juventus), Mattia Cassani (Palermo), Giorgio Chiellini (Juventus), Stefano Lucchini (Sampdoria), Cristian Molinaro (Stuttgart), Marco Motta (Juventus).
Midfielders: Daniele De Rossi (Roma), Andrea Lazzari (Cagliari), Claudio Marchisio (Juventus), Ricardo Montolivo (Fiorentina), Angelo Palombo (Sampdoria), Simone Pepe (Juventus).
Forwards: Amauri (Juventus), Mario Balotelli (Inter), Marco Borriello (Milan), Antonio Cassano (Sampdoria), Fabio Quagliarella (Napoli), Giuseppe Rossi (Villarreal).

Source: Reuters

[Mercato] Guberti returns to Samp

2010-08-06T15:09:00.003+01:00

Sampdoria have brought Stefano Guberti back to the club in a joint-ownership deal with Roma.

The 25-year-old winger spent the second half of last season on loan with the Genoa-based club and had made no secret of his desire to return.

He scored two goals in 16 Serie A appearances for Samp during his short-term spell, catching the eye with a number of impressive displays.

The former Ascoli and Bari man had made the move after finding first-team football hard to come by at Roma following a summer switch to the capital.

He had featured just six times, three as a starter, before Christmas and it was clear that he was not considered to be a regular.

Guberti is now relishing the prospect of a full season at Samp, who will be looking to make inroads at home and abroad.

They have been drawn against German giants Werder Bremen in the UEFA Champions League play-offs and will have their sights set on the group stages.

Source: Sky Sports

[UEL] Favourable draw for Serie A trio

2010-08-06T13:31:00.006+01:00

Juventus, Napoli and Palermo have been handed favourable qualifying ties as they look to reach the UEFA Europa League group stage following the play-off round draw in Nyon today.

Juve, who finished a disappointing seventh in Serie A last term, eased past Irish outfit Shamrock Rovers 3-0 on aggregate on Thursday to reach the play-off round where they will face Austrian side Sturm Graz.

Napoli have been paired with Elfsborg from Sweden, while Palermo face Slovenian opposition in the form of Maribor.

The ties are to be played over two legs on 19 and 26 August, with the 38 winning teams reaching the competition's group phase.

Napoli and Palermo were both drawn at home for the first leg while Juve have the advantage of playing the return match on home soil.

UEFA Europa League 2010-11
Play-off Round, First leg
Thursday 19 August
Palermo v Maribor (1930)
Napoli v Elfsborg (2000)
Sturm Graz v Juventus (2005)

Play-off Round, Second leg
Thursday 26 August
Elfsborg v Napoli (1945)
Juventus v Sturm Graz (1945)
Maribor v Palermo (1945)

[Full Play-off Draw]

Source: UEFA

[UCL] Samp play-off with Werder

2010-08-06T11:46:00.009+01:00

Sampdoria must overcome Werder Bremen if they are to reach the UEFA Champions League group stage following the draw for the play-off round in Nyon.

Unseeded under UEFA's League Route qualifying format, Sampdoria avoided being paired with the likes of Sevilla, Zenit St Petersburg, Tottenham Hotspur and Ajax.

Domenico Di Carlo's side will travel to Bremen for the first leg on August 17/18, before hosting the crucial return in Genoa on August 24/25.

The Blucerchiati will join Serie A champions Inter, Roma and AC Milan in the group stage if they can overcome their German Bundesliga opponents over the two legs.

Elsewhere in the League Route section of the play-off draw, Luciano Spalletti's Zenit and Auxerre go head-to-head, Young Boys welcome Tottenham, Braga host Sevilla in an all-Iberian meeting and Ajax travel to Dynamo Kiev.

There are also five group stage places for the other half of the draw. The Champions Route paired Salzburg against Hapoel Tel-Aviv, Rosenborg take on Copenhagen, Basel welcome Sheriff, Zilina travel to Sparta Prague and Partizan Belgrade meet Anderlecht.

The ten losing teams will automatically drop into the UEFA Europa League group stage.

UEFA Champions League 2010-11
Play-off Round, First leg
Tuesday 17 August
Zenit St Petersburg v Auxerre (1730)
Dynamo Kiev v Ajax (1945)
Rosenborg v Copenhagen (1945)
Sparta Prague v Zilina (1945)
Young Boys v Tottenham Hotspur (1945)
Wednesday 18 August
Basle v Sheriff Tiraspol (1945)
Braga v Sevilla (1945)
Partizan Belgrade v Anderlecht (1945)
Red Bull Salzburg v Hapoel Tel-Aviv (1945)
Werder Bremen v Sampdoria (1945)

Play-off Round, Second leg
Tuesday 24 August
Anderlecht v Partizan Belgrade (1945)
Hapoel Tel-Aviv v Red Bull Salzburg (1945)
Sampdoria v Werder Bremen (1945)
Sevilla v Braga (1945)
Sheriff Tiraspol v Basle (1945)
Wednesday 25 August
Ajax v Dynamo Kiev (1945)
Auxerre v Zenit St Petersburg (1945)
Copenhagen v Rosenborg (1945)
Tottenham Hotspur v Young Boys (1945)
Zilina v Sparta Prague (1945)

Source: UEFA

[UEL] Juve reach play-offs

2010-08-05T22:03:00.008+01:00

Alessandro Del Piero helped Juventus to a 1-0 win over Shamrock Rovers as the Bianconeri progress to the UEFA Europa League Play-off Round, 3-0 on aggregate.

The Irish outfit's hopes of causing a huge upset in the third qualifying round were all but over after a double from Amauri gave Juventus a 2-0 victory in the first leg in Dublin last week.

However, they pushed Juve all the way in the return match at Modena's Stadio Alberto Braglia and only Del Piero's 74th-minute strike separated the teams on the night.

Luigi Delneri's side, along with Serie A compatriots Napoli and Palermo, will now be awaiting Friday's play-off round draw in Nyon.

The play-off ties, for a place in the Europa League group stage, are to be played over two legs on 19 and 26 August.

Meanwhile, the draw for the play-off round of the UEFA Champions League will also be held on Friday, with Sampdoria awaiting their qualifying opponent.

The Blucerchiati, who finished fourth in Serie A last term, are unseeded for the draw and will have to overcome a tricky tie if they are to join Inter, Roma and AC Milan in the group stage. As a non-champion from Europe's domestic leagues, Samp will be up against either Sevilla (Spain), Werder Bremen (Germany), Zenit St Petersburg (Russia), Tottenham Hotspur (England) or Ajax (Netherlands).

The Champions League play-offs are to be played over two legs on 17/18 and 24/25 August.

UEFA Europa League 2010-11
Third Qualifying Round
Thursday 29 July
Shamrock Rovers 0-2 Juventus
Thursday 5 August
Juventus 1-0 Shamrock Rovers (in Modena, Agg: 3-0)

[3QR Results]

Source: UEFA

[Mercato] Parma announce Giovinco deal

2010-08-05T16:12:00.004+01:00

Parma sporting director Pietro Leonardi has announced the loan signing of Sebastian Giovinco from Juventus.

Giovinco has been linked with a number of Serie A clubs as well as Arsenal, but reports suggest Parma have paid around £500,000 to take the 23-year-old on loan for the season.

The Gialloblu will then have the option to secure a co-ownership agreement next summer.

"Giovinco is now a Parma player and we are very happy," Leonardi told Sky Sport 24. "It is a loan with the right to buy up half his contract.

"There will be no need to negotiate with Juventus next summer, as the buy-out price has already been decided.

"Our coach, Pasquale Marino, is enthusiastic about this player, but never wanted to say so publicly. We wanted to work in the shadows while possible, as he really will improve our squad a great deal.

"I've known him for some time and I'm sure he'll do some remarkable things here. Both Alessandro Diamanti and Hatem Ben Arfa are good players, but considering the characteristics of the side, Giovinco was the absolute best we could want. I think that with Giovinco we can say our transfer market is effectively closed."

Giovinco said at his unveiling by the club: "I have arrived with the right spirit that a professional should always have. I am happy to be part of this team and this company, after the bad year that I spent at Juve. I want to redeem myself and to show what I am worth."

Source: ESPN Soccernet

[2010-11] Serie B fixtures released

2010-08-05T12:31:00.008+01:00

Atalanta will kick off the new Serie Bwin season with a tricky home tie against Vicenza on the weekend of August 22.

The recently-relegated Bergamo outfit are seeking immediate promotion back into Serie A as are rivals Livorno, who host Sassuolo on the opening day, and Siena, who travel to newcomers Pescara.

The 2010-11 fixtures were released separately from the top-flight calendar for the first time following the summer split at a ceremony held at the Lega Serie B's headquarters in Milan this afternoon.

Ancona failed to prove their financial stability and were thrown out of the second tier, so relegated Triestina were recalled and they open with a home game against Albinoleffe.

The pick of the other Week 1 fixtures sees Torino going head-to-head with promoted Varese, Reggina playing host to Crotone and Frosinone welcoming Empoli.

Excluding the three midweek rounds (October 13, November 9 and March 1), international weeks and the holiday periods, most of the second division matchdays will have a match scheduled for Friday and Monday nights (at 1945 UK time), with the rest played on Saturday afternoons (1400 UK time).

To avoid the summer heat, however, matches on the first two weekends will all be played in the evenings with a decision due shortly on the exact dates and kick-off times for games in the early part of the campaign.

The regular season concludes on May 29 and the final day fixtures include: Albinoleffe-Siena, Grosseto-Atalanta, Livorno-Frosinone, Sassuolo-Reggina, Torino-Padova and Vicenza-Empoli.

The end-of-season play-off semi-finals are pencilled in for June 2 and 6, with the two-legged final to be held on June 9 and 13. The play-out finals will take place on June 4 and 12.

Week 1 Fixtures
20/22/23 August 2010
Atalanta v Vicenza
Frosinone v Empoli
Grosseto v Ascoli
Livorno v Sassuolo
Modena v Piacenza
Padova v Novara
Pescara v Siena
Portogruaro v Cittadella
Reggina v Crotone
Torino v Varese
Triestina v Albinoleffe

Complete Fixture List:
[Serie B 2010-11]

Source: Lega Serie B

[Mercato] Genoa seal Rafinha deal

2010-08-04T19:53:00.008+01:00

Genoa have announced the signing of Brazilian defender Rafinha from Schalke.

Rafinha has signed a four-year contract with the Serie A club after passing a medical and agreeing personal terms.

The 24-year-old right-back joined Schalke in 2005 from Coritiba in his homeland, playing 153 Bundesliga games as well as participating in three UEFA Champions League campaigns with the German side.

Rafinha becomes Genoa's fifth major signing of the summer following Luca Toni, Eduardo, Miguel Veloso and on-loan Hoffenheim midfielder Franco Zuculini.

Source: Sky Sports

FIGC appoints Baggio, Sacchi and Rivera

2010-08-04T17:23:00.004+01:00

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has appointed former international Roberto Baggio at the head of its Technical Sector while Arrigo Sacchi, who was Baggio's Italy coach at the 1994 FIFA World Cup, has been named youth teams co-ordinator.

The two high-profile appointments come in the wake of Cesare Prandelli's installation last month as Italy coach, replacing Marcello Lippi, as the FIGC shakes up its operations following the national team's poor showing at the World Cup finals.

Baggio, the 43-year-old former Azzurri forward who made his name with Fiorentina and Juventus, will act as President of the FIGC Technical Sector in Coverciano which focuses, among other things, on the latest technical advances and football development.

The 64-year-old Sacchi, meanwhile, will be the overall supervisor of all Italy's junior national teams from Under-21 level down to U16.

Sacchi, whose tenure as Italy coach lasted from 1991 to 1996 and peaked with second place at the 1994 World Cup, will work alongside another famous name from the Azzurri's past, Gianni Rivera. The latter, who as a Ballon d'Or nominated midfielder won the 1968 UEFA European Championship with Italy and two European Champion Clubs' Cups with AC Milan, will preside over the educational side of the youth department.

"I dream that Italian football will soon be able to count on a number of young talents," Baggio said. "We must have more faith in youngsters because they are the future of our football.

"We must give everything we have to help them grow in the best possible way."

Baggio had been out of football since retiring from playing in 2004, with Brescia his final club. The 1993 Ballon d'Or winner scored 27 goals in 56 games for Italy, and remains the fifth-highest scorer in Serie A history with 205 strikes.

Sacchi can claim an equally impressive pedigree having lifted successive European Cups as Milan coach in 1989 and 1990. All his experience will be put to use in working with the country's future talent.

Rivera, 66, who preceded Baggio as European Footballer of the Year by some 24 years, posted national-team statistics of 14 goals in 60 appearances.

Italy's world title defence ended at the group stage in South Africa as they finished behind Paraguay, Slovakia and New Zealand.

New head coach Prandelli will begin the rebuilding process with a friendly against the Ivory Coast in London on 10 August.

Their UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying campaign starts in Estonia on 3 September, with Serbia, Northern Ireland, Slovenia and the Faroe Islands also in Group C.

Source: FIGC / UEFA

Triestina reprieved; New clubs enter Lega Pro

2010-08-04T17:09:00.001+01:00

Relegated Triestina have been brought back into Serie B to replace Ancona, who were thrown out alongside 20 Lega Pro clubs for their poor financial standings.

The 2009-10 Serie B season ended with Ancona avoiding the drop on the final day, sending Triestina through to a relegation play-out tie.

They lost that 3-0 on aggregate to Padova and were relegated to Lega Pro 1, but today they were formally recalled back to the second tier by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC)'s Federal Council.

Ancona left a vacancy in Serie B after they could not cover their debts, reported to be around 4million euros, and therefore failed the financial tests set up by Italian football's governing body.

All clubs in Italy must prove their financial stability to the Covisoc financial committee before they are allowed to register for the season.

With Triestina leaving Lega Pro 1 and with Arezzo, Figline, Gallipoli, Mantova, Marcianise, Perugia and Rimini all kicked out last month, Paganese, Pavia, Siracusa, Barletta, Gela, Bassano, Nocerina and Pisa all submitted their candidacy and passed an entry criteria to fill the vacancies in the two 18-team divisions that form the third tier of Italian football.

It was even worse in Lega Pro 2 with 13 clubs crashing out this summer: Legnano, Potenza, Pro Vercelli, Sangiustese, Alghero, Cassino, Itala San Marco, Manfredonia, Monopoli, Olbia, Pescina, Pro Vasto and Scafatese.

They were replaced in part by Bellaria, Matera, Carrarese, Carpi, Pro Belvedere, Pomezia, Latina, Casale, Trapani, Virtus Entella, Vigor Lamezia, Nuovo Campobasso, L'Aquila, Avellino, Renate and Sanremese.

However, there weren't enough clubs passing the criteria so the three divisions that make up the fourth tier will have an uneven number of teams competing in the new season from the usual 18.

Lega Pro President Mario Macalli suggested that these 'recalls' should be abolished from next season and a new system put in place.

As for the clubs excluded, most will be expected to apply for a place in the regional amateur Serie D league - the highest non-professional league, next season, or start all over again at the bottom of the Italian football pyramid.

Following the announcements, the Lega Pro confirmed the formation of the groups for the 2010-11 season. The clubs are divided into each group mainly according to geographical principles. The Serie B line-up was also confirmed.

Serie B
Albinoleffe, Ascoli, Atalanta, Cittadella, Crotone, Empoli, Frosinone, Grosseto, Livorno, Modena, Novara, Padova, Pescara, Piacenza, Portosummaga, Reggina, Siena, Sassuolo, Torino, Triestina, Varese, Vicenza.

Lega Pro Prima Divisione (Lega Pro 1)
Girone A: Alessandria, Alto Adige-Sud Tirol, Bassano, Como, Cremonese, Gubbio, Lumezzane, Monza, Paganese, Pavia, Pergocrema, Ravenna, Reggiana, Salernitana, Sorrento, Spal, Spezia, Verona.
Girone B: Andria BAT, Atletico Roma, Barletta, Benevento, Cavese, Cosenza, Foggia, Foligno, Gela, Juve Stabia, Lucchese, Nocerina, Pisa, Siracusa, Taranto, Ternana, Viareggio, Virtus Lanciano.

Lega Pro Seconda Divisione (Lega Pro 2)
Girone A: Canavese, Casale, Feralpi Salo, Lecco, Mezzocorona, Montichiari, Pro Belvedere Vercelli, Pro Patria, Renate, Rodengo Saiano, Sacilese, Sambonifacese, Sanremese, Savona, Tritium, Valenza, Virtus Entella.
Girone B: Bellaria, Carpi, Carrarese, Celano, Chieti, Crociati Noceto, Fano, Gavorrano, Giacomense, Guilianova, L'Aquila, Poggibonsi, Prato, San Marino, Sangiovanese, Villacidrese.
Girone C: Avellino, Aversa Normanna, Brindisi, Campobasso, Catanzaro, Fondi, Isola Liri, Latina, Matera, Melfi, Milazzo, Neapolis Mugnano, Pomezia, Trapani, Vibonese, Vigor Lamezia.

[Ancona and 20 Lega Pro clubs thrown out]

Source: FIGC / Lega Serie B / Lega Pro

Viola rocked by Jovetic blow

2010-08-04T16:17:00.001+01:00

Fiorentina have been dealt a blow after they learned striker Stevan Jovetic will miss the majority of the season.

Jovetic sustained knee ligament damage on Tuesday following a collision with team-mate Mario Bolatti and is expected to be out for up to seven months.

The 20-year-old is expected to return in February or March and will undergo surgery in an attempt to clear up the problem.

The news will be a major setback for the Viola, who have had the talented Montenegrin as an almost ever-present fixture in their starting XI since his move from Partizan Belgrade in 2008.

A statement on the club's official website read: "Fiorentina announce that Stevan Jovetic has suffered a tear to the anterior cruciate ligament and the external collateral ligament of the knee.

"The footballer needs a surgical operation which will be planned in the next few days.

"It is foreseen it will take between six and seven months for his return to complete competitive activity."

Source: Sky Sports

[Mercato] Palermo pounce for Munoz

2010-08-04T14:51:00.003+01:00

Palermo have completed the signing of Argentinian teenager Ezequiel Munoz from Boca Juniors.

The 19-year-old, who has signed a five-year deal, is considered one of the most promising central defenders in his homeland.

Munoz was strongly linked with a move to Fiorentina last year, with La Viola reportedly shelling out €8million (£6.6m) as a down payment, before pulling out of the deal after doubts surfaced over his fitness following a serious knee injury which sidelined the defender for six months.

Real Madrid also had an option to buy Munoz, but that expired at the end of last month and Palermo immediately moved in.

Munoz made his first-team debut in September 2008, aged just 17.

Source: Sky Sports

[Fixture Changes] Serie A Week 1

2010-08-03T17:53:00.012+01:00

The Lega Serie A has announced that Udinese against Genoa will open the 2010-11 Serie A season on Saturday 28 August.

Fixtures for the new campaign were drawn up at a ceremony in Milan last week, with all the matches from the first round of the season scheduled for evening kick offs to avoid the August heat.

Genoa will travel to the Stadio Friuli at 1700 to kick off the new season, before Rome entertain newly-promoted Cesena at 1945.

Bari will host Juventus in Sunday's first game at 1700, followed by six matches at 1945.

Reigning champions Inter will have to wait until the Monday to begin the defence of their title against Bologna as the Nerazzurri have UEFA Super Cup commitments against Atletico Madrid on Friday 27 August.

The Serie A schedule will then return to its normal pattern from Week 2, albeit with a new Sunday 1130 kick-off time introduced from this season.

This means weekly matches will be spread over five kick-off times over a normal weekend. On Saturdays there will be one match at 1700 and another at 1945, and on Sundays, one match at 1130, six at 1400 and the final game at 1945.

All kick-off times listed here are UK time (+1 for Italy/CET). Fixtures and kick-off times are subject to change.

Serie A - Week 1
Saturday 28 August
Udinese v Genoa (1700)
Roma v Cesena (1945)
Sunday 29 August
Bari v Juventus (1700)
Chievo v Catania, Fiorentina v Napoli, Milan v Lecce, Palermo v Cagliari, Parma v Brescia, Sampdoria v Lazio (all 1945)
Monday 30 August
Bologna v Inter (1945)

Source: Lega Serie A

Baggio to become technical director

2010-08-02T17:46:00.005+01:00

Italy legend Roberto Baggio is on the verge of sealing a return to football after agreeing to be part of the staff of the national set-up.

Baggio, who retired from playing in 2004, held a two-hour discussion with Italian Football Federation (FIGC) President Giancarlo Abete and the Italian Coaches' Association (AIAC) President Renzo Ulivieri and is now expected to officially be confirmed as the head of the Technical Sector on Wednesday.

"I have given my assent," the 43-year-old told reporters at FIGC headquarters in Rome. "On my part there's the maximum willingness to hold the role of President of the Technical Sector at Coverciano.

"Now, however, I have to wait for the Federal Council on Wednesday.

"It will be a tough challenge but hopefully fun. My role will cover many areas, but first I will take time to understand many things."

Baggio scored 27 goals in 56 appearances for Italy, and is the only Azzurri player ever to score in three FIFA World Cups.

He led his country to the World Cup final in 1994, scoring five goals in the knockout stages, but infamously missed the final spot-kick in the penalty shootout against Brazil.

The playmaker - affectionately known as Il Divin Codino (the Divine Ponytail) - enjoyed a glittering 22-year career with a number of clubs including Brescia, Fiorentina, Juventus and both Milan teams.

Italy's recent World Cup flop in South Africa has prompted the FIGC to choose the inspirational Baggio to head its technical division despite his lack of coaching experience.

The role, which has been held by former Italy coach Azeglio Vicini, includes advising coaches and nurturing young Italian talent.

New Italy boss Cesare Prandelli will soon name his first squad for next week's friendly with the Ivory Coast in London but has limited youngsters to pick from, an issue Baggio will be forced to address.

Gianni Rivera and Arrigo Sacchi are also set to join the FIGC in official capacities as the Federation looks to revitalise the youth system in the peninsula.

Source: Reuters

Second friendly in Italy abandoned

2010-07-31T11:37:00.002+01:00

Catania's match with Greek side Iraklis was abandoned because of players fighting, the second pre-season friendly involving a Serie A club to be halted.

The referee suspended Friday's game in northern Italy after 70 minutes following a succession of bad fouls and scuffles, the Sicilian club, who were leading 1-0 through Simone Pesce's goal, said in a statement.

Cagliari's friendly with Corsican rivals Bastia in Sardinia on Wednesday was also abandoned after 75 minutes for the same reason.

Full scale brawls are fairly uncommon in Italian football but when tensions do boil over players often go to extremes.

Source: Reuters

[Mercato] Veloso set for Genoa move

2010-07-30T17:44:00.003+01:00

Genoa have signed Portugal international midfielder Miguel Veloso from Sporting Lisbon for an undisclosed fee, the Portuguese giants have announced.

Veloso has often been linked with a move to Italy's Serie A with the likes of Inter, Juventus and AC Milan reported to be admirers.

However, the 24-year-old has chosen to head to Genoa and he is looking forward to playing for coach Gian Piero Gasperini.

Veloso, a left-footed midfielder who was a product of Sporting's academy, played 51 times for the Lisbon club.

He earned the first of 14 caps for Portugal in 2007 and was in the squad for the FIFA World Cup finals in South Africa, but made only two appearances as a late substitute in the group stage.

Sporting have confirmed the deal has been agreed and the Portuguese club will receive Spanish midfielder Alberto Zapater in part-exchange.

Speaking to Telenord, Veloso said: "I can't wait to start this adventure and to speak with Gasperini.

"I already know that Genoa are strong. I have seen them on television and I know that the team has big ambitions.

"Gasperini is a great coach and I am at his service."

Source: Sky Sports

[Mercato] Lazio land Garrido

2010-07-30T15:36:00.001+01:00

Lazio have completed the signing of left-back Javier Garrido from Manchester City.

Garrido is a ready-made replacement for Aleksandar Kolarov who moved in the opposite direction to Manchester earlier this month.

The signing of Kolarov pushed Garrido further down the pecking order at the English Premier League club with the Serbian and Wayne Bridge ahead of him in coach Roberto Mancini's plans.

Spaniard Garrido struggled to establish himself at City since arriving from Real Sociedad in 2007 and Mancini is willing to let him move as he looks to trim his huge squad.

"Garrido is a Lazio player. He was our first choice to replace Kolarov," said Lazio President Claudio Lotito.

Meanwhile, the capital outfit have confirmed the signing of Uruguay international Alvaro Gonzalez.

The 25-year-old, who has an Italian passport, spent the last three weeks on trial with the Biancocelesti at their training camp in Auronzo di Cadore.

Source: Sky Sports

[Mercato] Lecce recruit Reginiussen

2010-07-30T15:04:00.002+01:00

Lecce have struck a deal with Schalke to bring in defender Tore Reginiussen on a season-long loan deal.

Having earned promotion to Serie A, Lecce have been busy trying to strengthen their squad in recent days.

They have now managed to snare Reginiussen on loan with a view to making the transfer permanent next summer.

24-year-old Reginiussen, who has played at international level for Norway, only joined Schalke at the start of 2010.

But he was unable to establish himself as a regular starter in the German Bundesliga and, with no immediate prospect of that changing, has been sent out to get more playing time.

Earlier this week Lecce completed the loan signing of Brazilian defender Gustavo on a similar season-long deal.

Like Reginiussen, Lecce will have the option to sign Gustavo on a permanent basis at the end of his loan.

Source: Sky Sports

[UEL] Juve in control

2010-07-29T21:54:00.009+01:00

Juventus avoided any upset against Shamrock Rovers with a 2-0 win over the Irish outfit in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League third qualifying round tie.

Two goals from Amauri gave the Bianconeri a first-leg advantage to take back home next week after a hard-fought victory at the Tallaght Stadium in Dublin.

Amauri silenced the home fans with the opener after just three minutes and he added a second 15 minutes from time with a header.

If Luigi Delneri's side can complete the job at the Stadio Alberto Braglia in Modena on August 5, they will join fellow Serie A qualifiers Napoli and Palermo in the Play-off Round of the Europa League.

UEFA Europa League 2010-11
Third Qualifying Round
Thursday 29 July
Shamrock Rovers 0-2 Juventus
Thursday 5 August
Juventus v Shamrock Rovers (in Modena, 1945)

[3QR Results]

Source: UEFA

[Mercato] Catania take Gomez

2010-07-29T13:31:00.002+01:00

Catania have officially signed Argentine midfielder Alejandro Dario Gomez.

The Sicilian side announced that San Lorenzo de Almagro attacking midfielder Gomez has been bought on a permanent basis.

He has signed a contract tying him to the Elefantini until 2015 and is already with the squad to begin training today.

The 22-year-old won the Under-20 FIFA World Cup with Argentina in 2007.

Source: Football-Italia

[2010-11] Serie A fixtures released

2010-07-28T21:07:00.007+01:00

Internazionale will begin the defence of their Serie A title with an away fixture against Bologna when the new Italian season kicks off on the weekend of August 28.

After weeks of anticipation, the fixtures for the 2010-2011 season were drawn on live television in front of a star-studded audience at Milan's Palazzo Mezzanotte this evening.

New Inter boss Rafael Benitez will take his players to the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara as he looks to make a winning start to the domestic season.

Bologna finished 17th in Serie A last term while the Nerazzurri claimed their 18th Scudetti on a dramatic final day of the league campaign, on their way to an unprecedented Italian treble.

But that first game will probably be shifted to August 30, given Inter face UEFA Europa League winners Atletico Madrid in the European Super Cup on August 27.

Roma, who finished runners-up to the Nerazzurri in both the league and in the cup, kick off their season at home to newly-promoted Cesena while new AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri begins his reign at home to newcomers Lecce.

Juventus, who suffered a season to forget last term, begin life under Luigi Del Neri at Bari and Sinisa Mihajlovic's Fiorentina welcome Napoli to the Stadio Artemio Franchi on the opening day.

Last season's surprise package Sampdoria host Lazio while Palermo play Cagliari in the Derby della Isole.

Elsewhere, Brescia begin life in the top-flight at Parma, Genoa travel to Udinese and Chievo take on Catania.

Highlights of the season
Inter will visit Roma in their first big test in Week 5 on September 26 (with the return match on February 6) and host traditional rivals Juventus in the Derby d'Italia a week later, on October 3 (February 13).

After those games, the Nerazzurri will play city rivals AC Milan in the Derby della Madonnina in Week 12 on November 14 (April 3), with Juve facing Roma and Palermo meeting Sicilian rivals Catania on the same weekend.

The Derby della Capitale between Lazio and Roma will take place in Week 10 on November 7 (March 13), while the Derby della Lanterna between Sampdoria and Genoa is scheduled for Week 17 on December 19 - the final round before the Winter break (May 8).

The New Year kicks off with the return of the Puglian derby in Serie A, between Lecce and Bari, in Week 18 on January 6.

In other key encounters Milan host Juventus in Week 9 on October 31 (March 6) and Roma in Week 17 on December 19, while Juventus play Fiorentina in Week 14 on November 28 (April 17) and travel to Napoli in Week 19 on January 9 (May 22).

Meanwhile, Juve coach Del Neri welcomes former club Sampdoria in Week 2 on September 12 (January 23), and Milan coach Allegri takes his new club to Cagliari in Week 18.

The final day of the season on May 22 will see Bologna-Bari, Brescia-Fiorentina, Cagliari-Parma, Genoa-Cesena, Inter-Catania, Juventus-Napoli, Lecce-Lazio, Palermo-Chievo, Roma-Sampdoria and Udinese-Milan.

Week 1 Fixtures
28/29/30 August 2010
Bari v Juventus
Bologna v Inter
Chievo v Catania
Fiorentina v Napoli
Milan v Lecce
Palermo v Cagliari
Parma v Brescia
Roma v Cesena
Sampdoria v Lazio
Udinese v Genoa

Complete Fixture List:
[Serie A 2010-11]

Source: Lega Serie A

Cagliari's clash with Bastia abandoned

2010-07-28T19:16:00.002+01:00

Cagliari's pre-season friendly against Bastia was abandoned after 75 minutes after repeated fights between rival players.

The Sardinian outfit were leading 3-0 against their opponents from the neighbouring island of Corsica when the referee decided to call a halt to an ill-tempered match.

Pierpaolo Bisoli's side led through a first-half Alessandro Matri goal before Daniele Ragatzu added a brace in the 30 second-half minutes that were played.

Source: Reuters

Serie A clubs await fixtures for 2010/11

2010-07-27T18:02:00.002+01:00

The countdown to the new Italian football season has started as the Lega Serie A will draw up and release the 2010-11 Serie A fixtures on Wednesday evening.

A ceremony for the compilation of the new season fixtures will take place at the Palazzo Mezzanotte in Milan at 1930 UK time (+1hr for Italy/CET) on Wednesday 28 July, televised live in Italy by Sky Sport and on the web via sky.it.

The newly rebranded Italian top-flight season is set to kick off on the weekend of 27 and 28 August.

Earlier this month the Lega announced the general outline for the 2010-11 domestic season with dates and a new lunchtime kick off time for Serie A. Full details, including dates for the Supercoppa Italiana and the Coppa Italia, are available here.

The fixture computer will take into account a set of criteria for the Serie A fixtures but it will not be seeded - meaning there is a possibility of big head-to-head clashes in the opening and closing stages of the season, unlike in previous years.

However, the computer will be programmed to avoid allocating big rivalries and derby encounters to midweek rounds and other general rules such as switching the order of home debuts compared to last season and no repeated matchday fixtures from last year.

Meanwhile, the newly relaunched and independent Serie B, who are scheduled to kick off a week earlier on 22 August, will release its fixture lists at a later date.

Source: Lega Serie A

[Mercato] Krhin leaves Inter for Bologna

2010-07-27T17:23:00.002+01:00

Bologna have confirmed they have signed Rene Krhin in a co-ownership deal with champions Inter, with youngster Lorenzo Paramatti going the other way.

The 20-year-old Slovenia international, who made five appearances for Inter last season, has moved to the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara despite interest from top foreign clubs.

Paramatti, son of former Bologna captain and Juventus midfielder Michele Paramatti, has completed his switch to the San Siro.

The 15-year-old, who is among the most promising young talents in Italy, will join the Nerazzurri's youth team.

Meanwhile, Bologna have also confirmed the signing of 23-year-old Nicolo Cherubin from Cittadella.

Source: Sky Sports

[Mercato] Marchetti set for exit

2010-07-27T16:37:00.000+01:00

Federico Marchetti is set to leave Cagliari after the club announced that the goalkeeper was up for sale.

The 27-year-old played in goal for Italy for the majority of their dismal FIFA World Cup campaign in which they finished bottom of their group following an injury in the opening game to Gianluigi Buffon.

The fact that Marchetti was called up in South Africa appears to have raised his own ambitions, with the player publicly declaring that he was disappointed not to be given the opportunity to move to Sampdoria.

According to the shot-stopper, Cagliari asked for too much money from their Serie A rivals, denying him the chance to play UEFA Champions League football next season.

The news may also be of interest to English Premier League side Arsenal, who have been linked several times with the former Torino man.

The comments from Marchetti to La Gazzetta dello Sport prompted a reaction from fiery club President Massimo Cellino, who spoke of his disappointment at the player's decision.

"I understood from his words that he doesn't want to stay with us," Cellino told Sport Italia.

"I would have preferred it if he had said so to me and not to the newspapers, but there aren't offers for him. And there is full confidence in (reserve goalkeeper) Michael Agazzi.

"The only real club that is pushing for his signature is Arsenal."

A statement on the club's official website also confirmed that the player had been made available.

"Cagliari Calcio take note of the fact that Federico Marchetti has expressed his wish to leave due to his declaration with the press," the statement read.

"The club will do everything to make him content. Should Marchetti really have to leave Cagliari, then the regular keeper will be Agazzi. Cagliari aren't looking for another keeper."

Source: Sky Sports

Rai to reduce "la moviola" replays

2010-07-26T16:50:00.001+01:00

Italy's Rai television will stop showing replays of controversial refereeing decisions this season in a bid to ease the tension and negativity around Italian football.

The state broadcaster wants to avoid the heated, if entertaining, arguments which often erupt between pundits on its late night weekend Serie A highlights show when contentious referee calls are questioned to every little detail.

"Now we can think about a football with less shouting and more thought," Rai President Paolo Galimberti said in a statement on Monday.

Endless slow-motion replays - la moviola - of debatable incidents which do not involve goals or dismissals will be replaced with more analysis and debate of team tactics.

The Italian Referees' Association (AIA) welcomed the move but its members will only receive partial respite given that Sky Italia and Mediaset, two of the other major broadcaster who will be covering matches live, have no plans to drop controversial replays.

The AIA has in the past complained about the constant criticism their members receive in the post-match analysis, and the pressure they are therefore put under ahead of future matches.

Source: Reuters

[Coppa Italia] First Round Draw

2010-07-26T11:57:00.005+01:00

The tennis-style seeded draw for the 63rd edition of the Coppa Italia was held at Lega Serie A headquarters in Milan today, revealing the fixtures for the First Round and the potential match-ups on the road to the final.

A total of 78 clubs made up of the 20 Serie A and 22 Serie B teams, and the 36 sides invited from the Lega Pro and Serie D, will enter at various stages of the 2010-11 tournament.

Other than for the semi-finals, all rounds are decided by single matches, including the final which is scheduled to take place on May 29, 2011.

Inter and Roma will not meet in the final after the pair were placed in the same half of the draw. The two sides have clashed in five of the last six finals with the Nerazzurri prevailing last season on their way to an unprecedented Italian treble.

Juventus, Napoli, Lazio, and Genoa are also in the left half of the draw but AC Milan, Sampdoria and Palermo are in the other half.

The First Round, which kicks off on the weekend of August 8, has paired together the 24 Lega Pro 1, three Lega Pro 2 and nine Serie D clubs.

Salernitana, who were relegated from Serie B last term, welcome newly-promoted Lega Pro 1 rivals Sudtirol-Alto Adige, Hellas Verona host fifth-tier outfit Virtus Casarano and Lucchese travel to Cosenza in the highlights of the opening round.

The Serie B clubs will enter the tournament in the Second Round on August 15 while the first batch of Serie A clubs enter the fray in the Third Round on October 27.

The remaining eight top-flight sides - the seeds (Inter, Roma, Milan, Sampdoria, Palermo, Napoli, Juventus and Parma) - open their cup campaign in the Fifth Round, to be played in December and January.

Along with the Coppa Italia trophy, the winners of the 2010-11 competition will also be awarded with the Coppa Unità d'Italia title as Italian football honours Italy's 150th anniversary of unification in 2011.

First Round
Sunday 8 August 2010
Benevento (LP1) v Este (D) (1500)
Como (LP1) v Guidonia (D) (1600)
Lumezzane (LP1) v Pomezia (D) (1600)
Monza Brianza (LP1) v Virtus Estella (D) (1600)
Ternana (LP1) v Spezia (LP1) (1600)
Spal (LP1) v Trapani (D) (1630)
Reggiana (LP1) v AlzanoCene (D) (1700)
Cosenza (LP1) v Lucchese Libertas (LP1) (1930)
Cremonese (LP1) v Cisco Roma (LP1) (1930)
Foligno (LP1) v San Marino (LP2) (1930)
Hellas Verona (LP1) v Virtus Casarano (D) (1930)
Taranto (LP1) v FeralpiSalo' (LP2) (1930)
Alessandria (LP1) v Santegidiese (D) (1945)
Cavese (LP1) v Gubbio (LP1) (1945)
Sorrento (LP1) v Catanzaro (LP2) (1945)
Virtus Lanciano (LP1) v Carpi (D) (1945)
Salernitana (LP1) v Sudtirol-Alto Adige (LP1) (2000)
Tuesday 10 August 2010
Ravenna (LP1) v Juve Stabia (LP1) (1930)

* All kick-off times listed are UK time (+1 for Italy/CET). Times, dates and fixtures are subject to change. LP1 = Lega Pro 1, LP2 = Lega Pro 2, D = Serie D.

Coppa Italia 2010-11
[Full Draw] - [Season Calendar]

Source: Lega Serie A

[Mercato] Inter sign Ranocchia

2010-07-21T18:39:00.000+01:00

Inter have reached an agreement with Genoa to sign Andrea Ranocchia for an undisclosed fee, with the 1.95m-tall defender to switch clubs in summer 2011.

The 22-year-old's playing licence will be held jointly between the two Serie A teams, and he will remain at Genoa for one more campaign while having an Inter contract until 2015.

A statement from Inter read: "Ranocchia will be under contract at Inter until June 30, 2015. Inter and Genoa have agreed that Andrea will remain at the Liguria club for the 2010-11 season."

Ranocchia was a Perugia trainee before making his professional bow with Arezzo in Serie B in 2006-07 and then transferring to Genoa in 2008.

The centre-back has spent the last two seasons on loan at Bari, winning promotion in his first campaign and becoming a Serie A regular last term until a knee injury in January ended his involvement.

Until then, he had been tipped for a place in Italy's FIFA World Cup squad alongside Leonardo Bonucci, who has signed for Juventus this summer, as the duo formed a solid central defensive partnership at Bari.

In a separate arrangement, Inter's Italy Under-19 striker Mattia Destro has been loaned to Genoa for one season.

Destro is currently leading Italy's line at the UEFA European U19 Championship finals in France, having top-scored in qualifying with eight goals.

Source: UEFA

Jovetic staying put

2010-07-21T15:16:00.000+01:00

Fiorentina striker Stevan Jovetic has played down speculation linking him with a move to Barcelona.

The 20-year-old hot-shot has been linked with a move to the Camp Nou, while German outfit Wolfsburg are also thought to be interested.

But the striker, who scored six goals in 29 league appearances for the Viola last season, believes he will get more opportunities at his current club and wants to stay put to continue his football education.

Jovetic told La Gazzetta dello Sport: "My agent and I have heard and read about Barcelona's interest.

"Barca is the top club in the world but it is a team that has already been built.

"Moreover, they signed (former Valencia striker David) Villa this summer.

"It would be difficult to have playing time there and I want to play. At Fiorentina I can play and I can improve my game."

Jovetic joined Fiorentina from Partizan Belgrade in the summer of 2008 and is under contract with the Florence outfit until June 2013.

Source: Sporting Life

[Mercato] Catania swoop for Gomez

2010-07-21T14:05:00.000+01:00

Argentinian midfielder Alejandro Gomez has joined Serie A club Catania from San Lorenzo.

The signing was announced by the Argentine club, who reportedly sold the 22-year-old for around €3million.

Gomez moved to San Lorenzo last year after starting his career with Arsenal de Sarandi.

His arrival at Catania marks the Sicilian club's first major signing this summer.

Source: Sky Sports

Allegri denies overhaul

2010-07-21T12:51:00.001+01:00

New AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri has revealed he will not make drastic changes to the current squad.

The 42-year-old has recently taken the reins of the Rossoneri following the departure of former coach Leonardo, and is currently preparing for the upcoming Serie A campaign.

Milan only finished third in the Italian top-flight last season and were left trailing by local rivals Inter, who went on to win an historic treble.

But despite recent failings, former Cagliari boss Allegri does not think an overhaul at the San Siro is necessary.

He said: "What is missing to close in on Inter? Right now this squad gives plenty of guarantees.

"This team still has a lot to offer, there are players in their 30s but there are also many young players.

"We have all the characteristics and the qualities necessary to do well and achieve important objectives: top three in the league and going as far as possible in the Champions League.

"But conviction is vital for everything. I have a group of players who have won everything but there is still the ambition to do well again.

"It would be presumptuous of me to revolutionise a team that last season was still fighting for the title with six matches left.

"Leonardo did a good job, I can have different ideas and I'll try to bring some different tactics compared to last season.

"The squad is more or less the same as last season but no two years are alike."

Speculation is rife regarding the future of Brazilian attacker Ronaldinho, with suggestions that he could be on his way to Flamengo.

However, following comments from Milan President and Italy Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi that the trickster will stay at the club, Allegri also says he wants to keep him.

He added: "I don't think there are any doubts surrounding him, he's world class; although quality is not enough in the modern game.

"To get results you need a group that play as one. Dinho has to make a difference. Of course he needs the support of the team, just as he must put himself at the service of the team."

Source: Sky Sports

Benitez seeks 'better' football

2010-07-20T19:18:00.001+01:00

Rafael Benitez has said he wants Inter to play "better" football than under his predecessor, Jose Mourinho.

Benitez takes over from Mourinho on the back of a Treble-winning season as Inter - two-time winners of the European Cup in the 1960s - clinched the UEFA Champions League for the first time in their history.

Yet, while Benitez can do little to improve on Mourinho's record in terms of silverware, he is convinced he can make improvements to the way the players perform.

"I want to understand whether this team still has the desire to learn," he told La Gazzetta dello Sport. "We are still not complete, but the players that there are have shown that they have the right mentality, attitude and predisposition to do what I ask.

"I would like to try to play better, with the team playing higher up the pitch with greater ball possession. The team has also asked me for this. It will not be an easy job.

"I studied Inter and I saw that they won above all because of violent counter attacks. They didn't keep the ball a lot, but played it forward quickly when they got possession.

"I like to teach football, speak a lot and make the players understand what they have to do."

Asked how he would cope with comparisons to Mourinho, he said: "I believe that we can do something better, like I already said, on a level of play."

"What I like to do is build something concrete and leave a solid foundation for the future," he continued.

"I respect those who came before me and it makes no sense to throw away the work done by others. Mourinho at Inter built on good work by (Roberto) Mancini and before at Chelsea that of (Claudio) Ranieri.

"At Inter I saw so much that I liked. A President who wants to build something that remains long, and in this context I think I could stay for many years. Like at Liverpool.

The Spaniard also refused to be drawn on speculation that stars Maicon and Mario Balotelli, who have been linked with moves to Real Madrid and Manchester City respectively, will be sold this summer.

"The club decides the transfers, I adapt. Do I fear being remembered in a few years as the coach who let go of Balotelli? I repeat: I do not control the market. One player doesn't make a team and Inter has many strong players."

Source: ESPN

Abodi elected as Serie B President

2010-07-20T18:09:00.002+01:00

Andrea Abodi has been elected as the first ever President of the newly formed and independent Lega Serie B.

The second division clubs were almost split in half over the election of the head of their governing body at an extraordinary assembly meeting in Milan today, with Abodi defeating rival Michele Uva by only a single vote after a third ballot.

Abodi, who was an administrater for the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) and worked on Rome's candidacy for the 2020 Olympics, will also be the main voice for Serie B at the Italian Football Federation's (FIGC) future Council meetings.

The 50-year-old was elected alongside Councilors Dario Cassingena (Vicenza), Salvatore Gualtieri (Crotone), Massimo Mezzaroma (Siena), Carlo Rossi (Sassuolo), Gianluca Sottovia (Padova) and Daniele Sebastiani (Pescara), who is also vice-President of the new league.

Earlier this month, Serie B announced a two-year title sponsorship deal with Bwin and launched its new brand as it gets set to go it alone from the upcoming season after the top-flight of Italian football, Serie A, broke away from the two-tier union in the summer.

The sponsorship deal, along with the successful sale of the domestic collective television rights to Sky Italia and Dahlia TV, will bring much-needed revenue to a division which has been under severe financial pressure for several years.

Meanwhile, it has been confirmed that the 2010-11 Serie B season is scheduled to kick off on August 22, with the regular campaign concluding on May 29, 2011.

There will be three rounds of midweek matches during the year - on October 13, November 9 and March 1 - and a two-week winter break during December and January.

The end-of-season play-off semi-finals are pencilled in for June 2 and 6, with the two-legged final to be held on June 9 and 13. The play-out finals will take place on June 4 and 12.

> Serie B renamed and rebranded

Source: Lega Serie B

Berlusconi orders Allegri to play his way

2010-07-20T17:04:00.003+01:00

AC Milan President Silvio Berlusconi has shown new coach Massimiliano Allegri who the real boss at the club is by demanding his team play with more than one forward this season.

In an extraordinary news conference on the first day of pre-season training at Milanello, the Italian Prime Minister read out a pre-prepared speech and then fielded every question, leaving former Cagliari coach Allegri and several team members to sit there in total silence.

Berlusconi reeled off a succession of gags but he was far from joking when he told his new "movie star" coach what tactics he should use after falling out with last term's coach Leonardo as the Rossoneri again ended the campaign without a trophy.

"To win you have to score goals, we must try to score and to shoot on goal, we must be there in the penalty area, so I prefer to play with two strikers," Berlusconi told a packed press room.

"Leo is a great person, but we had several differences on team selection, [Alexandre] Pato was too sheltered for me out on the wing.

Brazilian Ronaldinho has been linked in the media with a move away but Berlusconi was adamant the playmaker was staying.

"I have not spoken with him, but it is definitely a Rossoneri player and he will remain so," he said. "He will sign a new contract, is by far the best player I've ever seen, we have to find the best position to bring out the best in him.

"I hope to see Dinho in a more central role and one in which he can often get into shooting positions because he has goals in his blood too. I also see him as a support striker."

The futures of restless midfielder Gennaro Gattuso and forward Klaas Jan Huntelaar look less certain however as Milan look to bring in more creativity upfront and inject much-needed youth into the ageing side.

"I would be happy for Gattuso to stay but we are not against people saying they want to leave," Berlusconi added. "We can't exclude (the sale of Huntelaar) even if we are convinced of his qualities as a main striker."

The 73-year-old, who arrived by helicopter, welcomed tacit new signings Mario Yepes, Marco Amelia and Sokratis Papastathopoulos but was lukewarm over Barcelona striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic possibly coming back to Italy with Milan.

"I don't know how well he'd fit into the Milan dressing room," he said of the former Inter player.

Thousands of fans turned up to see Milan, third in Serie A last term, return to training and many banners were critical of Berlusconi for not investing in the squad like in the past.

The tycoon reckoned the squad could compete with any other but accepted spending had been reined in because of the global economic crisis and said he would not be making "fantasy buys" even if the financial picture was improving.

He again denied he was close to selling the club, saying no one suitable had come forward, but acknowledged that at some stage he would have to let the club go.

"I'm the President of the most successful club in the world. I have been the President of this club for 25 years, one who has won the most. The second behind me is Santiago Bernabeu... and he had a stadium named after him in Madrid.

"I am proud to be the President of a team that is so important at international level but if I met a group or a person who had passion and would be willing to spend what I and my family have spent these years, I would would listen to them. But I haven't found them."

Source: Reuters

[Mercato] Milan pick up Papastathopoulos

2010-07-20T12:51:00.000+01:00

AC Milan have signed Greece defender Sokratis Papastathopoulos from Serie A rivals Genoa.

The 22-year-old centre-back has moved for an undisclosed fee with Genoa simultaneously taking joint ownership of Milan prospects Nnamdi Oduamadi, Rodney Strasser and Gianmarco Zigoni.

An AEK Athens youth product, Papastathopoulos captained Greece to the final of the 2007 UEFA European Under-19 Championship, but was suspended for the loss to Spain in the decider.

The following year he made his senior international debut and joined Genoa, for whom he made more than 50 Serie A appearances. He played in two of Greece's games at the recent FIFA World Cup in South Africa.

Papastathopoulos is the first arrival since former Cagliari boss Massimiliano Allegri's appointment as Milan coach, though goalkeeper Marco Amelia had previously come in on loan from Genoa.

On Monday his fellow custodian Christian Abbiati signed a two-year contract extension, while Wednesday saw 34-year-old Massimo Oddo agree a further 12 months with the club, taking him through until June 2012.

Source: UEFA

Azzurri exhibition teaches 100 years of history

2010-07-20T10:42:00.001+01:00

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) launched the centenary celebrations of the national team with a promise to retell the glorious tale of the Azzurri to new generations across Italy.

FIGC President Giancarlo Abete kicked off the celebrations in Milan on 15 May, the 100th anniversary of Italy's first international against France.

At the Arena Civica where that debut match took place, he unveiled an exhibition entitled 'Football Planet 100 Anni di Storia Azzurra'.

FIGC vice-President Demetrio Albertini and other well-known former players were also present to commemorate the 6-2 Italian victory over their transalpine neighbours, in which the home team wore white shirts, not the azure they would make famous.

The exhibition, which showed for three days in Milan before beginning its tour of various cities and regions of Italy, draws on the treasure trove of memorabilia belonging to the Museo del Calcio, housed at the FIGC's national training and technical centre of Coverciano, near Florence. It aims to show the strong connection between the history of Italy and that of the Italian game.

'100 Anni di Storia Azzurra' features fascinating exhibits ranging from football shirts worn by Italy at past FIFA World Cup tournaments – the oldest being Giovanni Ferrari's jersey from the 1934 finals – balls and boots, through historical documents and publications, to replicas of the old Jules Rimet trophy and current World Cup trophy.

In addition to paying tribute to the men behind the national team's success story – which includes four World Cup triumphs (1934, 1938, 1982 and 2006), a UEFA European Championship (1968) and an Olympic football gold medal (1936) – the exhibition represents an opportunity for Italian fans to discover the roots of their national game.

Source: UEFA

Giovinco to leave Juve

2010-07-19T18:39:00.001+01:00

Sebastian Giovinco's agent has revealed that his client is to leave Juventus in search of regular first-team football.

The diminutive playmaker was tipped to be the next big thing in Italy upon bursting onto the scene in 2007.

However, the 23-year-old has struggled to force his way into the fold under a succession of managers at Stadio Olimpico and is growing increasingly frustrated.

It appears the time has now come for him to take on a fresh challenge elsewhere, with incoming boss Luigi Del Neri failing to give him the assurances he wants to hear.

The likes of Arsenal, Bari and Parma are all reported to be ready to make their move, and Giovinco's representative expects a decision to be made before the end of the week.

Andrea D'Amico told Sky Sport 24: "It is normal that the boy wants to play. His desire was to do it at Juventus, but if the plans of the coach don't involve him, it is necessary that he leaves and plays elsewhere.

"He will choose the project that will give him greatest security. Within two or three days everything will be sorted out."

Bari coach Giampiero Ventura has been the first to openly express his interest in Giovinco and admits he would make the youngster the focal point of his side were he fortunate enough to secure his signature.

He told Tuttosport: "Giovinco in Bari could be a revelation. I think his arrival in Bari would be more important for him than for us.

"I'd build a team around him and so he could express himself in the best way. He is very much suited to our game and he would have no problems integrating. We'll see".

Source: Sky Sports

[Mercato] Coutinho thrilled by Inter move

2010-07-19T13:39:00.000+01:00

Philippe Coutinho reckons it is a "dream" to have completed his move to Inter as the Brazilian starlet was finally unveiled by the Italian champions.

Coutinho played on loan at Vasco de Gama for the last two seasons having been on the Inter books since the summer of 2008.

However, the South American player could only complete his transfer to Inter upon turning 18.

"I am very happy to be here," said the attacking midfielder. "I hope to lift many trophies in the Nerazzurri colours and give a lot of satisfaction to the fans.

"To play with a top European club is the dream of any Brazilian player.

"When I found out two years ago that Inter wanted to sign me I was really happy.

"(Inter's Brazilian players) Julio Cesar, Lucio and Maicon are players that I have admired on TV and for me it is a dream come true to be able to work alongside them on the pitch."

Coutinho hopes to play an important role with the Nerazzurri and impress new coach Rafael Benitez.

"I hope to adapt quickly," he said. "I want to prove my worth here and have a starring role in Italian football.

"I want to show my quality at Inter first and then one day for the Brazil national team."

Source: Sporting Life

Diego underlines intent at Juve

2010-07-18T15:31:00.002+01:00

Juventus midfielder Diego has underlined his intent to stay at the club despite transfer speculation.

The 25-year-old Brazil international has been linked with a move away from the Old Lady, with a return to Germany reportedly on the cards.

But the former Werder Bremen star insists he wants to remain at Juve, and has dismissed the rumours.

"I want to stay at Juventus," he told Sky Sport 24. "If I'm here it is because the club think the same.

"Before having holidays I spoke with (director general Beppe) Marotta and (coach Luigi) Del Neri.

"Rumours sometimes bother me, when untrue things are written. I choose Juve and they choose me."

Meanwhile, Juve captain Alessandro Del Piero is hoping his side will be able to produce a positive season.

He added: "We must be able to come back being the real Juventus.

"Before leaving I would like to win something. We have not a particular target. We don't talk about scudetto, Coppa Italia or Europa League.

"At the end of the season we must be proud of what we have done - this must be the best aim of our season."

On new coach Luigi Del Neri, Del Piero remarked. "He's really concentrating to make this season sparkling."

Source: Sky Sports

[Mercato] Insua heading to Fiorentina

2010-07-17T18:21:00.002+01:00

Emiliano Insua is to hold talks with Fiorentina after the Viola agreed a deal with Liverpool.

Fiorentina have been heavily linked with a move for the left-back in recent weeks and an offer, reported to be in the region of £5million, has now been accepted.

Liverpool have confirmed that the Argentine has left the club's pre-season training camp to discuss a switch to Serie A.

A spokesman for the English Premier League club said: "We have agreed a fee for the sale of Emiliano Insua to Fiorentina and given them permission to speak with the player.

"Emiliano has now left our Swiss training camp and we'll make further comment when appropriate."

Insua made 31 appearances in the Premier League last season and has featured a total of 62 times since his arrival from Boca Juniors in 2007.

Source: Sky Sports