by Gareth Freeman - Inter Milan manager Jose Mourinho has always had a bit of a reputation as an outspoken type of fellow but that looked like it had all changed when he imposed a ‘media blackout’ last weekend.
The former Porto and Chelsea boss decided to snub the press after he was sent to the stands during Inter’s win over Cagliari last weekend.
However, due to the club’s contractual obligations with the media Inter have told Mourinho he has to speak to the press so the Portuguese tactician has no other option – and he isn’t happy about it.
Speaking to Sky Italia Mourinho said: “I’m not continuing the silence because the club asked me because of contracts with you,
“If it were up to me the silence would continue.”
The Nerazzurri slipped to a disappointing defeat at the hands of Sampdoria at the weekend and Mourinho was in no mood to discuss his tactics with the the press. When asked why he decided to substitute Mario Balotelli he replied: “I’m the coach, and don’t have to explain my decisions to you.”
It is not the first, or probably last, time the special one will fall out with the Italian press. At the start of the season he told reporters ‘if something happens to me it is your fault’ when Islamic extremists issued death threats against him for his reported decision not to play Sulley Muntari who was fasting during Ramadan.
His decision not to talk to the press was a disappointing one, after all his quotes are at times priceless. On the state of the Stamford Bridge pitch in his time at Chelsea he once said:
“Sometimes you see beautiful people with no brains. Sometimes you have ugly people who are intelligent, like scientists.”
What does that even mean? I’ve got no idea but it is brilliant anyway and one of the reasons why, love him or hate him, no one can deny Mourinho is not entertaining.
It would seem for now that Mourinho has no choice but to speak to the media if Inter have forced him. The question is will he opt to move on because of it? The press in Italy are known for grilling the manager on tactics and team selections and it seems this is what Mourinho has a problem with, if he can’t learn to deal with it he may chose to leave.
Written by Gareth Freeman for Seria Talk (http://www.serieatalk.com/)
Showing posts with label ac milan. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ac milan. Show all posts
Monday, September 28, 2009
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Onyewu: "It’s pretty amazing"
By Brooke Tunstall - ATLANTA, GA (Jul 22, 2009) USSoccerPlayers -- You know you’ve made it big time when folks are dropping money to watch you practice. That, and it seems like half of your new teammates have won the World Cup. Not played in it, won it.
So it goes for US National Team defender Oguchi Onyewu, who was formally introduced yesterday at the Georgia Dome as famed club AC Milan’s newest acquisition. Afterwards, he took the practice field with his new teammates, which include two players from Brazil’s 2002 World Cup championship team and six from Italy’s team that lifted the trophy in 2006.
“It’s pretty amazing and humbling to be playing alongside these guys you’ve watched on TV and read about for so long,” said Onyewu, who earned his 47th cap in a strong showing for the US at last month’s Confederations Cup. “But at the same time, we all worked just as hard to get here and when I go out on the field I’m not thinking about who they are or what they’ve done. We’re all equals and I know I’ve earned the right to be out there with them.”
Onyewu certainly didn’t look out of place training alongside the likes of two-time world player of the year Ronaldinho, Dutch superstar Clarence Seedorf, and Italian icons Gianluca Zambrotta, Filippo Inzaghi and Andrea Pirlo.
“It’s pretty cool,” he said of his new teammates. And while they drew a lot of the oohs and aahhs from the fans who had paid 20.00 to watch Milan train for tonight’s exhibition with Mexican power Club America, when Onyewu converted a couple of headers during finishing drills, there were collective chants of “Goooooch” and “USA, USA.”
Onyewu modestly tried to shrug off their applause while pondering the notion of people paying to watch him train. “I don’t think that’s ever happened before, he said. “I guess it shows I’ve come a long away. I’ve come a long way since France.”
France would be wear the 27-year old started his pro career with Metz, a modest side known as an elevator team because they frequently drop down to the second division only to be promoted back to the top flight the following year. Onyewu signed with Metz in 2002 after his sophomore season at Clemson but after only three appearances he was loaned out to Belgium’s La Louviere in 2003 and a year later purchased by Belgian side Standard Liege, where he won a pair of league titles and blossomed into one of the top centerback prospects in Europe and catching Milan’s eye.
“We have a very positive relationship with Standard Liege and Oguchi’s performance the last two seasons, helping them win two straight championships, was a sign of his potential,” explained Milan sporting director Umberto Gandini. “We knew he was a free agent and his strong performance in Confederations Cup confirmed he was an excellent prospect for our club."
Umberto made a point to say that Milan had defensive problems last year, something Onyewu’s signing was expected to help correct. That Milan’s defense was second-best in Italy last season – only cross town rival Inter gave up fewer goals than the 35 Milan allowed – speaks to the high standards and the pressure that comes with signing at a club like Milan.
They’ve won Serie A 17 times and been European champions seven and are owned by billionaire Silvio Berlisconi – who in his spare time is prime minister of Italy – who isn’t hesitant to buy the club all the high-priced talent they need.
While that’s flattering for Onyewu, it also means he’ll be in a battle for playing time with loads of pressure to succeed. “First off, it’s an honor to be at a club with this history,” he said. “I know there will be a lot of pressure. But I welcome that, I think any player would. I know that I’m not guaranteed playing time but I’ve started at zero before. I wasn’t expected to be a starter when I got to Liege. But, I think when I get out there and show them what I can do that I’ll earn playing time. If I didn’t, I wouldn’t be here.”
Onyewu also knows he’s in rarified air as an American at one of the world’s elite clubs and as the first US National Team player since Alexi Lalas in the pre-MLS days to play in Serie A.
“I hope I can do well and it opens up doors for other Americans and gives them the same kind of opportunities,” he said.
Lalas, who is here to call tonight’s game for ESPN, expects Onyewu to flourish. “It’s such a great opportunity, both on and off the field,” he said. “Serie A has changed a lot since I played there but I think Gooch has all the tools needed to succeed. In some ways, I think he’ll be tested more mentally than physically. Not on the field. I think he’ll do fine mentally on the field. But the pressures off the field, the expectations that come from being part of such a big club, I think that will be his biggest challenge.”
Onyewu is up for the challenge, noting the appropriateness of tonight’s game being a couple of hours south of where he played his college ball. “It’s like good karma or something,” he said. “To be so close to Clemson and then to be starting with Milan here. I’m excited. I want to help this team win a lot of trophies. That would be pretty amazing.”
Veteran sportswriter Brooke Tunstall is a freelance writer based in Charlotte, NC. He can be reached at BrookeTunstall@aim.com
So it goes for US National Team defender Oguchi Onyewu, who was formally introduced yesterday at the Georgia Dome as famed club AC Milan’s newest acquisition. Afterwards, he took the practice field with his new teammates, which include two players from Brazil’s 2002 World Cup championship team and six from Italy’s team that lifted the trophy in 2006.
“It’s pretty amazing and humbling to be playing alongside these guys you’ve watched on TV and read about for so long,” said Onyewu, who earned his 47th cap in a strong showing for the US at last month’s Confederations Cup. “But at the same time, we all worked just as hard to get here and when I go out on the field I’m not thinking about who they are or what they’ve done. We’re all equals and I know I’ve earned the right to be out there with them.”
Onyewu certainly didn’t look out of place training alongside the likes of two-time world player of the year Ronaldinho, Dutch superstar Clarence Seedorf, and Italian icons Gianluca Zambrotta, Filippo Inzaghi and Andrea Pirlo.
“It’s pretty cool,” he said of his new teammates. And while they drew a lot of the oohs and aahhs from the fans who had paid 20.00 to watch Milan train for tonight’s exhibition with Mexican power Club America, when Onyewu converted a couple of headers during finishing drills, there were collective chants of “Goooooch” and “USA, USA.”
Onyewu modestly tried to shrug off their applause while pondering the notion of people paying to watch him train. “I don’t think that’s ever happened before, he said. “I guess it shows I’ve come a long away. I’ve come a long way since France.”
France would be wear the 27-year old started his pro career with Metz, a modest side known as an elevator team because they frequently drop down to the second division only to be promoted back to the top flight the following year. Onyewu signed with Metz in 2002 after his sophomore season at Clemson but after only three appearances he was loaned out to Belgium’s La Louviere in 2003 and a year later purchased by Belgian side Standard Liege, where he won a pair of league titles and blossomed into one of the top centerback prospects in Europe and catching Milan’s eye.
“We have a very positive relationship with Standard Liege and Oguchi’s performance the last two seasons, helping them win two straight championships, was a sign of his potential,” explained Milan sporting director Umberto Gandini. “We knew he was a free agent and his strong performance in Confederations Cup confirmed he was an excellent prospect for our club."
Umberto made a point to say that Milan had defensive problems last year, something Onyewu’s signing was expected to help correct. That Milan’s defense was second-best in Italy last season – only cross town rival Inter gave up fewer goals than the 35 Milan allowed – speaks to the high standards and the pressure that comes with signing at a club like Milan.
They’ve won Serie A 17 times and been European champions seven and are owned by billionaire Silvio Berlisconi – who in his spare time is prime minister of Italy – who isn’t hesitant to buy the club all the high-priced talent they need.
While that’s flattering for Onyewu, it also means he’ll be in a battle for playing time with loads of pressure to succeed. “First off, it’s an honor to be at a club with this history,” he said. “I know there will be a lot of pressure. But I welcome that, I think any player would. I know that I’m not guaranteed playing time but I’ve started at zero before. I wasn’t expected to be a starter when I got to Liege. But, I think when I get out there and show them what I can do that I’ll earn playing time. If I didn’t, I wouldn’t be here.”
Onyewu also knows he’s in rarified air as an American at one of the world’s elite clubs and as the first US National Team player since Alexi Lalas in the pre-MLS days to play in Serie A.
“I hope I can do well and it opens up doors for other Americans and gives them the same kind of opportunities,” he said.
Lalas, who is here to call tonight’s game for ESPN, expects Onyewu to flourish. “It’s such a great opportunity, both on and off the field,” he said. “Serie A has changed a lot since I played there but I think Gooch has all the tools needed to succeed. In some ways, I think he’ll be tested more mentally than physically. Not on the field. I think he’ll do fine mentally on the field. But the pressures off the field, the expectations that come from being part of such a big club, I think that will be his biggest challenge.”
Onyewu is up for the challenge, noting the appropriateness of tonight’s game being a couple of hours south of where he played his college ball. “It’s like good karma or something,” he said. “To be so close to Clemson and then to be starting with Milan here. I’m excited. I want to help this team win a lot of trophies. That would be pretty amazing.”
Veteran sportswriter Brooke Tunstall is a freelance writer based in Charlotte, NC. He can be reached at BrookeTunstall@aim.com
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
EXCLUSIVE: Alexi Lalas: “A Brilliant Move” By Milan And Onyewu
The former U.S. international and Serie A defender is full of praise for Oguchi Onyewu's transfer to AC Milan.
When the news of Oguchi Onyewu’s signing with Italian giants AC Milan broke, former US star Alexi Lalas smiled. The only American international to play in Serie A in the modern era, Lalas was pleased to see another compatriot finally get a chance in Italy’s top league and believes the Rossoneri’s decision to sign Onyewu was very intelligent.
“I think it’s incredibly smart move by AC Milan,” Lalas told Goal.com. “Defense has obviously been a weakness for Milan and from an economic standpoint it was also obvious that they weren’t going to spend lavishly. So they had to be smart with their money. Onyewu isn’t a big name player, he’s relatively young, he’s inexpensive and as far as I’m concerned he’s as good a centerback as what they already have.”
“Gooch,” as Onyewu is nicknamed, arrives in Milan on a free transfer from Belgian side Standard Liege. The 6’4” centerback was a big part of the back-to-back championships won by Les Rouches and the side’s run to the knockout stage of last season’s UEFA Cup. These experiences have been vital to his progress, Lalas says, and were definitely a factor in the signing.
“Regardless of the fact that he’s American, he has proven himself in Europe, albeit at a smaller league,” Lalas said. “Milan have been able to track him and see him play.”
Lalas, who played for Calcio Padova in Serie A from 1994-96, has no advice for Onyewu except to “learn Italian as quickly as possible.” The pressure, Lalas says, will not come from the jersey Onyewu is wearing but the passport he holds.
“Obviously playing at one of the world’s biggest clubs there will be pressure,” Lalas said. “But on the other hand, you’re also playing with very good players. The pressure will be more because he’s an American than the fact that he’s playing at AC Milan.”
But Lalas believes Onyewu has the tools to overcome any of the pressures and succeed in Italy’s top league.
“Most Italian clubs have at least one big forward, an Ibrahimovic, a Iaquinta, or whoever, and I think he’ll match up very well against those big forwards that a lot of these teams have,” Lalas said. “As a matter of fact, I think he’ll gobble them up.”
Goal.com article
For more on Americans in Europe, visit Goal.com's Americans Abroad page.
When the news of Oguchi Onyewu’s signing with Italian giants AC Milan broke, former US star Alexi Lalas smiled. The only American international to play in Serie A in the modern era, Lalas was pleased to see another compatriot finally get a chance in Italy’s top league and believes the Rossoneri’s decision to sign Onyewu was very intelligent.
“I think it’s incredibly smart move by AC Milan,” Lalas told Goal.com. “Defense has obviously been a weakness for Milan and from an economic standpoint it was also obvious that they weren’t going to spend lavishly. So they had to be smart with their money. Onyewu isn’t a big name player, he’s relatively young, he’s inexpensive and as far as I’m concerned he’s as good a centerback as what they already have.”
“Gooch,” as Onyewu is nicknamed, arrives in Milan on a free transfer from Belgian side Standard Liege. The 6’4” centerback was a big part of the back-to-back championships won by Les Rouches and the side’s run to the knockout stage of last season’s UEFA Cup. These experiences have been vital to his progress, Lalas says, and were definitely a factor in the signing.
“Regardless of the fact that he’s American, he has proven himself in Europe, albeit at a smaller league,” Lalas said. “Milan have been able to track him and see him play.”
Lalas, who played for Calcio Padova in Serie A from 1994-96, has no advice for Onyewu except to “learn Italian as quickly as possible.” The pressure, Lalas says, will not come from the jersey Onyewu is wearing but the passport he holds.
“Obviously playing at one of the world’s biggest clubs there will be pressure,” Lalas said. “But on the other hand, you’re also playing with very good players. The pressure will be more because he’s an American than the fact that he’s playing at AC Milan.”
But Lalas believes Onyewu has the tools to overcome any of the pressures and succeed in Italy’s top league.
“Most Italian clubs have at least one big forward, an Ibrahimovic, a Iaquinta, or whoever, and I think he’ll match up very well against those big forwards that a lot of these teams have,” Lalas said. “As a matter of fact, I think he’ll gobble them up.”
Goal.com article
For more on Americans in Europe, visit Goal.com's Americans Abroad page.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Ancelotti Outlines The Challenge Of Becoming Chelsea Boss And Learning English
The experienced Italian provided his first ever interview conducted in English.Alan Dawson
(June 1st Goal.com) - Carlo Ancelotti's induction into Premier League life and Chelsea Football Club has polarised opinion as some quarters believe the Italian's inability to speak fluent English may prove a stumbling block to instant results and success.
The former AC Milan boss, though, today gave a full interview to Chelsea TV in which he expressed gratitude to his former club, while also indicating how he will put all his new energy into the Stamford Bridge side.
Pausing in his delivery of deliberate but well-thought-out English, Ancelotti said, "Milan for me was a great experience as for five years we played as a great team and we won a lot of success. For eight years I got to train a great team but now I think that the time is to change and Chelsea, for me, was a great opportunity and a great time for a new experience."
Regarding linguistic challenges, he said, "This is the first interview in English I have done and for me it is not easy! I want to learn and to improve, though, and in time for the start of the new season I will speak well.
"It is important for me to speak to the operators who will work with me, the assistant, and the players."
He continued, "I want to say thank you to Milan. But now is the right moment for a new challenge and I want to put all my new energy into Chelsea."
On how how he will adapt to life at a club where the ambitions and expectations are high, he said, "There will be the same pressures [at Chelsea as there are at Milan].
"Chelsea and Milan are both great teams in Europe and they both want to win all the competitions so there will be the same pressures," he concluded.
Alan Dawson, Goal.com (click here to read article on goal.com)
(June 1st Goal.com) - Carlo Ancelotti's induction into Premier League life and Chelsea Football Club has polarised opinion as some quarters believe the Italian's inability to speak fluent English may prove a stumbling block to instant results and success.
The former AC Milan boss, though, today gave a full interview to Chelsea TV in which he expressed gratitude to his former club, while also indicating how he will put all his new energy into the Stamford Bridge side.
Pausing in his delivery of deliberate but well-thought-out English, Ancelotti said, "Milan for me was a great experience as for five years we played as a great team and we won a lot of success. For eight years I got to train a great team but now I think that the time is to change and Chelsea, for me, was a great opportunity and a great time for a new experience."
Regarding linguistic challenges, he said, "This is the first interview in English I have done and for me it is not easy! I want to learn and to improve, though, and in time for the start of the new season I will speak well.
"It is important for me to speak to the operators who will work with me, the assistant, and the players."
He continued, "I want to say thank you to Milan. But now is the right moment for a new challenge and I want to put all my new energy into Chelsea."
On how how he will adapt to life at a club where the ambitions and expectations are high, he said, "There will be the same pressures [at Chelsea as there are at Milan].
"Chelsea and Milan are both great teams in Europe and they both want to win all the competitions so there will be the same pressures," he concluded.
Alan Dawson, Goal.com (click here to read article on goal.com)
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Beckham's Milan Dream Comes True
ROME (AFP) — England international David Beckham will join AC Milan on loan in January, the Italian club said on Thursday.
The former England captain will join the team from January 7 when the Serie A season restarts following its winter break.
Milan vice-president Adriano Galliano had revealed earlier in the day that he was due for talks with Beckham's lawyers, who were in Milan, and now a deal has been agreed.
"Beckham has become a reality, it's no longer a dream," announced Galliani triumphantly.
Beckham is due to be unveiled officially on December 21 and eight days later will head out with the team to Dubai for a training camp.
He could then make his Serie A debut against against AS Roma in the Italian capital on January 11, however he won't be staying beyond a two- to three-month loan period.
"No-one has ever spoken about a permanent transfer, it's not a practical hypothesis because he has a contract with Galaxy who don't want to let him go, they (Beckham and his wife) like it there and he has a myriad of sponsorship contracts," added Galliani.
"Beckham's not coming here to mess around but to play football and he's fully aware of that."
The seven-time European champions first revealed the possibility of the loan move last week after rumours circulated that Beckham would train with the Italians during America's Major League Soccer off-season.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder currently plays for Los Angeles Galaxy, whom he joined 18 months ago, but needs to keep playing over winter to avoid losing match fitness and his place in the England squad.
England's Italian boss Fabio Capello has previously made it clear to Beckham that if he is not playing he won't be part of the England set-up.
Beckham has 107 caps for England and is the third most capped player in the country's history.
This moves means the golden boy of British football will have played for arguably the biggest club in the three biggest leagues in the world: England, Spain and Italy.
Source: AFP
The former England captain will join the team from January 7 when the Serie A season restarts following its winter break.
Milan vice-president Adriano Galliano had revealed earlier in the day that he was due for talks with Beckham's lawyers, who were in Milan, and now a deal has been agreed.
"Beckham has become a reality, it's no longer a dream," announced Galliani triumphantly.
Beckham is due to be unveiled officially on December 21 and eight days later will head out with the team to Dubai for a training camp.
He could then make his Serie A debut against against AS Roma in the Italian capital on January 11, however he won't be staying beyond a two- to three-month loan period.
"No-one has ever spoken about a permanent transfer, it's not a practical hypothesis because he has a contract with Galaxy who don't want to let him go, they (Beckham and his wife) like it there and he has a myriad of sponsorship contracts," added Galliani.
"Beckham's not coming here to mess around but to play football and he's fully aware of that."
The seven-time European champions first revealed the possibility of the loan move last week after rumours circulated that Beckham would train with the Italians during America's Major League Soccer off-season.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder currently plays for Los Angeles Galaxy, whom he joined 18 months ago, but needs to keep playing over winter to avoid losing match fitness and his place in the England squad.
England's Italian boss Fabio Capello has previously made it clear to Beckham that if he is not playing he won't be part of the England set-up.
Beckham has 107 caps for England and is the third most capped player in the country's history.
This moves means the golden boy of British football will have played for arguably the biggest club in the three biggest leagues in the world: England, Spain and Italy.
Source: AFP
Friday, October 24, 2008
Ferguson Not Surprised at Beckham’s Proposed Move
MANCHESTER, England (AP)—Alex Ferguson isn’t surprised that David Beckham could return to European soccer on a loan deal because he believes the former England captain is used to a higher standard than is played in Major League Soccer.
“It is hardly a surprise,” said the Manchester United manager, who sold Beckham to Real Madrid five years ago. “Going to the United States does not get you the kind of football he is used to. It is not the right level of football, therefore coming back into the mainstream of the game is not a surprise.”
Beckham could move to AC Milan from the Los Angeles Galaxy in January, although the MLS team wants him back before its season starts in March. There is speculation, however, that Milan may try and turn the loan deal into a full transfer.
Beckham has played for the Galaxy for two seasons and the team has failed each time to reach the playoffs.
With the MLS season coming to an end, Beckham needs to continue playing competitive soccer or he will lose his place in the England squad.
England coach Fabio Capello, who used to be at Milan, sent Beckham on as a late substitute in the team’s four World Cup qualifying victories and is adamant that he will only select players who are in competitive action.
Real Madrid president Roman Calderon, who sold Beckham to the Galaxy in 2007, said Beckham can still be influential.
“He is a player who can give a lot to the club he signs for,” Calderon said in London.
Go directly to source
“It is hardly a surprise,” said the Manchester United manager, who sold Beckham to Real Madrid five years ago. “Going to the United States does not get you the kind of football he is used to. It is not the right level of football, therefore coming back into the mainstream of the game is not a surprise.”
Beckham could move to AC Milan from the Los Angeles Galaxy in January, although the MLS team wants him back before its season starts in March. There is speculation, however, that Milan may try and turn the loan deal into a full transfer.
Beckham has played for the Galaxy for two seasons and the team has failed each time to reach the playoffs.
With the MLS season coming to an end, Beckham needs to continue playing competitive soccer or he will lose his place in the England squad.
England coach Fabio Capello, who used to be at Milan, sent Beckham on as a late substitute in the team’s four World Cup qualifying victories and is adamant that he will only select players who are in competitive action.
Real Madrid president Roman Calderon, who sold Beckham to the Galaxy in 2007, said Beckham can still be influential.
“He is a player who can give a lot to the club he signs for,” Calderon said in London.
Go directly to source
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Report: Beckham To Train With AC Milan
MILAN, Italy (AP) — David Beckham will train with AC Milan beginning in January to stay in shape after the Major League Soccer season ends, Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport reported.
Beckham wants to remain fit so that he can be called up to play in England’s World Cup qualifying matches. England coach Fabio Capello has said he will not pick players who are not playing in a league championship.
“I’m in agreement with this and don’t see any downside,” the paper quoted Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti as saying. “We will get to know a true champion.”
The MLS season ends in November, after which Beckham’s Los Angeles Galaxy will travel to Australia and New Zealand in December to play exhibitions.
“Ancelotti and I will be waiting for Beckham at Milanello,” Milan vice president Adriano Galliani told Gazzetta, referring to his team’s training grounds. “You all want to know if we will buy him? We’ll talk about that in the future.”
Beckham wants to remain fit so that he can be called up to play in England’s World Cup qualifying matches. England coach Fabio Capello has said he will not pick players who are not playing in a league championship.
“I’m in agreement with this and don’t see any downside,” the paper quoted Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti as saying. “We will get to know a true champion.”
The MLS season ends in November, after which Beckham’s Los Angeles Galaxy will travel to Australia and New Zealand in December to play exhibitions.
“Ancelotti and I will be waiting for Beckham at Milanello,” Milan vice president Adriano Galliani told Gazzetta, referring to his team’s training grounds. “You all want to know if we will buy him? We’ll talk about that in the future.”
Monday, July 21, 2008
Ronaldinho, Number 80
The new Milan uniforms were presented today: Ronaldinho chose his birth year as his shirt number. In the meantime, shirt sales boom: 11,000 sold since the arrival of the Brazilian. Galliani on Kakà: "We would sell him only if he wanted out"
MILAN, 21 July 2008 - Mystery solved...if you can call a shirt number a "mystery": Ronaldinho will wear number 80. Not 10, 11, 20 or any other number; the inspiration for Ronnie's number is his birth year, 1980.
TRADITION - Milan's vice president Adriano Galliani, clears any potential doubts on the day of the presentation of the squad's new Adidas uniforms for the 2008-09 season: "In the last two decades of the club's history we have never, never asked a player to give up his number for another player. Therefore, no one has even dreamed of asking Seedorf to give number 10 to Ronnie. This matter has been resolved without the club's intervention." And that's the end of the speech. And Kakà, who joined Seedorf and Nesta in Milanello, jokes about it: he was in charge of giving Galliani a personalised Milan shirt, with number 9 on it. Then, turning to the press, he says with a smile: "You know how it is... number 10 wasn't available..."
REAL AGAIN - Although Kakà jokes about Galliani's words, Galliani does not joke when talking about Kakà: "Everyday I read on the papers astronomical contract offers for Ricky," says the VP. But we are not transferring him, ever, not even if we were to get a 250-300 million offer from Chelsea. The only reason why we would decide to sell him would be if he wanted out; but he is happy in Milan." About the London Blues, Galliani adds: "Yes, I have been on Abramovich's boat. I wanted Sheva, he wanted Kakà... And we ended nil-nil. But we never talked about numbers. However, I can tell you something: Real Madrid have been enquiring about Ricky. But he is not going anywhere."
THE RONNIE EFFECT - The news of the day in Milanello is the presentation of the new team apparel, that will be on sale starting tomorrow. The new shirts designed by Adidas (with which Milan have a partner contract until 2017) have larger red and black stripes than last season's shirts and a scoop neck design. The second shirt will be "lucky" white, and the third shirt will be black. The new outfit is already very successful: the requests of the new Milan shirts have skyrocketed to 11,000 in just a few days. It's the Ronaldinho effect: it doesn't matter if he wears number 10 or 80; the enthusiasm is back in Milanello.
Text Source: By Stefano Cantalupi, Gazzetta.it(http://english.gazzetta.it/Football/Primo_Piano/2008/07_Luglio/21/maglie.shtml)
Image Source: Gazzetta.it
MILAN, 21 July 2008 - Mystery solved...if you can call a shirt number a "mystery": Ronaldinho will wear number 80. Not 10, 11, 20 or any other number; the inspiration for Ronnie's number is his birth year, 1980.TRADITION - Milan's vice president Adriano Galliani, clears any potential doubts on the day of the presentation of the squad's new Adidas uniforms for the 2008-09 season: "In the last two decades of the club's history we have never, never asked a player to give up his number for another player. Therefore, no one has even dreamed of asking Seedorf to give number 10 to Ronnie. This matter has been resolved without the club's intervention." And that's the end of the speech. And Kakà, who joined Seedorf and Nesta in Milanello, jokes about it: he was in charge of giving Galliani a personalised Milan shirt, with number 9 on it. Then, turning to the press, he says with a smile: "You know how it is... number 10 wasn't available..."
REAL AGAIN - Although Kakà jokes about Galliani's words, Galliani does not joke when talking about Kakà: "Everyday I read on the papers astronomical contract offers for Ricky," says the VP. But we are not transferring him, ever, not even if we were to get a 250-300 million offer from Chelsea. The only reason why we would decide to sell him would be if he wanted out; but he is happy in Milan." About the London Blues, Galliani adds: "Yes, I have been on Abramovich's boat. I wanted Sheva, he wanted Kakà... And we ended nil-nil. But we never talked about numbers. However, I can tell you something: Real Madrid have been enquiring about Ricky. But he is not going anywhere."
THE RONNIE EFFECT - The news of the day in Milanello is the presentation of the new team apparel, that will be on sale starting tomorrow. The new shirts designed by Adidas (with which Milan have a partner contract until 2017) have larger red and black stripes than last season's shirts and a scoop neck design. The second shirt will be "lucky" white, and the third shirt will be black. The new outfit is already very successful: the requests of the new Milan shirts have skyrocketed to 11,000 in just a few days. It's the Ronaldinho effect: it doesn't matter if he wears number 10 or 80; the enthusiasm is back in Milanello.
Text Source: By Stefano Cantalupi, Gazzetta.it(http://english.gazzetta.it/Football/Primo_Piano/2008/07_Luglio/21/maglie.shtml)
Image Source: Gazzetta.it
Friday, July 18, 2008
Dinho Creates a Buzz
Ronaldinho has promised to take AC Milan back to the top of World football.
The San Siro was almost half full to see the official presentation of the Rossoneri's latest signing and the Brazilian promised to bring the glory days back.
The 28-year-old said: "I am here to win, I am still young and I have arrived at the right moment."
The signing of the former Barcelona front man has initiated a wave of enthusiasm with the fans and the Milan giants have had a surge in season ticket sales since the news was made official.
He added: "I can only thank everybody for the welcome and affection shown. I will repay them for what they have shown so far by giving them lots of goals and entertainment."
"For me it is a very special moment. I have no doubts, it was my dream to play for this team, for these fans - I wanted this shirt."
The lack of Champions League football was not a deterrant for a player who is used to setting the standards.
"This problem motivates me even more to try and do well and get Milan back into the competition."
The Milan faithful may be eager to see their new player in action but they will have to wait till the end of August when the Olympics will be over as that is the first objective for the former World Player of the Year.
"It is a very important comtetition for Brazil, we have never won it. It is fundamental for my career as well and will not create problems for anyone here at Milan."
Text Source: SerieA.Tv (www.seriea.tv
Image Source: SerieA.Tv
The San Siro was almost half full to see the official presentation of the Rossoneri's latest signing and the Brazilian promised to bring the glory days back.
The 28-year-old said: "I am here to win, I am still young and I have arrived at the right moment."
The signing of the former Barcelona front man has initiated a wave of enthusiasm with the fans and the Milan giants have had a surge in season ticket sales since the news was made official.
He added: "I can only thank everybody for the welcome and affection shown. I will repay them for what they have shown so far by giving them lots of goals and entertainment."
"For me it is a very special moment. I have no doubts, it was my dream to play for this team, for these fans - I wanted this shirt."
The lack of Champions League football was not a deterrant for a player who is used to setting the standards.
"This problem motivates me even more to try and do well and get Milan back into the competition."
The Milan faithful may be eager to see their new player in action but they will have to wait till the end of August when the Olympics will be over as that is the first objective for the former World Player of the Year.
"It is a very important comtetition for Brazil, we have never won it. It is fundamental for my career as well and will not create problems for anyone here at Milan."
Text Source: SerieA.Tv (www.seriea.tv
Image Source: SerieA.Tv
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Kaka Set To Lead The Line
Ricky Kaka will play as a striker next season for AC Milan according to Adriano Galliani.
The Brazilian was moved into a more advanced role at the beginning of this season and although the 26-year-old was initially reluctant to shift position, the Rossoneri vice-president revealed that the club top scorer's move to bolster the attack would be made permanent.
He said: "We will be adopting a new tactic next year, Kakà will be our support striker for next season."
The European and World Footballer of the Year has scored 15 goals this season despite struggling with injury and his accuracy in front of goal has convinced the San Siro club as well as the player that his future lies in this direction.
Although such a move would increase competition for the remaining attacking place, Galliani revealed that main contenders Filippo Inzaghi and Alexandre Pato would provide the main goal threat.
He added: "I think this is an excellent solution but up front there can only be one striker playing in front of him. Inzaghi is doing very well at the moment so Pato will have to alternate with him."
Such a move would alter the strategy of the Milan giants in the transfer market this summer, with the addition of only one striker now the priority which could pave the way for the return of Marco Borriello after his magnificent season with Genoa.
This article was featured on SereA.tv. Click here to go directly to the site.
The Brazilian was moved into a more advanced role at the beginning of this season and although the 26-year-old was initially reluctant to shift position, the Rossoneri vice-president revealed that the club top scorer's move to bolster the attack would be made permanent.
He said: "We will be adopting a new tactic next year, Kakà will be our support striker for next season."
The European and World Footballer of the Year has scored 15 goals this season despite struggling with injury and his accuracy in front of goal has convinced the San Siro club as well as the player that his future lies in this direction.
Although such a move would increase competition for the remaining attacking place, Galliani revealed that main contenders Filippo Inzaghi and Alexandre Pato would provide the main goal threat.
He added: "I think this is an excellent solution but up front there can only be one striker playing in front of him. Inzaghi is doing very well at the moment so Pato will have to alternate with him."
Such a move would alter the strategy of the Milan giants in the transfer market this summer, with the addition of only one striker now the priority which could pave the way for the return of Marco Borriello after his magnificent season with Genoa.
This article was featured on SereA.tv. Click here to go directly to the site.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
Derby Delight for AC Milan
AC Milan came out 2-1 winners over Inter in a pulsating derby win.
The Rossoneri dominated the first half and Filippo Inzaghi had two opportunities to break the deadlock.
The first came when the striker evaded the offside trap on Ricky Kaka's adroit pass but goalkeeper Julio Cesar blocked the firm effort.
Then the pair linked again and this time the frontman sent a diving header just past the post.
The 34-year-old finally got on the scoresheet in the 52nd minute and this time the Italy international had the simple task of heading home at the near post following Kaka's curling delivery from the byline.
Four minutes later and the San Siro was on its feet again as Massimo Ambrosini harried Patrick Vieira into a loose pass and Kaka raced on to the ball to finish coolly under Julio Cesar.
A stunned Inter finally found some momentum coming forward and were rewarded for their efforts in the 76th minute when Julio Ricardo Cruz curled home a delightful free-kick.
A hectic final period saw the Nerazzurri press for the equaliser and a free-kick from Cristian Chivu brought out a flying save from goalkeeper Zeljko Kalac.
This article was featured on SereA.tv. Click here to go directly to the site.
The Rossoneri dominated the first half and Filippo Inzaghi had two opportunities to break the deadlock.
The first came when the striker evaded the offside trap on Ricky Kaka's adroit pass but goalkeeper Julio Cesar blocked the firm effort.
Then the pair linked again and this time the frontman sent a diving header just past the post.
The 34-year-old finally got on the scoresheet in the 52nd minute and this time the Italy international had the simple task of heading home at the near post following Kaka's curling delivery from the byline.
Four minutes later and the San Siro was on its feet again as Massimo Ambrosini harried Patrick Vieira into a loose pass and Kaka raced on to the ball to finish coolly under Julio Cesar.
A stunned Inter finally found some momentum coming forward and were rewarded for their efforts in the 76th minute when Julio Ricardo Cruz curled home a delightful free-kick.
A hectic final period saw the Nerazzurri press for the equaliser and a free-kick from Cristian Chivu brought out a flying save from goalkeeper Zeljko Kalac.
This article was featured on SereA.tv. Click here to go directly to the site.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Berlusconi on Super League
Silvio Berlusconi has launched the first salvos on the road to a possible breakaway league in Italian and European football.
The 71-year-old was appearing on the Italian "Radio Radio" programme to outline his new proposals to keep Italian football at the forefront of the sporting world.
The Italy Prime Minister-elect said: "The top clubs from the big cities have to have their own championship because when you invest so much in a team it cannot be thought to go and play against a provincial side in a stadium that holds only around 20,000 fans and is half-empty anyway."
He added: "When two great teams play then the stadiums are packed and there is an incredible television audience. Then of course, only with top teams can we become main players in Europe again."
Berlusconi, who will stand down as AC Milan president after becoming Prime Minister for a third time, also proposed a separate league for teams with fewer spectators and went on to say that Italian clubs should take the English stadiums as a model and to build commercial centres around them.
Looking to the future he believes that people would be "in favour" of these proposals and that "licenses could be given" for them.
This article was featured on SereA.tv. Click here to go directly to the site.
The 71-year-old was appearing on the Italian "Radio Radio" programme to outline his new proposals to keep Italian football at the forefront of the sporting world.
The Italy Prime Minister-elect said: "The top clubs from the big cities have to have their own championship because when you invest so much in a team it cannot be thought to go and play against a provincial side in a stadium that holds only around 20,000 fans and is half-empty anyway."
He added: "When two great teams play then the stadiums are packed and there is an incredible television audience. Then of course, only with top teams can we become main players in Europe again."
Berlusconi, who will stand down as AC Milan president after becoming Prime Minister for a third time, also proposed a separate league for teams with fewer spectators and went on to say that Italian clubs should take the English stadiums as a model and to build commercial centres around them.
Looking to the future he believes that people would be "in favour" of these proposals and that "licenses could be given" for them.
This article was featured on SereA.tv. Click here to go directly to the site.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Kaka Return Boosts AC Milan
Ricardo Kaka is set to return for AC Milan's late push for a Champions League place.
The World Player of the Year has been sidelined with backache since March 19 to add to the long-term knee injury which has plagued the Brazilian's season.
However, the 25-year-old has been back training with his teammates and is ready to stake a claim for a starting place in the Game Day 32 fixture against Cagliari alongside Filippo Inzaghi, who has recovered from a hernia injury.
Following defeat to Atalanta at the weekend, the Milan club now sit sixth in Serie A, still four points adrift of fourth place and qualification to Europe's premier competition.
The Rossoneri must face the revitalised Sardinian outfit without the services of full-back Massimo Oddo, who is to undergo a knee operation, and Alessandro Nesta, serving the first of a two-match suspension.
This article was featured on SereA.tv. Click here to go directly to the site.
The World Player of the Year has been sidelined with backache since March 19 to add to the long-term knee injury which has plagued the Brazilian's season.
However, the 25-year-old has been back training with his teammates and is ready to stake a claim for a starting place in the Game Day 32 fixture against Cagliari alongside Filippo Inzaghi, who has recovered from a hernia injury.
Following defeat to Atalanta at the weekend, the Milan club now sit sixth in Serie A, still four points adrift of fourth place and qualification to Europe's premier competition.
The Rossoneri must face the revitalised Sardinian outfit without the services of full-back Massimo Oddo, who is to undergo a knee operation, and Alessandro Nesta, serving the first of a two-match suspension.
This article was featured on SereA.tv. Click here to go directly to the site.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Pato Takes Charge
Alexandre Pato is already beginning to leave his mark at AC Milan.
The 18-year-old has played ten games and scored six goals so far this season to help earn the Rossoneri 23 points from a possible 30 available.
In fact, the San Siro giants have garlanded the same number of points over this period as the in-form AS Roma and two more than league leaders Inter.
The teenager's arrival at the club in January mirrors that of Ronaldo's move from Real Madrid at the same time last season.
Then, the 31-year-old scored five goals to fire coach Carlo Ancelotti's side towards a Champions League place.
With Ronaldo's career on hold as he recovers from his recent to repair a ruptured knee ligament and fellow-frontman Filippo Inzaghi sidelined with a hernia, the former Internacional starlet is set to play an even greater role in the chase for a Champions League spot.
This article was featured on SereA.tv. Click here to go directly to the site.
The 18-year-old has played ten games and scored six goals so far this season to help earn the Rossoneri 23 points from a possible 30 available.
In fact, the San Siro giants have garlanded the same number of points over this period as the in-form AS Roma and two more than league leaders Inter.
The teenager's arrival at the club in January mirrors that of Ronaldo's move from Real Madrid at the same time last season.
Then, the 31-year-old scored five goals to fire coach Carlo Ancelotti's side towards a Champions League place.
With Ronaldo's career on hold as he recovers from his recent to repair a ruptured knee ligament and fellow-frontman Filippo Inzaghi sidelined with a hernia, the former Internacional starlet is set to play an even greater role in the chase for a Champions League spot.
This article was featured on SereA.tv. Click here to go directly to the site.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Kaka Contract Lifts AC Milan
Ricky Kaka has extended his contract with AC Milan until 2013.
The current World and European player of the year still had two years of his current deal to run.
Vice-president Adriano Galliani revealed that negotiations had been completed quickly as the 25-year-old has stated his desire to become a true symbol of the club in the mould of captain Paolo Maldini.
He added: "He already is that and also the best player in the world.
"This contract is for the rest of his career and I hope that if he is still playing in 2013 that we will be able to get him to sign another one."
The Brazilian played a major part in propelling the Rossoneri to the Champions League last year and finished top scorer in the competition.
However, the attacking-midfielder has been plagued by a knee problem this campaign which will force him out of the Serie A Game Day 26 meeting with Lazio.
Defender Alessandro Nesta is also missing as he recovers from a recent injury but the pair are both expected to line-up against Arsenal in the Champions League next week.
This article was featured on SereA.tv. Click here to go directly to the site.
Click here to watch Kaka' goal against Catania
The current World and European player of the year still had two years of his current deal to run.
Vice-president Adriano Galliani revealed that negotiations had been completed quickly as the 25-year-old has stated his desire to become a true symbol of the club in the mould of captain Paolo Maldini.
He added: "He already is that and also the best player in the world.
"This contract is for the rest of his career and I hope that if he is still playing in 2013 that we will be able to get him to sign another one."
The Brazilian played a major part in propelling the Rossoneri to the Champions League last year and finished top scorer in the competition.
However, the attacking-midfielder has been plagued by a knee problem this campaign which will force him out of the Serie A Game Day 26 meeting with Lazio.
Defender Alessandro Nesta is also missing as he recovers from a recent injury but the pair are both expected to line-up against Arsenal in the Champions League next week.
This article was featured on SereA.tv. Click here to go directly to the site.
Click here to watch Kaka' goal against Catania
Monday, February 18, 2008
Maldini the Millennium Man
Paolo Maldini has been celebrating another historic milestone in his illustrious career.
The 39-year-old made his 1,000th appearance in professional football when he came on as a substitute for AC Milan against Parma on Saturday.
He said: "I would like to dedicate this achievement to my family, in particular my mother who has followed me all these years and has always backed me."
The veteran made his debut as a 16-year-old back in 1985 and in that time has amassed 126 caps for Italy as well as winning seven Italian league titles.
Ever the consummate professional, the defender was more disappointed with the Rossoneri's draw at Parma than celebrating his own achievements.
He added: "I've played my 1,000th match, it is a number that remains impressive, it is only a shame that we haven't won the three points but there are always highs and lows."
Coach Carlo Ancelotti's side have now drawn their last two Serie A games and remain just outside the final Champions League spot in fifth place.
This article was featured on SereA.tv. Click here to go directly to the site.
The 39-year-old made his 1,000th appearance in professional football when he came on as a substitute for AC Milan against Parma on Saturday.
He said: "I would like to dedicate this achievement to my family, in particular my mother who has followed me all these years and has always backed me."
The veteran made his debut as a 16-year-old back in 1985 and in that time has amassed 126 caps for Italy as well as winning seven Italian league titles.
Ever the consummate professional, the defender was more disappointed with the Rossoneri's draw at Parma than celebrating his own achievements.
He added: "I've played my 1,000th match, it is a number that remains impressive, it is only a shame that we haven't won the three points but there are always highs and lows."
Coach Carlo Ancelotti's side have now drawn their last two Serie A games and remain just outside the final Champions League spot in fifth place.
This article was featured on SereA.tv. Click here to go directly to the site.
Friday, February 15, 2008
Ronaldo Backed to Return
Ronaldo has flown to Paris for an operation that will determine when the striker will be able to resume his career.
The striker ruptured a tendon in his left knee in the Serie A fixture with Livorno and if the surg
ery goes to plan the Brazilian then faces up to nine months on the sidelines.
However, Rossoneri president Silvio Berlusconi has refused to call time on the star and said: "At 31-years-old he is still young and I think that he can return in a number of months to being the champion of old.
"I spoke to him on the telephone and I told him to believe in himself as he has such a great physical capability."
The former World Player of the Title arrived in the French capital at 9am local time and club doctor Jean Pierre Meeserman revealed that Gerard Saillant, the professor who oversaw the same procedure on the player back in 2000, will once again supervise.
He said: "It was Ronaldo himself who asked to be operated on in Paris by the team that put his right knee straight eight years ago."
The striker ruptured a tendon in his left knee in the Serie A fixture with Livorno and if the surg
ery goes to plan the Brazilian then faces up to nine months on the sidelines.However, Rossoneri president Silvio Berlusconi has refused to call time on the star and said: "At 31-years-old he is still young and I think that he can return in a number of months to being the champion of old.
"I spoke to him on the telephone and I told him to believe in himself as he has such a great physical capability."
The former World Player of the Title arrived in the French capital at 9am local time and club doctor Jean Pierre Meeserman revealed that Gerard Saillant, the professor who oversaw the same procedure on the player back in 2000, will once again supervise.
He said: "It was Ronaldo himself who asked to be operated on in Paris by the team that put his right knee straight eight years ago."
This article was featured on SerieA.tv. To visit SerieA.tv click here!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)