Week/Giornata 22 of the Serie A

Image courtesy of Lega Nazionale Professionisti.
Click the image to view detailed PDF formatted match reports and statistics utilized by professional clubs.

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Week 22 Fixtures

Saturday, 31 January 2009

Napoli 2 x Udinese 2
Juventus 2 x Cagliari 3 (The Sardinians win for the first time since 1968 against Juventus in Torino).

Sunday, 01 February 2009

Atalanta 1 x Catania 0
Bologna 1 x Fiorentina 3
Chievo Verona 1 x Sampdoria 0
Genoa 1 x Palermo 0
Internazionale 3 x Torino 0
Reggina 2 x AS Roma 2
Siena 1 x Lecce 2 (Siena has only scored 16 goals, but has one of the best goals against totals at 22).

Lazio 0 x AC Milan 3

According to Carlo Ancelotti in La Gazzetta dello Sport on David Beckham, "He is indispensable."

Video Highlights


A great source for Serie A videos.
Please click the image.

Video Clips from Serie A TV on YouTube

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Online Coverage

• For live scores during the games from FlashScores, please click here.
• For an ESPN Matchtracker of Serie A games, please click here.
• For a live game tracker called Match View from La Gazzetta dello Sport, which has very detailed statistics and graphical displays, please click here. You may have to click on the number of the week to see a full fixture list.
• For current statistics of the Serie A from La Gazzetta dello Sport, please click here.
• For English language coverage and game commentaries, please take a look at mCalcio and Football Italia.
  

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Quotes of the Week in Italian Calcio

"I have no friends among football players, except one: Christian Panucci. But he can be a little crazy at times." Fabio Capello, manager of England.

"Luciano Spalletti does not respect me." Christian Panucci of AS Roma.

"Nowadays, the Ballon d'Or has become a publicity stunt. It all depends on what people see before they judge it." Zlatan Ibrahimovic of Internazionale.

"I advised Buffon to shout a lot at his defense, so he kept them wide awake and charged himself up." Claudio Ranieri of Juventus.

"Balotelli will stay with us." Massimo Moratti, President of Internazionale.

"We would like to keep him, but Beckham will return in March." Adriano Galliani of AC Milan.

"I am not the Italian Alex Ferguson." Carlo Ancelotti of AC Milan.

Quotes courtesy of Football Italia.

"Robinho, Adriano, and Ronaldo: What a Great Delusion." Pele'

They all can't be like Kaka', unfortunately.

The great man has never hidden his opinions.

Recently, he commented about off the pitch behavior by three great Brazilian talents: Robinho, Adriano, and Ronaldo.

But most specifically, with Robinho, who grew up at Santos FC. The team made famous by Pele' himself. Apparently, Pele' scouted a very young Robinho at a futsal game.

"Noi - dice riferendosi ai calciatori del passato - abbiamo fatto tanto per il calcio e i giovani che sono venuti dopo di noi. Oggi è veramente triste vedere come un giocatore rappresentativo, che potrebbe essere un modello, non dà l'esempio e non si rivela un modello per il calcio e il proprio paese".

"In passato gli ho anche dato dei consigli e lui ascoltava. Ora è un adulto, è più difficile parlargli ma questo non allontana un piccolo senso di colpa, lui è una mia creatura".

Source: La Gazzetta dello Sport, 29 January 2009.

"We, he said refering to players from the past, have done a great deal for football and the younger players who came after us. Today it is truly sad to see how a player who represents so much, who could be a role model, doesn't give the right example and doesn't provide a model for football and his own country.

In the past, I have also advised him (Robinho) and he listened. But now he is an adult, and it is more difficult to speak to him but this doesn't take away a small sense of guilt, he is my creation."

Indonesia to bid on World Cup 2018 or 2022

With the deadline looming by next Monday, Indonesia today applied with FIFA to host either the 2018 or 2022 World Cup competition.

Six Bids Tabled

According to FIFA, there were already five bids:

• England
  
• Japan
  
• Portugal and Spain joint bid (President Sepp Blatter later said he didn't favor joint bids).
  
• Qatar
  
• Russian Federation

Others are expected before Monday. FIFA wants to analyze bids for both competitions, and make a final decision on each in December 2010.

"A lack of footballing pedigree -- the national team is currently placed 144th in FIFA's world rankings -- and creaking infrastructure mean Indonesia will likely be labelled an outsider for hosting the World Cup.

Nugraha Besoes, secretary general of the Indonesian FA (PSSI), said the lengthy run-up towards the 2022 World Cup would help the country's chances of tabling a serious bid.

'We can see that this is about 13 years ahead, so why don't we be brave and try to host it?' he said.

World soccer's governing body decided in 2007 to adapt its continental rotation policy,

announcing that future World Cups could not be staged in any continent that had hosted one of the two previous World Cups.

If Indonesia's expression of interest develops into a full bid, it could be in direct competition with fellow Asian football confederation members Japan and Australia."

Source: The Guardian (via Reuters), 28 January 2009.

Semoga beruntung, Indonesia.


Update: 03 February 2009.

Belgium/Holland, Korea, Mexico, and the USA have made bids. The evaluation process by FIFA begins in March.

Women's World of Football Study: 300 Million Female World Football Fans

La Gazzetta dello Sport had an interesting article in today's edition.

The influence of women fans in soccer was greater than anticipated. In fact, out of an estimated global total of 800 million world football fans, 300 million are women.

"Le donne del Sudafrica, sede del prossimo Mondiale, sono le più interessate al calcio del loro paese in generale, compresi i tornei minori (62%, precedono di cinque punti le brasiliane), mentre le tedesche sono le più assidue tifose della loro nazionale (92%). La serie A italiana è il campionato che ha il più alto seguito femminile tra le connazionali, con l'84%. Batte di poco i tornei di Clausura e Apertura, seguiti dall'82% delle argentine. La Germania è anche il paese con il più vasto seguito femminile per i Mondiali donne: con il 44% batte di poco il 42% delle brasiliane.

300 MILIONI - Tutti questi dati sono contenuti nello studio 'Women's World of Football' condotto su un campione di 20mila donne tra i 16 e i 69 anni intervistate dalla Sport+Markt, società leader in Europa nel settore della consulenza strategica nell'ambito sportivo, e che fornisce informazioni chiave e dati sull'attività delle tifoserie. Un altro risultato dello studio è che su base mondiale le donne rappresentano il 38% delle tifoserie, e ciò significa che su quasi 800 milioni di appassionati di calcio 300 appartengono al mondo femminile... Curioso il caso della Cina, dove il pubblico rosa preferisce di gran lunga la Premier League inglese al proprio campionato.

"Sono finiti i tempi in cui erano solo gli uomini ad appassionarsi al calcio - sottolinea Hartmut Zastrow, direttore di Sport+Markt."

Sport+Markt Research Study

According to Sport+Markt, who conducted a survey of 20,000 women between the ages of 16 and 69 called "Women's World of Football," 38% of the global total of 800 million fans are women.

"Gone are the days when only men become passionate about football," stressed Harmut Zastrow, the director of Sport+Markt.

Countries with the Highest Overall Rates

Germany: 92% support their women's national team.

Italy: 84% follow the Serie A.

Argentina: 82% follow the Apertura and Clausura Tournaments.

South Africa: 62% follow their domestic leagues.

Brasil: 57% follow their domestic leagues.

China: A greater majority follow the EPL than their own domestic leagues.

Women's World Cup Leaders

Germany: 44% follow the Women's World Cup.

Brasil: 42% follow the Women's World Cup.

Source: La Gazzetta dello Sport, 27 January 2009.

Figures for US Women Not Provided

While women's soccer has been very successful in the USA, statistics about American participation rates were not cited in the article. But the study highlighted growth of soccer across gender lines around the world.

Marta, among many other world-class stars, will feature this year in the new women's professional soccer league (WPS) in North America. There will be seven teams, along with two more to be added in 2010.

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Week/Giornata 21: A Rare Midweek Fixture in the Serie A

Image courtesy of Lega Nazionale Professionisti.
Click the image to view detailed PDF formatted match reports and statistics utilized by professional clubs.

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Week 21 Fixtures

Wednesday, 28 January 2009

AC Milan 1 x Genoa 1 (Beckham scored from a free kick).

AS Roma 2 x Palermo 1
Atalanta 0 x Bologna 1
Cagliari 1 x Siena 0
Catania 0 x Internazionale 2
Chievo Verona 1 x Lecce1
Fiorentina 2 x Napoli 1
Sampdoria 3 x Lazio 1
Torino 0 x Reggina 0
Udinese 2 x Juventus 1

Video Highlights


A great source for Serie A videos.
Please click the image.

Video Clips from Serie A TV on YouTube

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Online Coverage

• For live scores during the games from FlashScores, please click here.
• For an ESPN Matchtracker of Serie A games, please click here.
• For a live game tracker called Match View from La Gazzetta dello Sport, which has very detailed statistics and graphical displays, please click here. You may have to click on the number of the week to see a full fixture list.
• For current statistics of the Serie A from La Gazzetta dello Sport, please click here.
• For English language coverage and game commentaries, please take a look at mCalcio and Football Italia.
  

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Quotes of the Week in Italian Calcio

"I would like to direct my team from the stands. It would be a good way to avoid another dismissal." Walter Zenga of Catania.

"I can't say if he asked me for advice. He (Kaka') asked me many things." Andriy Shevchenko of AC Milan.

"Kaka' should learn the lesson of Andriy Shevchenko." Arrigo Sacchi, former manager of AC Milan, Parma, and the Azzurri.

"If the Galaxy can be persuaded then we will evaluate the situation and try to keep him (Beckham)." Adriano Galliani of AC Milan.

"So many things happen during corners, maybe every player should be suspended." Maicon of Internazionale.

"I am not the Italian Alex Ferguson." Carlo Ancelotti of AC Milan.

"There are no excuses. We were spineless. It was an absurd performance." Claudio Lotito of Lazio.

Quotes courtesy of Football Italia.

"To Face Italy Right Now Would Put Him Under Too Much Pressure." Carlos Dunga on Amauri

On 10 February, it is fitting that the capital of world football, London, will host two of the most storied teams in an international friendly: Italia x Brasil.

But once again, Carlos Dunga, the manager of Brasil, has decided not to select Amauri of Juventus. Which further fuels speculation that Amauri will feature for the Azzurri. Sooner rather than later. 

"Amauri è un giocatore che la gente sta tenendo d'occhio e affrontare l'Italia in questo momento gli metterebbe addosso troppa pressione."

"Amari is a player that people are watching and to face Italy right now it would put him under too much pressure."

Source: La Gazzetta dello Sport, 26 January 2009.

On Lippi's Radar

He is still awaiting his Italian passport, and Marcello Lippi has hinted that once the paperwork is finalized, he may become the second naturalized Azzurro (Camoranesi of Argentina is the first) in the modern era. Naturalized Italian players from South America are called "oriundi." In fact, if we look back at World Cup history, several played for the Azzurri during the 1934 and 1938 competitions, respectively.

Competitive Fixture Next June

Brasil and Italy will meet again in June during the Confederations Cup in South Africa. Will Amauri be wearing the colors of Brasil or Italy? Or will his international future still be undetermined? If we examine the respective strike forces, Amauri has a better chance with Italy. Luca Toni's form has been inconsistent on the international stage. Traditionally, Italy likes to play a target hit man up front (il punto pesante) to complement a more creative partner. Which might be Giuseppe Rossi of Villarreal. There is also the possibility that Amauri's teammate at Juventus, Alex Del Piero, might be another candidate for that role. He is a favorite of Mister Lippi, and despite his age, still is a component of the Azzurri set up.

Brasil Roster (50% play in the Serie A) for the London Friendly

Goalkeepers: Julio Cesar (Inter), Doni (Roma).

Defenders: Maicon (Inter), Daniel Alves (Barcelona), Adriano (Sevilla), Lucio (Bayern Munich), Juan (Roma), Thiago Silva (Milan-Newly signed but can't play in Serie A until next season).

Midfielders:  Luisao (Benfica), Marcelo (Real Madrid), Gilberto Silva (Panathinaikos), Josuè (Wolfsburg), Anderson (Manchester United), Felipe Melo (Fiorentina), Elano (Manchester City).

Strikers: Julio Baptista (Roma), Kaká (Milan), Ronaldinho (Milan), Robinho (Manchester City), Pato (Milan), Luis Fabiano (Sevilla), Adriano (Inter).

Update: 31 January 2009

Due to an injury to Luis Fabiano, Amauri was selected to take his place by Mister Dunga. But Juventus will not release him since the written request, according to President Cobolli-Gigli on Sky Sport, had not arrived and if it arrives, would be outside of the FIFA release window. Good news for Mister Lippi.

Week/Giornata 20 of the Serie A

Image courtesy of Lega Nazionale Professionisti.
Click the image to view detailed PDF formatted match reports and statistics utilized by professional clubs.

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Week 20 Fixtures (Week 21 will be on Wednesday 28 January)

Saturday, 24 January 2009

Reggina 0 x Chievo Verona 1
Juventus 1 x ACF Fiorentina 0

Sunday, 25 January 2009

Bologna 1 x AC Milan 4
Genoa 1 x Catania 1
Lazio 1 x Cagliari 4
Lecce 3 x Torino 3
Napoli 0 x AS Roma 3
Palermo 3 x Udinese 2
Siena 1 x Atalanta 0
Internazionale 1 x Sampdoria 0

Video Highlights


A great source for Serie A videos.
Please click the image.

Video Clips from Serie A TV on YouTube

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Online Coverage

• For live scores during the games from FlashScores, please click here.
• For an ESPN Matchtracker of Serie A games, please click here.
• For a live game tracker called Match View from La Gazzetta dello Sport, which has very detailed statistics and graphical displays, please click here. You may have to click on the number of the week to see a full fixture list.
• For current statistics of the Serie A from La Gazzetta dello Sport, please click here.
• For English language coverage and game commentaries, please take a look at mCalcio and Football Italia.
  

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Quotes of the Week in Italian Calcio

"I want to grow old at Milan." Ricardo Kaka' of AC Milan.

"He signed the contract with his heart." Silvio Berlusconi of AC Milan.

"It was not an economic decision. It was one from the heart." Ricardo Kaka' of AC Milan.
"When my son heard the news, even he cried." Paolo Maldini of AC Milan.

Quotes courtesy of Football Italia.

The English Treble: The Elusive Element in the Trophy Case

Luca Mariantoni had an interesting question and answer in the Gazzetta dello Sport.

Which English team has won the Premiership/First Division championship, FA Cup, and League Cup in the same year? (Also known as the Treble).

None.

But Liverpool is the only team that has won the following three scenarios at least once.

League Championship and FA Cup: 8 times.

Arsenal in 1971, 1998 and 2002.
Tottenham Hotspur in 1961.
Liverpool in 1986.
Manchester United: 1994, 1996 and 1999.

League Championship and League Cup: 5 times.

Chelsea: 2005.
Liverpool: 1982, 1983 and 1984.
Nottingham Forest: 1978.

FA Cup and League Cup: 3 times.

Arsenal: 1993.
Chelsea: 2007
Liverpool: 2001

2008 UEFA.com Users Team of the Year

After 3 million votes were cast, UEFA.com announced their 2008 Team of the Year.

The team had a definite and much deserved Spanish flavor.

Xavi Hernandez of FC Barcelona received the most votes by the fans.

Here is the team:

Manager

Sir Alex Ferguson of Manchester United.

Goalkeeper

Iker Casillas of Real Madrid.

Defenders

Sergio Ramos of Real Madrid.
John Terry of Chelsea FC.
Carles Puyol of FC Barcelona.
Philipp Lahm of FC Bayern Munich.

Midfielders

Cristiano Ronaldo of Manchester United.
Xavi Hernandez of FC Barcelona.
Cesc Fabregas of Arsenal.
Franck Ribery of FC Bayern Munich.

Strikers

Leo Messi of FC Barcelona.
Fernando Torres of Liverpool FC.

Gianluigi Buffon: The Best Keeper of the Last Twenty Years by IFFHS

According to the highly respected International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) Gianluigi "Gigi" Buffon of Italy was named the all-time best goalkeeper in world football for the period between 1987 and 2008.

Buffon received 78 votes.

His closest rivals, Peter Schmeichel of Denmark, had 69 votes, Iker Casillas of Spain, 63, Oliver Kahn of Germany, 62, and Jose Luis Chilavert of Paraguay, 58, respectively.

Source: Calciomercato.com, 19 January 2009.

Italian Tradition of Great Goalkeepers

Italy had two in the top ten (Walter Zenga), and four (Francesco Toldo and Gianluca Pagliuca) in the top 22 to lead the way.

UK Representation

David Seamon of England was ranked 11th.
Peter Shilton of England was ranked 18th.
Neville Southall of Wales was ranked 23rd.
Andrew Goram of Scotland was ranked 55th.

CONCACAF Representation

Jorge Campos of Mexico was ranked 29th.
Brad Friedel of the USA was ranked 48th.
Tim Howard of the USA was ranked 58th.

IFFHS List

For a complete list, please click here.

"Kakà resta al Milan." Silvio Berlusconi Tells the World that Ricky Said No to City

Ricardo Kakà said no to Manchester City.

Incredibly, and it is important to note that AC Milan accepted the transfer request for a little less than 130 million euros according to La Gazzetta dello Sport, but the player ultimately had the final say.

Kakà resta al Milan". Così il premier Silvio Berlusconi ha dichiarato intervenendo telefonicamente alla trasmissione Il processo di Biscardi. Berlusconi ha poi aggiunto : "Per Kakà i soldi non sono tutto. Lui resta con noi, ci sono cose che sono più importanti dei soldi:siamo felici"... "Avevamo offerto al giocatore la possibilità di prendere in considerazione l'offerta e farsi un patriomonio consistente, ma lui ha valori più alti"..."Avevamo offerto al giocatore la possibilità di prendere in considerazione l'offerta e farsi un patriomonio consistente, ma lui ha valori più alti"... E' stato lui a togliersi dal mercato con questa sua decisione di restare legato al contratto che ha con il Milan. Un contratto firmato su una carta da bollo ma da ora in avanti possiamo ben dire firmato sul sentimento, firmato con il cuore."

" 'Kakà will remain at Milan.' The Italian Premier, Silvio Berlusconi, declared by telephone, and then added:

'For Kakà money wasn't everything. He is staying with us, there are some things more important than money: we are very happy...

We had offered the player the possibility to take into consideration the offer and to make himself financially secure for life, but he has much higher values.

It was he who took himself off of the market with this decision to remain tied to his contract with Milan. A contract signed on a notarized document, but now looking ahead, we can say it was signed based on feelings, signed by his heart.' "

Source: La Gazzetta dello Sport, 19 January 2009.

Kakà Writes His Milan Legacy

Earlier in the day, Garry Cook of Manchester City met with Bosco Leite, Kakà's father and agent. But apparently, contractual terms could not be agreed. Or perhaps as Signor Berlusconi stated, the honor and commitment of Kakà to Milan went much further than pounds or euros.

"Alla fine ha contato la mia storia, dove sono legato e dove è in realtà il mio cuore. Tutti i messaggi che mi arrivavano - dice a Milan Channel - mi dicevano di scegliere con il cuore. E io così ho fatto. Non è una stata una scelta economica."

"In the end, my history counted, where I am tied and where in reality is my heart. All of the messages that arrived (from supporters), he told the Milan Channel, told me to choose with my heart. And I did. It was not an economic choice."

Source: La Gazzetta dello Sport, 19 January 2009.

Outside of Paolo Maldini, no player will endear himself more to the Rossoneri faithful.

Ricardo Kaka': A Night in Pictures from San Siro

In what may be his last game for AC Milan, Ricardo Kaka' and his adoring fans provided some interesting images.

One section in the upper deck was left empty in protest of his eventual move to Manchester City.

"We are thinking over your offer" was the banner displayed in that section.

Before the game waving to the fans. Is it time to say goodbye, Ricky? He joined AC Milan in 2003 from Sao Paulo.

"Eto'o (Samuel) 80 million euros with MasterCard. Cristiano Ronaldo 120 million euros with MasterCard. Messi (Leo) 180 million euros with MasterCard. Kaka'. Priceless!!!"

In action against Alessandro Gamberini of Fiorentina showing his trademark quickness and balance.

Acknowledging the fans after the game with David Beckham.

During the past week, Kaka' said the following:

"I want to grow old at Milan."

"One day I want to be captain after Maldini and Ambrosini."

One sensed that he meant it. But Kaka' understands the economic realities. Sheik Mansour made Milan an offer that few could seemingly refuse.

What do you think of the Kaka' saga? Is it good or bad for world football?

Video Link from La Gazzetta dello Sport

For a short video from last night, please click here.

Week/Giornata 19 of the Serie A: The last fixture of the first round

Image courtesy of Lega Nazionale Professionisti.
Click the image to view detailed PDF formatted match reports and statistics utilized by professional clubs.

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Week 19 Fixtures

Saturday, 17 January 2009

Siena 1 x Reggina 0
AC Milan 1 x ACF Fiorentina 0

Sunday, 18 January 2009

Atalanta 3 x Internazionale 1 (Despite the loss, Inter is crowned Winter Champion/Campione D'Inverno with 43 points).
Catania 1 x Bologna 2
Cagliari 2 x Udinese 0
Chievo Verona 2 x Napoli 1
Lecce 0 x Genoa 2
Sampdoria 0 x Palermo 2
Torino 0 x AS Roma 1
Lazio 1 x Juventus 1

Video Highlights


A great source for Serie A videos.
Please click the image.

Best Goals from Week/Giornata 18

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Online Coverage

• For live scores during the games from FlashScores, please click here.
• For an ESPN Matchtracker of Serie A games, please click here.
  
• For a live game tracker called Match View from La Gazzetta dello Sport, which has very detailed statistics and graphical displays, please click here. You may have to click on the number of the week to see a full fixture list.
• For current statistics of the Serie A from La Gazzetta dello Sport, please click here.
  
• For English language coverage and game commentaries, please take a look at mCalcio and Football Italia.
  

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Quotes of the Week in Italian Calcio

"All we have to do is brush the dust off of our brains." Claudio Ranieri of Juventus.

"I want to grow old at Milan." Ricardo Kaka' of AC Milan.

"Spalletti is so easy to wind up. It's terribly amusing." Carlo Ancelotti of AC Milan.

"I will not deny that these things happened to Juve, but they were not as obvious as when Inter scored and won at Siena with five players offside." Luciano Moggi.

"I will never betray Roma." Phillipe Mexes of AS Roma.

"I'm betting on Alessandro Nesta to take on my mantle." Paolo Maldini of AC Milan.

Quotes courtesy of Football Italia.

Milan Channel: "Milan is Thinking Over the Offer of Manchester City for Ricardo Kaka."

According to the Milan (TV) Channel, the €120 million offer (US $150,000,000 and £108m pounds sterling), by Manchester City for Ricardo Kaka' (Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite) is receiving serious consideration by AC Milan. Should the deal become reality, it would become the highest paid transfer in the history of world football.

Highest Paid Player in World Football

The owners of Manchester City, the Abu Dhabi United Group, have also offered the player a tremendous financial package.

According to CNN International:

"Reports circulated Wednesday that the AC Milan midfielder is being offered a £500,000 ($726,000) per WEEK salary by English Premier League club Manchester City."

According to Futebol Finance, he was already the highest paid footballer in the world at €9 million per year for 2008. Ronaldinho Gaucho, Frank Lampard, and John Terry, respectively, rounded out the top four.

Milan Thinks Over the Offer

"Il Milan sta ponderando l'offerta del Manchester City per Ricardo Kakà... La faraonica offerta messa sul piatto dagli sceicchi proprietari del City hanno fatto traballare le certezze dei rossoneri, che finora si erano sempre rifiutati di considerare le offerte per il Pallone d'oro 2007.

Il direttore Mauro Suma: "C'è un'offerta del Manchester City per Kakà e viene ponderata dal Milan. Ponderata non significa decisa o accettata. Non siamo di fronte a una decisione presa o a un fatto compiuto. Ci sono ancora ore e giorni davanti".

Diogo Kotscho, portavoce del brasiliano, ha detto all'Associated Press che il club rossonero ha autorizzato Kakà a parlare con il Manchester City dopo che l'offerta del club inglese è salita a 120 milioni di euro. Secondo Kotscho il padre di Kakà, Bosco, volerà presto in Inghilterra per parlare col City, ma è "esagerato" parlare di accordo fatto o di proposta già rifiutata dal giocatore."

Source: La Gazzetta dello Sport, 15 January 2009.

"Milan is thinking over the offer of Manchester City for Ricardo Kaka'. The pharoaic offer put on the plate by the sheik owners of Manchester City have shaken the certainties of the Milan club, who up until now have always refused to consider offers for the 2007 Ballon d'Or winner.

According to AC Milan Director, Mauro Suma: 'There is an offer by Manchester City for Kaka' and it is being thought over by Milan. Thought over doesn't mean decided or accepted. We are not in front of a made decision or a completed transaction. There are still hours and days ahead.'

Diogo Kotscho, the spokeman for the Brazilian, told the Associated Press that Milan had authorized Kaka' to speak with Manchester City after the offer of the English club had risen to 120 million euros. According to Kotscho, Kaka's father, Bosco Leite, will soon fly to England to speak with City, but it is 'exaggerated' to speak of a done deal or of a refusal of the offer by the player."

Survived an Almost Fatal and Career Ending Diving Accident

As a late teenager, Kaka' survived a serious diving accident at a swimming pool which significantly jeopardized an eventual career in professional football. Already a very religious person, the accident further reinforced his Evangelical Christianity.

When he first arrived at the San Siro in 2003, Ivan "Rino" Gattuso said, "He came in all dressed up with glasses. He looked soft. But when he got out on the training ground, I learned how tough he was."

His reputation is beyond question, and he is a role model with a capital R.

Last year, he became an Italian citizen.

We will soon learn if he becomes a "Citizen."

Internazionale in Talks for a July or August Friendly in Edmonton, Alberta

According to a story today in the Edmonton Journal by Curtis Stock, Inter Milan is in talks to play a summer friendly in Edmonton, Alberta.

The friendly will be part of the centenary celebrations of the Alberta Soccer Association (ASA).

"It's extremely exciting to do something of this nature," said ASA president Fred Kern. "It's not 100-per-cent sure but we expect a final signature in the next couple of days."

"What we are trying to bring to Edmonton is something that is teams from the highest level in the world and the excitement it will bring to the world," Kern said.

Inter Milan rarely ventures into North America, and I believe this will be a very positive experience for all concerned. In the past, Jose' Mourinho, during his tenure at Chelsea FC, regularly visited North America as a part of his preseason training regimen.

2009 Italian Super Cup takes place in China

The 2009 Italian Super Cup (Serie A winner v. Coppa Italia winner) will take place on 08 August in Beijing. Since Inter may be one of the two teams, a summer friendly in Canada would be a good starting point for that potential competition.

Potomac Soccer Wire: "Pick up soccer is widely believed to be the best way to develop creativity and technical skills..."

I subscribe to a twice weekly newsletter called the Potomac Soccer Wire.

It is a very informative and interesting collection of local (Washington, D.C. area) stories, along with international coverage. Mainly with a focus on US youth, collegiate, and professional soccer. Along with the increasing numbers of men and women playing in overseas competitions.

Chris Hummer, the editor, had a very interesting quote in this week's newsletter:

"Pick up soccer is widely believed to be best way to develop creativity and technical skills for youth players world wide, yet it's a component of the player development cycle that is SORELY LACKING in America."

I could not agree more with that statement.

Most well-known players did not play in vastly organized youth leagues. They honed their skills during informal environments. Whether it was on a beach in Abidjan, Accra, and Rio de Janeiro. Or in the urban centers of Buenos Aires, London, and Milan. The game itself, played informally, was their first teacher. Then they advanced to youth leagues and professional academies.

A few years ago, I read that Romario of Brasil still routinely played pick up beach soccer in Rio. He never forgot his roots or lost a child-like passion for futebol. He played on the beach with guys like you and me. He didn't need a live crowd of thousands or to receive any compensation.

Coaching is Important

The concept of pick up soccer doesn't negate the need or importance of dedicated and qualified youth coaches; however, as US Soccer continues to grow, we need to promote, recognize, and reward creativity. There should be less focus on winning, and more emphasis placed upon player development, along with a life-long passion for the sport.

Soccer is a Kick in the Grass

Think about it? When was the last time that you saw two or three children kicking a soccer ball around just for fun? Without any pressure to perform or screaming parents? Devoid of cones and adult supervision?

When a child learns to read or play a musical instrument, we don't yell at them. It might be a lesson to share with over-zealous parents and coaches. ;-)

The beauty of soccer is found in its simplicity.

"The ball is round, and the game lasts 90 minutes."

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David Beckham: Professionalism Personified

As I watched him both before, during, and after the game tonight in Rome, one has to marvel at the professionalism of this man. He hasn't played competitive football since November, yet he played virtually the entire game tonight at the Stadio Olimpico against AS Roma. The teams drew, 2 x 2.

According to Panini Digital, David Beckham played 91 total minutes (he was subbed out in the 89th minute by Mathieu Flamini), and had 48 successful passes. He also had one shot on goal.

He also took several corners, along with a few free kicks. Carlo Ancelotti must wonder why the soccer Gods smiled on him. For the next two months, he has Beckham, Andrea Pirlo, and Ronaldinho Gaucho to take free kicks for AC Milan.

He seemed to fit Milan like a glove.

Joking in the Tunnel

Before the game, he embraced and seemed to be joking with Julio Baptista, his former Real Madrid teammate, in the tunnel. He also shared a warm smile with Cicinho, another Merengue colleague who was opposing him today.

When Pato scored his first goal of the evening, Beckham leaped on his back in celebration.

After the game, he came off the bench to congratulate players on both sides.

Comments After the Game

“Mi sono anche divertito, grazie ai compagni che mi hanno aiutato. Nel complesso sto bene, non mi aspettavo di giocare dall’inizio”… Tra due mesi dovrò tornare ai Los Angeles Galaxy, ma sono contento di avere questa occasione adesso”.

“I enjoyed myself, thanks to my teammates who helped me. Overall I am well, I didn’t expect to play from the start… In two months, I will have to return to the Los Angeles Galaxy, but I am pleased to have this experience now.”

Source: La Gazzetta dello Sport, 11 January 2009.

A Great Professional

It seems to be the mantra of anyone quoted about Beckham.

Ancelotti, Paolo Maldini, and Clarence Seedorf have used this term since their Dubai training camp. In the past, Fabio Capello said it several times. Even after he benched him in Madrid, he noted the great professionalism of Beckham.

The man travels around the world and receives the scrutiny of a Head of State. Yet he seems to handle the pressure, both on and off the pitch, with unusual grace and courtesy.

He may be a global brand, but for those of us who are not concerned by such media-created frenzies, he epitomizes professionalism.

In any language.

Un grande professionalista, David Beckham.

My Portfolio for Keeper Skool of Australia

My Portfolio for Keeper Skool of Australia

Interviews (To read or listen to the full interview requires special access. These were premium interviews available only to registered Keeper Skool members.)

• Interview with Galileo "Leo" Percovich, Goalkeeper Coach for Chivas USA

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  Recently, Steve Amoia caught up with CD Chivas (MLS) goalkeeper coach Leo Percovich. In this exclusive audio interview, Coach Percovich gives an insider view into his training methodologies and how he helped develop goalkeepers such as Bouna Condoul, Joe Cannon, Brad Guzan and Zach Thornton. Coach Percovich plyed his trade in four nations namely Uruguay, Brasil, Peru and Spain, being capped for Uruguay on a number of occasions.

• Interview with Dr. Craig Duncan, Athletic Preparation Expert

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  Before writing for Keeper Skool, we were lucky enough to pick the brains of our resident goalkeeping expert Dr. Craig Duncan. In this interview, Steve Amoia gets a window view into exclusive scientific methods used by Dr. Duncan and how any goalkeeper can help blow up their goalkeeping performance.

• Interview with Michael Toshack, Goalkeeper Coach of the Houston Dynamo
  
  
  
  This week Keeper Skool interview Mike Toshack, goalkeeping coach of the Houston Dynamo (MLS). In this exclusive audio interview, Steve Amoia asks some great questions of coach Toshack to uncover the ways in which he develops his goalkeepers at the Dynamo.
  
  
• Interview with Don Mullan, Author of "A Hero Who Could Fly."
  
  
  
  Steve Amoia recently touched base with BBC writer and creator of the acclaimed novel “Gordon Banks: A Hero Who Could Fly”(2006), Don Mullan. Don’s relationship with Sir Gordon Banks stems many fruitful years and in this exclusive audio interview, Keeper Skool readers gain insight into Banks’ ability and what “that save” against Pele meant to England in the 1970 World Cup Finals. Don recently helped unveil a statue in honor of the great Gordon Banks outside Britannia Stadium at Stoke City Football Club.
  
  
• Interview with Tom Scott of Shot Stoppers in Glasgow, Scotland
  
  
  
  This week Steve Amoia chats with Tom Scott, head coach of Shot Stoppers Goalkeeping Coaching Academy (Glasgow, Scotland). Tom was the head goalkeeping coach of Patrick Thistle (Scottish Football League; 1st Division) for many years, and shares his thoughts about what it takes to be the best goalkeeper you can be. To read the article, and interact with Tom in our exclusive forums, you must be a member of the Keeper Skool Certified program.

• Interview with Claudio Rapacioli, Goalkeeper Coach of Piacenza Calcio (Serie B)

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  Steve Amoia has an exclusive chat with goalkeeper coach Claudio Rapacioli of Piacenza Calcio. Mr. Rapacioli gives his insights into what it takes to be the best goalkeeper you can be, and a unique insight into a revolutionary goalkeeping software he created that is utilized by some of the best football clubs in the world.

Articles

• 2008-2009 La Liga (LFP) Goalkeepers
• USA 1 x Brasil 0 AET: Redemption for Hope Solo
• 2008-2009 Serie A TIM Goalkeepers
• Gordon Banks Statue Unveiled at Brittania Stadium
• Three is a Crowd at AC Milan
• adidas EUROPASS Causing Concerns for Keepers at Euro 2008

Profiles

• Profiles in Courage: Hope Amelia Solo
• Profiles of the Legends: Gordon Banks
• Profiles of the Legends: Jorge Campos
• Profiles of the Legends: Jose Luis Chilavert
• Profiles of the Legends: Ray Clemence
• Profiles of the Legends: Rene Higuita
• Profiles of the Legends: Peter Shilton
• Profiles of the Legends: Lev Ivanovich Yashin
• Profiles of the Legends: Dino Zoff

Statistical Commentaries

• Statistical Analysis of Penalty Shoot-Outs
• Steve's Stats: A Series of Game Commentaries During Euro 2008

Week/Giornata 18 of the Serie A

Image courtesy of Lega Nazionale Professionisti.
Click the image to view detailed PDF formatted match reports and statistics utilized by professional Serie A clubs.

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Week 18 Fixtures

Saturday, 10 January 2009

Genoa 3 x Torino 0
Internazionale 1 x Cagliari 1

Sunday, 11 January 2009

Bologna 1 x Chievo Verona 1
Juventus 1 x Siena 0
Napoli 1 x Catania 0
Palermo 3 x Atalanta 2
Reggina 2 x Lazio 3
Udinese 1 x Sampdoria 1
AS Roma 2 x AC Milan 2

Video Highlights


Image courtesy of 101 Great Goals.
A great source for Serie A videos.
Please click the image.

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Online Coverage

• For live scores during the games from FlashScores, please click here.
• For an ESPN Matchtracker of Serie A games, please click here.
  
• For a live game tracker called Match View from La Gazzetta dello Sport, which has very detailed statistics and graphical displays, please click here. You may have to click on the number of the week to see a full fixture list.
• For English language coverage and game commentaries, please take a look at mCalcio and Football Italia.
  

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Quotes of the Week from Italian Calcio

"I don't think the Christmas break poses a risk to our concentration, but to be entirely happy, I definitely need football." Jose' Mourinho on Internazionale.

"When I am old and grey, I can sit by the fire with my grandchildren and tell them of all the top stars I trained." Carlo Ancelotti of AC Milan.

"I've got a very down to earth family." David Beckham of AC Milan/LA Galaxy.

"Zinedine Zidane is the greatest of players, an idol, an icon and an exceptional person. This is why I always try to imitate him." Marco Materazzi of Internazionale.

"Can anyone tell me the time?" Marek Hamsik of Napoli after criminals stole his Rolex watch at gunpoint.

"Right now Catania are our Arsenal." Luciano Spalletti of AS Roma.

"Spalletti plays with a 'fake' centre-forward." Walter Zenga of Catania.

Quotes courtesy of Football Italia.