║║ Serie A Season 2012-13 ║║

[Buffon]

Lo Monaco reignites Mourinho spat

Apr 9, 2013 12:58:00 PM

The flamboyant Italian has issued an alarming condemnation of the Madrid boss' looks and his coaching skills

Messina owner Pietro Lo Monaco has renewed his war of words with Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho, claiming the Portuguese trainer's "face looks like his backside".

Mourinho angered Lo Monaco shortly after taking charge of Inter in the summer of 2008 when he claimed that he had never heard of the then Catania sporting director, and the two have enjoyed a tense relationship ever since.

"Mourinho's face looks like his backside," Lo Monaco told Sky Sport when questioned about his relationship with the Madrid coach.

"He knew very well who I was at the time. We had met when I was with Brescia and he was part of Barcelona’s staff. He wanted to meet our coach back then.

"He was playing a character, a comedian. He's not worth much as a coach, but he's one of the best motivators in the world."

Mourinho left Inter for Real Madrid in the summer of 2010, and has since won the Copa del Rey and La Liga with the Santiago Bernabeu side.

 

[Gestapo]

Genoa interested in Immobile swap deal - Preziosi
The Genoa striker could be in line for a return to his hometown club ahead of next season, according to the Rossoblu's chief executive

 

[Edinson Cavani]

Serie A preview: Milan, Napoli go head to head

12 April 2013

AC Milan can put the pressure back on second-placed Napoli on Sunday when the two Serie A high-flyers clash at the San Siro.

In a weekend that will see four of the top five clubs in Serie A face-off, third-placed Milan will look to end Napoli's three-game winning streak and potentially move within one point of Walter Mazzarri's men.

Napoli have found some form in the past three weeks with wins over Atalanta, Torino and Genoa, following a run of seven matches without victory.

But Milan, who are undefeated in 13 Serie A fixtures, will be looking to increase the pressure on the Neapolitans when they line up against each other on Sunday.

With Napoli sitting in Italy's second and final automatic UEFA Champions League qualifying berth, Milan head coach Massimiliano Allegri know this week is a big opportunity for his team to overhaul their direct rivals.

Midfielder Riccardo Montolivo shapes as the key man for Milan, having scored two of his side's past three goals and setting up the other.

Serie A-leaders Juventus will look to recover from their disappointing Champions League exit at the hands of Bayern Munich on Wednesday when they travel to the Italian capital on Monday to take on Lazio.

Juventus lead Napoli by nine points and could increase that to 12 if they defeat Lazio for the fifth time in eight meetings.

While the capital club defeated Juventus 2-1 in the Coppa Italia in January, the Turin giants have had the upper hand on Lazio in the past four years and head coach Antonio Conte should be confident ahead of the trip to Rome.

With six league matches left after this weekend, Lazio know a loss would effectively end their chances of overtaking Milan in third spot and earning a berth in the Champions League's qualifying rounds next season.

AC Milan sit on 58 points, with fourth-placed Fiorentina (52 points), Lazio (51) and Inter Milan (48) still holding hopes of rising to third before the end of the season.

Fiorentina will travel to Atalanta on Saturday, while Cagliari host Inter on Sunday.

Pescara take on Siena in a relegation six-pointer, while Genoa face Sampdoria in the Derby della Lanterna.

In other matches, Bologna will travel to Sicily to take on Palermo, Chievo will host Catania and Torino will play Roma, while Parma and Udinese clash at the Stadio Ennio Tardini.

 

[Edinson Cavani]

Pazzini: Napoli wanted me last summer
The forward has revealed that he has a "great relationship" with Walter Mazzarri and that there was an outside chance he could have moved to the San Paolo

Juventus & Bologna discuss deal for Diamanti
The former West Ham United man with 10 Italy caps to his name has attracted the interest of the Bianconeri, who are looking to bolster their attacking options in the summer

Samuel: We're kicking ourselves
The 35-year-old defender is disappointed his side have not challenged for Champions League qualification, and also discusses his early days at the Nerazzurri

Inter's Milito could return to Racing
The 33-year-old has enjoyed an illustrious career, particular in his four years at Inter, and a return to the club where he began his career looks on the cards

Verratti flattered by Juventus interest
The Bianconeri looked set to sign the highly-rated 20-year-old Italy international last summer but they were pipped to his signature by PSG

Petkovic praises Lazio performance
The Serie A side exited European competition on Thursday night and the 49-year-old has instructed his men to now focus on finishing their league campaign strongly

Juventus must build on Champions League experience, says Buffon
The 35-year-old has reflected on the Bianconeri's elimination from Europe and is satisfied with the progress the club has made

Rocchi: I hope to stay at Inter another season
The striker is very satisfied with life at the Giuseppe Meazza side and has stressed that he is ready to get more playing time in the next few weeks

Inter reignite interest in Tabanou
The Frenchman was previously linked with the Nerazzurri in 2012 and they have now once more set their sights on the 24-year-old

 

[Edinson Cavani]

'Juventus have a lot of work to do' - Conte

By Stefan Coerts
Apr 11, 2013 9:32:00 AM

The 43-year-old has stated that the Old Lady cannot compete with the elite just yet and has urged his team to shift their attention to Serie A again

Antonio Conte has admitted that Juventus still have a long way to go before they can measure themselves with the European elite following their Champions League elimination at the hands of Bayern Munich.

The Bianconeri crashed out of European football this season on Wednesday with a 2-0 home loss after previously being defeated in the first leg 2-0.

Conte feels Bayern are simply too good for Juventus at this stage and, with Pep Guardiola set to take the reins in the summer, he predicted that the next few seasons could see the Bavarians dominate on the continent.

"We have a lot of work to do, we already knew that. In any case, I congratulated my players because what we have done in the last 18 months is amazing," Conte said at a press conference.

"Nobody likes to lose, but you have to admit it when you face a team that is so stronger than you. They have played two finals in the last three years, so we knew there was a big gap between them and us.

"Bayern are really strong, individually and collectively, they can do wonderful things and they fight for every ball. It's tough to play against them and we did everything we could. We just have to admit they're better than us.

"I don't think we could have done anything more and the way the fans reacted at the end proves it. Bayern will be one of the best teams in Europe for many years to come."

Conte then went on to urge his men to turn their focus to Serie A again as they are looking to retain the Scudetto.

"We woke up from our dream - now we have to focus on the league again, and fast, because we want to win our second Scudetto in a row which would be a great achievement."

Juve currently hold a nine-point lead over second-placed Napoli in the Italian top tier.

 

[Edinson Cavani]

Marotta: There's a gap between Italian football and other countries

By Stefan Coerts
Apr 11, 2013 3:00:00 PM

The Bianconeri director was left frustrated with the difference in class between his side and Bayern, but was pleased with their European campaign

Giuseppe Marotta believes Juventus' Champions League quarter-final loss against Bayern Munich was further proof that Italian clubs are not in a position to challenge the European top teams.

The Serie A champions were beaten 2-0 in Wednesday's return in Turin after previously losing the first leg by the same scoreline, and Marotta feels there is a big gap between Italian football and the game in other countries.

"Unfortunately, there is currently a gap between football in Italy and other countries," Juve's general director was quoted as saying on the club's official website.

"Just look at Bayern, they had double the turnover of any Italian team. It’s impossible for us to spend €40 million on players at the moment. We know we have to grow and improve, and we’ll work towards that."

Nevertheless, Marotta was pleased with Juventus' performances in Europe this campaign.

"This new management only took over in 2010, so we would have happily settled for being in the Champions League quarter-finals and playing against a great team like Bayern," he continued.

"It’s been an important experience for us, so the thanks of the entire club goes to Antonio Conte and his team."

 

[Edinson Cavani]

Italian Football Federation to investigate Moratti comments

By Alec Fenn
Apr 12, 2013 9:20:00 PM

The Inter president questioned the quality of refereeing in Serie A on the back of a recent defeat

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) are to investigate comments made by Massimo Moratti after he said he "no longer believed in the good faith of referees".

Inter were beaten 4-3 by Atalanta at San Siro last Sunday, despite leading 3-1 at one stage, with the visitors awarded a penalty on their way back into the game.

That prompted Moratti to rage about the performance of officials after the game, claiming "when they want to hit you, you get hit" and suggesting his side were being targeted by referees.

The FIGC have now decided to delve further into his comments and released a statement on Friday confirming the beginning of disciplinary proceedings.

"Moratti has been referred [to the disciplinary authorities], for having expressed judgements that harm the reputation of and in particular the good faith and impartiality of match officials and consequently , the credibility of the championship due to the work of the referees.

"The comments harm the reputation of organisations operating within the FIGC and the prestige and credibility of the federation itself."

Last weekend's result leaves Inter in sixth place in Serie A with 50 points from 31 games.

 

[Edinson Cavani]

Barbara Berlusconi: We will never sell AC Milan

By Mark Doyle
Apr 12, 2013 10:24:00 AM

The 28-year-old says her father, Silvio, loves the Rossoneri dearly and has no desire to ever part company with the club he acquired in 1986

AC Milan director Barbara Berlusconi has dismissed the possibility of her family ever relinquishing control of the club.

The 28-year-old's father, Silvio, acquired the Rossoneri in 1986 and, according to his daughter, is not remotely interested in selling his shares in the San Siro outfit.

"My father has impressed upon us an idea: Milan are a piece of our hearts," Berlusconi explained in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport.

"The Berlusconi family will never sell. Building partnerships to have new capital and expand is one thing; to sell the club quite another. It will not happen."

Milan have had well-documented financial problems in recent years which ultimately forced the sale of the club's two most prized assets, Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, to Paris Saint-Germain last year.

Berlusconi freely admits that Milan must now be far more frugal than they once were, but is keen to reassure fans that they will always remain a side capable of challenging for the Champions League.

"I think the fans are happy to see players that they can identify with develop," she mused. "Not necessarily Italian, but linked to Milan and their history.

"I believe that successful clubs are those that have an identity.

"I'm thinking of Arsenal, and of course Barcelona and Bayern Munich. These are clubs who transmit certain values which give a sense of continuity and develop a strong sense of belonging to those who work and those who support them.

"That's what Milan has done in recent years and will continue to do. We want to have healthy accounts; it is a matter of necessity because we want to conform to financial fair play.

"But our primary goal is to remain at the highest level. Milan are the most successful club at international level, we have won a lot in Europe.

"To be of Champions League [level] does not mean to win it, but to play in it every year. Without that, no, we would not be satisfied."

 

[Buffon]

Rome derby could be played behind closed doors

By Will Jones
Apr 12, 2013 4:45:00 PM

City prefect Giuseppe Pecoraro has confirmed that local authorities with discuss the option following violent scenes prior to Monday evening’s clash

The derby della Capitale could be forced to be played behind closed doors in future due to escalating violence between rival supporters, according to the Rome Prefect.

Monday evening’s match between Lazio and Roma was preceeded by clashes between fans within the city, leading to several arrests and a number of minor stab wounds.

Pecoraro has already stated that evening kick-offs between the sides will no longer be permitted, but has warned he may be forced into futher action to curb supporter confrontations.

“The preparations we’ll take will help to normalise the situation,” the 63-year-old told RaiSport1.

“This will be a signal to the fans, and if it’s still not enough, then we will consider more drastic measures, such as playing behind closed doors or moving the game to another venue.

"The problem is not within the stadium, but outside it. It would be very damaging to all the supporters.”

The spoils were shared during the match itself after a Francesco Totti penalty cancelled out Hernanes’ 16th-minute opener.

Lazio are currently three points ahead of their city rivals in fifth place in Serie A, while Roma lie in seventh.

 

[Edinson Cavani]

Prandelli: Di Natale still one of the best
The Italy boss has cited the striker's work ethic and technical prowess as the keys to his lasting quality

El Shaarawy agent dismisses 'crisis' talk
The Italian's representative insists his client is content with life at the San Siro after he was left out of Sunday's clash with Napoli

Moratti pledges support to Stramaccioni
The Nerazzurri CEO has backed the club's trainer during difficult times, voicing his confidence that the squad will turn around their fortunes

Cavani targets Champions League return with Napoli
The Uruguayan has hinted that he could stay at the San Paolo with the Partenopei likely to play in Europe's top competition next season

Galliani happy with Napoli draw
The AC Milan CEO says he is satisfied with his side's performance during the 1-1 stalemate against Napoli on Sunday

Pandev: Napoli deserve second place
The Partenopei attacker believes his side have earned the right to finish ahead of AC Milan following their 1-1 draw with the Rossoneri

Ogbonna flattered by Manchester United interest
The Italy international has admitted he is honoured to be linked to the Premier League leaders but says that he isn't thinking of a move

Nagatomo injury blow for Inter
The Japan international faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to injury, while Walter Gargano will be out of action for a while, too

Muntari: Milan still believe in second place
The Ghanaian midfielder is confident the San Siro side can still secure a top-two finish in the remaining six games this term

AC Milan will have to qualify for the Champions League the hard way after Napoli draw
The Rossoneri were left hanging on for a point after Mathieu Flamini's red card, but they're now left relying on the Partenopei slipping up if they are to claim second place

Flamini: I wanted to prove I deserved Milan shirt
The combative midfielder insisted his red card offence stemmed from a willingness to prove himself deserving of the Rossoneri jersey

Allegri: Milan can still catch Napoli
The Rossoneri were held to a 1-1 draw by the Partenopei at San Siro on Sunday evening, but the former Cagliari boss felt it was a good result in light of Mathieu Flamini's red

Mazzarri: Napoli should have beaten Milan
The Partenopei coach admitted that his side started slowly at the Giuseppe Meazza and he was ultimately disappointed that they did not make the most of their numerical advantage

Montolivo pleased with point against Napoli
The Italy international felt a share of the spoils was a decent outcome for the Rossoneri given that they had had Mathieu Flamini sent off with 17 minutes to go

Inter's season has been cursed, says Stramaccioni
The Nerazzurri coach has claimed his side's have suffered bad luck with injuries and refereeing decisions after they lost 2-0 to Cagliari

Totti: I can reach 300 Serie A goals
The Roma captain has scored 227 times in the Italian top flight and is hoping to hit another landmark before he calls time on his career

Mazzarri: Napoli can still win the Scudetto
The Partenopei coach has acknowledged that his side face a tough task in overhauling first-placed Juventus but says "anything can happen" in football

Fluminense deny Roma contact over Jean
The Brazilian giants have dismissed speculation the Serie A side have inquired about the midfielder, insisting the player will not leave

Juventus don't need Alexis - Vucinic
The Montenegrin has rebuffed talk that his club need to sign a high-profile attacker to be competitive after their 4-0 aggregate loss to Bayern Munich

Allegri: Racism in football has to stop
The AC Milan boss has called for the problem to be stamped out for the benefit of the game's young fans following abuse directed at Mario Balotelli last week

Stramaccioni tired of Inter referee talk
The young coach has brushed aside concerns that the recent furore surrounding match officials in Italy would negatively impact on the Nerazzurri's approach against Cagliari

Montolivo: Milan can cope without Balotelli
The former Fiorentina midfielder does not believe the Rossoneri will fall apart just because their in-form forward is suspended for their next three Serie A games

Botta enthused by imminent Inter switch
The highly-rated 23-year-old attacker is to leave Tigre this summer and make the move to San Siro, where he is looking forward to linking up with Javier Zanetti

 

[Edinson Cavani]

De Sciglio flattered by Maldini comparisons
The Rossoneri youth product has downplayed the parallels being drawn between him and the legendary defender while he says he is ready to confront the Old Lady

Galliani: I would re-sign Thiago Silva over Ibrahimovic
The AC Milan chief says he would like to see les Parisiens' centre-back in Italy instead of the Swede because a watertight defence can bring home the Scudetto

Balotelli wins appeal but will still miss Juventus clash
The Italian forward has been successful in his bid to reduce the three-match ban imposed on him for verbally abusing a match official against Fiorentina

Allegri will remain AC Milan coach, says Galliani
The Rossoneri vice-president insists he has not made contact with any potential successors and praised the team on a "very good season"

Robinho: I do not want to leave AC Milan
The former Manchester City attacker is keen to stay at his current club and is eagerly anticipating the match versus Juventus

Inter pull out of Kondogbia race
The Frenchman has caught the interest of several European giants this season, but the Nerazzurri have decided to turn their attention elsewhere due their own financial constraints

Cavani wants to leave Napoli, says mother
The 26-year-old's parent has told a Uruguayan radio station that he wants to leave the Partenopei, as Europe's top sides wait in the wings

Figo rules out Inter return for Mourinho
The Portuguese coach has been linked with a move back to the Serie A giants, but the former Real Madrid ace has stressed he is unlikely to replace Andrea Stramaccioni this summer

Fulham open talks with Roma over €6m Stekelenburg swoop
The Londoners have made another move for the Dutch goalkeeper after failing in a bid to land him on loan from the Giallorossi in January, with Mark Schwarzer set to turn No.2

Milan game will not be easy, warns Barzagli
The experienced defender is eagerly anticipating Sunday's encounter in Turin and is over the moon to be closing in on his 100th appearance for Juventus

Totti: I'll continue for two or three years
The 36-year-old believes he can prolong his career and achieve his goal of becoming the top goalscorer in Serie A history

Inler agent dismisses AC Milan rumours
Dino Lamberti has stressed that his client is only interested in staying with Napoli despite losing his place in the side to Blerim Dzemaili following injury

Nedved: I hope Balotelli will play against Juventus
The Bianconeri director hopes the controversial striker will get the chance to play against the Serie A leaders

Stramaccioni's Inter future to be decided by end of June, says Moratti
The club's president has given the coach until the end of the season to prove his worth and insists he has not yet considered a replacement

Juventus keeping tabs on Ibrahimovic
The Italian champions could make a move to re-sign the former Ajax star if he opts to leave Paris Saint-Germain at some point in the future

Allegri the brain behind AC Milan's resurgence, says Constant
The Guinea international has hailed the former Cagliari coach's influence in Milan's return to form and has stressed the match against Juventus is a must-win game

Vieira: Pogba better than I was at that age
The 36-year-old feels the promising youngster has a bright future ahead of him following his good performances for Juventus this season

Stramaccioni unsure about Inter future after Coppa exit
The Nerazzurri boss is in the dark over his position at the club and felt Roma deservedly progressed to the cup final

Zanetti: Inter must focus on next season
The Argentine defender believes it is time for the Nerazzurri to assess what has gone wrong this term in order to be well prepared for next year

Premier League move would interest Manchester City target Hernanes - agent
The Brazilian has impressed for Lazio this season, aiding their cause with nine league goals, and reports suggest that John Guidetti could be involved should any deal be struck

Lech Poznan winger Tonev favours Celtic over Serie A
Fiorentina and Lazio have reportedly shown interest in the Bulgarian international, but regular Champions League football could give the Scottish club an advantage

Lamela agent denies new Roma deal
Pablo Sabbag has stressed that there has been no extension to the player's current deal which expires in 2016, despite mooted interest from abroad

Cavani considering Napoli future, says agent
The Uruguayan has been linked with a host of clubs heading into the summer transfer window and his representative says any decision will not be based on money

Monaco could never play in Serie A, says Campora
The club's vice-president has dismissed the possibility of the team moving to another federation

Chiellini hopeful of making Milan clash
The defender hopes to be match fit in time for this weekend's encounter and is keen to stay at his current club after his active career

Juan Jesus: Inter always bounce back
The Brazilian defender is optimistic about his side's chances of reaching the final of the Italian cup at the expense of Roma

Andreazzoli confirms Destro to return against Inter
The striker has recovered from injury in time to face his former club as the two fierce rivals lock horns

Coppa Italia will not decide Inter future, says Stramaccioni
The Nerazzurri are 2-1 down heading into the second leg against the Giallorossi on Wednesday night and the young San Siro boss wants to cause an upset in the cup clash

Juventus must improve financial results, says Elkann
The Exor CEO has urged the Bianconeri not to waste their current dominance and says they need to reap the monetary benefits of their good work

Hamsik: Napoli must battle till for Champions League spot
The Slovakia international was happy with the draw against AC Milan on Sunday, but still feels they must be at the top of their game if they are to finish second in Serie A

Leto lands Catania deal
The former Liverpool and Panathinaikos winger joins the Serie A side on a free and will meet up with his new club in July

Boateng: Beating Juventus is key to second place
The attacker admitted the team don't want a repeat of Sulley Muntari's 'ghost goal' from when the two sides last met while he also says he will be fit for the crunch clash

Vidal not worth €40 million, says Ancelotti
The former AC Milan trainer does not feel a large amount of money will be spent unless it is on a striker while he admitted the club are interested in Toulouse's Etienne Capoue

El Shaarawy has 'no problem' with Allegri
The Rossoneri and Italy striker says he respected his coach's decision to leave him among the substitutes for the match with their rivals this weekend

Rocchi: I want to beat Roma for the Lazio fans
The veteran forward wants to make the supporters of Biancocelesti happy by overcoming a 2-1 deficit and reaching the final of the domestic cup competition on Wednesday evening

Montolivo targets Juventus scalp
The Italy international says his side must aim to win every match as they aim for a Champions League spot at the end of the season

Alvarez: Inter must turn things around
The attacking midfielder says the Nerazzurri must make it to the Coppa Italia final against Lazio to save their season after a poor run of form

Juventus will not sell Vidal, insists Marotta
The Chile international has been linked with a number of European top clubs but his current team are determined to keep him in Turin

Vucinic rejects 'lazy' accusations
The 29-year-old has pointed to his statistics in the recent clash with Bayern Munich in a bid to highlight his industry on the pitch

Juventus another brick closer, says Conte
The Bianconeri boss is hopeful Monday's win will rid the club of their post-Champions League exit hangover

Victory a big step forward, says Buffon
The goalkeeper was elated after his side's win on Monday night saw them move 11 points clear at the top of Serie A

Petkovic admits Juventus deserved win
The 49-year-old coach says the Bianconeri were good value for their victory at the Stadio Olimpico

 

[Edinson Cavani]

Serie A preview: Milan aiming to upset leaders Juventus

19 April 2013

Juventus host AC Milan in the pick of this weekend's Serie A fixtures, while Siena tackle Chievo in a crucial relegation scrap.

League leaders Juve sit 11 points clear at the top of the standings and, with six games remaining in the 2012/13 season, can take another major step toward retaining the Scudetto if they collect all three points in Turin on Sunday.

Milan, however, are unlikely to let Juve have it all their own way - Massimiliano Allegri's team are third on the table, four points clear of Fiorentina, and seeking to cement their position in the lone Champions League playoff berth.

Juve defeated Lazio 2-0 in their most recent outing last Monday, while Milan were held to a 1-1 draw at home to Napoli a day earlier.

That result saw Walter Mazzarri's Napoli lose more ground on the front-runners, and with an unlikely title challenge continuing to fade, their attention will soon turn to securing second spot and automatic Champions League qualification.

Napoli's next opponents at the Stadio San Paolo are 10th-placed Cagliari.

Fiorentina, meanwhile, are Milan's main rival for third place, and will be aiming to beat a visiting Torino side to keep the pressure on Allegri's men.

Elsewhere on Saturday, 17th-placed Siena are at home to Chievo, a team one position and six points better off than their hosts.

Siena's need for a victory is arguably greater than that of the visitors. The team from the Stadio Artemio Franchi are only two points clear of the drop zone, with 18th-placed Palermo and Genoa in 19th both sitting just behind on 28 points apiece.

Palermo go away to mid-table Catania on Saturday, while Genoa host 14th-placed Atalanta.

Pescara, anchored to the foot of the standings and nine points off safety, appear doomed to demotion and are unlikely to pick up points when they travel to fifth-placed Roma.

Europa League qualification is the incentive on offer for the home side at the Stadio Olimpico.

Roma are level on points but one spot ahead of Lazio, with their fierce local rivals facing a tough match away to eighth-placed Udinese.

Inter Milan are four points further back from Roma and Lazio in seventh, and must defeat Parma at San Siro to breathe life into their fading challenge for European football.

In the only fixture this weekend with little on the line, 12th-placed Bologna host Sampdoria, 13th on the table, at Stadio Renato Dall'Ara.

 

[Edinson Cavani]

Real Madrid, Juventus, Inter and LA Galaxy to take part in Guinness International Champions Cup

Apr 17, 2013 7:30:00 PM

A total of seven European sides will join the MLS giants for a new eight-team pre-season tournament based in the USA this summer

EXCLUSIVE
By Zac Lee Rigg

Real Madrid, Juventus and Inter will join LA Galaxy in the inaugural Guiness International Champions Cup this summer.

The pre-season tournament, which runs from July 27 to August 4, will feature seven European sides as well as the MLS giants, and will take place in the USA.

Jose Mourinho's side have been confirmed as participants, along with the Serie A duo and Galaxy, with the other sides and principal venues to be announced in the next two weeks.

The eight teams will play the first round of matches in Indianapolis, San Francisco, Phoenix and a to-be-determined European venue. The second round will take place in Los Angeles and New York.

"When we were putting this together, we wanted to make it a real tournament," Relevent Sports CEO Charlie Stillitano told Goal.com. "We wanted to give it the feel of the Champions League, if you will.

"Everyone in this tournament has a rich history. Every time you hear the LA Galaxy's name, you hear it as sort of – for lack of a better word – the team that has the most glamour in MLS. We thought it'd be good to give them an opportunity to show their stuff, and at a real competitive level.

"It gives MLS a chance to shine, in my mind."

All eight teams will convene in Miami's Sun Life Stadium on August 6 and 7 for a pair of double-headers. These include the seventh-place, fifth-place and third-place playoff games, as well as the final. Each team will play three games overall.

"When [Stillitano] mentioned this new format of the tournament with the two conferences, eight teams, four finals, immediately my coach and my chairman appreciated this idea," Inter managing director Marco Fassone told Goal.com. "'Yes, of course we will come,' and we are here."

Inter plan to begin their pre-season six to seven weeks before the Serie A season begins. After a retreat into the mountains, the club will play several “easy” friendlies and one “difficult” one before flying stateside for the tournament.

"They will be tough games, important games," Fassone explained. "When we are back in Europe, I think that we will be ready to play eventual preliminary matches in either the Champions League or Europa League."

LA Galaxy will be the only team in the middle of its season, and club president Chris Klein said that the new tournament will "most likely" be the only mid-season friendlies in which they will take part.

"We have a crowded schedule," Klein told Goal.com.

Fox have signed a long-term deal to broadcast the event, while Guiness have been named as the main sponsor for the tournament.

"Guinness & Co. is a well-known supporter and champion for sports around the world and we are very excited to be involved with such a groundbreaking international soccer event here in the United States," said Doug Campbell, Guiness Brand Director.

 

[Buffon]

Balotelli named in Time's 100 most influential list

By Joe Wright
Apr 18, 2013 6:24:00 PM

The AC Milan striker has been included as an 'icon' alongside the likes of First Lady Michelle Obama and pop stars Beyonce and Justin Timberlake

AC Milan star Mario Balotelli has been named in Time magazine's list of the 100 most influential people in the world.

The 22-year-old has been included as part of the 'icon' section of the publication's famous listing, alongside the likes of First Lady Michelle Obama, pop stars Beyonce and Justin Timberlake and Burmese politician Aung San Suu Kyi.

"Mario has all the qualities to be a top player: power and athleticism, alongside a good understanding of the game — all positive," said former Italy star Gianfranco Zola, making the player's case in the magazine.

"I worked with Mario for a short period with Italy’s Under-21 side. I liked him straight away. I liked the way he handled himself and his composure and calmness in situations.

"Mario could shrug off things happening around him. Only the big players have that calm. Mario can play the big games and handle the crucial moments, but he needs to keep control. That is vital for him.

"From afar, people may think he’s a madman, but he isn't. Mario is a lovely guy, very humble and very funny. I can assure people he has always been a pleasure to deal with.

"He has returned to Italy from England as the main man with lots of attention. Now he has to ensure he keeps control and keeps focus. Mario loves the pressure, but to succeed, it is about finding balance."

Basketball legend LeBron James and tennis star Li Na are the other major sports nominees to make the 100.

 

[Edinson Cavani]

Serie A wrap: Di Natale magic guides Napoli

21 April 2013

A brilliant volley from Antonio Di Natalie has inspired Udinese to their third straight win as they defeated Lazio 1-0 in the Serie A.

Udinese extended their unbeaten run to four matches with Saturday's win at home, which has taken them into sixth position in the Serie A standings and ensured they remain a contender for European football next season.

Di Natale was - once again - the difference for Udinese, scoring his 21st goal of the season in all competitions when he thumped Gabriel Silva's cross home in the 19th minute versus Lazio.

Silva got to the byline on the left-hand side of Lazio's goal and then dinked his cross to Di Natale near the penalty spot and the 35-year-old striker flung himself into the air before volleying the ball back across goal to nestle in the bottom corner.

After a terrible start to the 2012-13 season, which saw Udinese win just one of their opening nine games in all competitions, the recovery by Francesco Guidolin's side has been extraordinary.

Udinese claimed just three victories in their first 14 matches of their Serie A campaign but have powered up the table in the second-half of the season to sit behind fifth-placed Roma on goal difference with five rounds remaining.

While Roma are yet to play this weekend, Udinese still have a chance of overhauling the capital club and taking the Europa League berth attached to Serie A's fifth position.

In the Serie A's other match, Genoa and Atalanta played out a 1-1 draw after two goals in the opening eight minutes.

Antonio Floro Flores gave Genoa the lead in the sixth minute but Atalanta hit back two minutes later through Cristiano Del Grosso and the two teams could not be split for the rest of the match.

Genoa moved above Palermo into 18th position, one spot and one point from safety, while Atalanta remain 13th in the standings.

 

[Edinson Cavani]

Serie A wrap: Napoli need late heroics, Fiorentina score four

22 April 2013

Lorenzo Insigne struck a late winner as Napoli strengthened their grip on second place in Serie A by beating Cagliari 3-2 on Sunday.

Victor Ibarbo opened the scoring in the 18th minute for Cagliari, before a Davide Astori own goal levelled proceedings three minutes into the second half.

Napoli took the lead through Edison Cavani soon after, though parity was restored when Marco Sau scored with 19 minutes to go.

The match seemed destined for draw until substitute Insigne found the net with a deflected shot in the fourth minute of stoppage time.

Meanwhile, fourth-placed Fiorentina survived a major scare before prevailing 4-3 against Torino.

Goals from Juan Cuadrado, Alberto Aquilani and Adam Ljajic handed Fiorentina a 3-0 lead before the visitors fought back to level the contest at 3-3.

Both sides looked lively in search of a winner before Brazilian defender Romulo put the hosts back in front with four minutes remaining.

In other matches, Palermo netted in the dying embers of the Sicilian derby to claim a 1-1 draw with Catania and keep within touching distance of Serie A safety.

Pescara ended their rotten run of eight consecutive defeats following a surprise 1-1 stalemate with Coppa Italia finalists Roma.

Inter Milan accounted for Parma 1-0, while Chievo overcame Siena by the same score and Bologna hosted Sampdoria in a 1-1 draw.

In the late kick-off, Juventus had an underwhelming 1-0 victory over AC Milan to close on the title and inhibit the losers' chances of reaching next season's Champions League.

An Arturo Vidal penalty was all the champions needed, earned when Kwadwo Asamoah was barged into by Marco Amelia in the penalty area shortly after the half-time interval.

Juve need just four more points in the final five matches to retain the Scudetto.

 

[Edinson Cavani]

Ibrahimovic the answer to Juventus' problems, says Vialli
The former Bianconeri striker has encouraged the Scudetto holders to make a move for the Sweden international this summer

De Sciglio: I'm not angry with Allegri
The 20-year-old has stressed he is not overly concerned at being restricted to the bench following his poor performance in the crucial clash with Fiorentina earlier this month

Catania's Gomez flattered by Inter interest
The Argentine winger has been in fine form for the Sicilians this term and the Nerazzurri are said to be considering making a move for the 25-year-old this summer

Insigne confirms Napoli stay and hints at new contract
The 21-year-old attacker, who has spent most of his Partenopei career out on loan, says he has no interest in leaving the San Paolo but hinted that he might want a pay rise

Robinho eager for AC Milan starting berth
The Brazil attacker is desperate to start the Rossoneri's remaining Serie A games as the race for the Champions League places nears the finish line

Juventus focused on derby win & not Scudetto, says Asamoah
The Ghana international revealed that he does want to contemplate winning Serie A until the title is secured while he admitted his favoured position is still a central role

Galliani: Milan must finish third
The Rossoneri CEO has said that finishing in the top three is imperative for the club this season and that they must start next term better than they began this one

Ambrosini sidelined with ankle injury
The veteran midfielder could be out of action for some time and has been joined on the treatment table by goalkeeper Christian Abbiati

Ibrahimovic has not demanded a transfer, says Raiola
The powerful attacker has been linked with a return to Serie A, but his representative has stated that he is happy to stay put for now

Zeman: Heynckes the best European coach around
The former Roma boss has nothing but praise for the 67-year-old and has admitted that he would not turn down Inter if they were to approach him

Juventus fined €30,000 following Boateng incident
The Ghanaian was racially abused by Bianconeri supporters on Sunday and the Italian authorities have moved quickly to punish the club

Moratti: Stramaccioni will be coach next season
The Italian's future at the club has been the subject of much speculation following a poor run of results, but the Nerazzurri chief has offered him his full support

Juventus need Cavani, not Ibrahimovic, says Materazzi
The former defender says the Serie A leaders should pursue Napoli's Uruguayan forward rather than the Paris Saint-Germain striker

Juventus deserve Serie A success, insists Barzagli
The former Wolfsburg star has hailed his side's performances this term in the big games and admitted Milan made life difficult for Juve

Inter could stick with Stramaccioni - Fassone
The Nerazzurri general manager says he hopes the 37-year-old will stay at San Siro for the long term and is hoping to move the club to a new stadium

Conte casts doubt on Scudetto success in Turin derby
The 43-year-old says he does not care where his Juventus team win the points which ensures they are champions following their 1-0 win over AC Milan on Sunday

Boateng subjected to racist abuse before Juventus game
The 26-year-old Ghanaian was targeted during the warm-up, while Bianconeri fans also displayed offensive flags about Mario Balotelli during the game

Allegri: Milan not worried by Fiorentina
A 1-0 defeat to Juventus in Turin on Sunday night has piled the pressure on the Rossoneri, who now have the resurgent Viola breathing down their necks

Vidal wants Juventus to finish in a flurry
The Chile international asserts that the Bianconeri will not become complacent despite holding an 11-point lead over Napoli and dismisses reports of a move away from Turin

Zanetti wants Inter push for Europe
The veteran defender says Sunday's victory can spark an upturn in fortunes for the club who now hope to draw a line under a poor season by qualifying for Europe

Mazzarri: I needed to calm Cavani down against Cagliari
The Partenopei boss has explained he had to have a word with the misfiring Uruguay international, who then went on to net a crucial second-half strike

Stramaccioni salutes victory of great significance over Parma
The under-fire coach saw Tommaso Rocchi earn the Nerazzurri a vital 1-0 victory at San Siro which lifts them into fifth place in the Serie A standings

Rocchi: Inter united behind Stramaccioni
The veteran striker insists the Nerazzurri retain great faith in their young boss and is confident they can finish the season strongly

Raiola invites Juventus to move for Ibrahimovic
The Sweden star's agent has encouraged his former club to bid for him in the summer, pointing to Mario Balotelli's AC Milan switch as proof that such a deal is possible

Stramaccioni 'convinced' he will stay at Inter
The Nerazzurri boss has blamed appalling injury luck on his side's poor campaign, and believes the media have helped to undermine his position

Balotelli can be new Ibrahimovic for Milan, claims Allegri
The coach is just the latest to laud his winter signing and, although the striker's professionalism has been brought into question in the past, Allegri defended his star man

Napoli must still fight for second, says Mazzarri
The 51-year-old is refusing to underestimate AC Milan in the race for second while he also cools speculation on Edinson Cavani's future

'Conte is a genius, more so than Sacchi' - Pirlo
The Juventus playmaker praises his coach in his upcoming biography - claiming he is a better trainer than legendary Italian Arrigo Sacchi

Pogba can become one of world's best, says Conte
The Juventus coach believes that the young Frenchman has the potential to develop into a truly special player and that his current form makes him undroppable

Stramaccioni: Inter must learn from mistakes
The beleaguered coach insists the groundwork is in place for his side to challenge for top honours in the future and has urged his players to qualify for the Europa League

Nigel de Jong nearing AC Milan comeback
The combative midfielder has yet to make his first appearance of 2013 due to injury, but is one step closer to returning to action

 

[Edinson Cavani]

AC Milan have saved €40-50 million on wages, reveals Galliani

By Will Jones
Apr 22, 2013 4:51:00 PM

The Rossoneri president says the club's dealings in the transfer market have ensured they are now in a better financial state

AC Milan president Adriano Galliani has revealed the club have saved €40-50 million on wages in 2013.

The Rossoneri announced a loss of €6.9m in 2012 which was a huge improvement from €67m in 2011 and €70m in 2010.

The entrepreneur says that the club are no longer losing as much money as they have been in the past by cutting down on their wage bill and becoming smarter in the transfer market.

"We will save around €40-50m on the players' wages in 2013," the 68-year-old told reporters at the club's annual general shareholders meeting.

"We paid for [Zlatan] Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva's wages until August. The players who were out of contract were paid until June. The sale of [Alexandre] Pato allowed us to sign a much younger player than Tevez. On a patrimonial level, it's much better to have Balotelli.

"If we had sold Pato in January 2012, then Tevez would have joined Milan and then perhaps we would have won the Scudetto. Pato left Milan this year and then Balotelli joined us. In hindsight it was the right thing to do. Compared to when we sold Shevchenko and Kaka, we have now reduced our wages to a point where we won't lose as much money as before."

In relation to Financial Fair Play rulings coming into force next season, the announcement puts the club in a much stronger position to compete with Europe's elite clubs than they were a few years ago.

"In terms of FFP, we now have a positive balance sheet because we can deduct the costs from the youth sector and stadium. We own all our players except Bojan and [Cristian] Zapata. And we own half of [Kevin] Constant."

 

[Buffon]

AC Milan chief Galliani hits back at Allegri critics

By Shane Callaghan
Apr 22, 2013 10:10:00 PM

The AC Milan CEO has moved to remind the coach's detractors of all he has accomplished during his tenure at the club

AC Milan CEO Adriano Galliani has leaped to the defence of head coach Massimiliano Allegri, insisting the trainer's record at the club speaks for itself.

The Italian has come in for some criticism for failing to mount a serious title-challenge this season, with rivals Juventus holding a commanding 18-point lead over Allegri's men after their torrid start to the campaign.

However, Galliani has moved to defend his coach and believes a third placed finish in Serie A will represent a successful season following a difficult summer and autumn in 2012.

"If we finish in third place I will consider it to be a positive season when you consider we lost Zlatan [Ibrahimovic] and Thiago Silva, who are both excellent players," Galliani told Gazzetta dello Sport.

"Allegri has been here for three years. In that time, we were champions, then finished second and now it seems we will finish third. It is not a bad record."

The Rossoneri host Catania to San Siro next Sunday and the 68-year-old has welcomed the return of Mario Balotelli from suspenion.

Galliani added: "Balotelli will be back on Sunday. He is a great player. It is just too bad he was not available for the previous two games."

 

[Buffon]

Zeman still bitter over Roma sacking

By Steve Norman
Apr 23, 2013 7:49:00 PM

The former Giallorossi boss admits he wonders why he was ever appointed as he feels his philosophies were never a match with those ingrained at the club

Zdenek Zeman has revealed that he is still bitter over his sacking as Roma coach this season.

The Czech was dismissed in February after seven months at the club, with the Giallorossi down in eigth in Serie A at the time, and he believes he was always on borrowed time at Stadio Olimpico as his philosophies were never suited to the side.

"Sometimes I wonder myself why I was appointed. My philosophy proved different from that of [Roma's] executives. Certainly my bank account has been richly rewarded thanks to my salary," he told Gazzetta dello Sport.

"I asked the club to give me more time. Was it a shock [that they sacked me]? Without discipline there cannot be a football team.

"The way my experience in the capital ended left me so much bitterness. My biggest mistake was thinking that everyone at Roma had my enthusiasm and heart."

Zeman also spoke about a number of players he was perceived to have had problems with during his tenure with the Giallorossi, including Pablo Osvaldo, Daniele De Rossi and Maarten Stekelenburg.

"Stekelenburg and I never spoke, even after some of his blunders. He then suffered an injury after the Parma game [in October] and was out for the next two months," Zeman explained.

"During that time, [Mauro] Goicoechea did well and we won often. When Stekelenburg became available again, he did not find the stimuli to regain his starting spot - so much so that he wanted to go to Fulham.

"Goicoechea's most serious errors stand out, but he also did good things.

"Pablo Osvaldo in 22 games under me scored 10 goals and I project he would have made 20. Over the next ten games after me he scored only one goal. I don’t think I managed him that badly.

“[Miralem] Pjanic with me might not have played one or two games; I was just trying to find the best location for him. I don’t think they have yet.

“I've never had anything against De Rossi; I always looked at the choices that would only benefit him in both training and competition.”