(Video) Juventus - Catania 1-2

20 Players Called-Up For Match Against Catania

At the end of the training session on the eve of the match, Ciro Ferrara announced the list of players called-up for the match on Sunday afternoon against Catania, the last championship match before the Christmas break. Amongst the midfielders, besides the injured Camoranesi, Christian Poulsen is also missing due to suspension, but Felipe Melo is back after having suffered a one day suspension against Bari. In all 20 players have been called up.

Below is the complete list:

2. Caceres
4. Felipe Melo
5. Cannavaro
6. Grosso
7. Salihamidzic
8. Marchisio
10. Del Piero
11. Amauri
12. Chimenti
13. Manninger
17. Trezeguet
19. Molinaro
20. Giovinco
21. Grygera
23. Ariaudo
28. Diego
29. De Ceglie
30. Tiago
33. Legrottaglie
39. Marrone

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Ferrara: "I Do Not Look At The Table"

"Buffon’s operation was in the pipeline, Camoranesi suffered an injury due to a strong blow, Zebina has a slight problem and Poulsen is suspended... In any case we are ready and we hope that the break can bring us back some players even though for certain players more time is necessary. I hope to have Chiellini back when we return. Iaquinta? I don’t know if he will be back immediately after the break".

During the last press conference of the year by Ciro Ferrara, the coach began by speaking of the various players who are at the moment unavailable due to various reasons. Amongst these is obviously Gigi Buffon who underwent an operation to the meniscus a few days ago:

"I think that speaking of the value of Gigi, on and off the field is superfluous. We knew about the situation but I have absolute faith in Alex Manninger who managed well in this sort of situation even last year. I ahd already spoken to him a while ago. He is a very serious professional and knows that he has before him the best goalkeeper in the world and there is therefore a hierarchy. Having said this I complimented him for the professionalism he has always shown in the training sessions and I am sure that he will do well even this year".

Many of the absences are in midfield and in this sense the adaptability of De Ceglie who can be wither a fullback or a wing could prove useful: "De Ceglie has the capability of playing in both roles, but we have only four available players in midfield and he therefore could be more useful in that position, even though I also called-up Marrone. Brazzo? The situation is good and he has no more pain". Many other topics were touched on by the coach, from the current moment of the team to the next match against Catania.

Catania: last in the table
"I am not interested in the table position of the opponents, because the points in question are the same and we must be determined, knowing that we have only what to lose from this match. Who looks at the table would think that the difference is so great that there will be no problems, but having been a player myself I am not tranquil even in these matches".

"The defect of Juventus, which it had also in the past, is of having suffered setbacks against less quoted teams, but we know that to strive for the top spots we must win these matches, even if you do so with difficulty. They are teams that can work for a whole week on one match, in contrast to the bigger ones. This must not be a sort of justification because the strength of the big teams is having a large squad made up of high-level players. Certainly, the daily work on the field helps".

From Bayern to Bari
"All defeats hurt, but there are defeats and defeats. The one against Bari is totally different from the one suffered a few days earlier against Bayern. Apart from the mistakes committed I saw another spirit: the want and determination to win. The result condemned us and it is hard to explain why to whom did not watch the match. I am used to criticise and analyze the match without taking note of the result. I think it is right for the coach to do so".

The closeness of the proprietors and the management
"It was of a great pleasure to me to see the presence of the proprietors, the return to Vinovo by Andrea Agnelli together with John Elkann, the visit by the President and the speech addressed to the team. This unity of intent is important and not only in sports. In a difficult moment one must try to reason out and the proprietors and the club proved great compactness. The return of Bettega? This is something that does not concern me. Bettega was one of my directors for many years, but I cannot speak of something which exclusively regards the management".

Inter is not far
"Which means it is not all a disaster when it comes to the championship. Clearly, the elimination from the Champions League hurts, but we cannot say that we are not doing our duty in the championship. We made mistakes but we are not the only ones. We are still there and we are forced to make less mistakes in comparison to the teams ahead of us. We have had problems and we made mistakes but I do not want to search for alibis".

"We deserve the points we have and we deserved to be eliminated from the Champions League. We could have done better in Europe and that is what we miss the most. The team understood the moment. Sometimes the words and statements are harder and sometimes one must give hope to his team. I am convinced of having a string squad that must be motivated everyday, sometimes even by a certain amount of ear-pulling".

The importance of the senators
"It is difficult to compare to the past and with certain players who wrote important pages in the history of this club. In the squad there are players who grew up with this spirit and manage to transmit it even to the new ones and from this point of view I think I have a good group. Obviously, from the veterans, due to their long track record, I expect more in this sense and that they make the others understand how difficult it is to wear the Juventus jersey".

One never stops learning
"Everyday I have the possibility of learning new things, especially when it comes to group management and relationship with the team. When it comes to the press, I have already had quite a learning curve even though in different roles, whether this is good or less".

Ajax and the Europa League
"Ajax remind Juventus of a great past, but nothing more. The story now is different and the motivations must be independent from the name of the team faced. In the championship we lost points against less quoted teams and this must lead us to reflect. There is still ample time for the Europa League and I don’t think it is the right time to speak of Ajax. It is an important appointment to face in the right manner. I will not snob anything".

The rumours about Hiddink
"I got worried when I saw the change in climate, seeing that this weather is similar to the Russian one…I am not worried and I am happy with position taken by the management. I am working with serenity and determination".

The new signings
"Like others they are being targeted by critics and it is understandable that expectations fall on who is new to Juventus, but they must work in tranquillity. They are players of great value and they must contribute to the success of the team without feeling more responsible then others".

Juventus player of the year
"I would say Marchisio for what he could represent in the future of this club, because he went through all the ranks from pulcini and because he will become the player who in a few years time could take the team into his ahnds. In this sense he also represents a hope for the future".

The duel with Mihajlovic
"I have a good relationship with Sinisa, even though we are opponents. One of my very few red card was against him, during the Coppa Italia against Roma. He made me angry and I pulled his hair. I hope it doesn’t happen again tomorrow…".

Juventus.com

19-12-09 Juventus News

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Penultimate Session In Vinovo. Ferrara Press Conference On Saturday.

Juventus continues to work in view of the last match of the year, apart from the friendly match against Al Itthad. On Sunday the bianconeri will be hosting Catania who are in search of points to get out of the bottom spot of the table and give the first taste of satisfaction to new coach Sinisa Mihailovic.

In order to continue the preparation, the bianconeri worked this morning, a cold morning with a subzero temperature. Notwithstanding this, Ciro Ferrara worked extensively on tactics and on ball circulation before the usual mini-match. Players who worked separately were Chiellini, Iaquinta and Poulsen who together with Buffon, Camoranesi e and Sissoko will be missing the match against the Sicilians.

Before the match and the Christmas festivities, there is only one session left, the one to be held tomorrow. This will be followed by a press conference by the Juventus coach at 12:30hrs which will be aired live on Juventus Channel.

Juventus.com

Discovering Ajax

Juventus will be meeting Ajax again after 5 years: during the 2004/05 season the bianconeri and the lancieri met during the elimination stage of the Champions League and in the two matches, Juventus who at the time were coached by Fabio Capello, won by 1-0.

In all the two teams met 10 times, with 5 victories for the bainconeri, 3 draws and 2 defeats, one of which in the final of the 1973 Champions Cup in Belgrade. That time the match ended on a 1-0 score for Ajax, but Juventus made up for this 23 years later in the historical match in Rome which saw them taking the cup to Turin.

The other defeat suffered by the bianconeri was in the UEFA Cup, during the 1975/75 season. In the two match of the final 16 round, Ajax won 2-1 in the return match after the 1-0 victory by Juventus in Turin and therefore the bianconeri went through.

At the moment, Ajax are third in the Dutch championship with 38 points, 9 points behind leaders Twente and 7 from second-placed PSV. The young team with good technical qualities, is currently coached by Martin Jol and has Uruguay national Suarez as its star player. The coach already met Juventus two summers ago, during the Emirates Cup as coach of Hamburg. On that occasion the German side won 3-0.

Juventus.com

Secco: "We Accept These Draws With Serenity"

In Switzerland, in Nyon, Juventus is being represented by Alessio Secco at the draws of the Europa League. The sports director received the news of the match against Ajax with these words on Juventus Channel:

"Seeing the list of all the possible rivals, it was difficult to try and identify better or worse teams. There were some of great tradition and others who did well in the last two or three years. We were drawn against Ajax and we accept this double-clash with serenity. With the right motivation and by fielding our qualities, Juventus can make it. Let us hope that even the happy memory of the 1996 Champions League victory in Rome , may serve as help".

"Traditionally, Ajax launches many players and has ample resources. We know the value of this team and the fact that we will be playing against them will increase our knowledge. In any case, we will be facing the Europa League with the same determination shown in the Champions League".

Juventus.com

Juventus Denies Rumours Of Interest In Hiddink

Juventus has categorically denied rumours of news from England with regards to a presumed interest in Guus Hiddink. The club never considered any coach since there is maximum faith in Ciro Ferrara who is at the centre of the sports project.

Juventus.com

18-12-09 Juventus News

Preview Juventus - Catania
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Juventus Can Overcome This Bad Period - Hasan Salihamidzic
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Andrea Agnelli 'We Need To Achieve The Target. Me President? Who Knows...'
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Giovinco Staying At Juve
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Juve Made Hiddink ‘Approach’
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Buffon: "I Put My Trust In Manninger"

Amongst the bianconeri who have already bid farewell to 2009 is Gigi Buffon. The number one is fresh from the operation to the meniscus which he underwent on Sunday and will be back in January.

In the meantime he did not waste any time and immediately began physiotherapy at the Juventus Center and will act as spectator on Sunday during the home match against Catania, a amtch which will see Manninger taking his place. By means of his website www.gianluigibuffon.com , Gigi put his faith in his team mate.

"I am sorry I cannot contribute to the team, especially since the clandar presents a number of matches which I was really looking forward to, especially the one in Parma and the one after against Milan".

"As from Sunday against Catania I will be supporting my team mates from outside the field, knowing that the Juventus goal is in good hands. In all his career and in the many matches played last season, Manninger showed his an excellent goalkeeper and he will confirm this again this time. I am sure".

Juventus.com

Marchisio: "We Must Come Back"

As from today Claudio Marchisio is the new testimonial for the Crescere Insieme al Sant’Anna project. During the press conference of the presentation of the Conad initiative in favour of the project, Claudio visited the antinatal ward:

"I was deeply touched by this visit – he said -, during which I saw the little premature babies. I am happy to be able to contribute with my image to this fund raising".

Marchisio then spoke of football, starting from the visit to the training field by John Elkann and Andrea Agnelli:

"It was a good sign, that made us once agian feel the closeness of the proprietors". Now the team has to do just one thing: "Win against Catania to start-off in the new year in the best of manners. Besides, I am still convinced – continued Marchisio – of what I said at the start of the season , that is compared to last year we have improved and have been strengthened".

With regards to this, the journalists asked if it is actually the new signings that did not deliver as mush as was expected from them:

"I think that they encountered the same difficulties faced by others – answered Marchisio – me included. These are things that happen. I am sorry about the elimination from the Champions League, which we compromised right from the away match against Bordeaux leading to the disappointment of the match against Bayern, but I am also sorry for the 6 points disadvantage from the top of the table which could have been less if we hadn’t wasted points".

Now it is the trun of Catania: "A match to win and an opponent which must not be underestimated – stated Marchisio-. Even though they are last in the table, it is a team that never give up right to the very end and it will surely not do so against us. Their absentees? They count very little, because those who will be on the field and who up to now played less will have a great want to show the coach their value and will give everything".

Juventus.com

John And Andrea Visit Vinovo

This morning, before the training session, John Elkann and Andrea Agnelli visited Vinovo and met with Ciro Ferrara and the technical staff and after with the team in the gym at the Training Center.

"It was the right moment to express our best wished to the team and the technical staff – declared John Elkann – and to insist on the commitment to reach ambitious goals. It was important to be here together with Andrea, to show the absolute unity and cohesion on behalf of all in confirming our support to the team and the management".

"I am very happy to have met the coach and the team today with my cousin John. In this moment – added Andrea Agnelli - it is particularly important to show our attachment to the team and the full alignment with the complex project that the management is carrying forward".

The words pronounced by John Elkann and Andrea Agnelli are important and transmitted to the team their passion while reminding of the necessity to continue working hard to reach ambitious goals.

At the end of the meeting with the team, team manager Daniele Boaglio accompanied John and Andrea on a visit to the new area dedicated to the Youth Sector which starting from January will host the teams that up to now did not train at the Juventus Center. This is an ulterior confirmation of the efforts of the management to sustain the growth of tomorrow’s champions.

Juventus.com

More Tests For Camoranesi, The Hematoma Is Healing

Five days after the injury suffered in Bari, Mauro German Camoranesi today underwent more tests. The Italo-Argentine was visited by Professor Quaglia at the Training Center in Vinovo and underwent an ultrasound scan which confirmed the favorable evolution of the intra-muscular hematoma which is progressively healing.

The player is feeling better, is walking without crutches and is continuing his medication and physiotherapy. The prognosis is still that of 2 months and the Juventus medical staff is optimistic about the recovery period.

In the meantime the team continued with its preparation in view of the championship match against Catania. The bianconeri trained this morning in Vinovo, taking part in a mini-match after the usual athletic and technical exercises.

Juventus.com

17-12-09 Juventus News

Claudio Marchisio: Juventus Must Beat Catania
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At Work In View Of The Last Match Of The Year

Second day of work for the team who continue to prepare for the next match. The match on Sunday afternoon against Catania will not only be the 17th match day of the first round but also the last official match for 2009.

The team once again had a morning training session which also saw the participation of Amauri, after he was yesterday allowed to rest due to a sore throat. Buffon and Camoranesi underwent physiotherapy while the other injured players (Chiellini, Sissoko and Iaquinta) trained separately. Poulsen will also be out of the match due to suspension.

The training programme foresees another three morning sessions before the match on Sunday at 15:00hrs at the Olimpico.

Juventus.com

Poulsen And Mascara To Miss The Last Match Of 2009 Due To Suspension

2009 is already over for Poulsen and Mascara. The Juventus midfielder and the Sicilian striker were suspended for one match each by the sport authorities and will not be on the field during Juventus-Catania.

The Dane reached a total of four yellow cards and after having misses the match against Catania (the team against which he scored his only Serie A goal since his arrival in Turin), will be out of the warning list.

The list of players who have reached their yellow card limit, now also includes Cannavaro, who was also shown a yellow card on Saturday at the San Nicola. Together with the defender are Grygera, Legrottaglie, Sissoko and Camoranesi. Tiago, who was also shown the yellow card against Bari, is on his second.

Juventus.com

16-12-09 Juventus News

Mohamed Sissoko: I Am Not Going Anywhere
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Chiellini: "We Are More United Then Ever"

Being out and forced to watch your team mates is hard for everyone, and even harder for who on the field is used to fighting hard and giving the maximum. This is what Giorgio Chiellini is feeling at the moment, due to the forced stop at the crucial moment of the season, for an injury suffered on the eve of the match against Bayern which forced him to bid an early farewell to 2009.

Giorgio would like to be with his team mates, more the ever at this moment which needs everybody to help the team emerge from an unfavourable situation. The defender said this clearly, this afternoon, just after the presentation of the Idolo Cup, a charity match on Monday 20th December at the Stadio Olimpico in Turin, which will see European players against African players.

Chiellini will be forced to miss even this match which he was particularly looking forward to and for which he himself called-up the many champions that will be on the field. Champions like Nedved and Sissoko, who were also present at the press conference, but also like Zidane, Drogba, Peruzzi, Legrottaglie, Giovinco and many others.

"I am sorry I cannot be part of it. I was the first to say yes. It will be a beautiful moment of sport which will see the participation of many champions and I am counting on the presence of a lot of children. It will be a sign we will be giving for our fight against racism and to help African children and the research against SLA".

On Monday he will be on the touchline, just like on Sunday for Juventus-Catania. His appointment with the field has been postponed to the new year, but Giorgio in the meantime encourages his team mates:

"The lesion is ok and today I started training separately. It is not something serious but the time for recovery is not so short. It hurts to be out for me being a generous player not being able let out my want to fight hard the suffering is double. What I think of the team? Against Bayern I think the great psychological stress against Inter left its toll. Against Bari, the match immediately started off badly due to the initial goal, but my mates gave their soul and I saw the right character reaction. At this moment everything seem to go wrong but on Saturday we saw the light at the end of the tunnel".

As always, in moments which are not particularly happy, unity is the secret weapon to emerge and with regards to this Chiellini is ready to bet his boots: :

"When things go wrong, everybody tries to give a reason and this is why I heard people speak of a divided team, but our team has never been united as much as it is today. Management, coach, technical staff and players are all united to overcome the situation. Ferrara is angry just like we are and all the team is on his side".

Forced to miss the last match of the season, Chiellini is already trying to think of 2010 and proposes the recipe to follow:

"There are six more months until the end of the season and many more goals to reach. We must not look far ahead but it is better if we think of one training session after another so as to improve".

Juventus.com

Sissoko: "I Want A Great 2010"

The year is about to come to an end and for Momo Sissoko this is certainly not a bad thing. 2009 was not one of the luckiest for the Mali midfielder, who was forced to stop for many a month due to the fracture to his leg suffered in march and a series of minor injuries, the last of which on the eve of the match against Bayern.

Out of the match on Sunday against Catania and even of the charity match on Monday night at the Olimpico, for which he took part in a presentation press conference this afternoon, Sissoko is already thinking of the new year.

"I want a great 2010 both for Juve and for me. I hope to be able to play many matches and not to have injuries. It is hard to be out and not able to help your team mates. If my absence was determinant? I don’t think so because in a team each and everyone makes a difference, not only me".

Next January, Momo will be celebrating his second year at Juventus. Two years in which he often made a difference. He adapted very quickly and as from the first few matches was well integrated with the team and with Italian football. To whom is now criticizing some of his team mates like Diego and Felipe Melo, the Mali player defends his team mates and answers:

"I immediately felt at home here and never thought of leaving. If Juve decided to invest on Diego and Felipe Melo it is because they are champions. Everybody may go through difficult moments, but we are all sure that they will give us a hand during the rest of the season".

Finally a though about racism. The charity match on Monday night, which will see a selection of European players play against a selection of African players, is an excellent point to start speaking of a subject which is too often linked to football:

"I don’t like certain attitudes at the stadium – concluded Sissoko -, also because matches are also followed by children and this is not a good example for them. We are all equal, black or white, and we must live together. However, more then racism, I would say it is a matter of ignorance".

Juventus.com

Nedved: "Excited To Be Able To Get Back On The Field"

A few months after the end of his career as a professional footballer, Pavel Nedved is ready to play in what will be a sort of farewell match. The Czech champion on Monday will be on the field at the Olimpico for the match between Europe, of which he will be the captain, due to Chiellini’s absence – and Africa, led by Drogba.

Together with them, there will also be other champions from the past (Zidane and Peruzzi) and of the present. It will be an occasion not to be missed for the Juve supporters who will have the opportunity to see the Czech Fury once again on the field:

"I am really excited about the thought of playing again – he confessed during a press conference to present the event – and in “my” stadium. I am happy to be able to contribute to a charity cause and this is why I accepted the invitation immediately. Besides I am glad to be able to play alongside so many champions".

Six months after the end of his career as a footballer, Nedved remains close to Juventus, even id simply as a supporter. As a privileged observer, this is how he judges the team of his friend Ferrara:

"Even when I played, we had moments of difficulty. Surely, seeing the team being eliminated from the Champions League hurt, but this is not the time to give up. I have faith in this group. I immediately thought it is stronger then those in the last two seasons. Therefore, it has all the cards in hand to comeback and return to winning. Then, as always it will be the field to pass the final judgment".

If up to a few months ago the team was spoken of as Nedved’s Juve, now it is spoke of as Diego’s Juve. Strong of his own experience, Pavel gives his support to the Brazilian:

"In this team there are many new players who have to adapt and this is why time is necessary. Even I experienced what it means tow ear this jersey. Diego comes from a different type of football and he will need at least a year to adapt completely. My only advice to him is not to give up".

Juventus.com

Many Champions On The Field On Monday To Say No To Racism

It will be a grand final for 2009 in Turin. The day after having hosted Juventus-Catania, the last official match of the year, on Monday night – 21st December –the Stadio Olimpico will be the theatre for a great charity event.

It will be the stage for the Idolo Cup, a spectacular match which will oppose a selection of European footballers and one of African footballers, all together to say no to racism from the world of football, to help African children (through the CAAP Africa association) and to give a helping hand to the research on SLA (with a collection fo funds in favour of AriSLA).

The event was presented this afternoon in Turin by means of après conference which saw the participation of Davide Lippi and Carlo Diana – the persons responsible of the Reset Group (the organizing agency) -, the councillor for sport for the city of Turin Giuseppe Sbriglio and the vice-president of the local council Michele Coppola, Massimo Mauro (whose foundation created together with Gianluca Vialli has been fighting for quite some time against SLA) and three exceptional testimonials that is Giorgio Chiellini, Momo Sissoko and Pavel Nedved.

Seeing the unavailability of the two bianconeri, only the Czech Fury will be on the field. Together with him, in the European selection, will be prestigious names like that of Zinedine Zidane and Angelo Peruzzi, Nicola Legrottaglie and Sebastian Giovinco and many other Serie A players. On the other side, captained by Drogba and Diao (a Stoke City player), will be Essien, Mikel, Diarra, Adebayor (besides Jonathan Zebina), to name a few.

It will be an event set between football, solidarity and spectacle which will begin on Sunday night with a poker tournament and which will continue before the start of the match (at 20:30hrs) with an exhibition by youths. The presenter of the night will be Belen Rodriguez.

The prices for entrance tickets are cheap: €6 on the North and Nouth stands, €12 on the East stand and €14.50 on the West Stand. For all the information regarding the event please log on to www.idolocup.it

Juventus.com

(Pictures) Juventus Training 15-12-09

Back To Training

Juventus returned to Vinovo this morning, for the last week of work before the Christmas break. The bianconeri, under the keen eyes of president Jean-Claude Blanc and sports director Alessio Secco, first took part in a warm-up and an athletic routine and then were kept busy with technical exercises and a mini-match.

Felipe Melo and Giorgio Chiellini took part in the first part of the session with their mates and then worked separately with trainer Andrea Scanavino.

Vincenzo Iaquinta, ho is continuing on his road to recovery, worked separately.

15-12-09 Juventus News

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Juventus And Powerade Together For Two Seasons

The family of Juventus partners has grown further: the club has signed a contract with Coca-Cola, relative to the seasons 2009/2010 and 2010/2011, which shall bind it to the brand Powerade, a Sports Drink by the Coca-Cola Company.

Powerade has thus become the Official Sport Drink Supplier of Juventus. The agreement foresees the provision of the product Powerade Isotonic during the whole season as well as important moments of appearance of the brand during the matches of the Serie A TIM and the TIM Cup at the Stadio Olimpico

Marco Fassone, Executive Director of the Stadium Area, Sales and Marketing of Juventus commented with satisfaction with regards to the new partnership:

"Powerade is a brand of absolute quality, the perfect product for the cooperation with a team like Juventus which is used to daily challenges in order to reach important goals. Besides, this agreement, brings Juventus close to the multi-national Coca-Cola Compnay, in line with the new commercial strategy based on the complete and exclusive offer for a high profile partnership".

"Ever since its birth - added Cristina Santucci, Marketing Director of Coca-Cola Italia - Powerade has been linked to the sports world by a true vocation. We are really pleased to be able to include in our collaborations a winning team like Juventus, the most followed in Italy and amongst the teams with the greatest number of supporters in Europe. The agreement we signed will be the start of a positive collaboration with the bianconeri team".

Juventus.com

Diego: I'm Loving Life At Juve

Having already tasted league championship glory in such established footballing hotbeds as Brazil and Germany, it might seem odd to suggest that the 2009/10 campaign is something of a litmus test for 24-year-old Diego Ribas da Cunha. Yet despite all Diego’s achievements so far in his relatively short career, a player fighting for titles at a European giant and competing for a berth in the Brazil midfield cannot afford to rest on his laurels.

The former Santos, Porto and Werder Bremen star has thrived on the pressure since his big-money move to Turin, with his efforts over the calendar year rewarded by a place on the 23-man shortlist for the FIFA World Player 2009, an award voted for by the national-team coaches and captains of FIFA’s member associations. Though the gifted attacking midfielder missed out on a berth in the top five, he remains in the running for a place in the FIFA/FIFPro World XI, which is voted for by members of the professional football players association.

In an exclusive interview, the Brazilian maestro took the time to speak to FIFA.com on a number of issues, including adapting to the Italian game, challenging Inter Milan for the Serie A title and proving his worth to Dunga.

FIFA.com: Diego, you’ve been at Juventus for a few months now and must have noticed certain differences between Italian and German football. Which are the most striking?

Diego: The thing which feels most different is the team: going from Werder Bremen to Juventus, who are considered to be a big club. When we come up against other teams you can sense that they set their stall out to be more tactically disciplined and harder to break down. The pitches are also different; I don’t think they’re as good as in Germany.

Are you now fully settled in Italy and with Juventus?

I’ve been really enjoying myself so far. I was given a fantastic reception and I’m loving day-to-day life at Juve. It’s a huge club and I’m really happy. Of course, given the type of club we are, there’s still room for improvement. A team like this should be winning every week and we’re always aiming for top spot.

Which player has most caught your eye since arriving in Italy?

(Without hesitation) [Gianluigi] Buffon. And not only as player, but as a person too. He’s an exceptional figure and it’s a real pleasure to be in the same squad as a man like that, with such a strong character. What is really striking is how he’s always on top of everything, whether it be tactical concerns or all the minor details.

Inter would appear to be the team to beat in Serie A this season. Do Juve have what it takes to challenge for the title?

It’s not mission impossible. You just have to compare the quality of the players we’ve got in our squad. They’ve got a lot of quality in their team, but I see just as much at Juventus. Of course we’re facing an uphill battle, given that they rarely drop points in the league. And even though he’s just starting his coaching career, we’ve got a great boss in Ciro Ferrara who knows Italian football inside out. So I think we’re perfectly capable of fighting for the title.

In recent years Juventus haven’t had many Brazilians in their ranks, unlike Roma, AC Milan or Inter. Does that make their move for you all the more special?

Personally speaking, I’m always proud to be Brazilian and, yes, being here representing my country does make me happy. But none of the board mentioned anything to me about that (not signing Brazilian players). At the moment there’s me, Felipe [Melo] and Amauri, and we’ve been made to feel very welcome.

You were included on the shortlist for the FIFA Player of the Year award and are in contention for a spot in the FIFA/FIFPro World XI 2009. How did it feel to get the news?

It was really satisfying. However much you feel it might happen, when you hear the news of something like that it gives you a real sense of achievement. It’s very rewarding to know that you’re earning people’s respect.

As far as clinching a seat on the plane for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ is concerned, does playing for a European giant and appearing on lists like this give you an edge?

Dunga knows what my qualities are, he knows what I can do. Of course everything I do at Juventus might have a greater weight than what I’ve done in the past, but I’m sure he knows what I’ve got to offer.

On that note, do you think that you’ve been given enough opportunities to show your worth to the Seleção?

Listen, I think that I’ve tried to take full advantage of every opportunity I’ve been given, such as at the Olympic Games, even though we didn’t end up taking the title. I never felt like I’d let myself down. I feel like I’ve had some positive spells with the Seleção, working under both [Carlos Alberto] Parreira and Dunga for a good length of time. If you want to get in the national squad you must never stop working hard and being professional, and then wait and see what happens.

It is unusual to see a player like you nowadays, by which I mean a creative No10 in the traditional mould. Is the position in danger of being frozen out of the modern game? Will players with your attributes have to play as a striker or withdrawn forward in future?

I don’t think so! You can always find a space, especially when you’re a good, technically proficient player and in good physical shape. That position will never die out altogether, players will always get an opportunity. Nowadays, if you want to play in this role you need to think quickly and already know what you’re going to do with the ball even before you receive it. You need to have a good touch and seek out the spaces created by your attackers and understand their movements, both when creating and taking chances.

Who did you base your game on as a child? Which are the players you most admire in today’s game?

I’ve been to loads of games since I was little and there are a number of players that I admired, such as Rai or Ronaldo. But I never based my career or my style of play on any one player. I’ve always tried to develop my own style, by training hard and honing my skills. As far as today’s football is concerned, there are a lot of good players around, not just in my position, but I have to say that [Lionel] Messi is in truly great form at the moment.

Fifa.com

14-12-09 Juventus News

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Secco's Job At Risk
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Giraudo Handed Jail Term
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Calcio Debate: It's Too Easy To Blame All Juventus’ Problems On Ciro Ferrara, Diego & Felipe Melo
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Buffon: Operation Successful

This morning at the Fornaca Clinic in Sessant, Gigi Buffon underwent surgery to his lateral meniscus of the left knew. The operation which was carried out by Professors Quaglia and Castellaci and Dr. Ravera, also saw the participation of Dr. Bartolomeo Goitre, the person responsible for the medical department of Juventus.

The operation, which lasted about 10 minutes, was successful. Buffon will leave the clinic for home later today. Buffon is expected to be out for 40 days.

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Clinical And Instrumental Tests For Camoranesi

Mauro Camoranesi suffered an injury during the match against Bari. The injury consists of a contusive trauma to the right thigh. Last night, upon returning from Bari, the midfielder underwent tests at the CTO and was hospitalized at the Fornaca Clinic in Sessant from where he was discharged this morning.

The clinical and instrumental tests showed a lesure to the vast lateral msucle with a residual intermuscular ematoma. In the coming days, the player will undergo further tests which will be able to establish the seriousness of the injury and hence the recovery period and the therepeutic orientation.

Juventus.com

13-12-09 Juventus News

Ferrara: I Can't Fault Bianconeri
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Diego Apologetic Over Penalty Miss
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David Trezeguet Plays Down Bari Debacle
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Blanc: We're The Same Team
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Lapo Elkann: 'This Juve Is Horrifying'
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Buffon Undergoes Knee Surgery
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Lippi Believes In Juve Comeback
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Blog: The 'Real' Juve
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Plan A Or plan B?
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Juventus And Ciro Ferrara: A Simple Solution
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Back To Work On Tuesday

The team has been granted two days of rest following the away match in Bari.

Training, in view of the last match of 2009 at home against Catania, will continue on Tuesday morning at 11.

(Pictures) Bari - Juventus 3-1

(Video) Bari - Juventus 3-1

Diego: "I Think We Played A Good Match And We Had Many Opportunities To Win The Match"

Notwithstanding the fact that he missed a decisive penalty, Diego had a good match and even a fair share in Trezeguet’s goal.

"I think we played a good match and we had many opportunities to win the match. We must continue like this because I don’t think that another match like this won’t happen. We must remain united and things will definitely get better. We created many opportunities but the result was unfair with us".

Having missed a decisive penalty hurts but it must be overcome: "I hit the ball badly. I was sure to score but these things happen. I had the opportunity of arranging the result and I missed".

Asked whether the change in position has helped him feel more at ease on the field the Brazilian answered:

"I always played in a position which I like. Sometimes I have to change. Today I played in a position which is more customary to me. However, I am part of a team and even though I think I have an important place in this team, I play well when the team plays well'.

Did Tuesday’s match affect the team tonight? : "It was not the case of being still with our minds on Tuesday’s defeat. As long as I wear the Juventus jersey I will give all I can".

Juventus.com

Trezeguet: "It Was Not A Lucky Night For Us"

The players all had the same reaction to the result: they know they layed a good match and yet luck was not on the side of Juventus tonight. This is also the concept expressed by Trezeguet at the end of the match:

"It was not a lucky night for us. It is a defeat but a totally different one from the last. I think we are on the right road to return to victory. We know we must improve. I think that a great team made up of great players must be seen in these situations. I think that we have a great team and a coach who we are totally backing".

"With regards to this match we did not have luck on our side. Unfortuantely these matches happen once a year and today it was our turn. It was a totally different Juve from the one seen against Bayern and I think that with good will we will make-up".

"We created a lot of opportunities with the midfielders close to us strikers and this is very important for us strikers. It was a negative result but we are on the right path".

Juventus.com

Legrottaglie: "Commenting This Match And This Result Is Difficult"

Luck was definitely not on the side of Juventus and this is also the thought of Nicola Legrottaglie who tries to see the positive side in his comments at the end of the match:

'Commenting this match and this result is difficult because going back home with a 3-1 defeat after a good performance by Juve is really not normal. I think we should see the positive side because with the mentality and will shown today we will go far and gain great satisfaction".

The ill luck also featured in a missed penalty by Diego: "Well, the penalty could have changed the match but we must nit stop to speak about a missed penalty because it doesn’t seem like the case. A penalty can either be scored and change the result or missed and you must react".

Legrottaglie is however positive: "At the end of the day I think they scored three goals: one with a deviation, one from a penalty and one with a shot from outside the area. It is up to us to change bad luck into a blessing and I am sure that we will do so. In May we will not be 8 points behind but perhaps some points ahead".

Juventus.com

Blanc: "ToNight I Saw A Will To Do Well. We Still Lack Consistency"

At the end of the match at the San Nicola, even Jean-Claude Blanc commented the bianconeri’s performance. Here are the words of the president:

"Tonight I saw a team that wanted to create goals. We had many opportunities, besides the penalty we missed. If Diego had scored, perhaps we would have seen a different match. He and Felipe Melo are trying to give the maximum even if it is not easy to fir in perfectly right away when wearing such a heavy jersey".

"At the moment we must just continue to work and try to be more consistent which we are not. Ferrara? He is our coach and we believe in him".

Juventus.com

Ferrara: "This Evening Everything Went Wrong. I Have Nothing To Blame The Team For"

Three days after the match on Tuesday, Ciro Ferrara is forced to comment another defeat. Even though between the matches against Bayern and Bari there are no similarities. At the San Nicola, Juve played a good match and this does nothing but make the situation even more bitter.

The Juventus coach analyzed the match starting from this aspect. "Today everything went wrong for us and for this reason I cannot blame the team for anything. Tonight we could have played for a much longer time and the ball would not have entered the net. They made three attempts and scored them all".

"It was not easy to prepare the match after what happened during the week. We came here to play with humility against a good Bari. Diego? Penalties unfortunately can also be missed and he was very sorry. At this moment we must be close to him and not make him feel too much responsibility".

Juventus.com

(Bari - Juventus 3-1) Juve Defeated At The San Nicola

It is a crucial match for Juventus in their attempt to come back from the heavy defeat against Bayern Munich in the Champions League and determination can be seen on the faces of the bianconeri as Ferrara fields Trezeguet and Amauri as the striking duo backed by Diego.

On the 3rd minute, Barreto enters the area and Molinaro puts out for a corner but the flag was up for off-side. One minute later there is a great ball into the area by Caceres and Amauri tries a heel but the defence blocks. It is the 6th minute when another good cross by Caceres into the area is cleared by the Bari defence.

Seconds later, Poulsen puts a long ball into the area, Bonucci passes backwards and nearly puts Gillet in difficulty. The 7th minute sees a cold shower for Juventus: Meggiorini shoots upon entering the area and surprises Buffon for the opener: 1-0.

The bianconeri react and on the 9th minute, Molinaro crosses into the Bari area but Masiello clears. Two minutes later Juve are denied a corner as a Marchisio cross towards Trezeguet is deviated by a Bari defender.

On the 13th minute A Diego shot is deviated but Gillet manages to cradle the ball. One minute later there is a free-kick for Bari: from the flag the ball is put into the area but sent beyond the touchline by Legrottaglie.

The 18th minute sees a beautuful exchange in the Bari area by Marchisio and Amauri but the latter is off-balance as he attempts a shot which goes wide. Two minutes later there is a free-kick for Juve: Diego puts the ball into the area and Cannavaro heads to goal but Gillet manages to grab it.

Free-kick for Bari on the 22nd minute: dangerous ball into the Juve area with Bonucci heading high over the bar. One minute later, Diego enters the area and tries a shot which is saved but from the re-bound Trezeguet collects the lose ball depositing it with a great conclusion to the back of the net for the equalizer: 1-1.

On the 25th minute there is a good ball into the area by an excellent Caceres which first sees Diego's shot being blocked and then Amauri's attempt saved by Gillet. One minute later, Meggiorini runs up into the Juve area but shoots wide.

It is the 28th minute when Molinaro puts a good cross into the area but nobody manages to head. Two minutes later there is a great move and cross by Caceres who puts a good ball into the area but Gillet manages to wave away.

Juve are playing well at the moment. On the 33rd minute Legrottaglie clears the area from a Bari cross. Three minutes later, Rivas tries a shot at goal but the attempt is weak and central and Buffon gathers easily.

On the 39th minute a Tiago shot is deviated into corner: Diego puts the ball into the area but Poulsen heads wide. Two minutes later, a Marchisio shot from outside the area goes high over the bar.

It is the 43rd minute when the referee awards a penalty to Bari and a yellow card for Cannavaro for what did not seem like a foul. Barreto from the eleven metres puts Bari once again ahead: 2-1. The first half end with the bianconeri behind by one goal.

The second half is a continuation of the first. On the first minute, the Juve defence clears after a number of Bari attempts on goal. Five minutes later, first a Diego shot is blocked by the defence and then Gillet saves into corner by Trezeguet.

On the 7th minute there is a free-kick for Juve: Diego 's shot goes high over the bar. Three minutes later, Juve risk a lot following a number of errors in the defence with the ball collected with difficulty by Buffon.

It is the 13th minute, a Poulsen shot from outside the area goes slightly wide. One minute later, first a cross into the area sees Amauri not managing to head well and then a Trezeguet attempt saved by Gillet. On the 16th minute, a Tiago shot goes just wide.

On the 20th minute, Tiago exchanges the ball with Diego who crosses again into the area once again towards Tiago whose header goes inches wide. Grosso comes on for Molinaro and seconds later, Buffon saves well on Meggiorini.

It is the 22nd minute when there is a penalty for Juve following a foul in the area on Grosso but Diego sends it high over the bar. One minute later, Juve attempt a run for goal with Amauri who is stopped by the defence. Camoranesi comes on for Tiago on the half hour mark. This is followed by a free-kick for Juve: ball into the area headed into corner by the defence. From the flag Legrottaglie heads slightly high over the bar.

The 35th minute sees a corner for Bari: from the re-bound the ball reaches Almiron who shoots home for the 3-1. One minute later, a great Poulsen shot is saved into corner by Gillet. From the corner the ball reaches Amauri who heads wide.

When it rains it pours and Camoranesi who came on 5 minutes before is substituted by Giovinco on the 40th minute due to an injury. Four minutes later, Giovinco first escapes two defenders and then enters the area crossing to the centre but Amauri's shot is saved by Gillet. One minute later, a good Giovinco shot from outside the area is saved by the keeper.

The referee awards 5 minutes of stoppage time and on the 1st of these a Marchisio shot is deviated into corner. One minute later, there is another corner for Juve: low ball cleared away by Almiron.

On the 47th minute, Buffon saves on Kamata and one minute later Giovinco puts a good ball into the area but Amauri's header goes slightly wide. On the 49th minute, Alvarez misses a golden opportunity putting the ball wide from a very favourable position.

At the end of the day Juventus have to deal with a defeat which saw bad luck as a protagonist.

Serie A 2009/10 16th Match Day
Bari, Stadio San Nicola
Saturday 12th December, 2009

BARI – JUVENTUS: 3-1

Scorers: Meggiorini (7th), Trezeguet (23rd), Barreto (pen. 44th), Almiron (80th),

BARI: Gillet; Andrea Masiello, Diamoutene, Bonucci, Stellini; Alvarez, Almiron, Donati, Rivas (Kamata 62nd); Barreto (Greco 60th), Meggiorini (Gazzi 70th). Reserves: Padelli, Belmonte, Allegretti, Gazzi, Koman, Kamata, Greco. Coach: Ventura

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Caceres, Legrottaglie, Cannavaro, Molinaro (Grosso 67th); Tiago (Camoranesi 75th) (Giovinco 80th), Poulsen, Marchisio; Diego; Amauri, Trezeguet. Reserves: Manninger, Grygera, Grosso, Salihamidzic, Camoranesi, Giovinco, Del Piero. Coach: Ferrara.

Referee: Tagliavento from Terni.

Yellow Cards: Tiago (21st), Cannavaro (43rd), Poulsen (71st)

Juventus.com