Juventus need to strengthen their back line, that is apparent, but is Fabio Cannavaro the right man to lead the Bianconeri in the next decade? His protracted return to the Old Lady seems like a step in the wrong direction for Italy’s most successful team.
It has come to light this week that Fabio Cannavaro may be on the verge of a sensational return to Turin. As has been the case since January, Cannavaro has been free to negotiate with other clubs as his contract with Real Madrid expires in the summer. Rumours have flown from Russia to France via Manchester and Milan, whilst not forgetting hometown club Napoli. A club he has said he wants to end his career with.
But a curveball from leftfield was thrown when Cannavaro’s agent Enrico Fedele confirmed he was in talks with Juventus. “A month ago, Juventus asked if Fabio was still available and we began discussions after I had spoken to the player. Juve behaved totally correctly and approached Real Madrid first. Fabio would be very, very happy to return to the Bianconeri and would take a sizeable pay cut.”
This move has had a varied response from those associated with Juventus. Manager Claudio Ranieri has been very welcoming of the Azzurri captain. “When I was consulted about this I gave the go-ahead”, Ranieri said.
Giorgio Chiellini has also been supportive of the move, adding, “He would be a great signing for Juventus. We cannot forget that Cannavaro is a Ballon d’Or winner and the captain of the Italian national side. You can talk about his decision to leave the club when we were demoted to Serie B, but you cannot question his value as a player and as a man. We can all learn something from him.”
It is this decision to leave Juve that has left a bitter taste in the mouth of the tifosi, and the general consensus from them is that he would not be welcome at the Stadio Olimpico. However, much to Fabio’s credit he has made a plea to the fans, “I have explained my decision to leave 1000 times and I am ready to do it again. I am not worried because I will talk to the supporters.” Cannavaro states.
Juve legend Jose Altafini is critical of the decision to sign the 35 year old, “I don’t see how Cannavaro alone can resolve Juventus’ defensive problems. Age counts more in defence than in any other position and Juventus’ backline is already slow.”
It is believed Cannavaro will be offered a 4-year deal. One year playing with the opportunity to extend if he intends to carry on playing after the 2010 World Cup. After retirement Fabio will then move into a directors role.
If the move turns into reality then Fabio will link up with Chiellini in defence, a man he knows very well from the national side and thus will form a strong partnership quickly. He will also have behind him an old friend and teammate Gianluigi Buffon, who he spent 8 years at club level with. His experience will also prove invaluable to the young players at the Bianconeri.
But to me this move is a step in the wrong direction for Juventus. They do need to improve the defence, but at full back not centre. Chiellini and Legrottaglie have formed a formidable partnership this season, but Grygera, Molinaro and Mellberg have not been up to the Juve standard.
Whether his acquisition will be a success remains to be seen, but I feel Juve should be looking to strengthen the backline with more youthful talents not an aging star, regardless of how good he once was.
Thursday, 23 April 2009
Can Alan Shearer save the Magpies?
The return of Alan Shearer to Newcastle United was proclaimed as the ‘Return of the Messiah’ (MK II). Newcastle supporters far and wide rode the wave of optimism and turned up in their thousands to hail the saviour of their cherished club. Shearer, it seems, is the antidote to the cockney mafia poison. Now, it appears the healing properties of this former striker may take some time to cure this ailing club from the mire it finds itself in.
Being appointed in April fools day, I for one thought Alan Shearer becoming Newcastle manager was a wind-up. How wrong I was. His appointment was real and the Newcastle faithful heralded the arrival of a club legend, a man who would put right months of anguish. I was not fooled, and it doesn’t look like I will be proved wrong either.
In three games at the helm, Shearer has amassed one point and his team were very much second best in all three ties. When Chelsea turned up at St James’ Park, they did not read the script and looked comfortable as they brushed aside Shearers new look Newcastle. Stoke were next for the Toon and if it was not for Andy Carroll’s late equaliser, a spineless Newcastle would have lost once more.
On Saturday in North London, Newcastle were outclassed and outfought by a Tottenham side whose consistency has been called into question repeatedly throughout the season. Darren Bent scored the only goal for an impressive Spurs side, and the gamble of three centre backs did not work for the away side. This defeat left the Magpies four points adrift of safety and in a desperate situation.
Having not registered a win in eight games, it would appear Newcastle have an uphill struggle on their hands. Shearer has called for his precious Toon to win their three remaining home games. Portsmouth, Middlesbrough and Fulham have all to travel north. Shearer said, “We’ll be expected to win those and we have to.” Whether this will occur, I have my doubts.
Holding an away record of two victories, six draws and nine defeats. Visiting Aston Villa and Liverpool will not be easy tasks. Given Liverpool dispensed Newcastle with their heaviest defeat of the season, a 5-1 drubbing in December, these are three points the Anfield club will surely take. Thus, it can be concluded Shearer has made one correct decision as manager … identifying three victories at St James’ Park are a must if salvation is to be achieved.
The players are behind him, Nicky Butt who has gone through more Newcastle managers than hot dinners, 10 in total, said of Shearer, “He’s brought a spring in the step in and around the club everyone’s buzzing,” Meanwhile, the ever injured Alan Smith has been promised a large role in the relegation run-in by Shearer. “I spoke to the manager when he came in and he said he wanted me to be a big part of his squad but I’d only played two games all season,” Smith said.
It remains to be seen whether Alan Shearer can save his beloved Newcastle United. A formidable effort will most certainly be needed.
Being appointed in April fools day, I for one thought Alan Shearer becoming Newcastle manager was a wind-up. How wrong I was. His appointment was real and the Newcastle faithful heralded the arrival of a club legend, a man who would put right months of anguish. I was not fooled, and it doesn’t look like I will be proved wrong either.
In three games at the helm, Shearer has amassed one point and his team were very much second best in all three ties. When Chelsea turned up at St James’ Park, they did not read the script and looked comfortable as they brushed aside Shearers new look Newcastle. Stoke were next for the Toon and if it was not for Andy Carroll’s late equaliser, a spineless Newcastle would have lost once more.
On Saturday in North London, Newcastle were outclassed and outfought by a Tottenham side whose consistency has been called into question repeatedly throughout the season. Darren Bent scored the only goal for an impressive Spurs side, and the gamble of three centre backs did not work for the away side. This defeat left the Magpies four points adrift of safety and in a desperate situation.
Having not registered a win in eight games, it would appear Newcastle have an uphill struggle on their hands. Shearer has called for his precious Toon to win their three remaining home games. Portsmouth, Middlesbrough and Fulham have all to travel north. Shearer said, “We’ll be expected to win those and we have to.” Whether this will occur, I have my doubts.
Holding an away record of two victories, six draws and nine defeats. Visiting Aston Villa and Liverpool will not be easy tasks. Given Liverpool dispensed Newcastle with their heaviest defeat of the season, a 5-1 drubbing in December, these are three points the Anfield club will surely take. Thus, it can be concluded Shearer has made one correct decision as manager … identifying three victories at St James’ Park are a must if salvation is to be achieved.
The players are behind him, Nicky Butt who has gone through more Newcastle managers than hot dinners, 10 in total, said of Shearer, “He’s brought a spring in the step in and around the club everyone’s buzzing,” Meanwhile, the ever injured Alan Smith has been promised a large role in the relegation run-in by Shearer. “I spoke to the manager when he came in and he said he wanted me to be a big part of his squad but I’d only played two games all season,” Smith said.
It remains to be seen whether Alan Shearer can save his beloved Newcastle United. A formidable effort will most certainly be needed.
Wednesday, 22 April 2009
Will Real Madrid retain thier La Liga title?
With Real Madrid posting a somewhat fortuitous yet epic 3-2 victory against Getafe. Goals from Guti and Gonzalo Higuain kept the pressure on rivals Barcelona whilst also reducing the deficit at the top of La Liga to 3 points, for 24 hours at least. But I ask can Real Madrid usurp their great rivals and ultimately claim the crown of Spanish champions?
With only a handful of games left Real Madrid have closed the gap from a momentous 12 points to a miniscule 3 points. Barcelona have yet to face Sevilla but it will indeed be a tough game for the Blaugrana, and the added element of Madrid hot on their heels will surely increase the pressure on Pep Guardiola's side.
Juande Ramos has taken Madrid’s season by the scruff of the neck and led them on a 17 match unbeaten run. He could also topple one of the greatest Spanish club sides of recent history in doing so. But his team don’t seem to get the credit they are due, with many observers keen to concentrate on Barcelona’s brand of ‘total football’
One important element in Real’s resurgence has been the impact of Higuain. His goals against Malaga and Getafe are proof he is a match winner and real asset to the side. He is taking the chances that are presented to him and is more effective than either Huntelaar or Sneijder.
Alongside Higuain is Arjen Robben who is Real Madrid’s only recognised winger and can unlock defences in the blink of an eye, but his body seems to be made of glass which keeps him out of important games such as the upcoming El Classico fixture. His attitude has also been brought into question by teammates, most notably fellow Dutchman Jan Klass Huntelaar, who commented recently on his greediness and lack of team play.
Lassana Diarra has been a revelation under Ramos, he looks as if he’s played in Madrid all his life while Los Merengues have finally found a player to fill the void of Claude Makelele. His passing, anticipation and work rate have been world class. As many of his fellow peers have stated he is indispensable to the side, and I agree completely.
In addition a special mention must go to Iker Casillas, who is captain in waiting, Mr Real Madrid and one of the worlds very best goalkeepers. He marshals a defence that includes two fullback come wingers, a sometimes rash Pepe, who incidentally was sent off against Getafe for violently lashing out at Javier Casquero, and Fabio Cannavaro, who is nowhere near his World Cup winning best.
With key players in key positions Juande has the team fitter and more motivated than the previous regime, he has stopped the ship from sinking and led them to the brink of what would be an unprecedented achievement. Barcelona have the Copa del Rey to contend with, in addition to the Champions League, whereas Madrid only have to play once a week. The players will be fresh and hungry, and there will be less rotation of the squad, thus the strongest team shall take to the field each week. Can Real Madrid retain their La Liga crown? It is not as improbable as you may think.
With only a handful of games left Real Madrid have closed the gap from a momentous 12 points to a miniscule 3 points. Barcelona have yet to face Sevilla but it will indeed be a tough game for the Blaugrana, and the added element of Madrid hot on their heels will surely increase the pressure on Pep Guardiola's side.
Juande Ramos has taken Madrid’s season by the scruff of the neck and led them on a 17 match unbeaten run. He could also topple one of the greatest Spanish club sides of recent history in doing so. But his team don’t seem to get the credit they are due, with many observers keen to concentrate on Barcelona’s brand of ‘total football’
One important element in Real’s resurgence has been the impact of Higuain. His goals against Malaga and Getafe are proof he is a match winner and real asset to the side. He is taking the chances that are presented to him and is more effective than either Huntelaar or Sneijder.
Alongside Higuain is Arjen Robben who is Real Madrid’s only recognised winger and can unlock defences in the blink of an eye, but his body seems to be made of glass which keeps him out of important games such as the upcoming El Classico fixture. His attitude has also been brought into question by teammates, most notably fellow Dutchman Jan Klass Huntelaar, who commented recently on his greediness and lack of team play.
Lassana Diarra has been a revelation under Ramos, he looks as if he’s played in Madrid all his life while Los Merengues have finally found a player to fill the void of Claude Makelele. His passing, anticipation and work rate have been world class. As many of his fellow peers have stated he is indispensable to the side, and I agree completely.
In addition a special mention must go to Iker Casillas, who is captain in waiting, Mr Real Madrid and one of the worlds very best goalkeepers. He marshals a defence that includes two fullback come wingers, a sometimes rash Pepe, who incidentally was sent off against Getafe for violently lashing out at Javier Casquero, and Fabio Cannavaro, who is nowhere near his World Cup winning best.
With key players in key positions Juande has the team fitter and more motivated than the previous regime, he has stopped the ship from sinking and led them to the brink of what would be an unprecedented achievement. Barcelona have the Copa del Rey to contend with, in addition to the Champions League, whereas Madrid only have to play once a week. The players will be fresh and hungry, and there will be less rotation of the squad, thus the strongest team shall take to the field each week. Can Real Madrid retain their La Liga crown? It is not as improbable as you may think.
Thursday, 9 April 2009
Time for Manchester United stars to dig deep?
It has been nearly 48 hours and I still cannot believe we conceded a last minute equaliser. But what concerns me more is the manner in which we conceded and also the performance which was devoid of any passion or commitment. With all due respect a 2-2 home draw against Porto is not a result that would have pleased most fans and if you listen to the Manchester United Football FanCast, you will get a sense of the disbelief Mariano Gonzalez has induced on three passionate fans.
Manchester United went into the Champions League Quarter-Final with a renewed sense of optimism. Federico Macheda and his wonder strike lifted the mood amongst the Old Trafford faithful after two back-to-back defeats. However, I believe it merely papered over the cracks of a disintegrating defence. Poor performances against Liverpool, Fulham, Aston Villa and now Porto has many United fans scratching their heads in disbelief, as their side only one month ago looked unbeatable.
Before Liverpool visited the Theatre of Dreams, United were indeed riding the crest of a wave. They hadn't been beaten since 2008 and had not conceded a goal in five million games, then suddenly Steven Gerrard is kissing the camera and United look five million miles from the team that broke so many records. Some said this was a one off, Fulham proved everyone wrong.
After the much needed international break, Aston Villa travelled to Old Trafford and after being humbled by Liverpool 5-0 in their last game, few would have backed them against United. Watching in amazement, it seemed as though no one in red cared about the game, result or title. The lack of fight in the first 70 minutes was, in a word, shocking. Ultimately United did not deserve the victory but credit must go to their young Italian for producing a moment of magic.
Enter FC Porto, beaten twice in 24 games but still perceived as one of the weaker sides. They passed the ball around a poor trio of Carrick, Scholes and Fletcher as if they weren't present. The Portuguese side counter-attacked with a vigour that most teams would have found difficult to cope with and defended resolutely (disregarding Rooney's first goal).
Assessing these four games, it would appear we have had or are in the middle of our ‘blip' but most of all deficiencies have been shown at the back and in centre midfield. I feel we have missed Owen Hargreaves, as a player who could harass the opposition would have been very handy, especially against Porto.
The form over the last 3 weeks or so has been woeful and there is not one single player who can be considered immune from criticism. It is now that the team need to find that little bit extra as they have come so far and look as if they want to fall at the final hurdle. Not much talk of quintuples now is there.
Manchester United went into the Champions League Quarter-Final with a renewed sense of optimism. Federico Macheda and his wonder strike lifted the mood amongst the Old Trafford faithful after two back-to-back defeats. However, I believe it merely papered over the cracks of a disintegrating defence. Poor performances against Liverpool, Fulham, Aston Villa and now Porto has many United fans scratching their heads in disbelief, as their side only one month ago looked unbeatable.
Before Liverpool visited the Theatre of Dreams, United were indeed riding the crest of a wave. They hadn't been beaten since 2008 and had not conceded a goal in five million games, then suddenly Steven Gerrard is kissing the camera and United look five million miles from the team that broke so many records. Some said this was a one off, Fulham proved everyone wrong.
After the much needed international break, Aston Villa travelled to Old Trafford and after being humbled by Liverpool 5-0 in their last game, few would have backed them against United. Watching in amazement, it seemed as though no one in red cared about the game, result or title. The lack of fight in the first 70 minutes was, in a word, shocking. Ultimately United did not deserve the victory but credit must go to their young Italian for producing a moment of magic.
Enter FC Porto, beaten twice in 24 games but still perceived as one of the weaker sides. They passed the ball around a poor trio of Carrick, Scholes and Fletcher as if they weren't present. The Portuguese side counter-attacked with a vigour that most teams would have found difficult to cope with and defended resolutely (disregarding Rooney's first goal).
Assessing these four games, it would appear we have had or are in the middle of our ‘blip' but most of all deficiencies have been shown at the back and in centre midfield. I feel we have missed Owen Hargreaves, as a player who could harass the opposition would have been very handy, especially against Porto.
The form over the last 3 weeks or so has been woeful and there is not one single player who can be considered immune from criticism. It is now that the team need to find that little bit extra as they have come so far and look as if they want to fall at the final hurdle. Not much talk of quintuples now is there.
Wednesday, 8 April 2009
Let's hope Inter Milan's 'Emperor' can turn his career around
Where's Adriano? A question asked my Jose Mourinho, Massimo Moratti and every other Interista on the planet. Having been on international duty with Brazil, l'imperatore was expected back in Milan on Friday, but he did not appear. Nothing new for Adriano but this time he was non-contactable and it seemed no one knew where he was. Instead of contempt or anger towards the troubled star, Mourinho voiced concern "I am neither angry nor critical. I am only sad and the best thing is to say nothing. We will see how things end up for him but at the moment I think about the person more than the player."
A sentiment echoed by international team-mate Kaka, "Let's hope for the best and that he will not quit football because he is a wonderful lad," he said.
Whilst early developments over the weekend pointed to Adriano being missing. It appears this latest event in the troubled stars career was brought about by the break up of his relationship with ex-girlfriend Joana Machado.
But it seems Adriano has returned to the world at large after being spotted at a party in the slums of Rio, he is now back with his family and intends to remain until after the Flamengo-Fluminense derby.
Adriano was once the most feared striker on the planet and most thought he would go on to become a world-beater, scooping up team and individual awards. He had pace, power and the samba skills present in every Brazil lain footballer.
It was however in 2004, the death of his father, with whom he was extremely close, seems to have scarred the burly striker in a very profound way. His behavior has become more and more erratic, missing training sessions, loss of form, being spotted in nightclubs and even coming to training ‘under the influence.' After this latest incident we can now see how fragile the mind of Adriano has become.
I do not want to make excuses for l'imperatore but he is clearly a troubled man, but on the other hand he has gone through experiences that most people encounter more often than not. He can be forgiven for that, but for me, he needs to grow up and deal with these troubles or risk losing any semblance of the career he has left, otherwise he will fade into obscurity like many have done in the past.
At Inter he is with a club that might well stand by him, as they did with Nwankwo Kanu and his countryman Ronaldo, albeit their ailments were more physical, they still received much needed support though difficult times.
Let's hope and pray that ‘The Emperor' can turn his career round and finally defeat his demons.
A sentiment echoed by international team-mate Kaka, "Let's hope for the best and that he will not quit football because he is a wonderful lad," he said.
Whilst early developments over the weekend pointed to Adriano being missing. It appears this latest event in the troubled stars career was brought about by the break up of his relationship with ex-girlfriend Joana Machado.
But it seems Adriano has returned to the world at large after being spotted at a party in the slums of Rio, he is now back with his family and intends to remain until after the Flamengo-Fluminense derby.
Adriano was once the most feared striker on the planet and most thought he would go on to become a world-beater, scooping up team and individual awards. He had pace, power and the samba skills present in every Brazil lain footballer.
It was however in 2004, the death of his father, with whom he was extremely close, seems to have scarred the burly striker in a very profound way. His behavior has become more and more erratic, missing training sessions, loss of form, being spotted in nightclubs and even coming to training ‘under the influence.' After this latest incident we can now see how fragile the mind of Adriano has become.
I do not want to make excuses for l'imperatore but he is clearly a troubled man, but on the other hand he has gone through experiences that most people encounter more often than not. He can be forgiven for that, but for me, he needs to grow up and deal with these troubles or risk losing any semblance of the career he has left, otherwise he will fade into obscurity like many have done in the past.
At Inter he is with a club that might well stand by him, as they did with Nwankwo Kanu and his countryman Ronaldo, albeit their ailments were more physical, they still received much needed support though difficult times.
Let's hope and pray that ‘The Emperor' can turn his career round and finally defeat his demons.
Why Juventus clearly have a case for the defence
It is official; the race for the Scudetto is over! With Juventus slipping up against lowly Chievo, their somewhat slim title hope have now well and truly been extinguished. But with second place sewn up and Champions League football guaranteed next season, I feel an intelligent and well thought out transfer strategy from Alessio Secco could take the Old Lady to the summit of Serie A and enhance their impact on European competition.
Juventus have been constantly linked with playmakers and attacking wide players, Diego, David Silva, Franck Ribery and Antonio Cassano. All of which would improve their squad but will all cost a fair few Euros. A replacement for Nedved is imperative but not one that will stifle the development of the ‘Atomic Ant' Sebastian Giovinco.
In my view they should look to invest in remoulding their backline. The question must be asked would Grygera, Molinaro and Mellberg get anywhere near the Juve starting eleven pre Calciopoli?
Grygera is at best an average full-back no better then Jonathan Zebina but with out the anger issues. Molinaro has come in for criticism this season and doesn't look comfortable when put under pressure. While Mellberg produced a horror show against Cheivo and does not look to be the answer for the Bianconeri. Only Giorgio Chiellini can be considered a world-class defender, and when alongside Nicola Legrottaglie they seem to complement each other well.
It would therefore seem apparent that a couple of fullbacks, most certainly on the left side and a centre back would be paramount in the transfer policy of Juventus this summer, but judging by the recent speculation, it appears these problems will not be addressed. A mistake in my view that exudes a lack of knowledge on the part of Secco, who is no Luciano Moggi (Pre Calciopoli).
The man between the sticks Gianluigi Buffon has also come under some pressure from fans, as he no longer seems to be making those mesmeric saves of two years ago, and one fan in Tuttosport has even called for Alex Manninger to be given the No.1 slot, "with Buffon conceding two-three goals a game, he doesn't deserve to be starting right now! Give us back Manninger!" Strong words indeed.
Thus it falls to transfer guru Secco to rectify these faults and aid Claudio Ranieri in his quest to put Juventus back on top of Serie A.
Juventus have been constantly linked with playmakers and attacking wide players, Diego, David Silva, Franck Ribery and Antonio Cassano. All of which would improve their squad but will all cost a fair few Euros. A replacement for Nedved is imperative but not one that will stifle the development of the ‘Atomic Ant' Sebastian Giovinco.
In my view they should look to invest in remoulding their backline. The question must be asked would Grygera, Molinaro and Mellberg get anywhere near the Juve starting eleven pre Calciopoli?
Grygera is at best an average full-back no better then Jonathan Zebina but with out the anger issues. Molinaro has come in for criticism this season and doesn't look comfortable when put under pressure. While Mellberg produced a horror show against Cheivo and does not look to be the answer for the Bianconeri. Only Giorgio Chiellini can be considered a world-class defender, and when alongside Nicola Legrottaglie they seem to complement each other well.
It would therefore seem apparent that a couple of fullbacks, most certainly on the left side and a centre back would be paramount in the transfer policy of Juventus this summer, but judging by the recent speculation, it appears these problems will not be addressed. A mistake in my view that exudes a lack of knowledge on the part of Secco, who is no Luciano Moggi (Pre Calciopoli).
The man between the sticks Gianluigi Buffon has also come under some pressure from fans, as he no longer seems to be making those mesmeric saves of two years ago, and one fan in Tuttosport has even called for Alex Manninger to be given the No.1 slot, "with Buffon conceding two-three goals a game, he doesn't deserve to be starting right now! Give us back Manninger!" Strong words indeed.
Thus it falls to transfer guru Secco to rectify these faults and aid Claudio Ranieri in his quest to put Juventus back on top of Serie A.
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