Scuola Calcio - Italian Premier Soccer School

Is Europa League the competition to get Joe Cole firing again?

2010-10-18T22:36:00.002-04:00

Joe Cole is a man who started the season with a few pundits looking at his odds of winning premier league Player of the Year trophy as a decent shout.
However, since the start of the new campaign, he has become simply a player who would love just to experience a fleeting moment in which he can prove to Liverpool fans that he really is worth the extortionate amount of money that the club are paying him to stay on their books.

With this season's odds of winning UEFA Europa League not making wonderful reading for troubled Reds fans, Joe Cole may well be able to turn himself into a Liverpool legend if he can find his form and inspire Liverpool to reach the latter stages of the competition. Despite ultimate success in the Europa League clearly not the main priority at the moment for manager Roy Hodgson, Liverpool fans are beginning to realise that they cannot be too picky about where and how they win silverware this season, especially since theirs is a club which has recently been spoken about in relation to the current betting odds for relegation from the Premier League!

However, in light of the recent good news regarding the chances of the club being taken over by a new set of American owners (only this time the owners from the US are expected to take the club out of a financial mess rather than taking them to the point of bankruptcy), the situation seems to take on a slightly new angle. If the club is taken over, it may turn out to be the case that Joe Cole, rather than battling to find top form, is left merely fighting to stay at a club which initially welcomed him with open arms in the summer.

Benitez Signs 2-year Deal to Coach Inter Milan

2010-06-10T13:58:00.003-04:00

MILAN (AP) -Rafa Benitez signed a two-year contract to become Inter Milan's new coach on Thursday, taking over a club that won three titles this year under Jose Mourinho.

Benitez, who left Liverpool last Thursday after six years at the English club, will be presented in Milan next Tuesday after agreeing to a contract with Inter until June 30, 2012.

"That's great - I hadn't heard that so I'm happy,'' midfielder Sulley Muntari told The Associated Press after being informed of the news while at the World Cup with Ghana.

"He is a top manager, he did a great job with Liverpool and I look forward to meeting him. We are very happy to have him.''

Mourinho left Inter to join Real Madrid last month after guiding the San Siro club to the Champions League, Serie A and Italian Cup titles this year.

"Mourinho is hard to follow - he did his thing and I wish him all the best,'' Muntari said. "We have a new manager now so we will follow him and do whatever he wants.''

Having started well at Liverpool by winning the 2005 Champions League and 2006 FA Cup, Benitez came under increasing pressure as the club failed to break its run without winning the domestic championship.

"It's most definitely important (he is a Champions League winner),'' Muntari said. "We will work hard with him to achieve our aims.''

Liverpool last won the English title in 1990 and in recent years has seen rival Manchester United equal its record of 18 championships.

Benitez also clashed with American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett Jr. over a perceived lack of transfer funds. Having led Liverpool to second place in the league in 2009, the team finished seventh this season, spelling the end of his tenure.

Before joining Liverpool, Benitez won two Spanish titles and the 2004 UEFA Cup with Valencia.

AP Sports Writer Rob Harris in Sun City, South Africa contributed to this report.

Lippi Eyes World Cup Encore "We know how to win"

2010-03-30T13:25:00.002-04:00

And speaking about his future, the national team manager stressed: "Abete already knows what I'll be doing after South Africa." Ancelotti a candidate: the president of the Football Federation is pinning his hopes on the Chelsea manager now that that Prandelli is no longer in the frame. On the battle for the scudetto he commented: "This is what's great about football. Credit to Roma and Milan who have done an excellent job." A training camp for the Azzurri from 3-5 May

ROME, 29 March 2010 - "Italy don't go to the World Cup just to put on a good show. We go to win. We should not forget that we are the reigning champions: we should remember that not in a boastful way, but because we know how to win. We know what it takes to win." The national team manager Marcello Lippi is impatient, with just over two months to go before the World Cup begins in South Africa: "I can't wait to go." The concept of "outgoing champion" is not one our national coach likes much: "We've had two years of qualifying without any real highlights or lowlights, with some good matches and some not so good. But then when we're together for 30-40 days Italy always manages to do well, with players who are technically skilled and mentally strong, regardless of what has happened in the club sides," said the manager, interviewed on the "Politics in football" programme on GR Parlamento radio.

PREDICTIONS — Michel Platini, the UEFA president, sees three teams as the favourites: Spain, Brazil and England. "That's his assessment. All over the world people are backing Brazil. It was the same before the 2006 World Cup, but in Germany they went home before the quarter-finals. Spain are very strong, they won the European championship, they're in great form and they have an excellent group of players. But they have never won the World Cup. England have 10-12 very talented players and an excellent manager. But we don't see ourselves as inferior to anyone, and we're not going just to make up the numbers."

Future — Lippi - who has set aside 3-5 May for a training camp for the Azzurri, probably in Rome, at the Borghesiana - was a little more forthcoming than he had previously been when asked about the national team manager's job: "The president of the Federation already knows what I'll be doing after the World Cup. We have a lot of regard and respect for each other." Translated into terms that Italian fans can understand, that means that Lippi will end his time as coach in South Africa: his dream is to do it with the cup raised once again, as it was in Berlin. The head of the Italian Football Federation, Giancarlo Abete, reiterated that the future of the national manager's position will be determined in May, before the team leaves for Africa. At this stage, with the odds lengthening on Cesare Prandelli (he's being linked with Juventus and in any case seems set on staying with a club), Abete is looking at the options. He likes Ranieri, but getting him away from Roma at this point is impossible. And then there is the dream candidate: Carlo Ancelotti. He has done fairly well at Chelsea, but his position is far from secure. Should he be sacked he might be interested in coaching the Azzurri, a job he has never denied he would like one day.

SCUDETTO AND EUROPE — The national manager then spoke about the race for the scudetto: "Uncertainty, that's the beauty of football. We haven't had a title race this close since 2001-2002. Then it was Roma and Inter three years ago. In our competition you only have to ease off ever so slightly and someone will be snapping at your heels due to their own excellent work, and I'm talking about Roma and Milan here. These two teams are right there, one a point behind, and the other three points behind. It's great that the outcome is in doubt right to the end. The fans of these teams must be delighted - especially Inter's fans, as their team is in the running for the Coppa Italia and the Champions League title as well." And on the European competition: "I hope there's an Italian team in the final, and the only Italian team left is Inter. They will have to beat CSKA Moscow, then Barcelona or Arsenal. Let's hope Inter are in the final: if not, it will be Barcelona and Manchester United." Milan were knocked out of the Champions League:"Recently their problem has been having so many players out through injury." Finally, an observation: "If we slipped in the European rankings we would be behind Germany, and have one less team in the Champions League. But that's not the way to judge the quality of a country's football: such a judgement needs to be made overall, and the assessment should include, in particular, the national team."

Maurizio Nicita - Source Gazzetta.it

Totti Steps Into The Ring "I'm ready to take on Inter"

2010-03-25T12:21:00.002-04:00

The Roma captain has put himself at coach Ranieri's disposal, and could be the team's extra gear in the race for the Scudetto. The coach used the metaphor: "Francesco is like a stem cell for us"

ROME, 25 March 2010 - The dream of being the only Roma player to win the league twice is now becoming a bit more of a real possibility now. He might not have said it, but reading between the lines: Francesco Totti wants a part of the action on Saturday against Inter. The Giallorosso captain, who fronted a conference by the Gemelli Hospital at Rome's Cattolica University along with Claudio Ranieri and club president Rosella Sensi, was hiding nothing. "I'm available if the coach needs me." This was followed by a glance at Ranieri and a knowing smile, which said it all.

Stem Cell — Staying on the subject of medicine, Ranieri used the metaphor: "Totti is like a stem cell for us". This was a clear sign that if the team wants to keep charging ahead, the captain's help will be essential. The fans love him, they've been united in calling for his return for the super clash against Inter. "Saturday's is an important game, the whole of Rome will be watching us. Well, almost the whole of Rome (ed. not Lazio fans)."

From the heart — Totti has been making good progress over the past few days, but whether he'll actually play at the Olimpico remains to be seen. There's no doubt though about his desire to be in the front line as his team take's on Mourinho: "My decision to stay with Roma for life came from the heart. If I had wanted to change teams, I could have easily done it: before I quit, I want to win something big in this shirt". And soon. There's also no question that he's serious, going by his training program: this afternoon Totti will be doing a personal session then some polishing with the team tomorrow. On Saturday we'll see if he'll also be part of the biggest game of the year.

Article by Marco Calabresi - gazzetta.it

The Grifo Cup USA 2010

2010-02-01T20:42:00.001-05:00

The Grifo Cup USA 2010 is being played July 30th-August 2nd 2010. This is a class "A" tournament for boys Under 12 through Under 17.

All Federation’s sanctioned league passes are accepted. The Grifo cup is presented by the United Grifos, OSA Soccer Academy and Scuola Calcio, Italian Premier Soccer School.

The Grifo cup is not just a tournament it is a scouting event, the staff will be selecting three players from the tournament to attend trials with AC Fiorentina’s youth sector from the Italian Serie A. One player from each of the following age groups will be selected u12-u13 (1), U14-u15 (1) and U16-U17 (1).

Teams entering the tournament will be placed in age appropriate divisions based on history of play. During these matches a staff member will be at each field evaluating individual play.

In addition on the official score card each opposing coach/trainer shall select one player from the opposing team that he/she thought was the standout plyer during the match for the opposing team and note it on the score card. Also the Grifos cup staff member will add their opinions and observations of players if they feel necessary.

At the end of your division’s matches each teams coach will be notified on which players will be asked to attend Mondays round of games. Players selected for the Monday games will be put on trial teams and compete in one hour matches where the Staff can further identify players that will be selected for the trials. At the end of Mondays matches 3 players and 6 alternates will be identified.

The Grifo Cup staff will consult with all coaches to ensure a strong opinion of each player can be made.

For Further information on this event and to register go to www.thegrifocup.com or you can also visit www.soccerkix.com

Premier Sport Event and Scuola Calcio, Italian Soccer School Announce Partnership

2010-01-21T10:30:00.001-05:00

USA, January 2010 – Scuola Calcio, Italian Premier Soccer School is proud to announce an exciting Partnership with Premier Sport Event from Malaysia.

Premier Sport Event, located in Labuan Malaysia, is one of the top youth soccer academy in South East Asia under the leadership of club’s Director Saifol Suffian Abdul. The extended partnership is a natural affiliation between two respected soccer academies.

“Scuola Calcio will be offering full technical support to coaches and players” said Antonio Saviano, Scuola Calcio North America Director.

Scuola Calcio, Italian Premier Soccer School is the global leader in soccer with soccer affiliations in Europe, Ghana and now Malaysia. "We are committed to developing and supporting all levels of Youth Soccer Players and their academies and we are proud to have Premier Sport Event as an affiliated academy and also as a point of reference for many youth soccer players in South East Asia”, said Mr. Saviano.

“Premier Sport Event is looking forward to work very close with Scuola Calcio Technical staff”, said Saifol Suffian Abdul, Premier Sport Event’s Director.

The program of affiliation provided by Scuola Calcio aims to support and offer the right technical assistance to both national and international youth soccer academies that intend to get exposure with professional teams. Professional teams usually are not able to stay in touch with hundreds of youth soccer academies, therefore Scuola Calcio, Italian Premier Soccer School will offer an opportunity for talented youth soccer players to be selected by professional teams.

This affiliation gives us an opportunity to work with well organized organization and a professional staff," said Mr. Abdul.

For more information visit Scuola Calcio web site: www.soccerkix.com or email info@soccerkix.com

About Scuola Calcio

Scuola Calcio, Italian Soccer School offers programs such as: All-Year Soccer Boarding School, Three weeks Soccer Camps in USA and Italy, Soccer Coaching Symposium, International Soccer Team Tour Travel, Monthly Professional Soccer Training, and much more are all offered to serious soccer players and coaches.

Capello Hopes for England-Italy World Cup Final

2009-12-17T14:00:00.001-05:00

England manager's dream opponent would be the Azzurri

England manager Fabio Capello hopes to lead the Three Lions to the final of next year's World Cup in South Africa, and there's one team in particular he would love to face: Italy.

The Italian, who took over as manager of the English national team in 2007, admitted he would love nothing more if his home country would be England's opponent in the final in Johannesburg on July 11.

"I would love a final between England and Italy. For Italy, for me and for all of us. The strangest moment will be during the national anthems. But, I am wearing a different shirt now and I must work for the England shirt," Capello told French television station Canal Plus.

Capello, whose England side has been drawn into a first-round group with the United States, Algeria and Slovenia, believes his team can go all the way and reach the final for the first time since 1966, when it won the World Cup on home soil.

"My team is strong. The fans are proud of what we've done, as are we. There's a World Cup to play for and our goal is to reach the final," Capello stated.

"We will be competitive and I repeat: We can play with our head held high against the best teams in the world."

By John F. Molinaro, CBC Sports

Grifo Cup 2010 International Tournament

2009-10-19T20:55:00.002-04:00

October 2009 - Scuola Calcio, Italian Premier Soccer School and Perugia Grifos are pleased to announce the 2010 Grifo Cup. The Grifo Cup 2010 is being held in the beautiful Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania. The tournament will be played July 30th-August 2nd 2010. This is a class “A” tournament for boys Under 12 through Under 17. All Federation’s sanctioned league passes are accepted..

Perugia Grifos USA Tournament Director, noted that "teams are already signing up this event and it looks like it will be totally booked." It was also noted that "families and friends are welcome to travel and take the time to visit the beautiful Pocono Mountains".

The Pocono Mountains is famous for its resorts, natural scenic beauty, 150 lakes including Lake Wallenpaupack, and the quaint, historical towns in the four county area. The Poconos in Pennsylvania have so much to offer to the adventurous soul.

Mr. Antonio Saviano, Scuola Calcio, Italian Premier Soccer School said: “the Grifo Cup is not just a tournament it is a scouting event, the staff will be selecting three players from the tournament to attend trials with AC Fiorentina’s youth sector from the Italian Serie A”.

All arrangements for selected players will be made on your behalf with AC Fiorentina from the Italian Serie A, OSA Soccer Academy (Italy) and the Perugia Grifos (USA).

Acceptance is done as "rolling acceptance". In other words, you could get accepted as early as a week after you apply or as late as a few weeks prior to the tournament. Applying early is always the best choice. Please make sure that your tournament registration is as accurate and complete as possible.

For more information contact Scuola Calcio or Perugia Grifo office at: grifocup@acperugiausa.com

About Scuola Calcio, Italian Premier Soccer School:

The Scuola Calcio (soccer school) program represents a unique opportunity for the young soccer student to grow in an environment filled with talent. The main goal is to always improve the technical and tactical aspects of the game of soccer but with an emphasis on developing players that will be better people on and off the field. The program is administered by some of the most qualified instructors in the world, with the objective of being one of the best systems in the world, the Scuola Calcio has opened affiliates in many different parts of the world.

Deeksha Sports Management and Soccerkix Vision in India

2009-10-01T22:16:00.006-04:00

New Delhi, India - Since there is not much to offer youth soccer players here in India, Deeksha Sports Management (DSM), a group of professionals engaged in promoting sports events, organized the first ever Italian Soccer Clinic this past September to help popularize the game of football.

In cooperation with Soccerkix, Italian Premier Soccer School, one of the most respected Italian Soccer Program in the world, DSM had the chance to bring its Director, Mr. Antonio Saviano to New Delhi to work with youth soccer students and youth soccer coaches in an effort to expend the knowledge of the beautiful game.

“If Mr. Chitaverdi would have asked me to come and work only with players I would simply told him I was not interested. But when he asked me to come and also work with coaches then I was very interested” said Mr. Antonio Saviano, Soccerkix Director. He went on to say: “I believe working with coaches is just as important as they can pass on the information to the players every time they train.”

India’s situation is like that of US 15-20 years ago. It started from juts children interested in playing the sport, competing with other popular sports such as baseball, basketball, etc. Today the US is one of the top international power on the women’s national side and the men’s national team has been ranked in top 10 many times in the FIFA Rankings.

The cooperation between DSM and Soccerkix was an effort to include interaction between professional coaches and youth soccer students as well as youth coaches of schools in and around Delhi, through classroom and practical presentations. A youth development program is already in place and it just needs to be tweaked to adapt the development methodology to the children in India.

Despite this was a short visit for a great exposure, the goal was to expose the children to a different type of player development system. A system that is geared to having FUN and build the important soccer skills in order to advance to the next level. Free training opportunities were given to over 500 children between the age of 5 – 16.

Mr. Hemanshu Chitaverdi, President of DSM said: “We have had wonderful response from players as well as coaches and we are looking forward for a long relationship”.

"I have noticed many children playing soccer but what I have noticed is that there is not a development program in place at the youth level and no coaching education and therefore these are the simple reasons why India many not be advanced as they should be” said Mr. Saviano. “I believe with the help of people like Mr. Hemanshu it will slowly change”.

The vision of DSM is to provide best of training and knowledge to upcoming soccer players in India. The vision is to offer the best player development program, therefore the use of the Soccerkix, Italian Premier Soccer School’s Development methodologies to influence positive technical social growth of players.

Soccerkix offers players around the world the opportunity to attend All-Year Soccer Boarding School and professional try-outs with some of the best Italian Soccer Clubs.

Mr. Saviano said: “If the children have the passion but there are no qualified coaches then there is a problem. If we can help coaches understand how to develop youth soccer players from an early age then you will definitely see talent come out from everywhere”.

Mr. Antonio visits included schools in Delhi & NCR like; Bal Bharti- Pitampura, Tagore Public School- East of Kailash, JBM Global School- Noida etc.

ROMA STADIUM PLANS UNVEILED

2009-09-29T21:00:00.004-04:00

(ANSA) - Rome, September 29 - AS Roma on Tuesday unveiled plans to build a new stadium on the outskirts of the Italian capital.

Roma President Rosella Sensi said the idea of the club having its own stadium, instead of renting one from the city council, had ``always been at the centre`` of her late father Franco`s plans, as well as those of another historic club president, Dino Viola.

The 55,000-seater stadium, billed as family friendly and eco-advanced, is expected to be called after Franco Sensi.

Coach Claudio Ranieri said he liked the idea that the so-called `technical area`, where coaches sit, would be inset into the terraces like at Premier League grounds such as Chelsea`s, where he coached for two years. ``You feel like you`re together, a part of the crowd,``he said.

Roma skipper Francesco Totti, who is about to sign a three-year contract extension, said he ``hoped`` to see the new ground finished. ``It looks beautiful. I`d like to tread the turf of such a stadium,`` said the 35-year-old club icon. ``It will be tough for me to play long enough. I hope they get it built fast, he said.

Daniele De Rossi, widely touted to take over Totti`s mantle, said upon seeing the plans: ``You`ll be able to feel the fans living the game with you. Just imagine what it`ll be like having 60,000 Roma fans around you, so close``.

One of the longstanding gripes about Roma`s present home, the 1960 Olympic Stadium, is that the stands are too far back from the pitch to allow fans to make a full connection with the players.

No firm completion date has been set for the ground, which is yet to get full planning approval. The architect, Gino Zavanella, said it would be the first
``eco-sustainable`` stadium, with solar panels and a non-degradable and non-polluting titanium-zinc structure. ``It will be naturally ventilated and the turf will be irradiated,`` he added. Stressing that the stadium will be able to be evacuated ``in five minutes,`` Zavanella said it would have ``spaces set aside for families, children in particular...as well as a museum on the club`s history``.
``This stadium will be alive, on the inside and the outside, and it will continue to provide services to people all week``.

According to media reports the ground will be surrounded by a huge leisure and residential complex including a mall,cinemas, restaurants, bars, a swimming pool and perhaps also a new hotel.

Roma hopes its future home, backed by City Mayor Gianni Alemanno, will generate income comparable with that of the big Premier League or Liga clubs where a family atmosphere has kept hooligans at bay and a range of shops and other facilities have generated income for the transfer market. Mayor Alemanno insisted ``the ground is the club`s right``. He said initial reports from planning agencies had been``positive``.

Roma Administrative Director Cristina Mazzoleni said the club had not yet put a final price tag on the project. She cited construction experts as saying the ground would take ``24-26 months to build, once started``. ``We will try to involve local firms as much as possible,`` Mazzoleni added.

The other Roman club, SS Lazio, is also trying to get away from the Olimpico, which it rents along with Roma, and build its own ground on the other side of the city. But both projects still have to approved. ``If the culture ministry doesn`t say Ok they won`t go ahead,`` Culture Undersecretary Franco Giro said at the
presentation at Rome`s training camp. Giro said he ``knew nothing`` about reports that a Roman villa and necropolis had been unearthed during preliminary digs at the site opposite the Ancient Roman Via Aurelia about 10km from the city centre.

So far the only Italian soccer club to start work on a stadium it will own, rather than rent, is Juventus. Packed with amenities, the 105-million-euro stadium,
already rising from the ashes of the old Delle Alpi ground, is scheduled to open in northern Turin in 2011.

Mourinho Talking Again, But for How Long?

2009-09-28T14:57:00.001-04:00

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/)

Italian Soccer School Instructors to Visit India

2009-09-13T20:21:00.002-04:00

Delhi, India September 12th, 2009 - In September 2009 one of best Italian Youth Soccer Programs in the world, Scuola Calcio (Italian Premier Soccer School), will run a soccer training program in India.

This International program is being made possible by a relationship between Deeksha Sports Management (DSM) an HTC Group Company and Scuola Calcio, the Italian Premier Soccer School a Soccerkix Company.

Antonio Saviano the Scuola Calcio Director, will travel to India to direct the soccer program for boys and girls ages 6 to 16 years-old and work with local coaches during the week of September 14th thru 19th, 2009.

Saviano, a former North America Director for many Italian professional soccer clubs, including AC Parma Scuola Calcio, AC Perugia Scuola Calcio and Ascoli Calcio Soccer Academy has worked in many different capacities and has been helping, leading and developing coaching and player development programs for over 140 affiliated soccer schools across North America and Europe. Mr. Saviano also serves as the Academy Director for Cape Fear Soccer Association in Wilmington, NC (USA) where he resides. Cape Fear Soccer Association has over 2000 players in its program and is one of the biggest clubs in the state of North Carolina.

“It is very exciting to have the Mr. Saviano come to India to teach our children and our coaches” said, Hemanshu Chaturvedi, DSM President and Managing Director for HTC Group.

“This is really just the beginning,” Mr. Chatuverdi said. “Many people don’t realize the number of children playing soccer in India. We are excited that Mr. Saviano will share his experiences with our youth soccer players and coaches. They will experience some of the best training a program can offer”.

Mr. Saviano feels that the timing is perfect to open doors for youth soccer players in India, to work hard and get noticed by International coaches.

The week long program will use Italian Youth Soccer Development Methodologies to influence positive technical-social growth. “The number one priority is the confidence and lessons the youth soccer players will take away. The goal is to work with the coaches and players, taking easy steps in order to educate them” said Mr. Saviano.

The training program follows a set curriculum that has been tested throughout the years and is examined in detail yearly by a coaching staff called the “Task Force”. These coaches have the sole responsibilities to improve all aspects of the youth soccer players in the best way possible.

“I am very confident that this event will be a success. We will deliver the best Italian soccer program in India”, said Mr. Saviano.

For more information on the Scuola Calcio, Italian Premier Soccer School email: info@soccerkix.com

Onyewu: "It’s pretty amazing"

2009-07-22T14:20:00.000-04:00

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

EXCLUSIVE: Alexi Lalas: “A Brilliant Move” By Milan And Onyewu

2009-07-07T15:54:00.002-04:00

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.

Rossi Eyes Return to Serie A

2009-06-25T21:18:00.002-04:00

By Josh Allen - Giuseppe Rossi could be set for a return to Italy, according to his agent Federico Pastorello.

The 22 year old was one of the few players to come out of Italy's recent Confederations Cup (http://betting.betfair.com/international-football/internationals/confederations-cup-betting-a-dress-rehearsal-of-th-100609.html) campaign with any credit, scoring two impressive goals against the USA. He also has a good scoring record at current club Villarreal, where he has netted 26 times in 62 appearances.

Despite his young age, Rossi is already at his third club, following spells at Parma and Manchester United. Although he has played regularly at Villarreal, whom he joined in 2007, the forward could be on the move again.

Speaking to Radio Kiss Kiss, Rossi's agent Pastorello said: “Without a shadow of a doubt he is a player, who in the moment at which a call from a big club arrives he would respond as being ready, willing and able. “If this club were to be Italian, so much the better, because he feels Italian in every way”.

However Pastorello was also keen not to shut the door on his client's current employers. He said: “His [Rossi's] is a complicated situation. He is fine where he is. We are negotiating a contract renewal with Villarreal”.

Should Rossi leave, his most likely destination would be Juventus. The Turin giants have been impressed by the forward's recent performances and according to reports are already in talks with Villarreal.

Moving in the other direction could be striker David Trezeguet. The Frenchman has been at Juventus for over nine years but has recently falling out of favour and chairman Giovanni Cobolli Gigli says a swap deal is possible if: “Villarreal are able to reciprocate Trezeguet's salary.”

Rossi would represent the second major summer signing (http://betting.betfair.com/football/premiership/) for Juventus, who have already spent 25 million euros on Brazil international Diego.

Lippi is confident: "We are eager and Skilled"

2009-06-15T11:57:00.001-04:00

PRETORIA, 14 June 2009 - We are in Pretoria and Lippi has selected his "Pretorian" Azzurri, seasoned, not old; confident, not in decay. In sum, on the eve of their debut in the Confederations Cup, Lippi relies on his veteran players, a group that has never let him down, while preparing for his next sports fight, the match against the United States.

ITALY'S CONDITION "We'll see tomorrow; but we are so ready! We really want to do well and this is a great group of lads, but it's useless to speak before the match. We must win and if possible, play well. We want to show that Italian football is always at top level. Italian football is not represented by individual teams, but rather by its National side."

THE U.S. "They are a different squad from the one that participated in the World Cup. The manager's son, who plays in midfield, is very good and they have, as usual, Donovan, Demsey and Beasley. They play in a 4-4-2 formation, with Donovan as a support player. Their physical form is great and we must watch out for them."

WORLD CHAMPIONS "My 'oldies'? Perhaps I didn't take into consideration the average age of the other teams. Ours is 28.5 years and is not too different from the average age of the other teams. They are only a bit younger than us, but I'm not worried. I have complete faith in my players. In the next few months we will include some Under 21 players. If I had to win a championship, I wouldn't have selected these players, but considering their quality in a 30-40-day tournament, I don't think there are many squads in the world that could be stronger than us right now. My lads are very eager to win."

CHARGED-UP "Yes, because I have watched the opening ceremony today, with the flags, and my hands became clammy."

SPAIN They have never won the World Cup and they have just won their first European Cup. They have built on their youth but it took them 6-7 years to win. Our football is not inferior to Spain's or Brazil's. Can we close the gap? What gap? We are the world champions."

LOGISTICS "We have been here for a week and the last bad thing we've encountered has been the weather, although that was just at the beginning. The weather is better now and the rest is perfect."

THE GREAT ONES "The Berlusconi-Obama meeting? It's not easy to rule the world. I hope we do it seriously and to the best of our abilities."

TONI-GILARDINO "Do I have doubts about which one to select? No, I don't have any doubts. I think that Legrottaglie, albeit not in his best form, will also be available."

From our Gazzetta.it correspondent Riccardo Pratesi (http://english.gazzetta.it/More_sports/14-06-2009/lippi-is-confident-we-are-eager-and-skilled-50529852998.shtml)

Ancelotti Outlines The Challenge Of Becoming Chelsea Boss And Learning English

2009-06-01T07:15:00.001-04:00

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)

All About Italian Soccer Boarding School

2009-05-26T23:17:00.002-04:00

Wilmington, NC - (May 27th, 09) - The All Year Scuola Calcio, Italian Soccer Boarding School will help improve player’s technical and tactical skills while studying in a different country.

Young soccer players from North America and around the world can improve their technical and tactical soccer skills by attending one of the best and one of the most affordable soccer boarding schools in the world. Scuola Calcio, Italian Premier Soccer School offers soccer players age 14 and up the opportunity of a lifetime.

Players can attend a full year or half year academic soccer school in Italy. Players can attend High School or University in the morning and in the afternoon train with Italian professional soccer coaches, and have a chance not only to learn a new language but also immerse themselves in the daily cultural lifestyle.

Students who attend the Scuola Calcio, Italian Premier Soccer Boarding school program get the chance to see how it really is to live in a country where soccer is the number one sport. “Not only do players improve technically and tactically but they have the opportunity to experience and be part of another culture, from speaking a new language to what they eat. Students learn to be a part of a team outside of their families” said Antonio Saviano, Scuola Calcio North America Coordinator.

Mr. Saviano added” “We kept the tuition fees for this program more affordable compared to other programs alike because we understand how important it is for serious soccer players that want to attend. This gives them a chance to afford to go. We have not raised our tuition fees for the last four years”.

“Players currently attending the Scuola Calcio Program not only receive quality soccer training but the Highs School subjects they study are exactly what they need for to graduate when and if they decide to come back to the US" said Mr. Saviano.

The Scuola Calcio Boarding School is located in the beautiful city of Perugia. Perugia is located nearly at the center of Italy. It is the capital of the Umbria region, known as the "Green Heart of Italy". Perugia is a lively medieval walled hill town with many historic buildings, people-filled squares, and modern shops. It's home to a university and a large Italian language school for foreigners.

The Scuola Calcio Programs are designed for competitive soccer players, both male and female who aspire towards playing collegiate and/or professional levels of soccer. The boarding schools are for both high school and university level students between the ages of 14 and 24.

Scuola Calcio, Italian Premier Soccer School will help all participating students and their families through the process of enrolling, from paper work to applying for the student visa. Scuola Calcio provides full guidance for participating players.

This program will help prepare students for the competitive environment of international soccer. Students train four to five days of the week. Throughout the year, players have also the opportunity to be seen and scouted during specific oriented soccer activities.

Registration is now open for the Italian Soccer Boarding School Program. You can get more information by visiting our website at www.soccerkix.com or by calling 800-954-7086 or by email: info@soccerkix.com

About Scuola Calcio, Italian Premier Soccer School:

The Scuola Calcio (soccer school) program represents a unique opportunity for the young soccer student to grow in an environment filled with talent. The main goal is to always improve the technical and tactical aspects of the game of soccer but with an emphasis on developing players that will be better people on and off the field. The program is administered by some of the most qualified instructors in the world, with the objective of being one of the best systems in the world, the Scuola Calcio has opened affiliates in many different parts of the world.

Italian Soccer Boarding School - Register today!

2009-05-22T23:09:00.002-04:00

Wilmington, NC (May 22, 2009) – Soccer players from around the world are applying to train at the Scuola Calcio, Italian Premier Soccer School’s year long academic soccer boarding school in Italy. Students will train daily under the Italian youth coaching staff.

Take a year to experience another country, learn another language, and sharpen your soccer skills and knowledge. Register today for the all year Italian Soccer Boarding School (High school and University programs are available).

High school and University soccer players that want to train for a year abroad must act today to meet the August 1st registration deadline.

“No matter what program you choose, you will be practicing for two to three hours every day under professional soccer coaches,” said Antonio Saviano, Scuola Calcio North America Coordinator. “Players will receive the best academic and soccer education possible.”

Scuola Calcio, Italian Premier Soccer School has partnered with top coaching staff. In Italy we work very close with Bruno Redolfi, former AC Perugia Technical Director and now Modena FC Professional l team assistant coach.

We are currently accepting registrations for the all year Italian Soccer Boarding School and for the three week Italian Soccer-Language Program. Visit www.soccerkix.com for more information or call 800-954-7086 or email info@soccerkix.com

About Scuola Calcio, Italian Premier Soccer School:

The Scuola Calcio (soccer school) program represents a unique opportunity for the young soccer student to grow in an environment filled with talent. The main goal is to always improve the technical and tactical aspects of the game of soccer but with an emphasis on developing players that will be better people on and off the field. The program is administered by some of the most qualified instructors in the world, with the objective of being one of the best systems in the world, the Scuola Calcio has opened affiliates in many different parts of the world.

Fabio Cannavaro to Return

2009-05-03T17:35:00.002-04:00

(AP) - PERUGIA, Italy - Fabio Cannavaro flew to Italy on Sunday to undergo a medical test ahead of his proposed return to Juventus, the ANSA news agency reported. The Real Madrid defender and Juventus midfielder Mohamed Sissoko, who is recovering from a broken foot, will visit medical consultant Vincenzo Cerulli. The 25-year-old Cannavaro is a free agent at the end of the season and Madrid has not offered him a new deal. Juventus fans have protested at the return of a player who left when the club was relegated to Serie B.

Italian Soccer Boarding School - 2009 Registration Open

2008-11-30T15:19:00.001-05:00

Scuola Calcio, Italian Premier Soccer School is the only Italian Soccer School that offers All-Year Boarding School for High School and University students in a “true” professional environment. Scuola Calcio gives an opportunity not only to North American students but students all over the world to play soccer in Italy under the guidance of professional Italian soccer coaches with UEFA/FIGC license and at the same time be enrolled in “true” professional and semi-professional Italian environment.

The All-Year Soccer Boarding School represents a worldwide initiative and it consists of a combined soccer and academic program. It will help to enhance the technical development and abilities of young players as well as give the them an opportunity to study.

During the All-Year Soccer Boarding School, Scuola Calcio Technical staff will evaluate the technical abilities and skills of each soccer player to plan a future development in a professional team. It is also possible based on the ability of each player to schedule official tryouts so the players have the chance to be exposed and show their qualities to different professional teams.
The All-Year Soccer Boarding School has a duration of 9 months (from September to June). Scuola Calcio also offers a Month Long Training program. This program is mor eflexible as the dates can be chosen by the players and is also available for a week or two weeks.
Players train everyday of the week for two hours or more per session. Players also have the opportunity to confront themselves with professional and semiprofessional soccer clubs and to participate periodically in friendly games.

The All-Year Soccer Boarding School will provide more then technical enhancement. Students attend classes everyday as they are enrolled into the Italian scholastic institute the Convitto Nazional di Assisi.

Students are provided with a full time tutor to satisfy their own needs and necessities, helping them to familiarize themselves with the Italian language and to integrate them into a new country. All these conditions are a guarantee for the participants and for their families.
The All-Year Soccer Boarding School is available for boys and girls from 14-18 years old.

Registration is now open. Registration deadline is July 30th, 2009, however there is some paper work involved so act today. You can find out more about Scuola Calcio and its programs by visiting www.soccerkix.com

Juve, First Place is Closer 0-0 in Russia with Zenit

2008-11-25T20:59:00.001-05:00

The Bianconeri played well in the first half, twice hitting the woodwork with Mellberg and Iaquinta, while in the second half the Russians eventually broke out, with Pogrebnyak hitting the post. Ranieri kept the changes to a minimum, and Juve is now mathematically a point away from winning the group.

ST. PETERSBURG (Russia), 25 November 2008 - Juvenutus got a little closer to first place in Group H of the Champions League, but the maths still don't give them any certainty. Because in St. Petersburg, against Zenit, it ended 0-0. If Real Madrid win twice, one more point will be needed, at home against BATE in the next round in Turin. The Bianconeri showed that they had digested - as Ranieri would say - the loss to Inter, playing an excellent first half and then making a good start to the second. Then they blamed tiredness - also because Ranieri kept the changes to a minimum in search of a victory - and they got a fright at the end, when they were shaking, and not just from the bitter Russian cold.

THE SELECTIONS - Ranieri wanted to lock up first place in the group a round early and kept the changes to a minimum. Mellberg replaced Legrottaglie, while Iaquinta took Amauri's place. Camoranesi started the match, as did Nedved and Del Piero. Despite the fact that on Saturday evening they play Reggina in the championship, and that the risk of injury in the Russian cold was higher than usual. But 8 of the 11 who started against Inter were confirmed for this match: the youngsters De Ceglie and Giovinco were on the bench, and the baby Rossi was in the stands. Ranieri wanted to win.

JUVE'S POSTS - Zenit played possession football. Juve created dangers. Danger with Del Piero, who battled away at centre forward, but excelled with his finishing touches, trying to take advantage of the slowness of the Russian central defenders. Zenit, who have already finished their league championship in fifth place, were not in great physical condition. They controlled much of the play - given their position on the table, they had to make a game of it. They needed two wins to qualify: against Juve and Real (at the Bernabeu). A mission almost impossible. But they had to try, or at least follow their game plan. And there is always the qualification for the UEFA Cup within sight. And so you start with some unconvincing lateral moves, while Juve responds dangerously on the counterattack, with sudden raids through the middle of the pitch. The Bianconeri hit the woodwork twice: the outside of a post by Mellberg from a free-kick on the right by Camoranesi, and a second post hit by Iaquinta, off his left foot, from a cross by Molinaro. The third real chance fell to Del Piero, whose close range effort was blocked by Malafeev for a corner. At the end of the half the Russians made their presence felt in Manniger's zone: Tymoschuk went for power from a free-kick, Manniger kept it out for a corner. Then Zenit scored, through Pogrebnyak from a goal mouth scramble, but there was an offside. So the Russians had to start all over again. At the interval it was 0-0. A scoreline that was a little hard on Juventus, the more convincing side.

ZENIT'S POST - Juve also began the second half well. Del Piero controlled the ball on his chest and fired a left-footed shot, which was parried by Malafeev, and Nedved's follow-up went over the bar. Del Piero shot wide with only the goalkeeper to beat, from a cross by Iaquinta from the right. A bad mistake which spoiled a good game from the number ten. Then Zenit stepped up the pressure. And things got difficult. Danny went close to scoring three times: one was well saved by Manniger, another Marchisio came back to cover, and the last chance narrowly missed the target. Then Zenit got their piece of the woodwork. A powerful left-footer by Pogrebnyak from long range: post. Zenit's final assault was full-blooded, but in vain: it ended 0-0.

Source: Gazzetta.it (http://english.gazzetta.it/Football/Primo_Piano/2008/11/25/zenit-juv.shtml)

Beckham's Milan Dream Comes True

2008-10-30T21:10:00.001-04:00

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

Ferguson Not Surprised at Beckham’s Proposed Move

2008-10-24T21:08:00.001-04:00

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

Report: Beckham To Train With AC Milan

2008-10-19T22:49:00.002-04:00

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.”