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Juventus' Andrea Pirlo: We're pleased to top the table, but nothing is won yet
The former AC Milan playmaker has voiced his satisfaction with the Old Lady's results so far, but stressed that trophies are to be won at the end of the season
Esteban Cambiasso admits Inter struggled against Lazio
The Argentine midfielder stated that Sunday's encounter was not an easy one, and added that the Nerazzurri are pleased to prove their critics wrong on the pitch
Japanese in Europe: Hiroshi Ibusuki and Mike Havenaar make their debut while Borussia Dortmund's Shinji Kagawa earns assist
Kagawa's assist and Havenaar's league debut set the tone for Japanese players in Europe this season, but several players are still waiting for reported transfers to fully resolve
Napoli's Walter Mazzarri: You cannot always repeat seasons like 2010-11
The Italian coach says that fans must not feel disappointed if the club do not perform as well as last season but rued the team's recent wastefulness in front of goal
Inter's Claudio Ranieri on Lazio victory: We could not play worse The Italian coach was visibly unhappy with his side's display against the capital club and admitted that the result was the only positive to take from the match
Internacional defender Juan poised to sign for Inter The Brazilian youngster has agreed to join the San Siro outfit but he will most likely spend the second half of the season on loan at another Serie A side
Massimiliano Allegri: AC Milan & Juventus are the favourites for the Serie A title The Rossoneri coach has voiced his opinion that his side and the Bianconeri are the two teams with the best chance of walking away with the Scudetto come the end of the season
Official: Parma sign Roma's Stefano Okaka on loan The young striker will leave the Stadio Olimpico on a temporary basis until the end of the season with the eleventh-placed Stadio Ennio Tardini outfit who have struggled for goals
Stephan Lichtsteiner: Juventus should always play for the Serie A title The Switzerland international has expressed his satisfaction with the win over Atalanta, and feels that the Bianconeri are of a status that demands always targetting the Scudetto
Juventus lead the race to sign Manchester United youngster Paul Pogba - report Italian club are believed to be best placed to sign the young Red Devils midfielder, with his Old Trafford contract set to run out following the end of the current campaign
Atalanta’s Stefano Colantuono admits Juventus deserved 2-0 win: ‘There is too much of a gap between our teams’ The Bergamo outfit's coach is not disappointed in his players for slipping to defeat against the Serie A table-toppers and refuses to blame the loss on refereeing
Inter’s Massimo Moratti: Lazio clash a trickier task than AC Milan The San Siro supremo is keenly aware that his side do not have a stellar history against the Roman side and is hopeful that midfielder Thiago Motta will remain at the club
Roma's Francesco Totti breaks Gunnar Nordahl’s all-time record of 210 league goals with a single Italian club 'Er Pupone' struck twice in the first eight minutes against Cesena to overtake the legendary Swede at the top of the list of one-club marksmen in the Italian top flight
'Everything is possible' - Agent of Inter's Thiago Motta on chances of client joining Paris Saint-Germain
The representative was coy on the prospects of the midfield star swapping northern Italy for the French capital, but claims there is potential for a move to take place
Juventus' Antonio Conte hails 'extraordinary' first half to the Serie A season after win over Atalanta
The Bianconeri trainer has commended his side for becoming winter champions of Serie A, praising their hard working nature and consistency, but now wants them to sustain their form
Juventus' Emanuele Giaccherini: To be crowned as winter champions is a 'great feeling'
The former Cesena forward, who capped off the Old Lady's win over Atalanta with an excellent goal, says he is pleased with the achievement and insists he will only get better
Roma's Luis Enrique hails 'almost perfect' display against Cesena
The Spaniard has showered his team in praise following their convincing victory over the Seahorses, but admitted his team will not be celebrating Francesco Totti's record
Mariano Andujar rejoins Estudiantes from Catania on six month loan
The Argentine keeper is back in his homeland on a short term deal from the Serie A side, who have also sold Pablo Ledesma back to Boca Juniors
Roma's Francesco Totti on breaking Gunnar Nordahl's record against Cesena: 'It's what I've always wanted'
Er Pupone says his goalscoring feat is a dream come true, dedicating his pair of strikes to his sister, who recently gave birth, and the victims of the Costa Concordia tragedy
Napoli interested in Atalanta's Manolo Gabbiadini - report
The southern Italian club are looking to sign the young forward and are reportedly prepared to offer half of Luca Cigarini's rights to secure the transfer
Inter's Lucio: Lucas is more suited to Italian & European football than Neymar
The 33-year-old centre-back wants his current club to bid for the tricky attacker and also spoke of his desire to end his playing days in his native Brazil
AC Milan’s Kevin-Prince Boateng is always injured because we have sex 10 times a week, claims Melissa Satta
The former girlfriend of Christian Vieri claims the reason why her latest squeeze keeps being ruled out of action is due to their regular steamy bedroom antics
Roberto Baronio: Lazio can qualify for the Champions League
The midfielder who spent 14 years at the Rome outfit claims that the side have every chance of reaching Europe's most elite club competition
Diego Maradona: I have a feeling Barcelona's Pep Guardiola wants to coach Inter
The Argentine legend believes that the successful Blaugranas coach would be open to a move to the Nerazzurri if the trainer ever leaves the Catalan giants
The Serie A title race: Defending champions AC Milan are still favourites despite Juventus topping the table
The Scudetto title race is looking destined to be a close one, with just six points separating the top four and the Rossoneri lead the way while Udinese are 25/1 outsiders
Inter's Ivan Cordoba: We never lost confidence
The experienced defender has stressed that the Nerazzurri never stopped believing in themselves, despite their dreadful start to the season in Serie A
AC Milan dominate 2011 Oscar del Calcio awards
The 15th edition of the annual player of the year awards in Milan on Monday saw the champions take most of the plaudits by featuring heavily in the final list of winners
Juventus begin talks with Cagliari for Radja Nainggolan - report
The two club officials have reportedly been spotted at a hotel together, with a deal involving the Belgian and possibly Luca Marrone and Ciro Immobile on the agenda
Groningen director Hans Nijland refuses Roma proposal for Dusan Tadic
The official stated that he would not be able to sanction such a deal on the terms offered by the Giallorossi, while the winger's agent has claimed interest from four other clubs
Tottenham 'are interested in signing on-loan Inter striker Mauro Zarate' from Lazio, claims agent
The Argentine, currently on loan at Inter, is available for £10 million (€12m), with Harry Redknapp keen to secure a loan move for him amid interest from across the continent
'Like David Luiz at his worst, but with the talent to be a great defender' - Introducing Inter's next Brazilian signing Juan
The young starlet looks set to be sent out on loan by the Nerazzurri, but what will he need to learn in his time away?
Juventus' Antonio Conte wary of Roma threat ahead of Coppa Italia quarter-final
The Bianconeri coach expects a difficult match, but is eager to go far in the Italian cup. He added that he is likely to make changes to his regular starting XI
Inter's Massimo Moratti: We were always counting on Diego Milito
The Nerazzurri president has voiced his happiness with the Argentine's return to form, and is hopeful the striker can keep up his good work for the remainder of the season
Mario Balotelli 'may think of leaving England' after Manchester City striker is hit with FA violent conduct charge
The player's representative insists the Italian did not intend to stamp on Scott Parker, and the former Inter man has hit out the Football Association's 'absurd regulations'
Thiago Motta coy on Inter future: Paris is a beautiful city
The Italy international was cryptic about his future and stated that the French capital would be a nice place to live despite suggesting he was 'fine' with the Nerazzurri
Roma's Francesco Totti open to Italy return for Euro 2012: Never say never
The experienced attacker has opened the door to a comeback with the national team after Prandelli suggested that the veteran attacker was an option for Poland and Ukraine
Igli Tare confirms CSKA Moscow's Keisuke Honda is Lazio's principal transfer target
The Russians have reportedly already rejected an offer of €2 million from the Serie A side to take the Japan international on loan with a view to a permanent deal in the summer
Fabio Capello: Antonio Conte deserves the credit for Juventus' revival because the current squad is not as strong as mine
The England boss feels that the former Italy midfielder’s achievement commands respect because the current Bianconeri squad is not as strong as the one he had at his disposal
AC Milan CEO Adriano Galliani admits Zlatan Ibrahimovic could be better than Marco van Basten
The Italian admits that while the former Netherlands striker still has a special place in his heart, he feels that the Swede could ultimately prove a bigger hit with the club
15:41
Giuseppe Giannini believes there is still more to come from Roma's record-breaker Francesco Totti
The former Stadio Olimpico favourite feels 'Er Purpone' still has plenty left to offer and will be motivated to continue playing by the prospect of reaching more landmarks
Juventus' Luca Toni: I would play for Bayern Munich for free
The Italian striker has not featured once for the Bianconeri this season and has been linked with a move away to MLS but his dream would be to return to the Allianz Arena
Wesley Sneijder rules out leaving Inter before close of January transfer window
The Netherlands international has been linked with Manchester United again in recent weeks but the playmaker insists that there is no chance of him leaving San Siro
AC Milan CEO Adriano Galliani: We will sign Maxi Lopez if Carlos Tevez does not arrive at San Siro
The 67-year-old has admitted that they could sign the Argentine striker after all, but only if Manchester City's Carlos Tevez does not move to Italy
Fenerbahce representatives in Italy to discuss loan move for Juventus' Milos Krasic - report
The Istanbul club could face competition from Lazio for the Serb's signature, but the Turin outfit would prefer to offload the 27-year-old to a foreign side
Inter's Javier Zanetti: Only a month ago many were saying we'd be fighting against relegation
The experienced Argentine has stressed that the Nerazzurri never doubted themselves, despite the team being heavily scrutinised by the media for their poor start the the campaign
Juventus' Alessandro Del Piero hails Roma's Francesco Totti
The Bianconeri legend has voiced his admiration for the Giallorossi icon, and is eagerly anticipating Tuesday's Coppa Italia game quarter-final against Luis Enrique's men
Why winter champions Juventus have history on their side in their bid for the Serie A title
Unbeaten and unbowed, the Bianconeri lead the way after 19 rounds, but despite a poor recent post-Christmas record, there is one stat which suggests they are champs in the making
The 15th edition of the annual player of the year awards in Milan on Monday saw the champions take most of the plaudits by featuring heavily in the final list of winners
Jan 24, 2012 11:25:00 AM
By Livio Caferoglu
The recipients of the 2011 Oscar del Calcio awards were announced on Monday, with AC Milan dominating the proceedings.
However, there were also honours for last season's surprise packages Napoli and Udinese, who had the likes of Edinson Cavani and Antonio Di Natale also deservedly noted for their efforts during 2010-11.
The Rossoneri-heavy list starts with Best Coach being awarded to Massimiliano Allegri, for winning the Serie A title in only his first season at San Siro, while ending the club's seven-year wait for another Scudetto success.
Elsewhere, Thiago Silva's claim to be among the best defenders in the world was further underlined after he scooped by Best Defender, while Zlatan Ibrahimovic was arguably the biggest winner, picking up both Best Player and Best Foreigner.
Meanwhile, other Milan players to be credited include Alessandro Nesta, who tied with Inter's Andrea Ranocchia for a centre-back berth in the Team of the Year, and Christian Abbiati, who was voted runner-up to Samir Handanovic for Best Goalkeeper.
The recipients of the awards are as follows:
Oscar del Calcio winners
Best coach: Massimiliano Allegri
Runners-up: Francesco Guidolin and Walter Mazzarri
Best Goalkeeper: Samir Handanovic
Runners-up: Christian Abbiati and Morgan De Sanctis
Best Defender: Thiago Silva
Runners-up: Andrea Barzagli and Mehdi Benatia
Best Foreigner: Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Runners up: Edinson Cavani and Samuel Eto’o
Best Referee: Nicola Rizzoli
Runners up: Paolo Tagliavento and Paolo Valeri
Best Club: Udinese
Most Points: Milan (80)
Highest Goalscorer: Edinson Cavani (28)
Team of the Year: Handanovic; Maggio, Thiago Silva, Nesta (tied with Ranocchia), Armero; Hamsik, Boateng, Motta (tied with Marchisio); Ibrahimovic, Cavani, Di Natale
Inter want me, claims Schalke starlet Julian Draxler
The Serie A side have expressed interest in the young winger, but the player does not yet wish to leave the club where he has played since 2001
CSKA Moscow president Yevgeni Giner confirms Lazio interest in Keisuke Honda
The Roman side's representatives have travelled to Moscow to negotiate a deal for the 25-year-old, although the club's supremo has stated no offer has been accepted yet
Marco Tronchetti Provera: Inter are no longer interested in Manchester City's Carlos Tevez
The Nerazzurri have pulled out of the race to sign the wantaway Argentine only one day after Paris Saint-Germain ended their pursuit of the striker
Juventus' Alessandro Del Piero delighted with first goal of the season
The illustrious attacker has expressed his happiness with his first strike of the 2011-12 campaign, and was pleased with the Old Lady's victory over Luis Enrique's men
Roma's Luis Enrique after 3-0 Coppa Italia defeat: We were not inferior to Juventus
The Spanish coach lamented the mistakes which resulted in the Bianconeri's goals but stressed that his side did not deserve such a heavy defeat
Catania's Maxi Lopez will sign for AC Milan, says agent
The Argentine striker's representative says that his client will join the Serie A champions despite Manchester City's Carlos Tevez being their primary transfer target
'As things stand AC Milan isn't an option for Carlos Tevez' - Manchester City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak
The Etihad Stadium chief has labelled the Italian side's confidence in completing a deal as "misplaced" as the clubs are yet to agree terms on any potential January transfer
Sevilla's Martin Caceres poised to sign for Juventus - report
The Uruguayan defender is allegedly close to a return to the Bianconeri despite establishing himself as a key member of the Liga outfit since his arrival
Lazio's Djibril Cisse frustrated by lack of goals and game time but vows to battle on
The French forward has been forced to play second fiddle to Miroslav Klose since arriving in the Italian capital but is adamant that he will continue to fight for his place
Fiorentina confirm signing of Amauri from Juventus
The forward was frozen out of the Bianconeri squad following the arrival of new coach Antonio Conte last summer and has finally secured a move away from Turin
Official: QPR clinch loan signing of AC Milan full-back Taye Taiwo
The Nigerian international will make the switch to Loftus Road until the end of the season, and becomes Mark Hughes’ first signing since taking charge of the London club
Agent reveals Cesena could take Vaclav Pilar on loan for remainder of the season
Wolfsburg have bought the winger and agreed to allow him to remain on loan at Viktoria Plzen but he could yet end up in Serie A before the close of the transfer window
Thiago Motta's agent confirms Paris Saint-Germain offer for Inter ace but denies having spoken to Ligue 1 leaders
The player's representative has hinted that the midfielder would be open to a move to the French capital and slammed the Nerazzurri for failing to offer the player a new contract
Napoli's Paolo Cannavaro admits Champions League progress has affected domestic form
While the defender admits that they have struggled to compete on two fronts this season, he still believes that the Partenopei can finish third in Serie A
Official: Lille sign Mauro Cetto on six-month loan
The Argentine defender left Toulouse to move to Sicily last summer but is now on his way back to France to link up with the reigning Ligue 1 champions
Sevilla confirm Martin Caceres will join Juventus
The Primera Division club have announced that the defender is in Turin and will sign on the dotted line for the Bianconeri after undergoing a medical with the Italian outfit
Better positioning, more aggression & increased concentration - Why Juventus are getting a better Martin Caceres than two seasons ago
The Uruguayan has started to show he could become the player many hoped he would be during his spell at Sevilla, and it all bodes well for the Old Lady as he gets set to return
'I've never heard of him' - Spartak Moscow coach Valeri Karpin denies pursuit of AC Milan's Marco Amelia
The Russian club's trainer has shot down speculation linking his side with a move for the Rossoneri No.2 by audaciously claiming he is not aware of the keeper's credentials
Juventus to include Ciro Immobile in deal for Cagliari's Radja Nainggolan - report
The Bianconeri are keen to lure the Belgium international to Turin, and are willing to include the promising striker in any potential transfer for the midfield man
Roma to announce signing of Fluminense's Marquinho - report
The midfielder has landed in the Italian capital and will now pen a six-month loan deal with the Giallorossi, while a bid is reportedly being prepared for Chelsea's Bosingwa
Lazio keen on Juventus' Milos Krasic - report
The Serbia international has been struggling to get regular first-team action this term, and Lazio are hopeful of luring him to the Italian capital this month
'We try to leave our souls on the pitch' - Napoli's Edinson Cavani targets silverware after 2-0 Coppa Italia victory over Inter
The 24-year-old striker says that his side are determined to win a trophy this season, but was coy when asked about their chances in the Coppa Italia semi final
Adriano Galliani: AC Milan will decide between Manchester City's Carlos Tevez and Catania's Maxi Lopez on Friday
The Rossoneri chief was enigmatic about the club's plan to reinforce the squad and admitted that either striker, or even both, could join the Milanese side at the end of the week
Inter coach Claudio Ranieri rages at referee after Napoli defeat
The Nerazzurri boss felt that his side should have been awarded a spot-kick for an apparent foul on Diego Milito by Christian Maggio before the Partenopei's second goal
Agent of Olympique Lyonnais' Aly Cissokho to meet with Juventus on Friday
The Frenchman's representative says that the proposed move to Newcastle has fallen through, while adding that the Bianconeri are an interested party
Djamel Mesbah set to make AC Milan debut against Lazio
The Algeria international, who arrived at San Siro from Lecce earlier this month, is likely to feature against the Biancocelesti, according to Rossoneri coach Massimiliano Allegri
Juventus set to seal deal for Sevilla defender Martin Caceres - report
The Old Lady have agreed to pay €1.5 million to take the Uruguay international on loan for the remainder of the season before purchasing the player outright for €8m in the summer
Juventus want to hold on to Luca Marrone - agent
The 21-year-old midfielder spent last season on loan to Siena but, after impressing of late, the Bianconeri are reluctant to let him leave again during the current transfer window
Leonardo Bonucci to stay at Juventus despite Martin Caceres' imminent arrival from Sevilla
The return of the Uruguayan defender, who enjoyed a loan spell in Turin in 2009-10, will mean greater competition for places at the back for the Bianconeri
Inter rule out Mourinho return Jose Mourinho will not be returning to Inter Milan any time soon, according to the club's managing director Ernesto Paolillo.
The Portuguese tactician led Inter to a Serie A, Champions League and Coppa Italia treble before leaving in 2010 to join Real Madrid. Inter board member Marco Tronchetti Provera on Thursday opened the door for Mourinho's possible return. However, Paolillo said to Italian radio station CRC: "Ranieri is proving to be the coach that we thought he was, that is a great coach.
"Hence, Ranieri will remain at Inter until he wants to. "Mourinho to Inter? Absolutely not. "This period and this chapter says Ranieri, so it's useless to talk about things that don't make sense. "Ranieri knows how to do his job very well and that is why we want to keep him."
Ranieri replaced sacked Giampiero Gasperini in October and has put Inter back on track following their poor start to the campaign. The Nerazzurri have won their last seven league games to climb to fourth in Serie A, six points behind league leaders Juventus. Ranieri and Inter did, however, suffer a reverse in midweek after losing 2-0 at Napoli to crash out of the Coppa Italia.
"We now need to focus on doing well in Serie A and in the Champions League," Paolillo said. "We want to go as far as possible in the European competition. "To reach the Champions League semi-finals would be a great achievement."
Inter, who face Marseille in the last 16 of the Champions League, visit Lecce on Sunday.
Agent reveals Carlos Tevez will remain at Manchester City until the summer
The former Manchester United striker has been heavily with a move to Paris Saint-Germain, but Kia Joorabchian has said the Argentinian is unlikely the leave in January
Maxi Lopez still in limbo as AC Milan wait for Manchester City to reply to Carlos Tevez deadline
The Italian champions have a deal in place to sign the Catania striker but they are still awaiting a response from Eastlands over their bid for another Argentine forward
Juventus confirm Sevilla's Martin Caceres undergoing medical
The Uruguayan defender is on the verge of joining the Bianconeri after they have announced on their official website that he will undergo physical tests on Friday
AC Milan's Stephan El Shaarawy targets Juventus scalp in Coppa Italia semi-final
The young attacker was very pleased with his side's win over the Rome club on Thursday, and is eagerly anticipating the last four game versus Antonio Conte's side
Marcelo Estigarribia: Wearing the Juventus shirt is a great honour
The Paraguayan winger is very happy with the way things are going since his move to Turin, and is delighted to play for an illustrious club like the Old Lady
Inter´s Cristian Chivu dismisses AC Milan rumours
The Romanian defender has stressed that there is no truth in the reports linking him with the Rossoneri, and added that contract talks will his current club will begin shortly
Keisuke Honda: Serie A no longer the best in the world, but still the hardest league for an attacker to succeed in
The CSKA attacker expressed his thoughts on Italy's top flight and his impending transfer to Lazio, said to be in the final stages of negotiations
Lanus' Guido Pizarro poised to sign for Fiorentina - report
The Argentine youngster appears set to join the Florence-based club after becoming an integral part of the Argentine Primera Division side
Paris Saint-Germain's Leonardo: We are waiting for Inter's green light before we can sign Thiago Motta
The Italy international has already agreed to join Ligue 1 side, but the French club are yet to reach an agreement with the midfielder's owners about a transfer
Napoli's Walter Mazzarri to miss Champions League clashes against Chelsea after receiving two-match ban
The Italian coach will not be allowed in the dugout for the upcoming matches against the Blues, but the Serie A side are hopeful they will win the appeal
Agent reveals Udinese and Genoa tracking Valenciennes midfielder Carlos Sanchez
According to the player's representative, the Serie A duo are both keen on signing the Colombia international on a free transfer at the end of the season
Keisuke Honda: Serie A no longer the best in the world, but still the hardest league for an attacker to succeed in
The CSKA attacker expressed his thoughts on Italy's top flight and his impending transfer to Lazio, said to be in the final stages of negotiations
Jan 27, 2012 5:30:00 AM
By Dan Orlowitz
As the clock winds down on the winter transfer window, CSKA Moscow attacker Keisuke Honda revealed his thoughts for the first time on a potential move to Serie A club Lazio.
The Japan international made the comments on Thursday in Barcelona, as he rehabbed his surgically-repaired right knee.
"It's true that I'm positive about a move to Lazio," Honda told Japan's Nikkan Sports. "The clubs are in the final stage of negotiations.
"But I haven't made a formal agreement with the club yet, and in today's football world anything can happen up to the last hour of the transfer window."
The flashy 25-year-old, who has recently been linked to esteemed clubs such as Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain, also explained the appeal of defence-heavy Italian football.
"It's no longer possible to say that Serie A is the best league in the world," he admitted frankly. "And compared to previous years the quality has definitely gone down.
"But it's still the hardest league in the world to succeed in as an attacker, with such stiff defending. As a challenge it appeals to me, personally."
The most recent reports from Italian media indicate that in addition to a steep transfer fee, Lazio is prepared to send Argentine goalkeeper Juan Pablo Carrizo to Moscow in exchange for the star.
Juventus moved four points clear at the top of Serie A after a 2-1 win over Udinese on Saturday.
The much-anticipated match at the Juventus Arena pitted Antonio Conte's league leaders against the third-placed Udinese.
And the match lived up to the expectations as Juve extended their unbeaten record in Serie A to an incredible 21 matches.
Alessandro Matri gave Juventus the lead just before half-time after he converted Fabio Quagliarella's assist but Udinese hit back 11 minutes after the break.
Antonio Floro Flores was the man who scored the leveller, with Francesco Guidolin's decision to bring the Italian off the bench proving a masterstroke.
But parity lasted just six minutes before Matri got his second and that was enough to give the hosts a well-deserved victory.
Also on Saturday, Parma came from behind to claim a 1-1 draw at Catania.
Gonzalo Bergessio scored the opener on 34 minutes but Francesco Modesto equalised 10 minutes later for the visitors.
Juventus' Antonio Conte: We didn't keep the ball well against Udinese
The Bianconeri boss was frustrated at his side's failure to retain possession against the Zebrette, but praised the in-form Emanuele Giaccherini for impressing once more
Andrea Barzagli urges Juventus to avoid complacency following Udinese win
The stopper is of the opinion that, despite an important victory over their league rivals on Saturday, the Old Lady have not achieved anything yet of note and must remain focussed
'I will see out my contract' - Diego Forlan pledges future to Inter
The Uruguayan forward spoke of his desire to see out his two-year deal, before reflecting on his relationship with Claudio Ranieri, recent injury problems and the Olympic Games
Giuseppe Marotta confirms Juventus are trying to sign Cagliari's Radja Nainggolan
The transfer guru has admitted to talks with Massimo Cellino over a possible deal to bring in the Belgian starlet, while also revealing Luca Toni is closing in on a move to Al Nasr
Massimiliano Allegri: Maxi Lopez can do very well at AC Milan
The former Cagliari boss comes up against his former side at the weekend and has spoken of his delight in signing the Argentine, who was called up for Sunday's encounter
Inter coach Claudio Ranieri: We have fallen but we will get back up
The 60-year-old believes his side can get back to winning ways when they lock horns with Lecce on Sunday after their eight-game winning run came to a halt during the week
Cagliari unwilling to sell Radja Nainggolan to Juventus until replacement is found - report
The Serie A giants are looking to complete a deal for the Belgium international but must wait for the Sardinians to find a new a player to take his place in the squad
Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu in awe of 'role model' Carlo Ancelotti
The Italian coach has taken charge at the Parc de Princes and his countryman is hoping that the veteran can replicate his impressive track record of success in the French capital
Agent: Milos Krasic wants to leave Juventus for a 'big club', not Lazio
The Serbia international has been on the fringes in Turin this term but his representative has stated that he would not consider a move to the Stadio Olimpico and prefers England
Ajax striker Mounir El Hamdaoui to undergo medical at Fiorentina - report
The Morocco international has been a bit-part figure in the Amsterdam set-up this term, and the Florence outfit are ready to bring him to the Stadio Artemio Franchi
Rubin Kazan's Salvatore Bocchetti admits he could seek Napoli move: 'It would be a dream'
The Italy international has admitted that he is happy with the Russian Premier League side but would like to return to the city of his birth to join Walter Mazzarri's men
Out-of-favour Juventus striker Luca Toni discussing UAE switch - report
The former Bayern Munich man could link up with ex-Italy goalkeeper Walter Zenga in Dubai after spending the 2011-12 campaign on the sidelines in Turin
Maxi Lopez delighted with AC Milan move: I want to return the fans' affection
The Argentine striker is over the moon with the transfer to San Siro and has vowed to repay the club's faith with hard work after joining on loan from Catania
Napoli's Walter Gargano: I wanted to give Inter's Wesley Sneijder a couple of slaps
The Uruguayan midfielder said he was furious at the Dutchman's action and admitted he wanted to slap the Nerazzurri star for the challenge, which did not earn him a booking
Agent of Porto's Fredy Guarin working on Inter transfer
The Colombian international's agent is confident that a deal with the Nerazzurri is possible and said it would be a great opportunity for the player to shine
AC Milan's Adriano Galliani admits defeat in race for Manchester City's Carlos Tevez
The San Siro outfit have seemingly pulled out of negotiations for the unsettled striker despite being close to an understanding with City regarding the transfer
Official: AC Milan complete signing of Maxi Lopez from Catania
The Argentine forward has joined the Rossoneri, a development which appears to confirm that the Italian champions have finally given up on signing Carlos Tevez
Leonardo: Thiago Motta wants to join Paris Saint-Germain but Inter won't let him leave
The Italy international midfielder is out of contract in June 2013 and reportedly has his heart set on a move to the French capital, according the the former AC Milan boss
Official: Juventus sign Martin Caceres from Sevilla on loan
The Uruguayan, who enjoyed a previous stint with the Bianconeri during the 2009-10 season, is returning to Turin on a temporary basis but with a view to a permanent switch
Napoli's Walter Gargano: I wanted to give Inter's Wesley Sneijder a couple of slaps The Uruguayan midfielder said he was furious at the Dutchman's action and admitted he wanted to slap the Nerazzurri star for the challenge, which did not earn him a booking
Jan 27, 2012 11:31:00 PM
By Luis Mira
Napoli midfielder Walter Gargano has lambasted Inter's Wesley Sneijder for the latter's reckless tackle in Wednesday's fixture between the two clubs.
Sneijder seemingly went studs-first on to Gargano's shin on the half-hour mark of Napoli's 2-0 Coppa Italia victory, an action which referee Domenico Celi failed to see.
"It was very wrong of him," Gargano told Sport 890. "I do not know if I could call it cowardice, but he could certainly have broken my leg with that challenge.
"At the time of the foul I was furious and I do not know how I managed to control myself.
"Instinctively, I would have given him a couple of slaps, but luckily I managed to remain calm. I could not hurt my team by being sent off.
"Sneijder knew what he had done, in fact he never got close to me again during the match. He knew he risked being slapped."
Napoli, who defeated the Nerazzurri thanks to an Edinson Cavani brace, will play Siena in the Coppa Italia semi-finals.
Adult film star offers job to Juventus keeper Gianluigi Buffon after wife's sex comments The Italy No.1 has been asked to enter the adult film business by a well-known porn star after the shot stopper's wife praised her husband's skills in the bedroom
Jan 28, 2012 6:15:00 PM
By Luke Matthews
Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has received a rather unusual job offer when he decides to hang up his gloves - a career in the porn industry.
The 34-year-old's wife, Alena, told Italian women's magazine Verrisimo that her husband was "better in bed than Rocco Siffredi", a famous porn star.
Siffredi has responded to the comments in an interview with Tuttosport and is keen for the Italy No.1 to showcase his talents in the bedroom.
"He [Buffon] may be even better than me in bed, but I want to see him in front of the camera. Buffon is still a kid compared to me. I will make a suggestion: when he stops playing, he should come work for me. I need real men," Siffredi said.
The comments come a week after Kevin-Prince Boateng's girlfriend, Melissa Satta, claimed the reason for the player's recent injury woes was because of the couple's active sex life.
Buffon is yet to comment on the offer as he focuses on helping Juve's Scudetto bid.
Juventus' Antonio Conte: AC Milan are super-favourites for Serie A title
The former Siena boss asserted that Massimiliano Allegri's men are most likely to retain the Scudetto, and defended his decision to rest players
AC Milan's Adriano Galliani invites Manchester City to contact him over Carlos Tevez
The club CEO told the Premier League leaders that he'll be working until the close of the transfer window, but they will need to lower their asking price
Mounir El Hamdaoui: Ajax are delaying my transfer to Fiorentina
The Morocco international has stressed that he has agreed personal terms with the Serie A side, and feels his current club are frustrating his move
Napoli's Walter Mazzarri: We don't model ourselves on Barcelona
The successful coach has stressed that the Partenopei are not trying to imitate any team, and added that he sees himself as an innovator
AC Milan ponder final bid for Manchester City's Carlos Tevez - report
Milan owner Silvio Berlusconi used his habitual Monday lunch with the family to discuss a move for the Argentine as deadline day closes
Inter duo Philippe Coutinho & McDonald Mariga set for exits to Espanyol & Parma
The Kenyan spent five months at Real Sociedad and could be on his way to his old club, while the Brazilian youngster will join the Catalan side in search of first team football
Lazio awaiting response from CSKA Moscow on bid for Keisuke Honda
The Biancocelesti are keen to strengthen their attack and have apparently offered €12 million for the Japanese ace but their Russian rivals are said to be holding out for €15m
Official: Luca Toni leaves Juventus for United Arab Emirates outfit Al Nasr
The former Italy international only arrived in Turin last January but did not feature once for the Bianconeri following the arrival of Antonio Conte as coach last summer
Inter to sign Fredy Guarin from Porto - report
The Colombia international was also linked with Juventus in recent weeks but he now appears set to join the Nerazzurri on loan with a permanent deal in the summer likely
AC Milan value Zlatan Ibrahimovic at €150 million - agent
The Sweden international's representative, Mino Raiola, has claimed that his client is virtually untouchable as far as Rossoneri president Silvio Berlusconi is concerned
After another flop display against Lecce, there is no space left at Inter for Wesley Sneijder
The Netherlands international had to be withdrawn midway through Sunday's defeat, prompting the question as to whether the Dutchman still has a role with the Nerazzurri
Juventus' Giorgio Chiellini wary of threat posed by Parma's Sebastian Giovinco
The Italy international believes that the Bianconeri will have to pay special attention to the Gialloblu's influential playmaker, who only left Turin last year
Cagliari president Massimo Cellino insists Radja Nainggolan will not be joining Juventus
The Rossoblu supremo has explained that the big difference with the case of Alessandro Matri, who left for the Bianconeri last January, is that the Belgian does not want to leave
Inter's Coutinho to join Espanyol on loan - report
The teenage Brazilian midfielder has seen little game time at San Siro in recent months and he is now set to spend the second half of the season in Catalunya
Juventus general manager Beppe Marotta: Al Nasr will unveil new signing Luca Toni on Monday
The 2006 Fifa World Cup winner has been in discussions with the UAE Pro-League about a move to Dubai and the switch appears set to be confirmed
Inter's change their May Asian tour itinerary to include Indonesia
The Italian giants will make this tour as part of their efforts to expand into the Asian market, especially in Indonesia after releasing Indonesian language on their official site
AC Milan CEO Adriano Galliani hints club could yet dip back into transfer market
The Rossoneri signed Maxi Lopez on Friday night, seemingly bringing an end to their pursuit of Carlos Tevez, but the Italian champions still appear to be open for business
AC Milan's Alexander Merkel ruled out for two months
The Rossoneri had only just signed the German on loan from Genoa to provide cover in midfield following injuries to Gennaro Gattuso and Alberto Aquilani
AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri insists he does not regret letting Andrea Pirlo leave last summer
The Rossoneri have been rocked by a number of injuries in midfield but the former Cagliari boss is adamant that the club were right to let the Italy playmaker go
Inter coach Claudio Ranieri insists Thiago Motta will stay at San Siro until at least the summer
The Brazilian-born Italy international has been heavily linked with a move to Paris Saint-Germain but the Nerazzurri boss is confident that the midfielder is going nowhere
Inter's Wesley Sneijder intends to speak with coach Claudio Ranieri over half-time substitution against Lecce
The Dutch playmaker was hauled off at the break during the defeat at the Via del Mare, with coach Claudio Ranieri admitting afterwards he is not sure what to do with the player
Juventus' Alessandro Matri: We showed great character to beat Udinese
The attacker netted a brace to help his side to the full three points, and was very satisfied with the team's performance
Claudio Ranieri wants Paris Saint-Germain target Thiago Motta to stay at Inter
The 60-year-old coach is keen to hold on to the Brazilian-born Italy international who, according to his agent, has given the green light to a move to the French capital club
Zenit St Petersburg in talks with Juventus over Milos Krasic - report
The Russian side are reportedly ready to offer an escape route to the Serbian winger, who has struggled to make a name for himself at the high-flying Serie A outfit
Porto's Fernando Belluschi agrees loan move to Genoa, claims agent
The 28-year-old allegedly has his heart set on a new start after two-and-a-half years at the Estadio do Dragao and could join the Serie A side on a permanent basis in the summer
Still to replace Paolo Maldini - AC Milan's fruitless search for a top-class left-back goes on
It has been abundantly clear for nearly a decade now that the Rossoneri needed to find a worthy successor to the legendary Italian defender - and yet they are still looking
AC Milan to make one last push for Manchester City's Carlos Tevez - report
The Rossoneri will allegedly still try to sign the unsettled striker before the transfer market closes but they are said to be unwilling to meet the Premier League side's demands
Keisuke Honda to join Lazio in €14 million transfer from CSKA Moscow - report
The 2011 Asian Cup's most valuable player is to join the Serie A giants, after reported interest from the likes of Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus fell through
Japanese in Europe: Shinji Kagawa shines with double while Tadanari Lee makes his English debut The former Cerezo man continued his excellent form for Dortmund, while Tadanari Lee found little to take away from his first match as a Southampton player
Jan 30, 2012 3:15:00 AM
By Gyo Araiwa & Dan Orlowitz
Dortmund’s Shinji Kagawa set alight the Signal-Iduna-Park with a man-of-the-match performance in the 3-1 win over an uninspired 1899 Hoffenheim on Saturday.
After creating a couple of chances early on it was the 22-year-old Japanese who slotted home the opener after skipper Sebastian Kehl won the ball and passed it to him in minute 16.
Kagawa played a crucial role in the team’s second on the half-hour as his play led to Jakub Blaszczykowski’s cross for Kevin Grosskreutz’s goal.
In the second half Kagawa bagged the champions’ third goal after a back-heel assist by Grosskreutz. The first brace since September 2010 when his double against local rivals Schalke earned him a place in Dortmund’s folklore puts his goal tally to six.
At the lower end of the table, FC Augsburg drew 2-2 against Kaiserslautern. Hajime Hosogai, who once again played the full match for the Southerners, had a hand in his side’s opener when he cleverly created a gap in the wall clearing the path for Marcel de Jong’s goal from a free kick.
STAR OF THE WEEKEND
Shinji Kagawa
Kagawa had two goals and contributed greatly to a third; he's the clear choice for Japan's best player this weekend.
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In the 65th minute the 25-year-old defensive midfielder recorded his first assist since his arrival in Germany when he put the ball through for the 2-2 equalizer by Stephan Hain who entered the pitch just seconds earlier. Hosogai also impressed with his accurate passing and his aggressiveness, repeatedly forcing his opponents to errors or resorting to fouls.
In England, Tadanari Lee made his debut for Southampton as they drew 1-1 with Millwall in an FA Cup fourth-round clash. The former Sanfrecce Hiroshima striker came on just after the hour, but failed to find many chances as Millwall mounted a stirring second-half comeback and eventually earned a replay with a late goal.
In Holland, Mike Havenaar opened his account with new squad Vitesse when he headed in Renato Ibarra's cross in the 84th minute. The strike was merely a consolation, however, as his team fell 3-1 to PSV.
In Brief...
Makoto Hasebe (Wolfsburg): Had a solid game in the Wolves’ defensive midfield but gave away the foul which led to his third yellow card of the season as well as to Bayern’s opener in the 2-0 defeat. Takashi Usami (Bayern Munich): Japan’s prodigy once again found himself outside the squad when his team defeated VfL Wolfsburg 2-0 at home. Atsuto Uchida (Schalke): Started but didn’t contribute to the Knappen’s 4-1 away win over FC Koln, as he was replaced in half time after a below par performance, also picking up a yellow card. Kisho Yano (Freiburg): Is surplus to requirements at the Bundesliga’s bottom side which lost 3-1 away to Mainz. Shinji Okazaki (Stuttgart): Came on after the break but wasn’t able to create danger in the 3-0 home loss against Borussia Monchengladbach. Gotoku Sakai (Stuttgart): The Swabians’ new signing watched from the stands as his team lost 3-0 against fourth-placed surprise package. Yuki Otsu (Borussia Monchengladbach): Did not feature in the matchday squad for the Foals’ 3-0 away win over Stuttgart. Yuto Nagatomo (Inter): Played a respectable 90 minutes but was not a major factor as Inter's eight-game winning streak stopped with a 1-0 loss at Lecce. Takayuki Morimoto (Novara): Left off roster in 2-0 loss at Palermo. Maya Yoshida (VVV): Put in a strenuous 90-minute effort but could not help his team in a 4-0 loss to RSK. Robert Cullen (VVV): Watched his team's 4-0 loss from the bench. Yoshiaki Takagi (Utrecht): In just his second full appearance of the season, started at left wing and ended the match as a shadow striker. Showed assertiveness but unable to score in 2-0 loss at Heerenveen. Michihiro Yasuda (Vitesse): Watched his team's 3-1 loss to PSV from the bench. Hiroshi Ibusuki (Sevilla): Scored for Sevilla Atletico in a third-division match against Real Betis B. Akihiro Ienaga (Mallorca): Not included in lineup; transfer rumors continue. Eiji Kawashima (Lierse): Earned the plaudits after keeping a clean-sheet in a 2-0 win away to Westerlo to keep the team's recent fine form.
Still to replace Paolo Maldini - AC Milan's fruitless search for a top-class left-back goes on It has been abundantly clear for nearly a decade now that the Rossoneri needed to find a worthy successor to the legendary Italian defender - and yet they are still looking
Jan 29, 2012 9:00:00 AM
By Mark Doyle
When Paolo Maldini retired from the game in the summer of 2009, the club which he had served for all 24 years of his majestic playing career, AC Milan, paid the defender the ultimate tribute by retiring the No. 3 jersey which he had worn with such distinction. It was just as well, really, because, three years on from his retirement, the Rossoneri have yet to find a single player worthy of wearing Maldini’s shirt.
It is not as if Milan have not been trying, either. Indeed, the search for a successor began long before the former Italy international hung up his boots. Replacing a living legend is no mean feat but, as one can see from below, Milan’s attempts to do so have been, for the most part, haphazard at best, with Lecce's Djamel Mesbah just the latest attempted solution ...
SEASON 2005-06
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MAREK JANKULOVSKI
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MILAN STATS
Years of Service
6
League Appearances
117
Goals
4
TRANSFER FILE
Arrived From
Udinese
Fee
€8.5m
Departed For
Banik Ostrava
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When the Czech arrived, Maldini was still club captain and Milan’s first-choice left-back but, at 35, it was becoming evident that he was no longer able to get up and down the flank like he once did.
Versatile, dynamic and blessed with a wonderful left foot, Jankulovski, an €8.5 million signing from Udinese, seemed like the ideal replacement, a modern full-back for the modern era. He took time to settle but his gradual adaption to his new surroundings ultimately enabled Milan to redeploy the ageing Maldini in the centre of defence.
However, while Jankulovski enjoyed a couple of productive seasons at San Siro, he never really nailed down a regular berth - either at full-back, wing-back or on the left-hand side of midfield - during his six years with the club.
KAKHA KALADZE
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MILAN STATS
Years of Service
10
League Appearances
194
Goals
12
TRANSFER FILE
Arrived From
Dynamo Kiev
Fee
€16m
Departed For
Genoa
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Kaladze, of course, had already been at Milan for four years at this stage but, despite impressing during his first few seasons as a centre-half, he was never considered the ideal foil at the heart of the Rossoneri defence for Alessandro Nesta.
Indeed, by 2005, he had developed into something of a utility player and was often used to fill in for Maldini at left-back. Maldini’s eventual conversion into a centre-half meant even more game time for Kaladze on the left-hand side of the back four but, being slow and cumbersome, he never looked at home there. No tears were shed when he left for Genoa in 2010.
SERGINHO
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MILAN STATS
Years of Service
9
League Appearances
185
Goals
18
TRANSFER FILE
Arrived From
Sao Paulo
Fee
Undisclosed
Departed For
Retired
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A destitute man’s Roberto Carlos, Serginho had his moments in a Milan jersey but there was always the view that the Brazilian was not skilful enough to play as a winger and not disciplined enough to play at full-back. Consequently, after a couple of exciting seasons following his arrival in 1999, he became relegated to the role of impact substitute.
Going into the 2005-06 season he was 34, just a year younger than Maldini, and, with both his pace and his stamina having already diminished considerably, he was most certainly not considered a viable solution to Milan’s need for a reliable left-back.
SEASON 2006-07
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LUCA ANTONELLI
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MILAN STATS
Years of Service
3(2 out on loan)
League Appearances
1
Goals
0
TRANSFER FILE
Arrived From
Primavera
Fee
€0
Departed For
Genoa
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Snatched away from Monza as a youngster, Antonelli had spent just a couple of years in Milan’s youth team when he was handed his senior debut as a 19-year-old in a Coppa Italia clash with Brescia in November 2006. He made his Serie A bow the following month, against Udinese, and hopes began to grow that Milan had unearthed Maldini’s heir from within.
Antonelli, though, would never play another league game for the Rossoneri, which was bizarre, really, given that he impressed sufficiently on a loan spell with Bari the following season to eventually secure a permanent move to Parma. Did Milan discard ‘the new Maldini’? No, of course not. But one wonders how Antonelli, who is now at Genoa, would have developed if he had been afforded more time and patience at San Siro.
GIUSEPPE FAVALLI
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MILAN STATS
Years of Service
4
League Appearances
72
Goals
2
TRANSFER FILE
Arrived from
Inter
Fee
€0
Departed for
Retired
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Signed on a free transfer from city rivals Inter, Favalli, 34 at the time, was not exactly the future. He was, however, a potential stop-gap solution for the present. Indeed, the Rossoneri certainly had nothing to lose by offering a home to an experienced and versatile defender who had been a tremendous servant of Lazio’s.
However, despite endearing himself to the fans with goals in successive games during the 2006-07 campaign, against Messina and Empoli, ‘Favallino’, as he was christened by the Rossoneri faithful, was never really anything more a steady performer at full-back and a useful squad player.
MATTEO DARMIAN
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MILAN STATS
Years of Service
4(1 out on loan)
League Appearances
4
Goals
0
TRANSFER FILE
Arrived from
Primavera
Fee
€0
Departed For
Palermo
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Darmian, a defender who could play anywhere across the back four, made his Milan debut in a Coppa Italia clash with Brescia in November 2006 at the age of just 16. The parallels with Maldini were already obvious. The youth-team player would have to wait until the end of the season to make his first appearance in Serie A, as a substitute in a home defeat by Udinese, but it seemed that Milan had a real prospect on their hands.
But Darmian would not surface in Serie A again until the 2008-09 campaign – and, even then, only as a substitute – and, after spending the following season on loan to Padova, he joined Palermo in a co-ownership deal in 2010. Currently on loan at Torino, it now looks a long way back to San Siro for the now-22-year-old Darmian.
LEANDRO GRIMI
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MILAN STATS
Years of Service
1.5 (1 out on loan)
League Appearances
3
Goals
0
TRANSFER FILE
Arrived From
Racing Club
Fee
€2m
Departed For
Sporting CP
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Milan signed Grimi during the January transfer window, paying Racing Club €2m for the services of an Argentine left-back with an Italian passport. His first outing for the Rossoneri came in the Coppa Italia, against Arezzo, and he made his first appearance in Serie A in April when he came on for the final 10 minutes of the 5-2 win over Ascoli. Grimi featured twice more before the season’s end before being loaned to Siena for the first six months of the following campaign.
He failed to shine at the Artemio Franchi, though, and was sold to Sporting CP in January 2008 after it had become abundantly clear that he was not cut out for Serie A. It became evident that he wasn’t much cut out for the Primeira Liga, either, and he is now on loan at Genk.
SEASON 2007-08
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DIGAO
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MILAN STATS
Years of Service
7(5 out on loan)
Goals
1
Assists
0
TRANSFER FILE
Arrived From
Sampdoria
Fee
Undisclosed
Departed For
Free Agent
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Kaka is still fondly remembered by the Rossoneri faithful; his younger brother is not. After spending a season on loan at San Siro from Sampdoria, Digao was signed on a permanent deal in 2005 but he was immediately famed out to Rimini. The hope was that he would develop at the coastal club over the next two seasons; he did not.
After being recalled in the summer of 2007, Digao made his debut for the club in the Coppa Italia clash with Catania at the tail end of December. His first - and only - appearance in Serie A came later in the season against Lazio when he was brought on at during the interval for the injured Jankulovski. Given he never looked like much of a centre-half, there was little chance of him excelling in an unfamiliar position - and he did not. Digao never played for Milan again and eventually rescinded the final year of his (six-year!) contract with the club in 2010. Shockingly, he is now without a club.
SEASON 2008-09
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GIANLUCA ZAMBROTTA
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MILAN STATS
Years of Service
4(still at club)
Appearances
80
Goals
2
TRANSFER FILE
Arrived From
Barcelona
Fee
€10.5m
Departed For
-
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Having failed to settle in Barcelona after deserting a sinking ship at Juventus in 2006, Zambrotta returned to Italy in time for the start of the 2008-09 campaign after Milan agreed to pay the Catalans €10.5m for the versatile defender. With the Rossoneri still looking for a reliable left-back, the Italy international looked a perfect fit. However, while Zambrotta was a regular during his first season back in Serie A, he has become increasingly marginalised, partly because of injuries but also because of inconsistent form.
He remains Milan’s most accomplished left-back, but then that is not saying much. Indeed, while his versatility has often been a major plus for Milan, it is hard not to conclude that the Rossoneri bought a player whose best days were already behind him. His current tally of 80 appearances in just under four seasons does not represent a good return on €10.5m.
LUCA ANTONINI
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MILAN STATS
Years of Service
7 (still at club)
League Appearances
64
Goals
1
TRANSFER FILE
Arrived From
Empoli
Interested clubs
€2.9m
Departed For
-
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Antonini began his career at Milan but spent the guts of eight years moving from club to club, usually on loan, before returning to San Siro via Empoli in 2008. Obviously, his arrival coincided with that of Zambrotta and it was inevitable that he would have to play second fiddle to the World Cup winner for a while.
However, if Antonini had excelled, the versatile Zambrotta could have been switched to the right flank. As it was, Ignazio Ibate made the right-back position his own with the kind of consistency and intelligent positional play that were so conspicuous by their absence in Antonini’s performances. Antonini is still at Milan, of course, but it is telling that he was recently linked with a move during the current transfer window.
SEASON 2009-10
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ANDREA DE VITO
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SEASON STATS
Years of Service
3 (1 on loan)
League Appearances
1
Goals
0
TRANSFER FILE
Arrived From
Primavera
Fee
€0
Departed For
-
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A product of the club’s youth system, De Vito was still a member of the Milan primavera when the season began, but he was given his first-team debut by then-coach Leonardo in a 2-1 victory over Novara in the last 16 of the Coppa Italia. His Serie A bow followed in April when he was thrown on for Jankulovksi for the last 10 minutes of a disappointing 3-1 defeat in Palermo.
Leonardo then departed, which proved a disastrous development for De Vito. Indeed, he did not feature once under new boss Massimiliano Allegri during last season's title-winning campaign and the 20-year-old full-back is now out on loan at Cittadella. A spell in Serie B might do him the world of good but it remains to be seen if he has a future at Milan under Allegri.
SEASON 2010-11
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URBY EMANUELSON
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SEASON STATS
Years of Service
1 (still at club)
League Appearances
32
Goals
1
TRANSFER FILE
Arrived From
Ajax
Fee
€1.7m
Departed For
-
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When Milan acquired Emanuelson from Ajax during last year’s January transfer window for a reported fee of €1.7m, it was hoped that he would provide some much-needed pace and dynamism down the left-hand side. To be brutally honest, he has provided neither.
In his defence, his versatility has proven something of a hindrance to his attempts to establish himself at Milan because he has never really been afforded a decent run of games at full-back or on the wing. What is bizarre, though, is that, having shown little promise in either position, he has recently been tried out in the trequartista role. The Dutchman still has time to prove himself at San Siro but it now seems highly unlikely that it will be as a left-back.
DIDAC VILA
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SEASON STATS
Years of Service
1 (0.5 out on loan)
League Appearances
1
Goals
0
TRANSFER FILE
Arrived From
Espanyol
Fee
Undisclosed
Departed For
Espanyol (on loan)
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Vila had played just 24 times for Espanyol when Milan decided to pay a reported €4m to bring the then 21-year-old to San Siro during the 2010 January transfer window. A regular in the Spanish Under-21 squad, Vila was considered one of his country’s most promising young defenders.
However, less than 12 months after his arrival in Italy, he was already on his way back to Espanyol on loan, with Milan having decided after just one appearance in Serie A, against Udinese on the final day of the season, that he was not yet ready for Italian football.
The chances are that his move will become permanent but, in light of his performances in La Liga this season, Milan would be well advised to avoid letting a young full-back of real potential move on without having really given him a proper crack of the whip.
SEASON 2011-12
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TAYE TAIWO
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SEASON STATS
Years of Service
0.5
League Appearances
4
Goals
0
TRANSFER FILE
Arrived From
Marseille
Fee
€0
Departed For
QPR (on loan)
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It is remarkable to think that last summer two of European football’s genuine heavyweights, Real Madrid and Milan, were battling out for Taiwo’s services ... Now, he’s at QPR. The Nigerian defender made his name in France with Marseille as a hard-running left-back with a powerful strike and was considered one of the most attractive frees on offer during the last transfer window. Indeed, the Rossoneri were pretty pleased with themselves when they announced his signing last May.
Now, though, it looks like a gross error of judgement. Indeed, after making his Serie A debut against Cesena at the tail end of September, the 24-year-old defender featured only three more times in the league as Milan boss Allegri quickly realised that the search for a successor to Maldini’s throne must go on. Over to you, Djamel Mesbah ...
Roma's David Pizarro to join Manchester City on loan - report The Eastlands club are believed to be in talks with the Serie A side over a potential move for the midfielder, who has made only a handful of appearances for the capital club
Official: Juventus sign Simone Padoin from Atalanta The Bianconeri have added the midfielder to their squad with immediate effect in the closing stages of the winter transfer window
Official: AC Milan sign Chelsea's Philipp Prosenik The Austrian youngster has decided to say farewell to Stamford Bridge, and will continue his career with the Rossoneri after three seasons at the Premier League club
AC Milan to make last-minute move for Sampdoria's Angelo Palombo - report The Rossoneri are allegedly keen to add another midfielder to their squad, and have earmarked the Italy international as the perfect signing
Official: Juventus sell Ciro Immobile to Genoa The promising attacker had been in fine form at Pescara, but was recalled from his loan spell before being sold to the Grifone, with the Old Lady retaining half of the player
Agent: Radja Nainggolan's move to Juventus depends on Cagliari president The midfielder's representative has stressed that it is up Massimo Cellino whether his proposed move to the Turin giants will go ahead before the January transfer deadline
Novara's Japan international Takayuki Morimoto on the verge of Chievo loan switch The Japanese striker has reportedly arrived in Verona already where he's undergone a medical and is all set to pen a loan switch with the Flying Donkeys
Vincenzo Iaquinta set to leave Juventus for Cesena - report The towering striker is believed to have snubbed advances from Novara in order to seal a move to the Sea Horses on the final day of the Serie A transfer window
Novara appoint Emiliano Mondonico as coach after sacking Attilio Tesser The Serie A strugglers, on a four-game losing streak, have decided on a change and installed the ex-Fiorentina trainer, who had been out of work since June after battling cancer
Porto's Fredy Guarin delighted to confirm loan move to Inter
The Colombian midfielder is set to spend the second half of the season at San Siro after finding playing opportunities limited at the Portuguese champions this season
Lazio's Edy Reja: Miroslav Klose is better than AC Milan's Zlatan Ibrahimovic
The 66-year-old coach believes that the German striker gives more to the team than the spectacular Swede, while praising the Rossoneri's quality ahead of Wednesday's Serie A match
Porto's Fernando Belluschi confirms Genoa move: I am happy to be here
The former Olympiakos midfielder has agreed to join the Serie A club on a temporary basis with an option to buy after two-and-a-half years at the Estadio do Dragao
Official: Catania sign Juventus' Marco Motta on loan
The 25-year-old defender has said farewell to the Bianconeri on a temporary basis and will be looking to find himself some regular playing time again at Sicilia
Official: Inter sign Juan from Internacional
The Serie A giants had long been linked with the Brazilian defender, and have now completed the centre-back's transfer
Official: Roma sign Fluminense's Marquinho on loan
The Giallorossi have completed the transfer of the midfielder on a temporary basis until the end of the season, after two successful years in Rio de Janeiro
Lazio's Edy Reja: Miroslav Klose is better than AC Milan's Zlatan Ibrahimovic The 66-year-old coach believes that the German striker gives more to the team than the spectacular Swede, while praising the Rossoneri's quality ahead of Wednesday's Serie A match
Jan 30, 2012 9:06:00 PM
By Luis Mira
Lazio coach Edy Reja thinks that Miroslav Klose is a better all-round attacker than AC Milan'sZlatan Ibrahimovic.
The Germany international has been in impressive form for Lazio since joining the club in the summer, netting 11 goals in Serie A to date.
Ibrahimovic, meanwhile, is Milan's main attacking reference, with 15 to his name in the league so far, but Reja believes that the former Bayern Munich striker has more to offer the team as a whole.
"Ibra is more spectacular, he searches for opportunities to shoot," he told Lazio Style Radio.
"Klose brings a lot more to the team, he works for the team. He is a smart player, a true squad man."
Looking ahead to Lazio's home match against Milan on Wednesday, Reja praised Massimiliano Allegri's side.
"We are still growing, but in any case Milan are a great team, both technically and physically," he concluded.
The Rome outfit are seven points behind Massimiliano Allegri's men going into the game, which kicks off at 20.45CET.
Jan 31 (Reuters) - Parma's Serie A match at home to leaders Juventus was postponed less than an hour before kickoff on Tuesday because of heavy snow in northern Italy.
The match was the day's only scheduled top-flight encounter with the rest of the programme taking place on Wednesday and Thursday.
Juve lead the standings by a point from champions AC Milan, who can go top with a win at Lazio on Wednesday.
(Editing by Mark Meadows and Sonia Oxley; To query or comment on this story email [email protected])
Lecce's Massimiliano Benassi a giant amongst men in Inter upset
It seemed like a foregone conclusion. Inter had been on fire, winning their previous seven Serie A matches. Lecce found themselves at the other end of the table, but managed to exact revenge for their 4-1 trouncing at San Siro earlier in the season with a surprise 1-0 win over Claudio Ranieri's men. Serse Cosmi will have Massimiliano Benassi to thank, with the 30-year-old keeping Inter's all-star cast at bay for 90 minutes.
Gian Piero Gasperini: Inter tried to sell Thiago Motta last summer
The 54-year-old coach, who was sacked by the Nerazzurri back in September, believes that his old club have just lost a player of the highest quality
Racing Club ponder bid for Lucas Pratto
The physical striker has failed to make an impact in his first six months with Genoa and directors of La Academia affirm that the Serie A club have offered them a loan switch
More Serie A matches fall victim to extreme weather conditions
After Juventus' trip to Parma was called off yesterday, two more matches in Italy's top flight have been postponed on Wednesday evening due to the poor weather
Juventus' Antonio Conte: Postponed match against Parma should have been played at 3pm
The coach of the Turin giants feels that the game could have gone ahead as planned if it had been moved to the afternoon, despite adverse weather conditions
New Juventus signing Simone Padoin desperate for silverware
The midfielder left Atalanta for the Bianconeri on deadline day of the transfer window, and is eager to win his first major trophy at the Turin giants this season
Harry Redknapp reveals Tottenham 'didn't have the money' to seal permanent deal for Juventus' Milos Krasic
Spurs had hoped to land the Serbian winger on loan from the Serie A outfit, but the 27-year-old was against making a short term switch to White Hart Lane
Inter's Claudio Ranieri: We are aiming for a Champions League spot
The Nerazzurri coach has admitted that winning the Scudetto could prove to be impossible, and stressed that reaching European club football's elite competition is the team's goal
Novara striker Takayuki Morimoto's proposed move to Chievo Verona falls through after failing his medical
The Japan international had been in Verona to make the switch to the Flying Donkeys but a recurring knee problem has thwarted any possible deal
Official: Manchester City sign Roma midfielder David Pizarro on loan until end of season
Chilean signs for the Eastlands club initially on a temporary deal and will link up once again with Roberto Mancini, his manager for a year while he played at Inter
Official: Zaragoza sign Pablo Alvarez from Catania on loan in six-month deal
The Serie A side see both sides of loan agreements as Alvarez heads to La Liga while 'keeper Juan Carrizo arrives to the Rossazzurri from Lazio.
El Hamdaoui's proposed Fiorentina move collapses because of financial disagreement
The Dutch champions were unable to attain a bank guarantee from their Italian counterparts, causing the Morocco international's move to collapse.
Official: Juventus sign Ajax's wonderkind Ouasim Bouy
The Serie A leaders have secured the services of young Dutch midfielder, whose contract with the Amsterdam club expired at the end of the current campaign.
Official: Levante secure Abdel Kader Ghezzal on loan
The Bari striker, who has been capped 27 times by Algeria, had been on a year-long loan to Cesena but he has now moved to La Liga until the end of the season
Official: AC Milan sign Lucas Roggia on loan from Internacional
The 21-year-old faced the Italian champions in a pre-season friendly, and will now spend the rest of the campaign with Massimiliano Allegri's side
Paris Saint-Germain sign Thiago Motta from Inter
Nerazzurri coach Claudio Ranieri claimed after Sunday's defeat at Lecce that he had been assured that the player would not be sold - but his move to France has now been confirmed
Official: Inter swoop for Angelo Palombo from Sampdoria
The midfielder, who has been capped 22 times by Italy, had been linked with a move to AC Milan earlier on deadline day but has instead joined their city rivals
Official: QPR complete signing of Lazio's Djibril Cisse on two-and-a-half-year deal
The former Liverpool and Sunderland forward has become Mark Hughes' fourth signing since taking over following the arrivals of Taye Taiwo, Nedum Onuoha and Samba Diakite
Official: Inter complete signing of Fredy Guarin from Porto
While the club has yet to announce the deal, the midfielder's registration as a Nerazzurri player has already been confirmed by Lega Calcio, the Italian football league
AC Milan's Massimiliano Allegri: There is no hope of signing Carlos Tevez
Club CEO Adriano Galliani left the door ever so slightly ajar with comments made after Sunday's win over Cagliari but the Rossoneri boss insists that the deal is dead
Official: Inter's Sulley Muntari joins AC Milan on loan
The Ghanaian only made four Serie A appearances for the Nerazzurri this term but he will provide valuable cover for the Rossoneri, who have been hit by a midfield injury crisis
Official: Fiorentina sign Copenhagen starlet Kenneth Zohore
The ambitious Serie A outfit have secured the services of the Danish wonderkid for an undisclosed fee
Official: Udinese sign Juventus' Michele Pazienza on loan; Vincenzo Iaquinta joins Cesena
The Turin giants have farmed the dynamic midfielder and towering attacker out on loan until the end of the season as Antonio Conte also welcomes a new arrival to the club
