Italian Soccer Serie A

"We'll fight to win every trophy Champions League and Scudetto," says Juventus Goalkeeper Gigi Buffon

Anna Italia — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 15:16:43 GMT

By Anna Italia

Talking about being optimistic and you will find Juventus Saint goalkeeper Gigi Buffon. After returning from a well deserved vacation from the EURO 2008, Buffon is spreading optimism to his teammates.

If you ask Buffon whether Juventus will win the Scudetto, get ready for his response because he wants everything!

Vinovo (Turin), Friday, July 18, 2008 - Buffon wants Juventus to be the number 1.

«We'll fight to win the Champions League, as we will to win the League – he explained to Juventus Channel - all those trophies that Juventus have always fought for. It's going to be a long and very intense season and we must start to prepare it well right away».

Hey, that is a clear challenge to Inter, Milan, and Roma who also declared their wish to win the Scudetto this year.

For Buffon there is no more time to waste because Juventus is back to get back the glorious days where usually Juventus and Milan have been shining in the International arena.

«Ambition has always been there, even if we weren't on the same level as the others. Now that we've strengthened the team, our ambitions are more justified and we must never lose confidence in our potential. That confidence has always been one of our qualities and we need to keep it always within us».

Despite the Ronaldinhomania and the possible arrival of Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard to Inter, Buffon is not afraid of these rivals. Buffon said that the drive, the personality of Juventus is their main strength.

I like the confidence of Buffon and the positive energy he is transmitting to his teammates and the new ones like Poulsen and Mellberg.

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What do you think of Buffon's statements? Can Juventus really win everything, every trophy, yes, no, and why?

Official Presentation of Sampdoria Midfielder Daniele Dessena - Friday, July 18, 2008

Anna Italia — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 13:38:34 GMT

By Anna Italia

Thumbs up for ex Parma Midfielder Daniele Dessena presented officially today as a Sampdoria player. This is good news because Dessena has the chance to continue improving his skills in the main league because Parma was relegated to the Serie B. Therefore, this is a good transfer market for Dessena and Sampdoria.

Dessena was born on May 10, 1987 in Parma. Dessena is only 21 years old and is among the called up players by Casiraghi to play for the Italian National Olympic Team in the 2008 Summer Olympics Games in Beijing. "It's a dream to be here."

Genoa, Friday, July 18, 2008 - A happy Dessena showing his Official Jersey.

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Dessena said that his agent called him before he started the training with the National Team to tell him that 99% he was moving to Genoa. After the training, "He called me again to tell me that now it was 100%. I could not believe it."

After the presentation, Dessena had his first training session with his teammates and Coach Walter Mazzarri. Training included technical-tactical exercises.

"I am here to demonstrate my worth and to give 100% in every match and in every training," said Dessena.

Genoa, Friday, July 18, 2008 - Sampdoria Coach Walter Mazzarri shaking hands with his new player
Midfielder Daniele Dessena during his Official Presentation.

Season	Team	Serie	Appearances	Goal
2007/2008	Parma	SERIE A	28	0
2006/2007	Parma	SERIE A	34	2
2005/2006	Parma	SERIE A	17	3
2004/2005	Parma	SERIE A	2	0

Playing with Antonio Cassano, "To play next to Cassano is another of my satisfactions. It's incredible, I have seen him only in TV and he is a phenomeno. To be close to him will be a fantastic motivation for any player my age, for every footballer."

Two years ago Dessena scored 2 goals against Sampdoria. Regarding his number, Dessena said he wants to have #23 because it is the date of birth of his girlfriend. Though, he knows that also Stankevicius might want that number. "So, maybe I can have #24."

Do you agree with the transfer of Daniele Dessena to Sampdoria, yes, no, and why?

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Official Presentation of FC Inter Kits for the 2008 - 2009 Season "Home Jersey and Away Jersey"

Anna Italia — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:04:49 GMT

By Anna Italia

Is it time for another fashion show?

No, but it is the "FC Inter Fashion Show" to present Inter kits for the 2008 - 2009 Season. So, let me introduce the models: Captain Javier Zanetti, Defender Marco Materazzi, Forward Adriano, Goalkeeper Julio Cesar, Defender Maicon and Forward Amantino Mancini.

Appiano Gentile, Friday, July 18, 2008 - Adriano, Zanetti, Julio Cesar, Materazzi, Mancini, and Mourinho during the presentation of the new kits.

Inter's commercial director Katia Bassi welcomed members of the press to the unveiling ceremony at the training ground, while Nike Italy sports & marketing director Cristiano Carugati illustrated the features of the brand new kits.

To celebrate Inter and Nike's ten-year partnership, there was an exhibition of black and blue shirts from the past decade.

Take a look at Inter's four models, they could really be models with those striking poses. Don't you think?

Captain Javier Zanetti with Inter Home Jersey Defender Marco Materazzi with the Away Kit

Amantino Mancini with the Home Jersey Adriano "the Emperor" wearig the Away Kit

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Appiano Gentile, Friday, July 18, 2008 - Here is Nike Italy sports & marketing director Cristiano Carugati presenting a personalized shirt to Inter coach José Mourinho, who commented:

"The kit is beautiful, but it will only be beautiful if it's a winner. It's up to us now. We have made a strong start to our work and we will continue to do so in Brunico in the coming days."

Mourinho also added that "We play our first two friendlies there but I don't like the term 'friendlies' very much. These are two matches we want to win to build a winning season."

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Did you like Inter's 5 models, yes, no, and why?

Fiorentina Presents Goalkeeper Marco Storari as Second Goalkeeper

Anna Italia — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 10:01:59 GMT

By Anna Italia

Fiorentina made the presentation of former Messina, Milan, Levante, and Cagliari goalkeeper MARCO STORARI on Wednesday, July 16, 2008 as Fiorentina second goalkeeper.

Florence, Wednesday, July 16, 2008 - Fiorentina Sports director Pantaleo Corvino presenting Marco Storari.

"Every time I played at the Artemio Franchi I noticed the passion of fans. I think it is motivating to wear the Fiorentina Jersey. I made many saves against Fiorentina when playing for Cagliari but at the end it worked out fine because Cagliari is safe and Fiorentina is in the Champions League," said Marco Storari.

Storari quit Cagliari to go back to AC Milan only to find that there were 4 goalkeepers, it was just too many and he had to think on his future. I never agreed with Storari leaving Cagliari even if it was to come back to AC Milan. Am I contradicting myself? No.

Here is why. Storari without a doubt was Cagliari's salvation. When Storari arrived in Cagliari they were in the last position and most likely they were heading to the Serie B. Problem is that as said by Storari himself, he wanted to stay in Cagliari but did not find a common agreement with Cagliari President Cellino.

In Milan, it was going to be almost impossible for Storari to be considered among the top 2 choices because of seniority and the good season of goalkeeper Zeljko Kalac plus the return of the highest paid goalkeeper in Milan Nelson Dida and the return of Christian Abbiati. Storari needs to play not to join a super club and be on the bench. I rather see him in another club but playing.

So, Milan who owns Storari's contract made the agreement with Fiorentina to transfer Storari on loan. Though Storari will be the second goalkeeper because Sebastien Frey is Fiorentina first goalkeeper. At least, Storari will have more chances to play than just warming up the bench in Milan.

On Alberto Gilardino, Storari commented, "I am happy that Gilardino joined Fiorentina because in Milan he did not have much space and I think he could do well.

I notice lot of sadness on Storari's comments every time he mentioned the experience with Milan. He has some reason. "In Milan I made two good matches against Siena and Livorno, but after they decided to send me to the bench. It was a good experience but I don't know well why they did not allow me to play more. Here in Fiorentina, objectives are strong. I have always played in teams struggling for salvation, here the objective is more important [the Champions League.]

On Ronaldinho, "Milan reinforced themselves with the incorporation of Ronaldinho but to make a comparison against Fiorentina is still too early. However, Mutu could do something extra than Ronaldinho."

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Related Stories:

- Did Goalkeeper Marco Storari Make a Mistake by Quitting Cagliari to Join AC Milan and -- Now Maybe -- Fiorentina or Where?, July 8, 2008

- Who Will be Milan First Goalkeeper: Dida, Kalac, Abbiati, or Storari? , July 2, 2008

- Cagliari Goalkeeper Marco Storari Motivate Students from the Elementary School MEILOGU, May 22, 2008

- RESULTS Italian Serie A Week 38 CAGLIARI 2 - 2 REGGINA Goals by Larrivey, Bianco and Nicola Amoruso "Cagliari and Reggina are saved!!!!" , May 18, 2008

What do you think of Storari's comments? Do you think he will make it in Fiorentina, yes, no, and why?

RESULT Friendly Match: Fiorentina 12 - 0 Sciliar "Goals by Pazzini with 3 goals, Doppietta for Santana, Semioli and Da Costa, Gilardino, Jovetic and Osvaldo

Anna Italia — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 08:09:27 GMT

By Anna Italia

Goals by the Dozen are better!!!! What a day for Fiorentina and for Striker Giampaolo Pazzini scoring 3 goals!

Firenze, Thursday, July 17, 2008 - Giampaolo Pazzini in action.

Fiorentina went a goal shopping spree with 3 sets of doppietta.

Also good to see former Milan player Forward Alberto Gilardino scoring. Gilardino started on the bench.

Pablo Daniele Osvaldo also in goal. Wow, unbelieveable a super goleada.

Gilardino scored his first goal for Fiorentina in the 48th minute. Five minutes later, a penalty for Fiorentina and Gilardino missed the penalty when Sciliar goalkeeper made a save!

Fiorentina coach Cesare Prandelli must be super happy with his players.

Here are the scorers:

Mario Alberto Santana (9') - Manuel Trindade Da Costa (20') - Pablo Daniel Osvaldo (21') - Mario Alberto Santana (23') - Giampaolo Pazzini (27') - Giampaolo Pazzini (30') - Giampaolo Pazzini (32') - Alberto Gilardino (48') - Franco Semioli (54') - Franco Semioli (67') - Manuel Trindade Da Costa (74') - Stevan Jovetic (78')

LINEUPS
Friendly Match
Fiorentina 12 - 0 Sciliar
Thursday, July 17, 2008

Goalkeeper: Avramov(41' Seculin)
Defenders: Mazuch, Pasqual (41' Gulan), Da Costa, Kroldrup
Midfielders: Donadel(41' Melo), Santana(41' Semioli), Kuzmanovic(41' Jovetic) and Gobbi
Forwards: Giampaolo Pazzini(41' Diakhate), Pablo Daniel Osvaldo(41' Gilardino)

Subs: Gulan, Melo, Semioli, Jovetic, Diakhate, Gilardino

Coach: Cesare Prandelli

What are your impressions from this goleada. Which player surprised you and why?

Milan Party with Ronaldinho, Moratti and Lampard, Fiorentina Goleada, Cambiasso in Sportsweek, Front Page Gazzetta dello Sport, Friday, July 18, 2008

Anna Italia — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 08:18:07 GMT

By Anna Italia

Good morning, buon giorno!

It seems the RONALDINHOMANIA celebration yesterday is the main news of the front page from Italy's leading sports newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport.

Are you having your coffee or tea right now? I finished my cappuccino while reading Il Corriere dello Sport, so I am preparing an espresso to continue reading the newspaper.

Ok, let's get started.......Here is the front page of La Gazzetta dello Sport from this morning Friday, July 18, 2008.

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The main news in the front page is about Ronaldinho and his Official Presentation yesterday in San Siro.

The headline says "LIGHTS IN SAN SIRO"

Milan Party with 40,000 fans in the Stadium to applaud the show of Ronaldinho.

Allegria Ronaldinho: We will going to win so much, trust us. Here I am at home."

The paper highlights some of Ronaldinho's declaration during the presentation:

- Me and KAKA will play well together.

He mentioned this when journalists asked him about how he was going to play with Kaka. Ronaldinho said they are friends and they have played for Brazil and do well there.

- I guarantee to return to my maximum level.

- The Olympics? I am going to the Olympics but will we back to train.

FC INTER

The very top news on your right upper side is about ESTEBAN CAMBIASSO featured in the magazine Sports Week.

Congrats Esteban.

Another Inter related news.

Moratti putting pressure to Lampard.

With all the Ronaldinhomania, Moratti doesn't want to be left behind and insist on signing Lampard.

FIORENTINA

In the friendly match yesterday, Fiorentina made 12 goals! Also, they announced the arrival of Zauri to la Viola.

Which news surprised you and why or which news were you expecting in the front page and why?

San Siro Crazy for Ronaldinho, Juventus Challenges Milan, Poulsen and Totti, Roma-Baptista, Hamsik, Zauri, Front Page Il Corriere dello Sport, Friday, July 18, 2008

Anna Italia — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 08:26:31 GMT

By Anna Italia

Good morning, buon giorno!

Had you had your coffee? I was going to have an espresso but opted for a Cappuccino because too much to read with the ongoing RONALDINHOMANIA. Almost all the media has the "Dinho frenzy" not only in Italy but wherever you turn there is something about Ronaldhino and his transfer to AC Milan. You bet Barcelona must be regretting losing Ronaldinho and all the money his image brought to the club.

Let's start our Coffee Morning Newspaper Reading with Italy's sports newspaper Il Corriere dello Sport.

Here is the front page of Il Corriere dello Sport from this morning Friday, July 18, 2008.

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AC Milan, AS Roma, Fiorentina, Inter Milan, Juventus, Palermo, Sampdoria, Udinese

The top news is about FC INTER and with Mourinho already training his players and getting to know up close and personal their skills.

Mourinho says that it is a revolution, plus with all his code of conduct and Adriano being the first one to arrive late. Well... he has a valid excuse because the birth of his child.

FC Juventus

This news I love! Juventus challenges Ronaldinho!!!! Awesome, I like it because it shows the warrior spirit.

Blanc said,"Congratulations to Milar for the big signing, but we want to win." This refers to winning the Scudetto because Milan had said it is their priority now to win the Scudetto.

Also Juventus Captain and Flag Alessandro Del Piero and Saint goalkeeper Gigi Buffon believe Juve can win the Scudetto.

Other note is about Christian Poulsen regarding AS Roma Captain Francesco Totti: I will shake his hand.

Well, this is becaue Poulsen became a well known face in Italy after Totti famous spitting in his face for marking him.

AC MILAN

Here we come to the main news which was the Official Presentation of Ronaldinho in San Siro in front of 40,000 fans. Signing the contract live on Milan Channel.

The article says that San Siro is already crazy for the new phenomeno.

It shows the photo of Ronaldinho doing one of his trickes during his presentation.

AS ROMA

Transfer market for Roma is not done. The possible trasfer from Julio Baptista to Roma is almost a done deal. The article says the signatures from both clubs Real Madrid and Roma might be near. Since Ludovic Giuly left Roma to go to PSG then there is this empty space where Baptista migt join. Well, let's see what happens.

Fiorentina

Well, it is a done deal. Lazio midfielder Luciano Zauri is going to Fiorentina. Mudingay to Bologna. Dario Dainelli to Fiorentina. uffaa they had a busy business day in Fiorentina and they are still insisting on signing Inter defender Nicolas Burdisso but Inter is not giving in yet. I don't think Inter will let Burdisso go. Don't you think? He is one of the best.

Napoli

Here is a news that I love! Napoli midfielder Marek Hamsik has been tempted by many top clubs for his great season in Napoli. Last offer from Inter and the praises from Jose Mourinho. Yet, get this one.... Hamsik say "thank you to the praises" but he is swearing loyalty to Napoli. Plus, De Laurentis already said that Hamsik is untoucbable. Why I like the news? Well, after watching Hamsik last season I became one of his fans, the guy is really good. Though, I believe in "team loyalty" and if Hamsik wants to become a Napoli flag, then, congrats for saying no to the Special One.

Reggina

Wow, here a "tridente" is cooking. It says that Corradi, Paloschi and Inzaghi jr are heading to Reggina??? Here I am a bit puzzled. Are they talking about Milan Striker FIlippo Inzaghi or Lazio striker Simone Inzaghi, or is there another Inzaghi? Just reading the news and immediately I went to Milan Official website to verify this info and they don't mention anything about Pippo Inzaghi transfer. So most likely is "a wish list or another Inzaghi."

Uffa.... my cappuccino is gone and I still have to read La Gazzetta dello Sport! ... well, espresso it is....

Which news surprised you and why or which news were you expecting in the front page and why?

Official Presentation of Ronaldinho in front of 40,000 fans in San Siro Thursday, July 17, 2008

Anna Italia — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 05:03:05 GMT

By Anna Italia

Finally Ronaldinho is presented as the new Milan player not only to the joy of Milan fans but also to the joy of Ronaldinho because he said that one of his dream was to play for Milan.

Press conference starts at 8:44 p.m.

"It's a special moment in my career. All the players dream of playing for Milan. It's a special feeling, and I hope to make all the fans happy. And Barcelona? It was a great period. We had some important wins, but after some recent disappointments both sides decided it was right to split. Here I'm going to achieve other big goals. Kaka and I will give joy because kaka also is among the best of the world," says Ronaldinho.

Ronaldino and AC Milan VP Adriano Galliani signed the contract live at 9:15 p.m.
Galliani signs the contract with Barcelona direct on the Milan channel. Then is the turn for Ronaldinho to sign and it's done! Galliani and Dinho do a "high five." Galliani says: "Love has won out".

Milan, Thursday, July 17, 2008 - Here are Ronaldinho and Milan VP Adriano Galliani at the press conference to introduce Ronaldinho and to sign the contract. Milan waited two years to sign Ronaldinho and great merit goes to Galliani
for his convincing speech to Joan La Porta.

Click the video to watch the signing of the contract in a "live transmission" from Milan Channel.

Milan, Thursday, July 17, 2008 - At 9:15 p.m. Ronaldinho signs his contract on live TV and he is a happy man! You bet Galliani is also a happy man.

Galliani said it is "a dream come true. We have never gone after a player to this extent. President Berlusconi is "crazy" about him. After 3 years we've finally done it. Along with the Rijkaard contract these have been the most difficult negotiations for me. He got through his medical brilliantly, and all other tests. We have brought a great champion here. Should he get a hair cut? If Berlusconi didn't ask Gullit to do it I don't think he'll ask him".

Milan, Thursday, July 17, 2008 - Ronaldinho posing after the contract withGalliani and his new coach Carlo Ancelotti.

Click the video to watch the Official Presentation in San Siro.

Ancelotti cannot hide his joy because he has saidbefore that it was his "dream team: Kaka, Pato, Ronaldinho."

"He just needs to do overall what he's done in the past, nothing more. His position? A mix between a center forward and a striker," said Ancelotti.

After signing of the contract live,at 9:46 p.m. it comes the moment for the Official Presentation of Ronaldinho to all Milan fans in San Siro their new player "Ronaldinho" 40,000 expectators, according to AC Milan Official website!

Suddenly, it became a samba party until 10:30 p.m. with fireworks!!!

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Milan, Thursday, July 17, 2008 - Ronaldinho entering in San Siro . Journalists, flashes, chants, everything to receive this rossonero who wanted to play for AC Milan.

A total explosion and chants for Ronaldinho with a Brazilian style carnival procession.

Ronaldinho first words to the fans were "Good evening to everyone and thanks a lot. Forza Milan!"

After Ronaldinho greeted the children sitting on the grass before doing a lap around the stadium saluting all the sections of the fans. He then moved to the center circle and entertained with some of his traditional ball tricks.

Ronaldinho said to the fans “I’ll do everything to make you happy.”

Ronaldinho thanked his fans in Portuguese and in Italian with the promise to bring them goals and joy.

The Samba exploded with fireworks in San Siro until 10:30 p.m.
Just love it! I am dancing the samba right now!!!

What do you think of Ronaldhino's presentation and his declarations?

Result Friendly Match: Italian National Olympic 10 - 0 Borgo Buggiaro Goals by Rocchi, Rossi, Montolivo, Giovinco, Acquafresca and Dessena "Preparing for the 2008 Summer Olympics Games"

Anna Italia — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 13:55:42 GMT

By Anna Italia
Covering the 2008 Summer Olympics Game in Beijing from an Italian Perspective

Let's give an applause to the Azzurrini!

In the friendly match today in Coverciano against Borgo Buggiaro the Italian National Olympic Team scored 10 goals!

It is just perfect because Coach Pierluigi Casiraghi has been working hard with the Azzurrini. The goal is to win the Gold Medal in the Olymipics.

Casirghi said to be pleased with his players. These friendly matches are good to testif players are fit to play the 90 minute.

Imagine 10-0!!!! Lazio striker Tommaso Rocchi scored in the 9th minute!!! Rossi made a doppieta (14' and 19'[), Montolivo scored in the 27th minute, 35' Sebastian Giovinco, and again Montolivo in the 42nd minute.
Guess what, Cagliari striker Robert Acquafresa scored 3 goals in the 60', 70', and '78, lastly in the 80th minute Dessena scored the 10th goal!!!!!

The Azzurri will have 2 days off.

LINEUPS

Firendly Preparatory Match towards the 2008 Summer Olympics Games in Beijing
Italian Under-21 - Borgo
Borgo Buggiaro

In the first half Coach Casiraghi used the following formation:

Goalkeeper: Viviano
Defenders: De Silvestri, Coda, Criscito, De Ceglie,
Midfielders: Riccardo Montolivo, Luca Cigarini, Nocerino,Sebastian Giovinco, Rossi
Forward: Tommaso Rocchi i

In the second half Casiraghi used the following formation:

Goalkeeper: Consigli;
Defenders: Motta, Ranocchia, Bocchetti, De Ceglie;

Midfielders: Dessena, Marchisio, Candreva; Abate, Russotto;
Forward: Acquafresca.

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The Azzurri Juventini Del Piero, Chiellini, Buffon, and Camoranesi Join their teammates for the 2008 - 2009 Pre-Season Training

Anna Italia — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 13:03:09 GMT

By Anna Italia

After a well deserved vacation, all 4 Juventus players who played for the Italian National Team in the UEFA EURO 2008 are back.

Juventus Captain Alessandro Del Piero, Saint Goalkeeper Gigi Buffon, Midfielder Mauro Camoranesi, and Defender Giorgio Chiellini returned energized and ready to start training. The 4 players along with Christian Poulsen trained today in Vinovo.

Juventus will return to training on Saturday, July 19 in Chiusa Pesio.

Vinovo, Thursday, July 17, 2008 - A Happy Del Piero wearing a top hat giving declarations to Juventus Channel.

"I am very happy of how things worked out in the last two seasons be it on a personal level as well as a team." Del Piero cannot hide his satisfaction when talking about his Juventus and their great return to the Serie A finishing in the 3rd position with 72 points. I have no doubts that Juventus will try to do even better this year, especially passing the preliminary of the Champions League.

Vinovo, Thursday, July 17, 2008 - There is a great will to restart because it will be an important season for us, starting with the preliminaries of the Champions League, says Giorgio Chiellini to Juventus Channel

Vinovo, Thursday, July 17, 2008 - So nice seeing Camoranesi in a good mood. He started joking about returning to the "indenne" weeks of training, then he says, just kidding. "Luckily, there is time to prepare the first match of the preliminaries which will be very important for us."

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It's clear that all three players have their objectives clear and their main goal is to pass the preliminaries of the Champions League. Can they do it?

Maldini, Christian Abbiati, Mathieu Flamini and Luca Antonini during the AC Milan Presentation of Returning and New Players

Anna Italia — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 12:03:25 GMT

By Anna Italia

Besides the breaking news that Ronaldinho signed for AC Milan and his "Super Star" entrance to Italy, Milan presented yesterday returning and new players in the press conference at the Centro Sportivo Milanello.

First, let me make a pause, and applaud the courage of Captain Paolo Maldini who turned 40 years old and decided to continue defending the team where he has played for 20 years. Being Milan left out of the Champions League and the commitment to win the Scudetto might have been additional reasons on why Maldini is not giving up yet.

As Captain, his goal will be to put MILAN back where it belongs: In the big competitions. After, Maldini will be in peace and can say good bye to the team who more than team is a real second home for the Maldinis.

Milanello, Wednesday, July 16, 2008 - From left to right: Goalkeeper Christian Abbiati, Captain Paolo Maldini, Coach Carlo Ancelotti, Milan VP Adriano Galliani, Midfielder Mathieu Flamini, and Luca Antonini

PAOLO MALDINI - Continuing as a Rossonero one more year

'What makes me want to continue is my great love for this sport and which I have always felt for football in all these years. I continue for another season because I still have strong motivations, of course in agreement with everyone, the club, the coach, and with my team mates who have asked me more than once to continue last season. I decided to do the most natural thing, to continue and add another year to still feel these feelings because I have the conviction I can still do well, to be important for this group.'

'Milan must be competitive and they certainly will be. The objectives are clear. The club has well defined guidelines since 23 years, Milan are born to win or at least to fight. This team has already won a lot and with these reinforcements they can keep on winning for years.'

'Concerning Ronaldinho, I know him as an opponent. I think he's one of the greatest players ever. Here he will also find the right environment to return at high levels. Milan have great feeling with champions, many times we have bought them when they were already great, and many times they have created champions.'

CHRISTIAN ABBIATI - Returning to his second home

'I always told Galliani about my desire to return to Milan. I consider this club like my second home, I feel they are like my family and as soon as the opportunity came I had no doubts.

In this period away from Milan I remained close to my team mates and the words of praise I have received on my return have flattered me. When I came back to play at San Siro for the first time with Torino I tried to give my best to show my value, but at the end I was unhappy.'

MATHIEU FLAMINI - New Player

'I have always been a big fan of Milan and when I got this opportunity I could not refuse this kind of offer. At a personal level I would like to win some titles. Like dr. Galliani said, a great team is always full of great champions. Being at their side and having to fight with the competition only stimulates me to do well.

I have been asked if I felt like Marcel Desailly. I consider him a great champion and it would be nice for me to be able to replicate his career, perhaps also scoring a goal in a Cup final.
My objective is to do well with the Milan shirt and perhaps become part of the French national team one day, but that's only up to coach Domenech.'

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LUCA ANTONINI - Growing up in the Youth team of Milan, is a dream come true to return.

'I'm very happy to be a part of this club. It's always been a dream as a fan especially when I started to play in the Milan youth sector.
My objective is to show I am worthy of this club and to reach some satisfactions by learning a lot from the champions I will play with.

My role is that of a left back, at Empoli I've also played further up the pitch. Here at Milan there is Paolo Maldini who has made history with this club, to replicate his career is practically impossible, but I'm a very ambitious lad and I want to do well and maybe have the opportunity to play with the national team one day.'

Third Day Rest for Roma Captain Francesco Totti "A Mini Vacation before Roma Pre-Season Training"

Anna Italia — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 10:26:06 GMT

By Anna Italia

Good news to know that Roma Captain Francesco Totti has taken days off after having started his individual training at the Centro Sportivo Trigoria 2 weeks in advance from the official date of the club.

Today is the third day that Totti has been resting before joining his teammates for the 2008 - 2009 Pre-Season Training scheduled on July 21.

I am concerned about Totti's intention to play the Supercoppa against FC Inter on August 24. So far Totti's treatment has been satisfactory and medical tests at Villa Stuart confirms that Totti is getting back in shape. Though, I think Totti needs to recover completely and avoid an early injury before the Serie A kick off which is 7 days after on Sunday, August 31.

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- Roma Captain Francesco Totti Wants to Play the Super Coppa Against Inter "I predicted to be ready by August 24" , July 11, 2008

- Roma Captain Francesco Totti Might be Back for the Super Coppa Match Against Inter on August 24, July 10, 2008

- Roma Captain Francesco Totti Working Hard for His Recovery "No Time for Vacation", July 9, 2008

- Congratulations to Roma Captain Francesco Totti and Ilary for their Wedding Anniversary , June 19, 2008

- "Lippi and Francesco Totti the New Italian National Team and Donadoni Might Be Sacked this week" Front Page Gazzetta dello Sport, June 24, 2008 , April 23, 2008

- Will Francesco Totti BE BACK before 4 months after his knee Surgery? , April 21, 2008

Do you think Totti should join his teammates for the 2008 - 2009 Pre-Season Training or should Totti rest more days and continue his individual recovery?

RESULT Friendly Match: Lazio 8 - 0 R. Bellunese "Zarate scores 5 goals, Pandev 2, and Ledesma 1"

Anna Italia — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 09:40:02 GMT

By Anna Italia

My eyes went wide open after reading that newly signed Zarate scored 5 goals in the first friendly match of Lazio. It reminded me about the promise he made to Lazio fans that he was going to score 2 goals in the Roma Derby. I am waiting for that derby just to see wheter Zarate score or not those 2 goals.

The final score was Lazio 8 - 0 Rappresentative Bellunese. All goals during the first half, Zarate 5, Goran Pandev 2, and Ledesma.

It surprised me to see that Lazio Coach Delio Rossi used for the entire second half goalkeeper Muslera. Carrizo played only the first half. I think Rossi did the right thing because if they still have Muslera why not give him a chance to see if he has improved?   Good also for Lazio striker Goran Pandev scoring 2 goals.



Rossi said after the match: "These friendly matches help me to see the characteristics of the new players and how they react during the match. Zarate? He is a fast player with good technique. He certainly presented himself very well."

De Rossi was also satisfied with the performance from new goalkeeper Juan Pablo Carrizo. "He is a player with charisma and personlity."

LINEUPS

Friendly Match
Lazio 8 - 0 R. Bellunese
Wednesday, July 16 2008

Referee: Comis (Belluno)

Lazio (first half): Carrizo, Siviglia, Rozehnal, Cribari, Belleri, Dabo, Ledesma, Kolarov, Meghni, Pandev, Zarate.

Lazio (second half): Muslera, Diakite, Tuia, Radu, Faraoni, Mudingayi, Firmani, Cinelli (Mendicino), Manfredini, Foggia, Makinwa.

Coachelio Rossi

Rappresentativa Bellunese: Antole, Auberti A., Lotti, Zoldan, Santin, Faso, Uberti, Da Rold, Gavaretti, D'Inea, Viel.

Subs: Bee, Sella, Galli, Zanella, serafini, De Cesero, Viel.

Coach: De Bona

Related Story:

- Lazio Starts their Pre Season Training with Bad Weather "Raining and Cold," July 13, 2008

Seeing the two formations used by Coach Delio Rossi, who do you think will be among the starting 11 and why? Don't forget to include Tommaso Rocchi who is right now wih the Italian National Olympic Team for the 2008 Summer Olympics Games.

After 12 days of hard work and two friendlies against Mezzocorona and Piacenza, thank you Pinzolo from Juventus

Anna Italia — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 07:47:54 GMT

By Anna Italia

It's so nice to see a club sharing with the voluntaries that make their job easier. This is why I am posting this "Thank You note" from Juventus official website to thank the volunteers who gave their best during Juventus Training Camp in Pinzolo.

Pinzolo, Wednesday, July 16, 2008 - Voluntaries during the 12 days of Juventus training Camp

The 2008 edition of the Pinzolo summer training camp has officially ended, after 12 days of hard work and two friendlies against Mezzocorona (on the 11th) and Piacenza (last night).

And just like in 2006 and 2007, this summer's experience was again a resounding success. First of all because the team worked well (even though they weren't at full ranks due to the internationals' absence), but also because the fans as always came in large numbers to support and “pamper” their idols, to use a term Claudio Ranieri loves to employ.

The team dedicated their last morning in Trentino to thanking the fans for their affection and most of all the many voluntary workers (approximately 100) for allowing the Bianconeri to train in the best way. After a brief relaxing session – mostly for those who played last night in Trento – all the lads went around the pitch as customary, giving out free footballs to the fans, and then took pictures with the Juventus Soccer School kids.

The whole Juventus squad then left the Val Rendena and departed for Turin, bidding farewell to everyone until next year. Thank you Pinzolo!

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Derby: Ronaldinho Magician v Mourinho the Tough, Del Piero and Buffon back, Baptista and Roma, Lazio, Napoli, Front Page Il Corriere dello Sport, Thursday, July 17, 2008

Anna Italia — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 07:11:10 GMT

By Anna Italia

Good morning, buon giorno!

Just finished reading La Gazzetta dello Sport and what do I find here in Il Corriere? Wow, the same DERBY idea!!! I am telling you this RONALDINHOMANIA is going on and on and on and on....

I am done with my cappuccino, so let me grab a protein shake to read the news from the Front Page of Il Corriere dello Sport from this morning Thursday, July 17, 2008. Are you ready? Ok, let's read the paper together...

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AC Milan, AS Roma, Fiorentina, Inter Milan, Juventus, Palermo, Sampdoria, Udinese

Well, just like in La Gazzetta dello Sport, the main news is about the DERBY.

The healdine says: Two new, great protagonists: It's Derby!

Ronaldinho - "Milan, the dream of my life, we will have fun," says Ronaldinho.

Wow, uuufa... you got to forgive me guys but my "milanista hear" is melting with the words of Ronaldinho, LOL. Ok...calm down Anna and continue reading the paper.

Ronaldinho is referred as THE MAGICIAN.

MOURINHO - "Inter, who ever makes a mistake, will pay and go back home."

This is one of the code of Mourinho. Then, correctly referred as "THE TOUGH guy"

The paper covers the whole Ronaldinho show arrival of Ronaldinho in Malpensa then in Milanello.

It shows also Ancelotti with the new Milan players.

Then, in the section of MOURINHO you see a photo of Sweden striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic also wanting to win the Champions League.

Hey this is the big challenge not only for MOURINHO but for every Inter player because if they don't win the Champions, what will be the argument for having sacked Mancini?

FC JUVENTUS

Now here is a headline that caught my attention IMMEDIATELY:

"Juve, here are Del Piero and Buffon."

Del Piero and Buffon joins their teammates after their extra vacation. In case you are still wondering why it got my attention. Well, hello, despite being a MILANISA, I admire Alessandro Del Piero and Saint goalkeeper Gigi Buffon too. THey are among my untouchables players.

AS ROMA

Well, the transfer market continues and Julio Baptista makes his statement. "Roma, I am ready to negotiate." Hum.. I still don't think Baptista is what Roma needs. How about you?

LAZIO

Lazio President Lottito continues with his spending... transfer markets still going on with Matuzalem and Lichteisner.

Napoli

Here is a good news for the Azzurrini. Young Russiotto is happy with his transfer to a big team. "My Napoli, I can't wait to start the season."

Which news surprised you and why or which news were you expecting in the front page and why?

Derbinho Ronaldinho v Mourinho, Mutu in Fiorentina Forever, Zannetti Challenges Poulsen, Front Page La Gazzetta dello Sport, Thursday, July 17, 2008

Anna Italia — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 05:32:03 GMT

By Anna Italia

Good morning, buon giorno!

After the RONALDINHOMANIA celebration yesterday, it seems the party is still going on with dedication of the front page from Italy's leading sports newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport.

I am ready with my fresh cappuccino. How about you? Are you having your coffee, tea, juice, espresso to read the news this morning?

Ok, let's get started.......Here is the front page of La Gazzetta dello Sport from this morning Thursday, July 17, 2008.

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AC Milan, AS Roma, Fiorentina, Inter Milan, Juventus, Palermo, Sampdoria, Udinese

The main headline is about the "DERBINHO."

This is in reference to the classic MILAN DERBY or il Derby della Molle between AC Milan and FC Inter.

Yesterday, both had their first Pre-Season Training and were the two main protagonists in Milan.

In this case, there was an individual derby between Milan player Ronaldinho and Inter coach Jose Mourinho.

No doubt that Ronaldinho was the victorious one getting the attention not only from Italian media but worldwide.

- Ronaldinho (photo) says that fans are in delirium, a total frenzy. While Ronaldinho tells the fans "I will make you have fun"

Reports that Milan Owner Silvio Berlusconi loves whats going on in Milan right now.

Now, here is the section where I am in total disagreement with Ronaldinho. It says that he wants to have "the #10" and has already an offer for Seedorf who is the one with the #10 right now.

Supposedly, they are having luch and Ronaldinho will ask Seedorf if he can have the #10. Well, what do you think?

I think it is unfair. 100% unfair because Seedorf has been a key player for Milan and he has earned his right to wear the #10. Here is the situation. The real reason behind is about Ronaldinho's marketing commitments where he has set the trademark with the #10. It will be up to Seedorf to accept or not. What do you think? Uffa.... I say no. Ronaldinho must think what about if in the future some othe rpalyer ask for his mumber, will he give it to him? I doubt it.

- Mourinho (photo)
says that "There is a hole in our midfield. Moratti knows it."

Sure, there is a hole and Mourinho wants to have Chelsea Frank Lampard to complete his dream team.

There is also the section saying that the memory of former coach Roberto Mancini is distant. Sure, this is because Mourinho has more "media charisma." Mourinho attacts more attention but let's not get carried away and forget about what Mancini did with Inter. Will Mourinho win 3 Scudetto in a row? You may argue that his objective is not the Scudetto but the Champions League. Mancini won 3 Scudetto and was sacked. Will that happen to Mourinho if doesn't win the Champions League?

Among the "Internal Code" of Mourinho, he says that "whoever arrives late will stay home on Sunday." Ouch! That's a big warning to all players used to arrive late to the trainings. Mourinho is not an easy pie to try. Hello, don't even challenge him because you have the losing part. Wonder whether Adriano will behave and not spending nights partying now with Mourinho. I hope Adriano really makes his comeback.

FIORENTINA

The font page has the photo of Fiorentina forward Adrian Mutu making the promise never to leave Fiorentina. Fiorentina for ever, he promises. With so many rumors of other big clubs interested to sign Mutu, starting with the personal call from Roma Captain Francesco Totti, Fiorentina wants to make sure that Mutu will remain with them. I think Mutu should stay with Fiorentina because there he is the main striker while if moving to another club he might be a second or third option. Well... unless if he goes to Roma where Totti will make sure Mutu gets a royal treatment and seeing him among the starting 11.

FC Juventus

This is just getting more interesting.... after Juventus fans contested Juventus president Cobolli for the transfer market of Poulsen, it is the turn for Zanetti!

I watched the news yesterday in RAI ITALIA and now see it here in La Gazzetta. Zanetti says that Poulsen would have to deal with him to get a place in the starting 11. Zanetti won't give up his position. Gee, so it will be super interesting to see how well Poulsen does during the remaining of the Pre-Season Training.

Ok guys, we finished reading the main news from La Gazzetta dello Sport. Time to go to the next newspaper Il Corriere dello Sport.

Which news surprised you and why or which news were you expecting in the front page and why?