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Serie A wrap: Parma stun stuttering Inter, Napoli sink Cagliari
27 November 2012
Inter Milan missed a chance to close the gap on Serie A leaders Juventus as they lost 1-0 away to Parma on Monday.
Inter paid the price for a lack of creativity, going down narrowly to the home side, who remain undefeated at the Stadio Ennio Tardini this season.
Andrea Stramaccioni's side enjoyed the majority of possession throughout but failed to supply enough service to Diego Milito and Rodrigo Palacio up front.
An industrious Parma team were rewarded for their perseverance when Nicola Sansone belted in the game's only goal 15 minutes from time.
The defeat leaves Inter fourth on the table, four points back from league leaders Juventus, who lost 1-0 away to AC Milan a day earlier.
Winless in three outings, Inter needed a positive result to revive their challenge at the top of the table.
They went close through Fredy Guarin's early free-kick, while Esteban Cambiasso and Jonathan Biabany also threatened in the first 45 minutes.
The second half proved a more open affair, with Guarin's 30-yard piledriver forcing Parma goalkeeper Antonio Mirante into action just after the hour mark.
But in the 75th minute, Inter were ultimately punished for the failure to convert one of those numerous chances.
Sansone, who had been quiet for much of the evening, surged into the Inter half and skipped over a weak tackle from Guarin before rifling an effort past Samir Handanovic and into the bottom corner of the goal.
The win sees Parma climb to seventh on the table, three points behind fifth-placed Roma.
In the other match on Monday, Napoli earned a valuable 1-0 win away to Cagliari, Marek Hamsik bagging the winning goal with 17 minutes remaining at the Stadio Is Arenas.
Napoli are now second in the standings, just two points back from champions Juve, while Cagliari are 11th.
Zanetti: Inter must not give up
The experienced midfielder has insisted the Giuseppe Meazza side still have every reason to be satisfied with their start to the season
Cambiasso 'bitter' over Inter's defeat to Parma
The Argentine left Stadio Ennio Tardini unhappy with the result, the performance and the impact it had on Nerazzuri's chances of winning the Serie A title
Bendtner was the cheap option, reveals Marotta
The director of Bianconeri has revealed the reasoning behind the Denmark striker's move to Turin and admitted that a big money signing was out of the picture
De Jong wants ex-Manchester City team-mate Balotelli to join AC Milan
The Dutchman has hailed the Italian striker's talents after rumours linked him with a move back to Serie A, while also insisting he is happy at San Siro after settling in
Berlusconi inspired AC Milan win, says Antonini
The Rossoneri defender has revealed that the speech made by the club's owner before their clash with Juventus on Sunday evening encouraged them to triumph
Robinho not leaving AC Milan, says Galliani
The Rossoneri vice-president has stated that the Brazil forward will not be sold this winter, while revealing plans to sign Kevin Constant on a permanent deal
Juventus not looking for excuses, says Marotta
The Bianconeri director feels that the Scudetto holders were simply not good enough, and stressed the referee was not to blame for the loss
Stramaccioni full of praise for Nagatomo
The Inter coach has nothing but positive words for the Japanese wing-back following his impressive performances so far this term
Berlusconi: It feels even better to beat Juventus with a dubious penalty
The AC Milan president was delighted with the Rossoneri's surprise win, and hailed the attitude of his players on the pitch
Captain fantastic: Montolivo lays down AC Milan marker as Juventus are beaten again
The Italy international turned in a superb showing and was a pivotal part of the Rossoneri's 1-0 victory over the Serie A leaders
Buffon refuses to blame penalty on Juventus defeat
The goalkeeper believes the referee made a crucial mistake, but insisted that the Bianconeri lost because there were not good enough
Alessio: I do know what would happen if Juventus won a penalty like that
The Bianconeri trainer was left perplexed by the spot-kick awarded after Mauricio Isla was wrongly penalised for hand ball, but conceded his side were well below their best
Catania's Alejandro Gomez still dreaming of Argentina call-up
The former San Lorenzo man has made a promising start to life in Serie A, but is under no illusions as to the difficulty of breaking into the national side
Stramaccioni hopes Sneijder dispute gets resolved quickly
The Nerazzurri will be without the Netherlands international for the trip to Parma, due to the internal debate surrounding his contract continuing
The director has revealed the Netherlands international will remain on the sidelines until he responds to an offer made by the club
Nov 24, 2012 3:00:00 PM
By Ian Hudson
Marco Branca says Wesley Sneijder will not play for Inter until he makes a decision over his future at San Siro.
The Nerazzurri director has revealed that negotiations have opened with the player in a bid to alter the terms of his current contract, but as yet the Netherlands international has not responded to the club's proposal.
"We need to modify his current contract. He and his entourage have to decide what they want to do about our proposal," Branca told Sky.
"Sneijder will not play until he makes a decision about his contract."
The 28-year-old has missed a large portion of the season with a thigh injury - suffered in the 2-0 victory over Chievo back in September - but now looks set for an extended period of absence.
Inter next face Parma on Monday at Stadio Ennio Tardini in a match scheduled to kick-off at 21:00CET, as they bid to keep up the pressure on league leaders Juventus.
What the future holds for AC Milan & their potential new billionaire Sheikh owner
With a host of European clubs now under foreign ownership, the Rossoneri could well be the next side to follow suit, as one of the world's richest men eyes the Serie A giants
Nov 24, 2012 9:00:00 AM
ANALYSIS
By Omar Al Raisi
Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, the man behind Qatar’s successful World Cup 2022 bid, is on a mission.
Listed by Forbes magazine as one of the richest men in the world with a personal fortune close to €1.5 billion, his goal is to make the country a household name by 2022 through a process of continued sporting investment.
Al Thani is the owner of Middle East television giant Al Jazeera Networks and his financial clout has seen him and his company acquire exclusive rights to La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga and League One, while recently submitting a €2bn bid to secure a deal for Premier League rights in the region. While his media investments are well broadcast, it is his venture into European football that will perhaps be most telling.
Milan misery | Financial investment could revitalise the club's fortunes
Having already bought Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain and La Liga outfit Malaga, as well as becoming the shirt sponsors of Barcelona in a €150 million deal, he and his family’s aim is to purchase a top club in each of the continent’s leading divisions. Recent reports linked Al Thani with an unsuccessful €2bn bid for Manchester United, while rumours also suggested a possible buyout of Rangers that eventually failed to materialise.
Members of his family also met with Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich and CEO Ron Gourlay in the hope of acquiring the naming rights to Stamford Bridge, but with that assignment not bearing fruit, attentions have now turned to Italy and one of Europe’s biggest clubs. It is no secret the Emir is desperate to buy AC Milan and restore the club to its former glories.
Al Thani has reportedly offered €500m - as revealed exclusively by Goalcom – and as a result of the economic struggles at Milan and in Italy as a whole, it is likely the Serie A side will be sold to a buyer whether supporters like it or not.
With the financial problems facing the Rossoneri, which led to the sales of star players Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva during the summer transfer window - coupled with personal troubles surrounding Silvio Berlusconi - now could well be the perfect time to strike a deal.
"Football has sold its soul and it has become too commercial and everything is about money. I would want the club back on top but not with money"
- Abu Dhabi-based Milan fan Mohammad Moayed
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Despite statements to the contrary, it is believed Milan are prepared to sell a 30 per cent stake and promote renewed investment, but the Emir of Qatar is only interested in full ownership, with a view to using the San Siro side as a vehicle to promote the 2022 World Cup and his homeland as a whole.
If a deal was to go through, then, the future of the club would be somewhat different to its current forecast. Unlimited funds for player transfers, a new stadium, record breaking sponsorship deals and other investments in the city itself are all possible perks of a takeover.
Quite how a potential buyout would sit with supporters is difficult to gauge. Some would argue Milan are one of football’s iconic clubs who should be competing for major trophies year upon year, but there are a group of fans who subscribe to a different school of thought and oppose a sale to foreign owners.
“Football has sold its soul and it has become too commercial and everything is about money. I would want the club back on top but not with money,” said Abu Dhabi-based Milan fan Mohammad Moayed. “Yes, money would help speed things up, but we don’t want our club to turn into a laughing stock, if the club is sold, it should be run in a democratic way, just as how Juventus have turned their club around.”
However, money talks. The long-term future of the side must come first and further sales of the remaining big names at San Siro, such as Stephan El Shaarawy and Alexandre Pato, would signal a frightening lack of ambition and cut Milan further adrift of Italy’s and Europe’s elite.
Hesitation could be fatal. Al Thani is on a mission he intends to complete, and if the Italian giants do not agree to a move it could well be one of their domestic rivals that enjoys the benefits of lucrative investment.
Despite having announced his return to the club as full-time president after leaving his post as Italian prime minister, Silvio Berlusconi is now likely to take a step back once more to clear his name after being sentenced to 12 months in jail and ordered to pay a €10m fine for his part in a tax fraud scandal.
"You have to do the maths. We saved €130m with the Ibra and Thiago Silva sales and nobody, during this economic climate, would have turned that down"
- Silvio Berlusconi
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But whether he is physically present or not, he no longer has the disposable wealth available to him to bail Milan out of severe financial trouble like he did when he arrived at the club in 1986 and propelled them back to the top of the sport. He even spoke recently of the issues the state of the world economy are causing for the Rossoneri, saying: “There is regret over Ibra, but you have to do the maths. We saved €130m with their sales and nobody, during this economic climate, would have turned that down.
“You see real fans in times of difficulty. I expect the team to be supported. After 26 years of caviar and champagne, patience is needed.”
But would such patience be tested if the Emir stepped up his bid - given the troubles - for a club who are falling well behind both on and off the field? Not only are Milan struggling in Serie A this term, but the last Deloitte Football Money League showed that the club's revenues are slipping too, with matchday takings at just €35.6m in comparison to Real Madrid's €123.6m.
It would be hard for anybody to effectively deny the club the chance to catch up quickly by saying no to the kind of massive financial investment that the Emir is proposing. The fans naturally want their side to keep its identity, but how much is Milan still Milan if the organisation continues to struggle for the foreseeable future and loses more star players as a result?
And that is where the quandary lies. As much as fans and traditionalists want the Rossoneri to work their way back to the top, that appears unlikely under Berlusconi. So, if Al Thani continues to flirt with the Diavolo, there may well come a point when Milan have to jump on board with the cash-cow nature of football in 2012.
Juventus will be hoping they can bounce back to winning ways in Serie A, as the league leaders host local rivals Torino at the weekend.
The Italian champions have now gone two games without a league win, failing to score at home to Lazio before slumping to a 1-0 loss away to AC Milan.
In their promotion season, Torino have been more than impressive in the top flight, losing just one of seven away games - their trip to Roma earlier in November.
But away score draws to Lazio and Napoli - both sides that occupy the top-six - will give Giampiero Ventura's men confidence of matching it with Juve in Turin on Saturday.
What won't give the visitors confidence is the fact they have not toppled their rivals since 1995 - with the powerhouses failing to lose their past 12 head-to-head clashes - and making matters worse for Torino, they haven't scored against Juve in six matches dating back to 2002.
Either way, the two sides' first clash since 2009 is sure to pack plenty of fire as bragging rights are on the line once again.
AC Milan can climb above Catania with a win over their mid-table rivals on Friday, when they do battle at the Stadio Angelo Massimino.
Massimiliano Allegri's side have won back-to-back matches for the first time since May, with a Champions League win over Anderlecht and a momentous victory over Juventus in the league at their last start.
All three points would take Milan to eighth in the table ahead of the weekend's action, while if Catania can avoid defeat, they will go equal on points with seventh-placed Parma.
In Sunday's fixtures, second-placed Napoli can continue to heap pressure on Juve when they take on bottom side Pescara in the early kick-off.
Inter Milan are under the microscope having lost two of their past three, and they will need to rally at home to an in-form Palermo on Sunday if they are to consolidate their standing in the top four.
Fiorentina - level on points with Inter, but above them on goal difference - will host Sampdoria, who have won their past two.
Siena will have a tough challenge to maintain their run of four games unbeaten, as the 19th-placed outfit host the sixth-placed Roma.
Roma have won three of their past four, but Siena boast an unusual form line for a side sitting in the relegation zone, with eight points from their past four.
In other Sunday fixtures, Bologna will welcome Atalanta, Chievo are on the road at Genoa, Parma will travel to Rome to take on Lazio, and Udinese play host to Cagliari.
Handanovic: Inter dip not due to lack of hunger
The goalkeeper does not believe his side's recent poor run of results should be viewed as a crisis, claiming it was inevitable that their winning run would eventually falter
Conte a true champion, says Pessotto
The Juventus legend has given praise to the trainer ahead of his return to the sidelines, reflecting on the tactician's achievements on and off the pitch
Barzagli: Carrera and Alessio are good but Conte is on a different level
The Italian defender has made it known that he has the utmost respect for the two assistant trainers, but stated that they do not come close to the head coach
Nocerino not leaving AC Milan, says agent
The versatile midfielder has been linked with a move away from the Rossoneri, but his representative has insisted that he's not thinking about a transfer
Pirlo: Juventus have missed Conte
The experienced midfielder has nothing but praise for the successful coach, while also offering words of encouragement to young Italy centre-mid Marco Verratti who is at PSG
'Modern' El Shaarawy cannot be compared to former greats, says Prandelli
The former Fiorentina boss was full of praise for the Rossoneri forward, whose impressive club displays this season have seen him force his way into the Azzurri reckoning
Chiellini hoping to score again in Turin derby
The Italy international is ready for his return to action when Juventus take on city rivals Torino, and he has admitted that he would love to get on the scoresheet again
Edgar Davids wants Juventus job
The former Bianconeri midfielder has revealed that if the Serie A giants were to offer him a role then he would jump at the chance, despite enjoying his current position at Barnet
Roma fans behind Tottenham attack receive five-year stadium ban
The two men, who seriously injured three Spurs supporters in the violent confrontation in Rome last week are prohibited from entering football grounds in Italy
Lucio: I am unhappy at Juventus
The Brazil international is frustrated with his lack of playing time at the Serie A leaders, and would be open to a return to Germany
Juventus & AC Milan have an excellent rapport, insists Marotta
The Serie A champions' general director has dismissed rumours that the relationship between both teams has turned sour following recent incidents
Mancini rules out Manchester City exit for Balotelli
The 48-year-old boss dismissed the notion of the controversial Italy forward leaving the club after he played a key role in the 2-0 win over Wigan on Wednesday
El Shaarawy: AC Milan can qualify for the Champions League
The Italy international has insisted that his side still have plenty of time to make up for the lost ground from the opening months of the current season
Moratti: Inter are not blackmailing Sneijder
The Nerazzurri supremo has stressed that the Dutchman is free to act as he sees fit, and added that he is not playing for footballing reasons
Mourinho: My heart still beats for Inter
Los Blancos' coach has reaffirmed his affinity for the Nerazzurri, saying he only left because the Spanish club came calling three times and offered the platform to make history
Yepes: Juventus win made us believe we can beat anyone
The Colombian said that the triumph over the Serie A champions on Sunday has gone a long way towards helping the Rossoneri rediscover their battered confidence
Marotta confirms Quagliarella fine
The Juventus striker appeared to swear at coach Angelo Alessio during the 1-0 loss to AC Milan on Sunday, and has since been disciplined for the outburst
Marotta: Winning is in Juventus' DNA
The Turin powerhouse's general director has stressed that winning comes naturally to his side, and is confident they will survive the Champions League group stages
Allegri knows what AC Milan need, says Amelia
The goalkeeper has little doubt that the former Cagliari coach has what it takes to guide the San Siro side back to the summit of the table
Juventus prepare €7m offer for Llorente
The Serie A powerhouse failed to sign the prolific striker in the summer, but are preparing another move for the forward come January
Juventus handed Vidal muscle injury blow
The combative midfielder could miss Saturday's game against Torino due to physical problems, while Martin Caceres has also sustained a knock
Juan Jesus enjoying life at San Siro
The young Brazilian spoke of his integration into Italian football, and his belief that Inter can rise from the ashes after losing key players such as Lucio
Amelia: AC Milan have best pair of goalkeepers in Italy
The Italian shot-stopper believes that himself and his fellow goalkeeper provide the Serie A club with the strongest selection in between the posts
Pirlo or Iniesta deserve Ballon d'Or, claims Cannavaro
The former Italy centre-half believes that there are other candidates worthy of the coveted award, not just the popular figures of Messi and Ronaldo
AC Milan-Juventus referee defends spot kick decision
In the aftermath of Sunday's clash, Nicola Rizzoli still believes that he was correct in his decision to award the home side a penalty, despite what replays have shown
Cavani: Scudetto is within reach of Napoli
The Uruguay forward believes that winning Serie A is a realistic goal for his side, and insists he joined the club to leave his mark on its history rather than achieve individually
Cambiasso wants end to Sneijder contract dispute
The Argentine midfielder believes his Dutch team-mate brings a lot to the team, and would like to see him back in the starting line-up as soon as possible
Lucescu: Juventus are the example to follow in Serie A
The former Inter and Brescia boss says the Old Lady's club mentality is the right way to achieve long-term success, but also believes Serie B has much to offer coaches
AC Milan to make request for 15-year-old Mastour to play in Serie A
The highly-rated teenager is not eligible to play in Italy's top-flight until his 16th birthday in June, but the Rossoneri want to give him a first team chance before then
Juventus determined to hold on to De Ceglie amid AC Milan interest
The 26-year-old has caught the attention of the San Siro side, but his current club are not interested in cashing in on him this winter
Berlusconi: AC Milan aim to sign future champions
The Rossoneri are looking to add promising youngsters to their squad as they aim to rebuild following the summer departure of several stars
Sneijder not being punished, insists Stramaccioni
The Netherlands international has returned to training following a lengthy layoff through injury, but has not yet featured for the first team amid a dispute over his contract
AC Milan came from behind to beat 10-man Catania 3-1 on Friday, securing back-to-back wins in Serie A for the first time this season.
Nicola Legrottaglie opened the scoring on 11 minutes but Pablo Barrientos' red card turned the game on its head as Milan netted three unanswered goals in the second half, two of those coming from in-form striker Stephan El Shaarawy.
Confident from their victory over defending champions Juventus last weekend, Milan instantly took hold of possession during the early exchanges and they had their first shot on target pushed away from Mariano Andujar after six minutes.
But five minutes later they surprisingly fell behind. Some painfully static defending enabled Legrottaglie to stroll into the box and send a bullet header home from Francesco Lodi's corner.
More shoddy defensive play from Milan presented the hosts with a fantastic chance to double their advantage soon after, however, Sergio Almiron's header lacked conviction and went wide of the goal.
Milan's forwards were extremely isolated, with Riccardo Montolivo's efforts to link up with the front three being hindered by a lack of movement and support.
The onus was on Allegri's men as they emerged for the second half but they were offered a helping hand within five minutes of the restart.
Barrientos took a wild and unnecessary swipe at Antonio Nocerino which earned him a second yellow card and reduced his side to 10 men.
It did not take long for Milan to make the most of their numerical advantage, as El Shaarawy restored parity by lifting the ball over Andujar from Kevin-Prince Boateng's cross in the 53rd minute.
The turnaround was completed just three minutes later as Boateng turned Lodi with ease at the top of the box before bending a shot into the corner of the net.
El Shaarawy and Robinho both wasted fantastic chances to enhance upon their side's lead, while substitute Urby Emanuelson also failed to finish following a melee in the area as his shot came back off the post.
Boateng was dismissed in the final minute of normal time for a challenge from behind but El Shaarawy put the result beyond doubt with his 12th goal of the campaign.
Victory moves Massimiliano Allegri's Milan above Catania and into seventh place, though that can change depending on the weekend's results.
Juventus got back to winning ways against their local rivals with a convincing 3-0 win over Torino in the Serie A on Saturday.
Goals from Sebastian Giovinco and a pair from Claudio Marchisio were enough for the hosts to come away with all three points against a side who were forced to play almost an hour of the game with 10 men after the sending-off of Kamil Glik.
Torino entered the derby having not beaten their more illustrious rivals for 17 years, however, it was they who started the brighter of the sides, enjoying the better share possession in the opening 10 minutes.
Despite settling into the game faster than their hosts, Torino had to wait until after 20 minutes before they had their first clear-cut chance at goal. Riccardo Meggiorini got in beyond Andrea Barzagli and while he had Gianluigi Buffon beaten his flicked effort went wide of the post.
Juventus did eventually grow into the game and started to create chances of their own, their first one falling to Paul Pogba who gained possession in the box with Torino goalkeeper Jean-Francois Gillet on the ground, however, the referee adjudged him to have committed a foul before it came to anything.
The complexion of the match changed completely on 36 minutes when Torino's Glik was given his marching orders for a wild high-footed tackle on Emmanuele Giaccherini.
With the numerical advantage, Juventus pushed further forward to search for the opener and they received a great opportunity when Pogba went down in the box and they were awarded a penalty.
Incredibly, however, Andrea Pirlo missed the target completely from just 12 yards out.
It was left to Marchisio to finally break the deadlock after half-time as he met Giovinco's cross to put Juventus ahead.
The home side refused to rest on their laurels, with Pirlo, Pogba and Nicklas Bendtner all registering attempts on goal before Marchisio, in a similar position to the goal he scored, failed to latch on to another Giovinco cross.
It was Giovinco himself who soon got on the scoresheet, receiving the ball this time from Marchisio and lashing home from inside the box.
With the game starting to resemble a training drill for the Italian champions, Giovinco was taken off for Alessandro Matri but there was still time for one more as Marchisio notched his second of the night to seal victory.
Napoli have smashed Pescara 5-1 with Edinson Cavani and Gokhan Inler both scoring doubles to remain two points off the top of Serie A.
Inler scored two cracking goals from outside the box as Walter Mazzarri's side tore through Pescara to record their third win in a row.
Napoli had 25 shots to six for Pescara throughout Sunday's game with Inler starting the rout in the ninth minute when he cut inside onto his right foot and hit a swerving shot over Pescara goalkeeper Mattia Perin.
Just six minutes later, Marek Hamsik doubled the home side's lead when he controlled a loose ball in the penalty area, juggled the ball past two defenders and then slotted home.
A fine glancing header in the 18th minute from Icelandic midfielder Birkir Bjarnason got Pescara back into the game at the Stadio San Paolo but Napoli reclaimed their two-goal cushion 13 minutes after half-time when Cavani scored from the spot.
Pescara defender Antonio Bocchetti was sent off when he tripped Cavani in the penalty area with the Uruguayan almost through on goal and the Napoli striker made no mistake from 11 metres.
In the 63rd minute, Cavani tapped home Hamsik's low cross before Inler smashed a long-range strike in off the post a quarter of an hour later to complete the victory.
Napoli moved to 33 points, just two points behind Serie A-leaders Juventus.
Inter Milan continued to struggle in their clash with Palermo but a Santiago Garcia own goal gave Andrea Stramaccioni's side their first victory in five games.
Despite having 53 percent possession and double the amount of shots as Palermo, Inter Milan needed the 74th-minute own goal to snap a two-match losing streak and maintain their third position on the table.
Roma came from behind to win 3-1 away to Siena and claim their third successive victory with Mattia Destro scoring a double for the visitors.
Alberto Paloschi scored a hat-trick for Chievo Verona as they won 4-2 away to Genoa, while Udinese smashed Cagliari 4-1 and Lazio triumphed 2-1 over Parma.
In the day's final clash, Fiorentina extended their unbeaten run to 10 games in all competitions following a 2-2 draw against Sampdoria.
Spalletti: I am too old to manage AC Milan
The 53-year-old has ruled himself out of the running for Rossoneri coach because of his age and the fact that he wants to stay in Russia
El Shaarawy: Cassano & Ibrahimovic exits have helped me
The Italy international believes the wholesale changes at the Rossoneri have aided his progress, and has nothing but praise for head coach Massimiliano Allegri
Cambiasso: Inter are a team in transition
The Argentine midfielder has voiced his opinion that the Nerazzurri are still rebuilding their team, but added that they are eager for success
Zeman seeks Roma improvement despite Siena comeback
The Czech boss was delighted with his side's ability to recover from going a goal down in the first half, while he highlighted several individual performances which caught his eye
Stramaccioni: Inter were not at their best against Palermo
The Nerazzurri coach felt his side could have played better against the Rosanero, but was also quick to deny that Wesley Sneijder was left out because of his contract dispute
Moratti: Inter not forcing Sneijder into new deal
The Inter president revealed they will not make the Netherlands international accept reduced terms, despite refusing to play the midfielder until his contract dispute is resolved
Alessio relieved to overcome stubborn Torino
The Bianconeri assistant watched his side battle hard for the win over their city rivals, with two Claudio Marchisio goals and a Sebastian Giovinco strike sealing the three points
Neymar: I want Robinho to join Santos
The AC Milan forward has failed to make an impression in Italy, leading to rumours linking him with a move away from San Siro and back to his homeland
'Clan of senators' forced Gasperini out of Inter, says Zamparini
The flamboyant president has backed his coach to lead the Rosanero to victory over the Nerazzurri, suggesting the trainer was mistreated during his time at the Giuseppe Meazza
River Plate in talks with Inter regarding Ricky Alvarez transfer
The 24-year-old hasn't enjoyed the best of times since moving to Serie A in 2011, but Los Millonarios are apparently ready to take him back to Argentina
Inter made a huge mistake by not selling Sneijder to Manchester United in 2011 for €35m
The Nerazzurri look set to say goodbye to the Dutchman, with an ultimatum over his contract situation having brought no quick solution to his current impasse with the club
Red card lets Juventus coaches off the hook ahead of Shakhtar clash
Kamil Glik's rash foul on Emanuele Giaccherini helped give the Bianconeri's overworked players a second-half stroll ahead of their crucial trip to Donetsk in midweek
Hernanes insists he is ready to play for Brazil again
The 27-year-old has won just eight caps for the Selecao, but after being endorsed by new coach Scolari, the midfielder maintains he is prepared to don the famous yellow shirt
Ancelotti: Pastore has disappointed me
The Argentine midfielder's time at Parc des Princes could well be coming to an end after the coach chose to publicly criticise the player's underwhelming form
Marchisio: Juventus can take confidence from convincing derby win
The midfielder was thrilled with his side's response following their defeat to AC Milan last week, adding that it is great to see two club academy products on the scoresheet
Palermo coach Gasperini attacks Inter
The Rosanero boss says he is frustrated by the fact his former club are only backing his ideas after he left, while he is also unhappy about how he departed the San Siro outfit
Mazzarri: I do not care about what others say about Napoli
The Partenopei coach says he is unperturbed by what is said in the media and also praised striker Lorenzo Insigne ahead of the meeting with relegation candidates Pescara
Lavezzi hoping for 'great things' at Paris Saint-Germain
The Argentine is looking to put a difficult start to life in France behind him and reproduce his best form as the club bid to win the Ligue 1 title
Zamparini: Pastore struggling to play with Ibrahimovic
The Palermo president believes he has the answer to the Argentine's troubles at Parc des Princes and says he would love to see the player return to Italy
Van Gaal disappointed by Sneijder snub
The Netherlands coach reveals he has spoken to the No.10 about his current predicament at Inter, as talk over a reported contractual dispute continues to wager on
Southampton star Ramirez would welcome Serie A return
The 21-year-old joined the newly promoted side for a club-record fee of €15 million and is open to a return to Italy in the future, and hinted at a fondness for Fiorentina
Allegri: Milan's win over Catania crucial for consistency
The trainer felt his side's victory against the Elefanti served as proof that their late run of results were no flash in the pan, while he reflected on Pablo Barrientos' red card
Serie A 2012/13 : Round 16 Preview – Inter And Napoli Tussle For Second Place
Last week’s round of fixtures yielded a string of predictable results as all the teams placed in the top half of the table – bar Fiorentina and Catania – emerged victorious.
Subsequently, Juventus continue to lead second placed Napoli by two points, with Inter four points adrift. Fiorentina and Lazio are locked at 29 points as Roma and Milan appear to have discovered their form and consistency.
On the opposite end of the table, newly appointed coach, Gian Piero Gasperini has managed to lift his Palermo side out of the relagation zone, as Genoa, Siena and Pescara fill up the bottom three slots.
Following the conclusion of all European fixtures for this calender year, matchday 16 arrives at a time in which all teams are trying to finish off the year on a high note as the Christmas break looms.
Inter vs Napoli
Inter and Napoli will lock horns this Sunday evening at the San Siro, with both teams eager to avoid a defeat.
The Partenopei have begun to impress once again, reflected by their five goal drubbing of Pescara last weekend and will be determined to beat their bitter rivals.
Having rested much of his regular players against PSV on Thursday night, and with the return of former Inter striker Goran Pandev, Walter Mazzarri will be aiming for nothing less than a victory.
On the contrary, following a fortunate victory against Palermo last weekend, and a draw against Nefchi Baku on Thursday night (though with a youth filled side), Andrea Strammacioni’s equally rested Inter team will be aiming to silence their critics.
In the last few weeks, cracks have begun to appear in the three man Nerazzurri defence, and with Walter Samuel suspended, the home side will face a stiff task against their rivals from Naples.
Roma vs Fiorentina
Roma host Fiorentina on the late Saturday evening kick off in a fixture which sees the return of Vincenzo Montella to the Stadio Olimpico.
Following the derby loss against Lazio, Zdenek Zeman has managed to piece together three consecutive victories, but Montella’s expectation-exceeding Fiorentina side will come as a big obstacle to the Giallorossi.
Despite missing some of their top players through injury, the Viola will be looking to impress their fans by beating another highly rated team, as they look to maintain their pursuit of Champions League football next year.
Bearing the expectations to challenge for one of the top three spots, neither team – especially Roma – can afford to slip up, which suggests this encounter between two charismatic offensive sides will be one to watch.
Pescara vs Genoa
Pescara host Genoa at the Adriatico on Sunday afternoon as newly appointed coach, Cristiano Bergodi looks to pick up his first point.
After sacking ex-coach Giovanni Stroppa, the Delfini have lost four straight games, conceding 11 goals. In order to avoid relegation, it is imperative that they start picking up some points, especially against a relegation rival.
As for Genoa, rumors of Luigi Delneri’s exit continue to grow. It is absolutely imperative for Delneri to add some flair to his toothless Grifone side if he is to win back the trust of the club. Anything less than a victory might result in him being unemployed before Christmas.
Given the stakes, this fixture could provide an enthralling and heated contest; and is a true six pointer.
Elsewhere…
Atalanta host Parma on Saturday evening at the Stadio Atleti Azzurri d’Italia with Stefano Colantuono’s side looking to regain their form and reputation.
Chievo travel to Sardinia where they will face Cagliari on Sunday afternoon as the flying donkeys look to build on last week’s four goal thrashing of Genoa.
Sunday afternoon’s clash between Palermo and Juventus at the Renzo Barbera sees the return of Antonio Conte to the sidelines.
Siena host Catania at the Artemio Franchi with Serse Cosmi looking to inspire his team to rise above the relegation zone before the winter break.
Following their derby loss, Torino look to knick some points off an improving AC Milan side at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday afternoon.
Ciro Ferrara’s in form Sampdoria host Francesco Guidolin’s tiring Udinese squad on Monday evening at the Luigi Ferraris.
And, sixteenth placed Bologna host a formidable Lazio side at the Renato Dall’Ara in the final fixture of this week.
Fixtures – Kickoff times in CET
08/12/2012 (Saturday) – Atalanta vs Parma (18:00), Roma vs Fiorentina (20:45)
09/12/2012 (Sunday) – Cagliari vs Chievo (15:00), Palermo vs Juventus (15:00), Pescara vs Genoa (15:00), Siena vs Catania (15:00), Torino vs AC Milan (15:00), Inter vs Napoli (20:45)
10/12/2012 (Monday) – Sampdoria vs Udinese (19:00), Bologna vs Lazio (21:00)
Zamparini: Pirlo is Juventus' only special player
The flamboyant supremo described the playmaker as a "great player" but was less kind about the Italy international's club-mates, whom he accused of lacking in star quality
Napoli's match against Inter will not determine Juve's main rival, says Pandev
The Partenopei attacker believes that his side's clash with the Nerazzurri will not serve as an indicator on who will be the more dangerous team for the Bianconeri in Serie A
Verratti: I am not thinking about Juventus
The young midfielder has been linked with a move to the Bianconeri, but says he is happy to stay at his current club for now
Juventus delighted with Conte's return, says Marotta
The club's general director is thrilled the head coach's suspension has come to an end, and cannot wait to seem him return to the dugout on Sunday
Juventus back in Llorente hunt
The Serie A powerhouse have revived their interest in the Spain international as other targets are proving difficult to acquire
Cassano can do anything with the ball, says Cambiasso
The midfielder has voiced his admiration for the Italy international, while adding that he is happy to play wherever Andrea Stramaccioni needs him
Guidolin: Udinese lost to a great Liverpool team
The Bianconeri trainer admitted he would have liked to finish the group stage with a win but that there was no shame in losing to the English giants who he holds in high regard
Stramaccioni hails Inter starlets
The young boss was delighted with the performance of his youthful looking side but singled out the talent of the night, Marko Livaja, for special praise
Guidolin hails Udinese's 'marvellous' European adventure
The Fruilani are preparing for their last Europa League fixture of the season against Liverpool and the trainer is hoping for a performance of pride and dignity from his players
Bayern not interested in Sneijder, insists Heynckes
The Dutchman was recently linked with a move to the Bundesliga leaders, but their head coach has insisted such a move for the Inter midfielder is out of the question
Inter's Moratti denies interest in signing Lazio's Diakite
The Nerazzurri chief says the club are not interested in the defender and added that he is tired of Lazio president Claudio Lotito’s comments over the transfer speculation
Balotelli agent rules out AC Milan move: He costs as much as the Mona Lisa
The 22-year-old's agent compared his client's value to the work of art, which was last insured in 1962 for today's equivalent of £477 million, adding that City do not want to sell
Bielsa says Llorente will not leave Athletic Bilbao in January
The San Mames boss says the club have dismissed the possibility of letting the forward leave in the winter transfer window, despite his contract running out in the summer
Stramaccioni: I decide if Sneijder plays, no one else
The Nerazzurri coach admits that he is tired of talking about the Netherlands midfielder’s contract dispute but insisted any team selection is solely down to himself
Napoli target Catania forward Barrientos
The Argentine attacker has caught the attention of the Stadio San Paolo side, and could be on the move in the winter transfer window
Juventus make Lewandowski enquiry
The Italian powerhouse have no intention to slow down in their attempts to lure the striker to Turin, and have made an official inquiry for the Poland international
Former referee Byron Moreno released after two years in prison
The official who gained notoriety for decisions in the 2002 World Cup, between South Korea and Italy has been deported from the USA after serving a jail term for drug charges
Manchester City target Jovetic rules out January exit from Fiorentina
The talented Montenegro international has moved to dismiss speculation linking him with a move away from the Serie A club in the near future, but remains open to a future switch
Verratti will not leave Paris Saint-Germain, says agent
The midfielder's representative has refuted speculation that the Italy international could move to Juventus should coach Carlo Ancelotti be sacked by the French outfit
I have spoken to Sneijder about Fenerbahce, says Kuyt
The former Liverpool attacker has told his international colleague that Aykut Kocaman's side feel sorry for him at Inter and could offer him a way out of the Italian club
Alvarez heading for Inter exit
The creative midfielder has been unable to impress with the Nerazzurri and could be on the move in order to get regular playing time elsewhere
Moratti: No offers for Sneijder
The Nerazzurri president has acknowledged that both parties are far away from each other, but has insisted that a winter transfer is not a certainty just yet
'I'm confident that AC Milan will soon be successful' - Alexander Merkel
The Rossoneri have endured a tough start to the 2012-13 campaign, but the 20-year-old believes that they will recover and become a force to be reckoned with once more
The Argentina international has been touted as a possible replacement for the want-away playmaker, but the Nerazzurri boss still hopes the Dutchman will stay put
Dec 5, 2012 10:15:00 AM
By Stefan Coerts
Inter president Massimo Moratti has made it clear that he would rather hold on to Wesley Sneijder than bring in Javier Pastore from Paris Saint-Germain.
The Argentina international has been linked with a move to the Giuseppe Meazza side as Sneijder's future at the club is in doubt, but Moratti has not given up hopes of holding on the gifted midfielder just yet.
"Between Sneijder and Pastore, I'd rather have Sneijder. He's the best there is in my opinion," Moratti told reporters.
"Too much has already been said about this. I have an excellent relationship with the lad and when Wesley returns he'll provide added value."
The 28-year-old Sneijder has not featured for Inter since September 26 due to a an ongoing contract dispute, and the Netherlands international stressed earlier this week that he has no intention of accept inga significant pay cut and sign a new deal.
Serie A wrap: Totti inspires Roma as Atalanta triumph
9 December 2012
A brace from Francesco Totti helped Roma to a thrilling 4-2 victory over Fiorentina in Serie A action on Saturday, while Atalanta also won.
Fiorentina, who welcomed star striker Stevan Jovetic back to their match day squad, made a positive start to proceedings and were unfortunate not to take the lead when Manuel Pasqual forced goalkeeper Mauro Goicoechea into a decent save.
However, the visitors found themselves behind after just seven minutes when Roma defender Leandro Castan turned the ball over the line and into the back of the net.
Totti whipped in a free kick that found Panagiotis Tachtsidis and his headed effort fell short of the goal before Castan got the final touch.
Roma's lead was short-lived, however, as Facundo Roncaglia scored for Fiorentina seven minutes later at the Stadio Olimpico.
The Roman outfit restored their advantage in the space of five minutes as the game showed no signs of easing up.
Mattia Destro played in Totti and the 36-year-old made no mistake in front of goal to make it 2-1 to the hosts.
Both sides had chances to score but it was Roma who extended their lead on the stroke of half-time, with Totti unleashing a curling effort from outside the box.
Fiorentina refused to give up hope and responded within a minute of the second-half restart, Mounir El Hamdaoui heading home from a Borja Valero cross.
American international midfielder Michael Bradley then came close to restoring the hosts' two-goal buffer but his strike was cleared off the line.
However, it mattered little as striker Pablo Osvaldo latched onto Totti pass before firing the ball home from close range to complete the triumph.
The result sees Roma leapfrog Fiorentina into fourth place on goal difference.
Meanwhile, Atalanta ended a three-game losing streak after they defeated Parma 2-1.
The home side hit the front on four minutes through German Denis, before Federico Peluso tucked home a rebound to double Atalanta's lead seven minutes before the break.
Amauri, who is in his third stint with Parma, pulled a goal back seconds before half-time but it proved to be in vein as Atalanta held on for all three points.
Stephan El Shaarawy's hot streak of form continued as AC Milan defeated Torino 4-2 in Sunday's Serie A action.
The 20-year-old attacker has now scored six goals in as many matches for the Italian giants, with his late strike adding polish to his side's come-from-behind victory at the Stadio Olimpico in Turin.
Mario Santana opened the scoring after 28 minutes for Torino but Massimiliano Allegri's men were level at half-time after Brazilian Robinho's effort five minutes before the break.
Antonio Nocerino and Giampaolo Pazzini both netted in the early stages of the second half before El Shaarawy sealed the three points with his 15th goal of the season.
Torino managed a late consolation through Rolando Bianchi but it mattered little as the seventh-placed Milan notched their third league win in a row.
Table-toppers Juventus were made to work hard for their 1-0 victory against a 10-man Palermo outfit.
Juventus coach Antonio Conte returned to the bench following his four-month ban for his part in a betting scandal as Swiss defender Stephan Lichtsteiner scored the only goal of the game on 50 minutes when he converted Mirko Vucinic's assist.
Palermo had defender Michel Morganella sent off for a second yellow card with 15 minutes to play as Juventus made it four wins from their past five matches in all competitions.
Siena remain rooted to the bottom of the table after they slumped to a 3-1 home defeat to Catania.
An early goal from Alessandro Rosina put Siena in front after 10 minutes and it was an advantage they carried into the half-time break.
Argentine Gonzalo Bergessio ran riot in the second half for Catania, though, and it was his assist that set up Lucas Castro's equaliser on 50 minutes.
Bergessio then put his side in front on 67 minutes and there was still time for him to score another as Catania celebrated their first Serie A win on the road this season.
Other results saw Pescara win for the first time in over a month thanks to a 2-0 home success against fellow strugglers Genoa, while Chievo won at Cagliari by the same scoreline.
Meanwhile, Inter Milan moved up to second on the table with a 2-1 victory at home against Napoli.
Goals to Fredy Guarin and Diego Milito gave Inter a 2-0 lead at half-time, but Edinson Cavani struck for Napoli early in the second half to reduce the deficit to one goal.
But Inter held firm in the closing stages to claim the victory and move within four points of Juventus at the top of the table.
Udinese secured back-to-back Serie A victories with a 2-0 success at Sampdoria on Monday, while Lazio were held by Bologna.
The visitors opened the scoring on 17 minutes when Antonio Di Natale's pass found Danilo alone in the box, the Brazilian defender taking full advantage of his free header.
Di Natale then got on the scoresheet himself as Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu's pass was deflected by Gianluca Berardi and into the path of the Italy international, who rounded off the points.
Nicola Pozzi also missed a late penalty for the hosts, as Udinese climb to eighth in the standings.
Sampdoria find themselves in 13th position.
In Monday's other match, Lazio, who left talisman Miroslav Klose on the bench, failed to break down a resilient Bologna, as both sides played out a stalemate at the Dall'Ara.
Vladmir Petkovic's Lazio had the best of the possession in Emilia-Romagna, but Federico Agliardi was not to be beaten between the posts, while Bologna striker Alberto Gilardino was left to rue a succession of chances for the hosts.
German international Klose was eventually brought on, but failed to find a winner.
The match fizzled out in the closing stages but not before Lazio attacker Libor Kozak was sent off following a second bookable offence.
Lazio sit in fourth spot, eight points behind leaders Juventus, while Bologna jump to 15th in the table.
Eriksen: I want to leave Ajax at the right moment
The gifted midfielder is continually being linked with a move away from his current club, but he is not desperate to leave the Amsterdam Arena
Manchester City boss Mancini no longer interested in De Rossi or Sneijder
The 48-year-old manager has poured cold water on speculation linking the Premier League champions with moves in January for the Roma captain and Inter outcast
Inter set sights on signing Lichnovsky, Biglia & Bianchi
The 2010 Champions League winners are desperate to strengthen their squad this winter, and could turn to the South American duo and the former Manchester City striker
Schalke boss dismisses Huntelaar exit rumours
The former Real Madrid striker is continually being linked with a move away from the Veltins Arena, but the Royal Blues are unaware of a potential transfer
Leali targets Buffon's place at Juventus within three years
The Italy Under-19 star is determined to succeed at the Serie A champions in the long term, but has nothing but praise for the current Juve stopper
Zanetti: Inter aim to battle for the Scudetto right until the end
The Argentine defender is hopeful of challenging Juventus for the Serie A title this term, but realises the Giuseppe Meazza outfit are not the only contenders
Agnelli: 2012 only the first step for Juventus
The Bianconeri president believes their Scudetto win last season will be the start of something special for the club and urged his side to focus on the challenges ahead
Nocerino relieved to end AC Milan goal drought
The Rossoneri midfielder has revealed his pleasure at finally getting on the scoresheet, while praising the quality of Sunday's opposition
Inter are not Serie A dark horses, says Moratti
The Nerazzurri owner has dismissed claims that his side are now in the race for the Scudetto and praised the efforts of the team in high profile encounters
Montolivo: Scoring four goals away from home is fun
The Italy international was delighted with the 4-2 victory his side took from their trip to Torino, and has wished Nigel de Jong a speedy recovery from his season-ending injury
Zanetti: Humility is in Inter's DNA
The Nerazzurri captain has warned his team-mates not to get overly optimistic in the Scudetto race, and believes that they still have a long way to go before proving themselves
'I'm the most successful president in footballing history' - Berlusconi
The AC Milan supremo believes that the club have achieved unprecedented and unmatched feats during his time in charge, and hinted at January transfer activity
Chiellini targeting Champions League & Scudetto this season
The Italy international believes that a double for the Bianconeri is a realistic aim this season, having knocked out reigning European champions Chelsea earlier this month
Buffon: I do not want a long Juventus contract
The Bianconeri goalkeeper believes he has just a few years left at the top level, and stressed how much energy is being drained from the players by their European clashes
Defeat to Inter may push Cavani closer to Napoli exit door
The Uruguayan marksman was again the bright spot for the Partenopei at San Siro, but if his side continue to ignore real issues then they could well lose their star man next summer
Allegri hails important AC Milan triumph over Torino
The Rossoneri triumphed 4-2 over Torino - climbing to seventh in the Serie A in the process - with four separate goalscorers on the scoresheet
Conte: Maybe I am a little special, like my extraordinary Juventus players
The Bianconeri boss marked his return to the dugout in Sunday's win over Palermo, and he admits that if the saga had happened last year, he and the club would have parted company
Stramaccioni: If Conte is the 'Special One', then I am the 'Normal One'
The coach gave a jovial response when quizzed on what the Juventus boss said after his return to the touchline, while he explained his decision to play Esteban Cambiasso in defence
De Jong out for the season with ruptured Achilles tendon
The Rossoneri midfielder is expected to miss the next six months after falling to the ground awkwardly midway through the first half of his side's victory in Turin
Cassano better than Cavani, says Ranocchia
The defender is of the opinion that his team-mate, who is set to return from a two-game ban on Sunday, is a more decisive player than the Uruguayan striker
Zeman warns Serie A that 'Roma are coming'
The Giallorossi boss hails his team after the win over Fiorentina, after their recent form sees them surge up the table and emerge as title contenders
Berlusconi: Conte may have been persecuted in match-fixing scandal
The former Italian Premier has backed the Juventus coach as he returns to the touchline following a four-month ban for failing to report match-fixing
Buffon hits back at Juventus critics
The Italian goalkeeper believes other clubs use the Bianconeri to deflect from their own failings after claims of favouritism from match officials
Second meets fourth in Serie A on Saturday when Lazio welcome Inter Milan to Rome's Olympic Stadium.
Andrea Stramaccioni's Inter side have responded well to their 1-0 loss at Parma on November 26, securing their place in the last 32 of the Europa League as well as posting back-to-back league wins against Palermo and, most recently, Napoli.
They enter Saturday's match trailing league leaders Juventus by four points, while Vladimir Petkovic's Lazio are nine points further back in fourth place.
Inter will be looking for some more good form from veteran Argentine striker Diego Milito, who leads the club's league goal-scoring charts with eight.
Lazio enter the match on the back of an eight-match unbeaten streak, although they were held to a 0-0 draw by lowly Bologna in their most recent match, and they will be keen to get back in the winners' circle against Inter.
Also on Saturday, eighth-placed Udinese host struggling Palermo at the Stadio Friuli.
Champions and leaders Juve are in action on Sunday when they welcome Atalanta to Turin.
Antonio Conte is back in the dugout after a four-month touchline ban for withholding information about match-fixing during his time at Siena, and Wednesday's 1-0 Coppa Italia win over Cagliari was the first time he had been on the touchline at Juventus Stadium since the ban ended.
Massimiliano Allegri's faltering AC Milan team will be hoping to improve on their seventh place when they take on Pescara at San Siro, and Napoli will look to bounce back from their loss to Inter with a home game against Bologna.
Other Sunday matches see bottom side Siena visit Fiorentina at the Artemio Franchi, Catania play host to Sampdoria and fifth-placed Roma will look to keep pace with the leaders when they journey to Chievo Verona.
Strugglers Genoa and Torino do battle at the Luigi Ferraris, while Cagliari visit Parma.
Bradley honoured to play with Totti at Roma
The American has settled into life in the Eternal City following his move from Chievo, and he admits working alongside the former Italy forward on a daily basis is a privilege
Robinho's father rules out Santos transfer
The Selecao star's dad insists his son will not go back to the Vila Belmiro next year, as he believes there is no reason for the forward and the Rossoneri to sever their ties
De Jong on the mend following successful operation
The Netherlands international tweeted a photograph of himself in good spirits after he went under the knife to correct a serious leg injury, sustained while playing for his club
Maicon return to Inter is 'absolutely impossible', says defender's agent
The former Nerazzurri defender's representative has dismissed rumours that his client could return to the Italian giants, insisting that his rare appearances are due to injuries
My client would not mind playing in Milan again - Huntelaar's agent
The agent of the Netherlands international has hinted that his player would prefer a move to the Nerazzurri over a transfer to the Premier League
Juventus deserve to be ahead of Inter, insists Stramaccioni
The Nerazzurri boss believes that the Bianconeri are more consistent than his side and calls for better results when his team go up against weaker opposition
Jovetic: I stayed with Fiorentina to challenge for Champions League spot
The Montenegro international revealed that he was given a promise by the club that the Viola will improve their squad and fight for a place in Europe's elite club competition
Inter will never surrender in Scudetto fight, says Juan Jesus
The Brazilian defender is adamant that the Nerazzurri will not go down easily in the race for the title and stressed that he is ready to give all he has to help the cause
Allegri not getting carried away with AC Milan resurgence
The Italian coach is happy with his side's form of late but will not contemplate clawing back into contention for third spot, preferring to focus on the upcoming clash with Pescara
Maldini: Juventus, Inter or Napoli will win Serie A
The Rossoneri legend does not believe his former club are in the race for the league title and has tipped the current top three to maintain their charge for the crown
Juventus hit by Bendtner injury blow
The Denmark international is likely to be out for an extended period of time after tearing his adductor muscle, while Arturo Vidal is set for a swift return to action
Pereira: If Inter win Scudetto I will cut off my ponytail
The Nerazzurri player explains that if they manage to win the Italian championship this season, then he will chop off his hair and is treating every game he plays in like a final
Insigne: Napoli can win Serie A
The Italy Under-21 international believes that his side can take a big leap and win the Scudetto this campaign despite being five points behind the leaders
Adriano: I want to return to Italy
The ex-Inter attacker has admitted that he still dreams of making a comeback to the country which he loves, and which witnessed some of his greatest achievements as a player
Hamsik: I'm not thinking about leaving Napoli
The attacking midfielder says he is keen to stay at the club and respect his current contract, amid rumours that have linked him with a move away from the Serie A side
Inter doing better than expected, admits Moratti
The Nerazzurri boss is pleased with his side's recent run of results, and has hailed Antonio Cassano's influence on the team since his summer move
Roma keen to sign attacker Nani on six-month loan deal
The tricky attacker has attracted the interest of the Giallorossi, but a transfer is still far away as talks between both clubs have yet to take place
Juventus set to pull out of race to sign striker Drogba
The powerful attacker has been regularly linked with a return to Europe, but a move to the Serie A champions seems very unlikely
Allegri: Robinho will not leave in January
The AC Milan coach says the Brazilian will not be allowed to leave in the upcoming transfer window and is hoping his side can go far in the Coppa Italia this season
Conte: I missed the contact with players
The Juve boss has admitted the thing he missed most during his four-month absence was not being able to communicate with his team during games and says fans are essential to him
Sole Udinese fan invited for a drink by opposition fans
The only supporter to turn up and support his club during a Serie A fixture was greeted by the home crowd and given a coffee and a replica shirt for his troubles
Pazzini: AC Milan must keep this up
The powerful attacker has admitted that the San Siro side struggled earlier this season, but is determined to continue their rise back up the table
Pjanic: Roma heading in right direction
The Bosnia-Herzegovina international is delighted with his side's recent form and claims their run of victories has earned the respect of other Serie A clubs
Bojan pleased with AC Milan progress
The former Barcelona forward is feeling very well at San Siro and is determined to keep on proving his worth to head coach Massimiliano Allegri
Conte hopeful Juventus can splash cash again
The 43-year-old realises the Old Lady currently lack the spending power of their European rivals but has every confidence that they can eventually close the gap
Cordoba: Sneijder must follow his instinct
The former Inter favourite is good friends with the midfielder and feels he must think hard before making a decision on his future at the club
Campagnaro hoping to stay at Napoli
The defender has been in talks regarding a new deal at Stadio San Paolo but Inter are interested in the player while Juventus are keeping their cards close to their chest
Miroslav Klose's late winner saw Lazio defeat Inter Milan 1-0 while Udinese and Palermo played out a 1-1 draw in Saturday's Serie A action.
Lazio were second-best throughout the contest but moved to fourth on the table with the victory after Klose's late strike.
A scrappy first half saw little goalmouth action at both ends, with the best chance coming when Cristian Ledesma fired wide after Andrea Ranocchia mishit a clearance.
Inter enjoyed a good spell of pressure around the hour mark, which was sparked by Colombian Fredy Guarin's effort from the edge of the penalty area.
Guarin saw his shot thud off the post and just moments later Argentine Diego Milito hit a half-volley just wide.
A tremendous double save from Lazio goalkeeper Federico Marchetti was then required to keep the scores level.
Marchetti initially tipped Antonio Cassano's drive onto the post before making a quick recovery to smother Yuto Nagatomo's rebound effort from close range.
Lazio finally responded through a pair of Klose chances, although a poor first touch and then a mis-timed run made life tougher for the former Bayern Munich man.
The 34-year-old finally got his goal though, running onto a through ball from Ledesma before slotting his chance into the bottom corner with just eight minutes left.
In the day's other match, a 10-man Udinese claimed a point against Palermo thanks to Antonio Di Natale's late strike.
Slovenian Josip Ilicic opened the scoring after 33 minutes to silence the home fans and when Udinese's Thomas Heurtaux was sent off on the hour mark, Palermo looked comfortable.
But veteran Di Natale rescued a point for Udinese with just one minute remaining as Palermo's winless run was extended to four.
