Football Zone

Gattuso Joins The Sheva Brigade

2008-03-13T10:22:00.000-07:00

Several other Milan players have gone on record as saying that they would welcome the Chelsea flop back to the club with open arms, in the face of increasing rumours tipping the deeply unsettled striker for a sentimental return. “If the club wanted to sign Shevchenko, he would be a good addition,” said Gattuso. “He hasn’t succeeded to play at the top of his abilities in England, but if he returned he would have such a great hunger and would be good for the atmosphere. “I have heard that Sheva doesn’t want to return, but the important thing is that we bring in a top striker and other champions. “Didier Drogba is the kind of man who can make the difference and Luca Toni is also a match-winner,” Gattuso added, before sharing his thoughts on the potentially career ending injury of Ronaldo. “It has upset me to see him out of action,” the World Cup winner continued. “He is football and he shouldn’t have to be reduced to watching. “His future? I can’t make judgements but I’m sure that he will only sign a renewal to his contract if he manages to recover.”
Derek Wanner, Goal.com

Henry Demands 4-4-2 At Barça

2008-03-13T10:19:00.001-07:00

Marca contend that Thierry Henry's angry exit from Camp Nou after Sunday's defeat to Villarreal wasn't only down to his substitution, but also unhappiness with the team's style of play.

Coach Frank Rijkaard is an advocate of Barcelona's 4-3-3 style of play, with Henry at odds with this choice.

The forward apparently feels himself more suited to a 4-4-2 with an imbalanced forward line, similar to that which he did so well in at Arsenal.

At the Emirates he found himself supported by the likes of Dennis Bergkamp or Robin Van Persie, with four midfielders behind. This gave him the freedom in which to manouevre, and saw him establish himself as the Gunners' top scorer.

Now, Henry wants to play a similar role with Samuel Eto'o as his foil, and use a system that relies more on pace than the current one. The Frenchman has struggled to make his mark amid the tight marking in Spain, and would like to play a more vertical form of football. Henry, 30, signed on at Camp Nou last summer in a £16.1m (€21.1m) deal. He has netted seven Liga goals in 21 appearances so far, and a total of 12 for the season.

Steve Michaels, Goal.com

Drogba, Lampard To Follow Mourinho

2008-03-13T10:07:00.000-07:00

The media has gone into overdrive regarding the situation at Inter, following Roberto Mancini’s sensational 24-hour u-turn decision not to stand down as coach. Many of the morning’s newspapers firmly believe that Mancini will still leave in June, and will be replaced by Jose Mourinho. Following the Portuguese tactician could be two of his key men from his time at Chelsea; Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard. Drogba seems certain to quit Stamford Bridge at the end of the season, as he wants a new challenge, and he has stated in the past that he will either end up in Milan or Barcelona. Meanwhile Lampard’s future in West London is also in doubt after the midfielder was quoted as saying that he was frustrated by the club’s stance over a new contract. “I've been approached a few times by the club saying they are going to come to me with something and they haven't,” he told the Daily Mail. "That means they're saying they will have to wait until the summer and I don't really know what that means. It's dragged on this season and that's not ideal for me.” Lampard scored four goals last night as Chelsea thrashed sorry Derby 6-1 in the English Premiership.

Anthony Sormani

Football News: Robben Aiming For Early Return

2008-03-11T09:54:00.000-07:00

The Dutchman was stunned by the latest setback and is said to have asked medical staff why they think he is susceptible to knocks and blows. "I do not understand why I have such bad luck," Robben said. "But I am going to double my work rate and be back within two weeks." A hard tackle from Quique Álvarez in Madrid's win at Recreativo saw Robben pick up an ankle injury that was predicted to keep him sidelined for between four and six weeks. But he now hopes to halve that highest estimation and return to playing again in time to appear against Valencia and the physiotherapists and club doctors have been impressed with his effort. Coach Bernd Schuster makes daily check-ups on the former Chelsea winger to see how his recovery is coming along and has also been delighted that he is putting in double shifts in the gym.

Lucas Brown, Goal.com

Football Zone: Madrid Contact Mourinho - Report

2008-03-10T09:08:00.000-07:00

The German trainer is under increasing pressure and Marca believe that the sudden downturn in fortunes on the pitch has been compounded by his behaviour off it. Schuster arrived at the Bernabéu last summer and promised attractive football, but his show of disgust at the press earned him an early rebuke from the board. While the club were still in every competition, Madrid thought that they had the right man but defeat in both legs against Roma have made them question that. Mourinho is reported to have been asked if he would consider the post if it were available and Marca state that the Portuguese would jump at the chance. According to the Madrid-biased paper, the trainer stated in 2007: "I would love to coach Real Madrid." While the former Chelsea boss has been linked to AC Milan, Inter and even Barcelona, the chance to take over Los Merengues could prove to be the biggest attraction. President Ramón Calderón gave Schuster the dreaded vote of confidence recently as he claimed that the board still had faith in the coach. But after a lavish spending spree last summer, the trainer's statement that injuries were partly to blame for the Champions League exit did not go down well. Mourinho has been very vocal this week and stated that his next job would certainly be in Spain or Italy, before he heads back to England and then takes over as coach of Portugal.
Ian Dixon, Goal.com

Kaka: Season Not Good Enough

2008-03-10T08:58:00.001-07:00

The Rossoneri’s chances of picking up any major silverware from now until the end of the season is over after they were dumped out of the Champions League last week by Arsenal. They are also struggling domestically, and are a massive 18 points behind league-leaders Inter, in fifth place. "We cannot consider our season as being successful, we can only say it's been good,” said Kaka. “The triumphs of Yokohama [Club World Cup] and Monte Carlo [European Super Cup] were linked to the previous Champions League success, while this season our goals were to be different. "First there was the Champions League, the second was we had to be involved in the championship race. A distant third was to finish in the Champions League places." Yesterday afternoon Milan picked up a crucial 3-1 win at Empoli to close to within one point of Fiorentina in the fourth and final Champions League position. Kaka created the second for Massimo Ambrosini, while he added the third himself in the penultimate minute of the game. "The goal I scored was important both for the team and for me personally because it had been a while since I had scored,” the Brazilian stated. “Being decisive, whether with a goal or an assist as I was for the second goal, is very important to me. “We managed to win and get three very important points for our position in the league. The run-in has started, we had 12 finals to play, now we have only 11 because one has already been won."
Roberto Rossi

Maldini & Ambrosini Want Sheva

2008-03-10T08:18:00.000-07:00

Shevchenko had seven glorious years with Milan, until he moved to Chelsea for €45m in 2006. The move has not worked out well, and the Ukrainian has struggled badly to adapt to Premiership football. Last week Milan President Silvio Berlusconi admitted that Sheva could return to Milan in the summer. “I regularly hear from Andriy,” the former Italian prime minister revealed. “And I believe that Roman Abramovich will have no difficulties letting him go. “The fans should understand that it would be the right choice. Andriy is a personable player and represents the best solution for us.” Both Maldini and Ambrosini have admitted that they would welcome the 31-year-old back at San Siro. “At Milan there is always room for those who have done a lot,” explained Maldini. “There is always space for those who have left a mark on the history of the club.” “We cannot decide these things,” added Ambrosini. “I can only say that Sheva is a friend and that we will welcome him with enthusiasm if he were to leave London.”

Roberto Rossi

Football Breaking: Ronaldo: No English Sides Please

2008-03-07T22:15:00.000-08:00

Manchester United picked up a 1-0 home win against Lyon thanks to a Cristiano Ronaldo strike to progress to the quarter-finals 2-1 on aggregate.With Arsenal having qualified by beating Milan, and Chelsea and Liverpool also on pole position to join them, the chances of them meeting an English team are almost even.However, that is not something Ronaldo wants just yet.“I would prefer to play a foreign team [in the quarter-finals]. Then an English team in the semi-finals or the finals, that would be fantastic,” he said. "The team is more mature, and the big focus is to win the Champions League. But we also want to win the Premier League, and the FA Cup. "We have the opportunity, we have the players and we have the squad."He is also the top scorer in the competition along with Lionel Messi, having scored six goals already. Kaka was the star of last season's tournament, something that won him the Ballon d'Or.“If I am top scorer, that would be wonderful, and if I get the chance, I will look forward to it. But, I am not thinking about that - I am thinking about getting my game,” he concluded.

Neal Glew, Goal.com

Footbal Transfer:Milan Can Have Sheva For €10m – Report

2008-03-07T22:09:00.000-08:00

Many people have painted Milan's exit from the Champions League on Tuesday night as the end of an era, and it is clear that the club needs to make some reinforcements in the summer. The primary position that needs strengthening is up-front, and yesterday President Silvio Berlusconi declared that he wanted to bring back Chelsea’s Andriy Shevchenko to San Siro. “I regularly hear from Andriy,” the former Italian prime minister revealed. “And I believe that Roman Abramovich will have no difficulties letting him go. “The fans should understand that it would be the right choice. Andriy is a personable player and represents the best solution for us.” Shevchenko had seven glorious years with Milan, until he moved to Chelsea for €45m in 2006. The move has not worked out well however, and the Gazzetta says that the 31-year-old will be allowed to rejoin his former club if Milan come up with €10m.

Roberto Rossi

Football objective: We'll Reach Our Objective - Seedorf

2008-03-07T21:58:00.000-08:00

The elimination from the Champions League at the hands of Arsenal forces Milan to change their plans ahead of the final part of the season, as they will now be able to focus completely on the fourth place which is just four points away.
It will certainly be an unusual couple of months for Milan, who are so used to going far in the Champions League, but Clarence Seedorf tried to motivate the squad ahead of the next match against Empoli this weekend.
"I expect to see a strong reaction starting from the match against Empoli," the midfielder said, "which this team has often been able to do even after tough defeats. We have to find the strength to keep going until the end, and we can't afford to go to Empoli and have a stroll.
"We have to believe in it, because last year we did more complicated things. Now we'll have the chance to train and get back our injured players. We are confident that at the end of the season we will reach our objective."
The defeat against Arsenal certainly caused a lot of disappointment, but Seedorf preferred to talk about the positive side of that evening at San Siro.
"I prefer to talk about the fact we were all left deeply impressed by the applause of San Siro at the end of the game, because the fans understood we did everything we could," he continued.
"Certainly we are sad, but we're also proud to have experienced a few incredible years, a period which concluded against a great team."

Danilo Pochini

Football Job :Lippi To Take Over At Milan?

2008-03-05T08:38:00.000-08:00

The Rossoneri’s painful exit from the Champions League last night to Arsenal has led to talk of an end of season revolution at the club. This could start with Coach Carlo Ancelotti, who after seven wonderful years at San Siro, may have finally reached the end of his term in office. The Corriere says that Lippi is being lined up as a replacement for Ancelotti, as Milan aim to build a new winning cycle. Lippi has been out of the game since stepping down as coach of the Italy national team following their World Cup success in Germany in 2006. Despite numerous offers to return to the bench, the Viareggio-born tactician has so far rejected all overtures. However he has stated on numerous occasions that he will be returning to coaching in time for the start of next season. Ancelotti meanwhile could find himself taking over at Barcelona, as current boss Frank Rijkaard is expected to move on to pastures new at the end of the campaign.

Roberto Rossi

Football Break:Not The Real Milan – Oddo

2008-03-05T08:24:00.000-08:00

Carlo Ancelotti’s men were outplayed for large periods of the match as they lost 2-0 at San Siro and were dumped out of the Champions League at the last 16 stage. "My performance doesn’t mean much, even though it was good. We did not play like Milan,” said Oddo. “We are sorry for the fans and also for us. Arsenal were really good. Now we can understand the merits we had last year, when we were very good and also lucky. In this season we made a few too many mistakes… and today this was the case as well because we were eliminated.” Oddo then went on to stress that Milan must now turn their attention to Serie A and make sure they finish in the top four in order to qualify for next season’s Champions League. The Rossoneri are currently in fifth place, four points behind Fiorentina in the position above them. “Now let’s think about the league, which we need to get back into Europe. The fans will be sorry and we as much as them, but I hope they remain close to us,” he stated. “It can happen to exit a competition, after many years of success, but there is surely the will to return. “At Empoli [this weekend] it will not be easy, also because this defeat will be felt from the psychological level.”

Roberto Rossi

Football News:Real Madrid Ready To Tempt Ronaldo With World's Top Salary

2008-03-03T06:28:00.000-08:00

The Daily Star claims that Spanish league leaders Real Madrid are desperate to lure Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo to the Bernabeu, and are willing to pay him £160,000 a week - which would make him the highest paid footballer in the world. It could just be newspaper hot air - 23-year-old Ronaldo only signed a new £120,000-a-week, five-year deal with the Red Devils a year ago, while United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has repeatedly insisted he wants the prolific winger to stay. But the Star notes that Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon told a forum of the club's fans at the weekend: "To sign Cristiano Ronaldo is a dream, but it is not impossible." Ronaldo has scored 29 goals for United in all competitions so far this season, and his agent, Jorge Mendes, said: "Cristiano Ronaldo is the player most desired in the world. "All the big clubs want to him, but he is currently with Manchester United and his future depends on this club. "I am a football agent and I have meetings with people from Madrid and Barcelona all the time, but it is not always about Cristiano." United will undoubtedly not welcome any interest in their player fro Madrid or anywhere else while he remains under contract to them.

Mark Hinton, Goal.com

Football Transfer : Barça Cool Garay Talks?

2008-02-28T08:55:00.001-08:00

Barcelona were though to have all but sealed the signature of the 21 year-old Argentine defender, but according to Sport.es, his agents are starting to grow concerned at the lack of contact they have received from the club. Ricardo Schlieper and Fabián Basualdo flew into Spain two weeks ago to try and facilitate negotiations between Barça and Racing and met with the clubs to discuss a potential deal. Despite reports in the Spanish press - notably in Diario Sport - that Barcelona had agreed an €18 million fee for the defender on a five-year contract, no official agreement was reached during that meeting. Since then, Barcelona appear to have become more relaxed in their pursuit of Garay, and the agents are becoming worried that the initial talks will not materialise into a move for their client. It would be the second time a potential move to one of Spain's big two has fallen through for Garay after a move to Real Madrid last summer suffered a similar fate. A number of other clubs, including Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool, Lyon, Juventus, have previously been linked with moves for Garay and should Barcelona fail to push the deal through, there is certain to be a lot of interest in his signature come the summer.

Nick Dorrington

Football Gambling :Donadoni Fears Tired Players Ahead Of Euro 2008

2008-02-28T08:48:00.000-08:00

Donadoni took over as Azzurri boss from World Cup winning tactician Marcello Lippi, and he has admitted that it wasn't easy when expectancy levels were so high. “It’s never easy when everybody has such great expectations,” Donadoni told UEFA.com. “However, the team has responded perfectly in all respects. When I took the job I inherited a group of top-level players and a very good coaching staff who gave me great support. Everything went well after that.” Italy go into Euro 2008 as the favourites to win the tournament, however they have been placed in the 'Group of Death' alongside Holland, Romania and France. “You start from zero in each competition,” the 44-year-old stressed. “At every stage we have to measure ourselves against our opponents who will try and cause us trouble. There is nothing new about that – we just need the right determination. “I would like to have a team in good athletic condition. That is my biggest worry ahead of the finals. If you have that then it doesn’t make much difference whether you face France, Holland or Austria, you can face any opponent without fear. “As long as the mental and physical conditions are correct, we will be confident. "Obviously the main men are the players and it’s just important that they don’t pick up any injuries or come into the tournament too tired. That’s crucial if you want to play your best at the European Championships or the World Cup.” Italy's next game is a friendly with Spain on March 26.

Anthony Sormani

Kaka Should Be An Accountant - Mancini

2008-02-27T06:10:00.000-08:00

Kaka has complained in the press recently about the excessive fouls he is suffering recently, and that he is not receiving enough protection from referees. This provoked Milan Vice President Adriano Galliani to claim that the Brazilian could see his career ended at a very young age, just like former star Marco Van Basten, unless something is done about the situation. Now Mancini, who himself was subjected to some rough treatment as a player, has had his say on the matter regarding Kaka. "There are fouls and there always have been," he said. "In recent years the situation hasn't changed much. Sadly whoever's job it is to be an attacker will always suffer too many fouls. "If one doesn't want tackles, they should become an accountant." Mancini is currently preparing his Inter team for tonight's big Serie A match with Roma at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza.

Luca Capofranco

Lampard Blasts Arrogant And Ungrateful Youngsters

2008-02-26T07:20:00.000-08:00

Young players today are disrespectful and don't appreciate just how cushy their lives are, according to England international Frank Lampard. The now Chelsea star spent his days as a youth trainee cleaning the boots of the West Ham first team and learning about respect, something he insists taught him valuable lessons about behaviour and attitude on and off the pitch. "Sometimes I cringe at the way football has gone here with the young players," Lampard said in the Daily Mail. "Everything is easy. They don't have to clean boots any more, they drive BMW's, they get a very easy life. "Sometimes they walk past you and don't give you a second look," added the 29-year-old of the arrogance of some of the youngsters at Chelsea. "I'd love to go back to the days of more respect and a kid going out and doing double training sessions - that's what got me where I am."

Goal.com UK

Kaka To Miss Arsenal Clash?

2008-02-26T07:07:00.000-08:00

The European and World Footballer of the Year has been playing with a niggling sensation in his knee for quite some time now, but the problem has worsened in recent weeks. Kaka was forced to rest for a few games leading up to the Champions League last 16 first leg with Arsenal last Wednesday. Having only just returned, the Brazilian received a knock from Roberto Guana in only the second minute of last night’s 2-1 win over Palermo. He tried to run off the injury, but the pain eventually proved too much and he had to be replaced at half-time by Yoann Gourcuff. With only eight days to go until the Champions League second leg with Arsenal at San Siro, Kaka faces a real race against time to be fit. The 25-year-old is almost definitely out of this Wednesday’s trip to Catania in Serie A, while the match with Lazio at the weekend is also looking unlikely. There have been reports in the Italian press that Kaka may eventually require an operation to clear up his persistent knee problem.

Roberto Rossi

Schuster Wants Granero Return

2008-02-23T08:16:00.000-08:00

Granero has drawn many admirers from his performances for Getafe this season, with his excellent display against AEK Athens on Thursday the latest in a collection of impressive midfield showings by the twenty-year old.

This has not gone unnoticed by Schuster, who, according to AS.com, has notified sporting director Predrag Mijatovic that he wishes to have Granero back at the club in time for next season.

There were never any doubts about Granero's talent, but now that he has shown that he is mature enough for regular competitive football, both domestically and in European competition, Schuster is ready to integrate him into the first-team squad.

Granero himself is happy that Madrid want to take him back in the summer and indicated a willingness to return.

"The dream of my life is to play in the Bernabéu. I am learning a lot at Getafe, but I would like to return," he told AS.

Although he is keen on going back to Madrid, Granero is thought to want assurances that he will not be on trial over pre-season to see if he is ready to be part of the squad and that he will not face a similar fate to Roberto Soldado, who has barely featured in the squad after a decent loan spell at Osasuna last season.

If Granero is promised that he will be an active member of the squad then he could very well be strutting his stuff at the Bernabéu next season.

Nick Dorrington

Nani Vows To Cut Out Showboating

2008-02-23T08:15:00.001-08:00

The prodigiously skilled 21-year-old revealed that Sir Alex Ferguson had a stern word with him after the match, warning him that such superfluous showmanship is deeply frowned upon in the English game. "In Portugal I have done this many times but it is only because it is an entertaining spectacle and not because I disrespect my rivals," the ex Sporting star explained. "I am a professional and am always very respectful with all the opposing players, but I do appreciate now that it may have looked bad. "After the match Ferguson spoke to me and demanded that I do not repeat it in order to avoid problems. "Obviously, I agreed. I always follow the orders of my coach and am not interested in causing controversy."
Nani added: "Gilberto Silva of Arsenal spoke to me and was clear about what their players thought about it. He was very critical of what I did and accused me of provoking Arsenal. But he never threatened me. "On the field I am different from most players. My celebrations of goals with a somersault is an example. This is my character as a footballer."

Derek Wanner, Goal.com

Sheva Leaves Emirates With Milan

2008-02-23T08:11:00.000-08:00

The Ukrainian was in the stands watching the Rossoneri draw 0-0 with Arsenal in their Champions League last 16 first leg tie. After the game Shevchenko went to see the Milan squad before leaving the stadium with them on the team bus. The 31-year-old spent seven glorious years with the European Champions before signing for Chelsea in 2006 for a whopping £30m. However Sheva has struggled badly in the Premiership, so far scoring just eight goals in 41 league appearances. He has fallen down the forward pecking order since Chelsea snapped up French star Nicolas Anelka last month. Shevchenko has never hidden his desire to return back to his old club, and his presence on Milan’s team bus last night is sure to fuel speculation of a possible move back there in the summer.

Roberto Rossi

Moratti: We Can Score 15 Goals Against Liverpool

2008-02-23T08:08:00.000-08:00

Liverpool

The Nerazzurri face an uphill task to qualify for the quarter-finals following their 2-0 defeat at Anfield in the first leg on Tuesday night.
Despite this scoreline Moratti is supremely confident of turning the tie around.
"We have yet to play the second leg, which will be in the more favourable conditions at San Siro,” he said.
“If the crowd are as I expect them to be, it will be hard for Liverpool. I have trust. We have 90 minutes and we can score 15 goals if we want to.”

Supporters

Moratti also passed comment on the group of Inter fans who attacked Coach Roberto Mancini, first at Liverpool Airport, and then in Milan.
"Those fans are the same people who in the past have sung songs in favour the Coach,” said the oil tycoon.
“I hope they will return to this during the game, where everyone must be compact with the team. Being unhappy is normal, but this was only the first time.
"We must be proud to be Inter, because we are better than all the others."

Matrix & Ibra

Moratti was also at an odds to explain the reported falling-out between Marco Materazzi and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Ibrahimovic appeared to blame the defender, who was sent-off against Liverpool, for the defeat, and now the pair are said to not be speaking to one another.
"I do not know what happened, but I do not think that there is any controversy,” he stated.
“These guys are friends, are always together and both attach great importance to overcome the turn.”

Transfer Market

Meanwhile in a seperate interview the oil tycoon spoke about his intentions in the summer transfer market, and he says that he has no plans to sign any Italians but instead wants to bring through some players from the youth team.
"My intention is to invest less on new purchases,” he stated.
“I have no priority in buying any Italians. I want to maintain the current group and eventually incorporate the best elements of our youth sector.”

Luca Capofranco

Milan Lining Up Adebayor - Report

2008-02-23T08:05:00.000-08:00

The Togolese striker played against the Rossoneri in Wednesday night’s Champions League last 16 first leg draw at the Emirates Stadium. Although Adebayor missed an open goal in the dying seconds, his all-round performance is said to have hugely impressed the Milan technical staff. The European Champions have made the signing of a top-class forward their priority this summer. With Ronaldo out of action for at least nine months, Alberto Gilardino possibly leaving to join Fiorentina, and Filippo Inzaghi set to turn 35, Milan are looking for a forward to partner teenage star Alexandre Pato. The first priority remains Chelsea’s Didier Drogba, however if this transfer does not go through, then Emmanuel Adebayor is the back-up option. The 23-year-old has been in stunning form this season, scoring 19 goals in the Premiership to help launch Arsenal to the top of the table. However he has yet to hit the back of the net in the Champions League, and Milan will be hoping that this stays this way given their second leg match with Arsenal in a fortnight.

Roberto Rossi

Lippi Could Replace Ancelotti At Milan – Report

2008-02-23T07:32:00.000-08:00

Ancelotti has been one of the most successful coaches in the history of the Rossoneri, and has a simply stunning record in Europe, having reached three Champions League finals (winning two), a semi-final and a quarter-final in the last five years. He has also brought home three trophies in the last 12 months, adding the European Super Cup and Club World Cup to the Champions League trophy won in Athens last May. Despite this Ancelotti could lose his job at the end of the season, unless he can again repeat his continental heroics. With Milan again struggling in Serie A, World Cup winning boss Marcello Lippi is being lined up as a possible replacement. Lippi has been out of work since Italy’s triumph in Germany in 2006, but he has stated on numerous occasions that he will be returning to the bench in time for next season. Indeed the 59-year-old could have taken over at Milan last summer, and the Gazzetta claims that Ancelotti only stayed in his job thanks to his Champions League victory. Carletto himself has been repeatedly linked to the Italy national team, and he is expected to replace Roberto Donadoni if the Azzurri fail to reach the semi-finals of Euro 2008.

Roberto Rossi

Ibra & Matrix Not Speaking – Report

2008-02-22T10:42:00.000-08:00

Materazzi was sent off after just half-an-hour of Inter’s Champions League last 16 first leg tie at Liverpool on Tuesday night, a game that would finish 2-0 to the English-outfit. After the game Ibrahimovic appeared to blame the Italian defender for the defeat when a journalist shouted at him, “What happened?”, to which the Swede angrily replied, “Why don’t you go and ask Materazzi what happened?” Ibrahimovic has tried to insist that he hasn’t fallen out with his team-mate and that he wasn’t blaming Materazzi. "My sentence about Materazzi was one only based on fact - that the incident [his dismissal] had influenced all concerned,” the striker stated. "So, then it was right to ask him whether his sending off was the right decision or not." Nevertheless despite these comments, the Gazzetta says that the pair have certainly fallen out. Both players were at a media function in London yesterday and refused to speak to each other. This caused tension among the rest of the Inter squad, and was a cause for embarrassment for everyone present.

Luca Capofranco

Arsenal Poised To Snatch Another Barça Youngster

2008-02-22T10:40:00.000-08:00

Spanish Under-16 international Ignasi Miquel Pons looks set to join Arsenal in October. The 15-year-old centre-back is extremely highly rated and has spent four years at Barcelona's youth academy before a change of coaches led to him leaving. With Barça dithering, Arsene Wenger looks set to pounce, with Gunners scouts making the move to get the player signed up by his 16th birthday, in October. Although there is no suggestion of any foul play by Arsenal, there is sure to be some resentment on the part of Barcelona, who previously lost Cesc Fabregas, then 16, to the Gunners and more recently have seen 17-year-old Fran Merida, currently on loan at Real Sociedad, head for north London.

Goal.com UK

Galliani To Abramovich: Drogba For Three Arsenal Tickets

2008-02-22T10:37:00.000-08:00

The Rossoneri travel to the Emirates Stadium in North London in the first leg of what is arguably the tie of the round in the Champions League last 16. Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is set to be in the stands watching the game, after obtaining his tickets from Milan transfer guru Adriano Galliani. "Roman called me because he wanted three tickets for the game tonight and wanted to see it with me,” said Galliani. “I replied saying that I would get him the tickets but only in exchange for Drogba. Free, of course!" Milan seem certain to sign a top-class centre forward in the summer, and Ivorian star Drogba is high up on their list of targets. The 29-year-old has expressed his intention to leave Chelsea, and his two favoured destinations are Milan and Barcelona. The Rossoneri have excellent relations with Chelsea, following the transfer of Andriy Shevchenko in 2006.

Roberto Rossi

Who Is Zidane? Says Ronaldo’s Hospital

2008-02-22T10:27:00.000-08:00

Ronaldo is in hospital in Paris having undergone surgery for the career-threatening ruptured tendon in his knee that he suffered in last Wednesday’s match with Livorno. Messages of support have flooded in for El Fenomeno, who is set to be out of the game for at least nine-to-twelve months. One of these well-wishers was none other than France legend Zinedine Zidane, who is a former team-mate of Ronaldo from their time together at Real Madrid. Zidane yesterday rang up the hospital that Ronaldo is staying at in order to speak to his old colleague and friend. When the hospital telephone operator asked who was calling, incredibly the name Zinedine Zidane was not recognised by the employee, thus the 1998 World Cup winner was not granted permission to speak to Ronaldo. Zidane only retired from football in 2006, after winning one Champions League, one World Cup and one European Championship.

Anthony Sormani

Wenger: Ronaldo Past His Prime Anyway

2008-02-17T22:55:00.000-08:00

Ronaldo? Past His Best
Milan could be without a number of key players for the clash against Arsenal. But while the likes of Kaka, Gattuso, Seedorf and Pato could all be ready, the one person who is definitely going to miss out is Ronaldo. However, Wenger clearly does not rate El Fenomeno's absence as a telling factor in the tie. "Ronaldo is out but I don't feel he was hyper-competitive," he said. "Of course he could still have come on but he was already past his best."
Watch Out For Kaka
Instead, the Frenchman believes that last year's Champions League MVP Kaka is the biggest threat to his side. "Kaka made the difference last year in this competition, especially against Celtic," he opined. "He's the guy who can dominate a situation and in 10 seconds get to the other side of the pitch and score a goal. "Because of him we need to be more cautious in the centre than we usually are. He's especially dangerous at counter-attacking." The Gunners are expected to use Mathieu Flamini to man-mark Kaka over the two legs.

Neal Glew, Goal.com

Juventus To Sign New Messi - Report

2008-02-17T22:47:00.000-08:00

The Old Lady has been advised by none other than Nestor Sivori, the son of the great Omar Sivori, to sign up-and-coming Argentinean star Daniel Piatti. The 18-year-old is currently playing for Estudiantes and he might be a surprise purchase of the Bianconeri this summer in order to add some missing creativity to the side. Coach claudio Ranieri might not be fully convinced as of yet since he has always stated that he does not see a 'trequartista' in his first eleven, which led to the exclusion of Rafael Van der Vaart and Diego from their shortlist. However, Piatti declared that he is a versatile player and ready to play in any position. "I like to play as an assist-man, but I can adapt myself to any role," confirmed the midfielder.

Glenn Debattista

The Reason For Ronaldo Injuries? He Was Doped Says Doctor

2008-02-16T08:52:00.000-08:00

El Fenomeno’s career could be over after he ruptured the tendon in his left knee on Wednesday night. This is the third time that the player has suffered such an injury, and his career has been ravaged by similar physical problems over the past decade.

Ronaldo Was Doped
Bernando Santi says that the reason why Ronaldo has suffered so many injuries is because when he signed for PSV Eindhoven in 1994 as a 17-year-old, he was regularly pumped full of anabolic steroids in order to build up the player physically and help him grow. As a result Ronaldo then developed muscles that were unable to co-exist with his knee’s bone structure, leading to devastating problems in later years. "I spoke to colleagues in Holland who know people at PSV,” Santi told the daily Folha de Sao Paulo. “I did not get to talk to PSV doctors. They gave supplements to Ronaldo, who was very thin, and among those supplements they included some anabolic substances which could make him grow a bit more.” Santi is in no doubt that it was these drugs that have caused the injuries. "It is a consequence of having grown beyond what his muscles were prepared to grow," he insisted. "He gained muscle mass very fast, when he still had not reached maturity. The bill for the use of steroids shows up long term, 10, 15 or 20 years later."

Ronaldo Was Abused - Socrates
Brazilian legend, Socrates, who is actually a fully qualified doctor in medicine, says that Ronaldo’s problems are as a result of the “abuse” he was subjected to earlier in his career. "This was a pre-announced injury," the ex-Corinthians and Fiorentina star said. "There is a difference between Ronaldo's muscle mass and the tendons on his knee. We have all seen Ronaldo grow too fast at the start of his career. That destroyed his knees forever.”

Santi Sacked
Since making these sensational comments, Santi has been sacked by the CBF, who feel that his words were inappropriate given the tough time Ronaldo is going through due to his injury. "The CBF considered inappropriate his comments on a player who is going through such a delicate time," CBF spokesman Rodrigo Paiva told Brazilian sports news website UOL Esporte. It remains to be seen the wider reaction in the football world to Santi’s bombshell.

Gianni Wilson

Tevez: We've Still Got The Edge

2008-02-16T08:47:00.000-08:00

Manchester United's defeat last weekend in the derby has put them five points behind Arsenal in the race for the Premiership title. Nonetheless, the Red Devils still appear confident of clawing back the deficit and certainly aren't thinking of anything other than victory when two sides meet at Old Trafford today in the Cup. "This match is our first big final of the season," stressed Argentina striker Carlos Tevez, aware that Saturday's winner would receive a huge psychological advantage in the league battle. "A victory will be very important for our confidence and knocking out Arsenal would be very positive for the title race.

Gunners Under Pressure
Arsenal are a very good team," he admitted. "But we know we can put them under pressure and this game is a big chance for us. If we can win then it will show our authority and demonstrate that we can be champions. This match will be hard because Arsenal will come here with a lot of confidence but no one here is thinking about defeat."

Goal.com UK

Nani 'Confident Of Success'

2008-02-16T08:45:00.000-08:00

Manchester United face Arsenal in the fifth round of the FA Cup on Saturday in what is widely seen as being a psychological battle ahead of the likely clash between the two for the Premier League. It's advantage Arsenal at present as the Gunners have a 5 point lead, but United winger Nani believes his team are just too talented to let the title slip away. Against Arsenal in the Cup, he hopes the Red Devils will prove it.

Better Depth
"We know Arsenal are very strong but everything can change and we are capable of changing it and reversing the situation in the league," the Portuguese told the Sun. "Adebayor has been an excellent player for them and scored many goals. But we also have many great players and we just have to keep our confidence and we can win the league." And when it comes to the better squad, Nani doesn't need to think twice about who comes out on top. "I think our team has better wingers and better forward players," he said. "In midfield as well, we have so many more options. Our defence is very settled and we know we can rely on them. "We have two big games coming up at home against Arsenal in the FA Cup this weekend and later in the season in the league. And I don’t want anything else but victory in them both.”

Goal.com UK

Ancelotti On Ronaldo Call, Fitness Concerns

2008-02-16T08:43:00.000-08:00

His first thought at today's official Press conference was with Ronaldo, who will be out for at least nine months after snapping the tendon in his left knee just three minutes after coming on as a substitute against Livorno on Wednesday night. “After the operation we can start to see some light at the end of the tunnel," said a sympathetic Ancelotti. "What remains, though, is the sadness for this horrible injury.” The Milan coach also rebuffed some suggestions from the press that the Brazilian legend was not ready to play. “Ronaldo was ready," snapped Ancelotti. "If someone talks about players I showed a lack of respect for, then I don’t know what they are referring to. Nobody can tell whether or not Ronaldo’s career is over. “It depends on his will-power, as he managed to overcome the first injury and can get past the second as well. He has to face a long rehabilitation process knowing he is 31 and can play another two or three years. “He knows he cannot play until the age of 40, both because he is not Paolo Maldini and as he is a striker. Milan will do everything possible so that Ronaldo can return to being a great champion.” The Rossoneri must now cope without Il Fenomeno as they go into the most crucial phase of their season with a trip to Parma on Saturday followed by the Champions League game against Arsenal at the Emirates stadium on Wednesday. They must also decide whether to risk Kaka and Clarence Seedorf against Parma or give them more time to recover from injury. “We will evaluate Kaka and Seedorf during training and decide whether they can start, come off the bench or not play at all. Alexandre Pato won’t be at Parma, but he will be ready for Wednesday,” added Ancelotti. “We hope to reach the Arsenal game with all the players at our disposal.”

Gil Gillespie

Maldini Set for 1000th Game

2008-02-16T08:33:00.000-08:00

Number 1000 The Rossoneri captain made his debut an incredible 23 years ago on January 20, 1985 against Udinese in Serie A, and he has since gone on to make 999 appearances. This evening Milan travel to the Stadio Tardini to play Parma, and Maldini is expected to be given the honour of his 1000th appearance. Maldini was asked how it felt to reach the number, 8427 days after his first-ever game all those years ago. “Serginho always asks me how many nights I have spent in a pre-match ritiro. The answer is really quite a lot…” said the 39-year-old. “My other view of this milestone is that I have been fortunate to avoid serious injuries, to play in a great club, to be pushed by an enormous passion for the sport and having always had fun.” Inter 6-0 During his career Maldini has won six different games with a 6-0 scoreline. So which one of these was the most gratifying? “The derby we played with Inter as the home team. I remember the sight of the scoreboard at San Siro and my father’s face, as he was on the bench. It wasn’t a great season, but the derby gave us all such joy,” he explained. “Having said that, it’s not always enjoyable to win by such a big margin. We respected Inter in that game. It is not right to stop when you are 2-0 or 3-0 up, but at the end of the day you do feel a little sorry if a team is beaten so heavily.” Legacy Maldini is set to end his illustrious playing days at the end of the season. So what legacy does he wish to leave? “I hope my legacy will be one of absolute respect for the sport and opposition,” he stated with unrivalled class. “This respect has been recognised by the fans, as I have never been insulted or jeered in any particular fashion. “I did not create a personality or character that is separate from how I am in real life and this was appreciated by fans.” Maldini will undoubtedly go down as one of, if not the most, legendary Italian footballer of all time.

Roberto Rossi

Messi Tells Kaka: Come To Barca

2008-02-15T08:24:00.000-08:00

Kaka

Kaka has been quoted in the press as saying that he would like to play with Messi, and the Argentine has responded to this in an interview with the Gazzetta dello Sport.

“Kakà is a great champion and it is good to know that he would like to play with me, as I heard,” said Messi.

“It is clear - he should come to Barcelona.”

Inter

Messi has been linked with a move to Inter in the past and Massimo Moratti is known to be a huge admirer.

However the 20-year-old has made it clear that he wants to stay at Barcelona and become a club symbol.

“To be admired by Moratti, a president of importance can only make me happy,” Messi explained.
“I am flattered because it is a prestigious team. But I want to become a symbol of Barcelona.
"I have always said that I have no reason to really think about a future away from here.
“Here the people love me and this club has done a lot for me. Let me lead Barça to many triumphs.”

Ronaldinho

Finally Messi was asked for his opinion on Ronaldinho, who has been very poor this season, and who many people say is past his best.

"No, I believe it is just a moment of dimming down due to poor physical condition. When he is good, there is no one else like him. He is always one of the greatest players in the world and we need him,” concluded the star.

Luca Capofranco

Eto'o Wants Drogba, But Forgets Ronaldinho

2008-02-15T08:20:00.000-08:00

The Chelsea striker has stated recently that he would like to join the Blaugrana or AC Milan as his future in England continues to look doubtful. Barça have a litany of star names in attack, but Eto'o thinks that there is room for one more even though Drogba would rival him for a place in the team. "I am not 100 per cent sure what the intentions of Barcelona are, but Drogba would be an excellent player for the team," he was quoted as saying in the Daily Star. "It would not be a problem if he arrived at the club, but extra help to return this team to where it should be, the best in the world. "I am a friend of Drogba and I know that he has always been interested in playing in Spain and in Barcelona." Eto'o stated that four forwards could fit in the team, but did not include Ronaldinho in his prospective line-up. "A team with (Lionel) Messi, (Thierry) Henry, Drogba and me is possible on the pitch without anybody having to leave the club. It would be a super-offensive team," he continued. "During the Africa Cup of Nations I have heard about the comments of Drogba and Barcelona and those are normal. "Any player desires to be at the best club in the world. "I respect my team-mates but a man like Drogba is positive for any club. If the directors demand my opinion then I would be in favour of the move."
Ian Dixon, Goal.com

Torres: Future Move To Milan Possible

2008-02-15T08:18:00.000-08:00

The Spanish striker was linked with a transfer to the Rossoneri last summer, however he eventually signed for Liverpool from Atletico Madrid. "Relations between Atletico Madrid and Milan have always been excellent and there was talk about the possibility of going there, but I never received a precise offer from Milan," Torres told Italian newspaper La Stampa. "I don't know if I will eventually play for Milan. At this moment, no, as I am happy in Liverpool and the Premiership and I want to stay for a long time. "But you can never say never." Torres has been in superb form for The Reds this season, and next week will be hoping to display this in the Champions League clash with Milan’s city rivals Inter. The Nerazzurri travel to Anfield next Tuesday, before the return leg at San Siro on March 11. The two European giants have only met once competitively in the past and that was in the semi-final of the European Cup back in 1964/1965. In a classic tie, Liverpool won the first leg 3-1 at Anfield, only to lose 3-0 in the return leg at San Siro and exit the competition 4-3 on aggregate.
Roberto Rossi

Madrid Pip United On Rich List

2008-02-15T08:12:00.000-08:00

Madrid have retained their top spot for a third year in the row, while Manchester United have jumped up from fourth to second.

United had previously led the list but were overthrown by the Spanish giants three years ago, who have not relinquished their spot since.

Chelsea, despite their regular losses, are in fourth. Italian giants Juventus, previously third, fell out of the top ten entirely following Calciopoli and their imposed relegation. Another Italian side in Roma have replaced them, with Spalletti's men holding the tenth spot.

The list further demonstratates the monopoly the big leagues have on the game from a financial point of view as well as on the pitch, with German giants Bayern Munich in seventh place being the only representative not from England, Spain or Italy.

The figures are based on income from ticket sales, merchandising, broadcasting and more, but are not based on profitability nor do they include money made in the transfer market.

Real Madrid's title win under Fabio Capello last season was enough to secure their number one spot, but Manchester United doing likewise and going all the way to the semi-finals in the Champions League has put them in sight of the nine time European Cup winners, something third place Barcelona cannot lay claim to as they are too far off the pace at the moment.

Manchester United could well overtake Real, largely due to new TV deals - something that has given English football's finances as a whole a major boost since Sky TV's coverage of the Premier League began well over a decade ago.

"With the new Premier League television deals now online for the 2007/08 season, Manchester United have the opportunity to significantly close the gap on Real," said Dan Jones of the Deloitte sports business group.

"A successful Champions League run may even see them challenge again for the number one position."

With the Emirates Stadium increasing Arsenal's revenue and Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich's bottomless pit of billions propelling the London clubs to dizzy heights in the table, it is the first time in its history three English clubs have occupied the top five.

Harry Philp - the director of sports finance and advisory firm Hermes Sports Partners - has shed some light on a few of the reasons certain clubs line up where they do in the list.

"The top seven or eight clubs tend to usually be the same, and generally drawn from the big English, Spanish and Italian clubs," he said.

"Real Madrid will have been helped by the very lucrative TV deal that they have, and the fact that their stadium is pretty much sold out for every game.

"Manchester United have been helped by their success on the field but also by ticket price increases, and they have also done a lot of renegotiation of much of its financial arrangements.

"Arsenal have clearly benefited from the move to the Emirates."

Here is the list in full:

1) Real Madrid: £236.2m
2) Man Utd: £212.1m
3) Barcelona: £195.3m
4) Chelsea: £190.5m
5) Arsenal: £177.6m
6) AC Milan: £153m
7) Bayern Munich: £150.3m
8) Liverpool: £133.9m
9) Inter Milan: £131.3m
10) AS Roma: £106.1m

Sulmaan Ahmad, Goal.com

Barcelona Interested In €50m School Kid

2008-02-15T07:57:00.000-08:00

According to Spanish sports paper AS, Neymar is the latest wonderkid to be unearthed in South America. The 16-year-old signed a professional contract on Sunday and his buy-out clause is a sky-high €50 million. Neymar has been compared to Real Madrid's Robinho and Milan’s Alexandre Pato. Rumours in Brazil seem to suggest that several big European clubs are after him including Real Madrid, Barcelona, Arsenal and Manchester United, but with such a high price tag, the heavyweights will no doubt look elsewhere. The young striker caught the eye of many during the Copa Sao Paulo, a youth football tournament held every year in Brazil. His buyout clause is as much as Lilian Thuram’s or Edmilson's. It seems very unlikely that any of the clubs linked to Neymar will actually go for him should they be forced to pay anywhere near the €50 million. It is thought Santos hiked up the price with exactly this intention: to discourage interest from Europe. Salvatore Landolina

Ronaldo Injured Again, Feared Out Of Arsenal Clash

2008-02-11T21:30:00.000-08:00

El Fenomeno has had a disastrous season on the injury-front and only featured in one game before Christmas. It seemed that the striker was working his way back to fitness when he scored twice against Napoli, and then impressed against Udinese last month. Unfortunately the injuries then returned, although he was back in action during yesterday’s 1-0 win over Siena. The 31-year-old only lasted the first 45 minutes, and it has been revealed that he is suffering from physical problems. The striker is almost definitely out of this Wednesday’s Serie A match with Livorno, and he is also a big doubt for the weekend trip to Parma, and more worryingly next week’s Champions League tie in London against Arsenal. This will come as a blow to Milan, who are also struggling to get Alexandre Pato and Kaka fit for the game. Better news for the Rossoneri was the return of Filippo Inzaghi who played the whole 90 minutes yesterday, as well as the performance of 18-year-old Alberto Paloschi who scored with his first touch in Serie A football, and who many believe has a very bright future ahead of him.
Roberto Rossi

Del Piero Delighted, Palladino On His Way To Arsenal?

2008-02-11T21:26:00.000-08:00

Things were not looking good for the Old Lady as they trailed 1-0 at the Stadio Friuli after a first half completely dominated by the home side. Juve were much improved though after the break and goals from Mauro Camoranesi and Vincenzo Iaquinta earned them a crucial 2-1 victory. “We got a very important win against an excellent Udinese side who showed why they are having such a good campaign by taking a first-half lead,” Del Piero stated on his personal website. “But in the second period we reacted in a way that enabled us to take control of the game. “We chased down every ball and put pressure on them with a more aggressive approach. In the end we got two very good goals that allowed us to take all three points. Del Piero’s team-mate Raffaele Palladino is not so happy as he was granted just 20 minutes as a substitute. The Neapolitan would have been expecting to start the match after a superb performance for Italy in the midweek friendly win over Portugal. Palladino has been complaining about his lack of action and for having to play out of position, and even hinted of a summer exit. This possibility is growing as reports are strengthening that Arsenal are set to launch a summer bid for the star. Gunners manager Arsene Wenger is a huge admirer of the 23-year-old and has attempted unsuccessfully to sign him in the past. Gianni Wilson

Lampard Could Force Barça Move

2008-02-11T21:23:00.000-08:00

The England midfielder has already been seen house hunting in Castelldefels close to Barcelona and that has led to speculation that he could be lining up a switch to Camp Nou.

Lampard could use the FIFA rule that allows players to just pay up the remainder of their contract when they want to join another club after record ruling from Court of Arbitration for Sport.

That means that he could leave Chelsea even if the club do not wish to sell in order to complete his dream move to Barça.

While Lampard and his Catalan wife already own property in her home city of Barcelona, the recent trip saw the former West Ham star claim that he needed a house within four months.

One report suggests that the move could be facilitated by José Mourinho taking over at Camp Nou if Frank Rijkaard steps down in the summer, but that appears unlikely.

Deco has already hinted that he wants to leave and that move would pave the way for Lampard to come in an be the attacking force in midfield for Barça.

Lampard has already turned down a contract offer from Chelsea and has just one year left on his deal at the end of the season.

Whether the Blues could, or indeed want to, tempt the 29-year-old with an improved contract remains to be seen and will certainly determine whether he stays or goes.

Ian Dixon, Goal.com

Ferguson: Title To Be Decided In April

2008-02-11T21:21:00.000-08:00

Manchester United's bitter defeat against their city rivals on Sunday means that they could very well find themselves five points off first if the Gunners take care of business at home to Blackburn tonight, but Ferguson insists that April is when it will really matter, when United host Arsenal on 12th April, before travelling to Stamford Bridge a fortnight later.

"There's no doubt about it, the games against Arsenal and Chelsea will be decisive," said Sir Alex.

"The fact that the league is so close makes a big difference. All the top sides have dropped points.

"Teams are taking points off the top sides more than ever. But it looks likely that our home game against Arsenal and the match at Chelsea could make a huge difference."

Derek Wanner, Goal.com

Arsenal Do Enough To Go Five Clear

2008-02-11T21:17:00.000-08:00

It was one of those rare games that left The Emirates faithful frustrated for large parts.

However, the end often justifies the means, as the saying goes, and few Arsenal fans would have left the stadium disappointed after their team took a five point lead in the title race on the back of a deserved, if at times ugly, 2-0 win.

Philippe Senderos opened the scoring, breaking clear of marker Benni McCarthy and crashing in a 4th minute header from an Eduardo corner.

However after a strong first ten minutes, the Gunners failed to up the ante, and Blackburn grew into the game, slowly but surely.

The rest of the half was more of a midfield scrap than a display of clean football, which played into the visitors' hands. They almost made the most of it just before the break, but McCarthy headed over after being picked out by a cross from David Bentley.

There was more trouble just after the re-start, as Jens Lehmann - handed another start - had to scramble to turn a low Bentley effort around for a corner.

Arsenal were having positive spells, but were unable to get that all-important second goal, which meant that Blackburn were never quite out of it despite being second best.

However, Senderos and William Gallas were having a great game, meaning that there was very little change for Roque Santa Cruz and McCarthy.

Alexander Hleb almost sealed the result with ten minutes to go, but his stinging drive thundered into the near post with Friedel well beaten.

Blackburn made one final push, but it was Arsenal who finally got that all important goal in injury time as Adebayor picked up a pass from Helb and beat Friedel at the near post to put the result beyond doubt.

The Gunners are now five clear of Manchester United with 12 games to go. They next face The Red Devils in the FA Cup, before taking on Milan in the Champions League.

Neal Glew, Goal.com

I Knew Paloschi Would Score - Balotelli

2008-02-11T21:11:00.000-08:00

Yesterday evening, shortly after scoring the winning goal against Siena for Milan, 18-year-old striker Alberto Paloschi revealed that he and fellow youngster Mario Balotelli of Inter are good friends. This was confirmed today by the Nerazzurri's striker today after the match drawn against Empoli at the Viareggio youth tournament.

"Yesterday I watched Milan's game," said Balotelli. "I knew Alberto would be on the pitch and might come on. Then, when I saw he did come in I felt sure he would score. Paloschi is more of a pure striker than me and is more prolific.

"We are close friends and we often go out together. I'm really happy he's scored this goal; yesterday night I called him to congratulate him. Perhaps one day we will face each other in a nice derby."

Danilo Pochini

Debate: Top Ten Italian Wonderkids

2008-02-11T20:25:00.000-08:00

for the purposes of this particular list, we will only deal with players born in 1985 or after. Here, then, in no particular order, are our top 10 next generation Italian superstars in waiting. Don't say you haven't been warned.

1. Andrea Russotto

Club: Treviso
Age: 19
Position: Midfield

There is a good deal of mystery surrounding the extraordinarily talented Andrea Russotto. He grew up in the Lazio youth system and was establishing himself as one of the best young players in Italy. Then, just when things seemed as if they couldn't get any better, they suddenly got rapidly worse. He was mysteriously off-loaded to Swiss second-division club Bellinzona. Apparently, after refusing to sign a deal with powerful player representation agency, GEA, one of many pies Alessandro Moggi had his fingers in. His sale was an ultimatum; sign with us or forget about your career. The kid they are calling the 'new Baggio' is now, happily, playing a different kind of ball game for Treviso. Juventus are known to be interested.

2. Sebastian Giovinco

Club: Empoli
Age: 21
Position: Midfield

He may only be 5ft nothing tall but Juventus-owned youngster Sebastian Giovinco has been making a big splash all his footballing life. He has been Italy's first choice as 'fantasista' from the Under-16's upwards and is now showing his brilliance at Under-21 level. It was a slice of impossible skill from Giovinco that set-up Robert Acquafresca to beat Albania in the recent European Championship qualifier. Even an old stager like Dino Zoff is excited at this hottest of prospects. "Giovinco is the miniature Del Piero," commented the goalkeeping legend. "Indeed I believe he has superior fantasy and technical ability to Il Pinturicchio." Juventus have announced that the kid is not for sale at any price.

3. Lorenzo De Silvestri

Club: Lazio
Age: 19
Position: Right-back

Here is a remarkable 19-year-old right-back with a single-minded vision to break down barriers, wherever they may be. Last season Silvestri was still playing in the Lazio youth team but his stellar talent has now seen him force his way into the club's starting X1. He possesses something else too; fierce, analytical, intelligence. "To become a top footballer you need to have motivation, humility and education," argues this potential future Azzurri captain. De Silvestri has just enrolled at university to study law.

4. Luca Cigarini

Club: Parma
Age: 21
Position:

Midfield Parma's very own metronome, Cigarini's relentlessly accurate passing from just in front of the defence for both club and country have already seen him compared to the greatest ball distributor in the modern game, Andrea Pirlo. It is a comparison that he finds very flattering. "Being compared to Pirlo is a point of arrival for any player," admits this product of the Gialloblu youth system. He possesses the same subtlety of movement, the same ability to disguise a pass, the same lazy swing when he chips inch-perfect lobs into the feet of the strikers. "I am convinced myself, in the sense that I know my potential, that I am ready for a great team," he said a couple of weeks ago. Few would argue with him.

5. Robert Acquafresca

Club: Cagliari
Age: 20
Position: Striker

Tall, lighting quick, good in the air and with a marksman's eye for goal, the Turin-born striker is not having a great season on-loan with Cagliari but remains on fire for the Azzurrini scoring five goals since he made his debut against Albania in June 2007. The poetically-named former Treviso star was part of the deal that eventually took David Suazo to Inter in the summer and there has already been some talk of the Nerazzurri buying him back for an estimated £4 million. His agent, Paolo Fabbri, has advised him to stay where he is. "It is so easy to burnout and I've advised him to stay calm," revealed Fabbri, sensibly, back in December last year. Torino have also been interested. He just might be the long-term replacement for Luca Toni in the Italian team.

6. Giuseppe Rossi

Club: Villarreal CF
Age: 21
Position: Striker

Because Italian football forbids any player under the age of 18 from signing a contract, Manchester United were able to steal this New Jersey-born Italian-American from right under Parma's nose. Despite a series of prolific displays in the reserves, Rossi somehow never made the breakthrough at Old Trafford and was first loaned back to Parma, then, reluctantly, put up for sale by Alex Ferguson. For reason's best known to themselves, not one Serie A club was sufficiently interested in signing a player who has been compared to the impossibly-talented Giuseppe Signori. Rossi shrugged his shoulders and headed for Spain where he has scored 11 goals so far this season, even though he often starts out of position as a lone striker. Now even Roberto Donadoni is sitting up and taking notice.

7. Ricardo Montolivo

Club: Fiorentina
Age: 23
Position: Midfield

Roman Abramovich's super-scout, 71-year-old Piet de Visser was so impressed with the Fiorentina midfielder at last years European Under-21 Championships, he nearly fell off his chair. "Ricardo Montolivo is the superstar of all young midfielders in Europe," commented the seasoned spotter. "He has very good skills, but the best thing about him is that he combines his skills with fantastic running power. I could not spot a weakness in his game." Montolivo is yet another prodigious talent from the world class Atalanta youth system and yet another relentlessly accurate passer in the Pirlo mode. As influential as any other player in the Viola's impressive season, it is only a matter of time before he adds to his one senior international cap.

8. Antonio Nocerino

Club: Juventus
Age: 22
Position: Midfield

What a season it has been for Antonio Nocerino. Back in September, the young Neapolitan must have thought he find himself spending most of his time on the bench. But the failure of new signings Tiago and Almiron catapulted him into the very heart of Juve's push for a Champions League finish. And the 22-year-old has responded magnificently, becoming one of the finest box-to-box midfielders in Serie A. He has often been compared to Rino Gattuso but in truth this is a little wide of the mark. Nocerino has excelled in the role of midfield enforcer but possesses the easy technical ability of a creative type. A versatile future international certainty, in other words

9. Pablo Daniel Osvaldo

Club: Fiorentina
Age: 22
Position: Striker

Any Italian who witnessed his two stunning goals on his debut for Fiorentina against Livorno was delighted when this Argentine-born Italian citizen decided that he wanted to play for the country of his home and not the nation of his birth. The comparisons with Gabriel Batistuta are, perhaps, inevitable. Osvaldo even chose the legendary striker's number 9 when the shirts were handed out at the start of the season. "I knew it had belonged to Bati...it is an honour for me to wear it," said the young pretender. He certainly has the skill and explosiveness in the box to do justice to it.

10. Alberto Paloschi

Club: Milan
Age: 18
Position: Striker

Talk about making an entrance. Just 15 seconds after coming off the bench to make his debut for the current World and European champions. Alberto Paloschi won the game against Siena with his very first touch in Serie A. Within seconds, someone, somewhere was already calling him 'the new Pato'. It's a ridiculous tag and one that he is keen to play down. “I had a bit of luck, too. I really didn’t expect to score on my debut and I still feel goose-bumps now,” said the young striker after the game. He does not, however, make this list because of his instant impact in Serie A. He makes it because Carlo Ancelotti considered his performances in the Viareggio youth tournament to be so impressive that he merited a call-up to the first team.

Gil Gillespie