Milan's Curva Sud!

Why Juventus deserve the Scudetto

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Sat, 14 Apr 2012 10:59:00 +0000

As a Milanista it is never easy admitting that one of your team's biggest rivals is deserving of claiming the title they won the season prior. But as waves ebb and flow so does the success of a team and it goes without saying that it is never easy to defend a title: even less so when a team has been hit by a constant tsunami of injuries.

Coming into this season I favoured Milan to net a back-to-back success, all while carrying the underlining fear of last's year's surprise package Napoli along with Juventus- who were debuting in their new stadium.

Too much had changed at Inter during the summer which left tags to a late '80s sides, while the Roma project was a big question to be asked within its first season. Even Napoli's inexperience and small squad didn't quite give me the belief that they would be reliving the Maradona days.

Narrowing it down I felt that Juventus were the only potential threat that could end Milan's chances of a Scudetto brace and as it currently stands, I am yet to be proven wrong.

Napoli, Lazio, Udinese are all pushing for third, while Roma’s and Inter’s erratic season has also resulted in them gunning for a spot in Europe (mathematically even a potential Champions League spot).

As it stands, coming into the final 6 games of Serie A, Milan sit second and one point below Juventus who occupy- for this season- their rightful place at the top of the leader board.

Some Milanisti may have done a quick double take there, but yes, I did use the word 'rightful'. Juventus deserve to be on top and I will go on to explain my reasoning behind my thought process.

Last season many felt that the Rossoneri's season was won thanks to their transfer market strategy. Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Robinho, along with Antonio Cassano and Mark van Bommel were all thrown into the set-up in the summer and winter transfer windows.

This has been a similar situation for the Bianconeri by bringing in- amongst others- Mirko Vucinic, Stephan Lichsteiner, Arturo Vidal and the most ironic of them all: Andrea Pirlo.

They are four players, who may not be raking in the Ballon D'ors, but who are nonetheless effective and know how to get the job done. Along with the debuting Serie A coach Antonio Conte, the Old Lady have by no means looked like they were in need of a walking; playing some attractive football.

The freshness of Conte coupled with the hunger for success has seen him squad eager to taste the dolce that comes along with victory.

In Italy there is a saying: “il campionato si vince contro le piccole” [the championship is won against the smaller teams] but to be a champion you have to be on top of your game at all times, and this is what has been Juve’s biggest advantage.

Unbeaten in 32 domestic games, the Bianconeri have won 18 and drawn four less than their winnings. Conte also holds the best record in Serie A at home with his side accumulating a total of 38 points, but it is against the top sides where has risen to the occasions.

Taking a look at the five clubs below them, Juventus beat Milan and played the second leg out for a draw; saw the Bianconeri take off 4 points from six off the defending Champions.

Against Lazio maximum points was taken on both occasions, Udinese and Napoli- only managed to muster one point off Juventus, Inter succumbed to two defeats and Roma played for a draw with the second leg yet to be played. Marking a grand tally of 27 from a possible 33.

To be the best you have to beat the best and Juventus have proven not once but on several occasions they can hold their own more than once against the big clubs. Massimiliano Allegri on the other hand hasn’t quite mastered this feat.

The Via Turati outfit has only picked up 16 points from a possible 33, the same top teams mentioned’ with Juventus in the equation and not the second leg still to be played against Inter; a significant difference of note.

To be at the top you have to beat your biggest competitors in order to extend the gap over them and Milan failed to do that, as they have only managed two wins over Roma and one over Udinese.

A point of departure, for arguments sake on the Rossonero side of things, would be the amount of injuries Milan have had and surely they may have had better results if a full squad was at Allegri’s disposal.

It may be a fairly reasonable argument but the reality goes down to Milan Lab and their coaching techniques used, which are part to blame for the infinite amount of injuries.

Juventus have clearly found a method of training in which they are able to keep their squad fully fit and have minimal injuries despite the long season. Crucial to success is the importance of maintaining a fit squad throughout the demanding campaign.

I always try and look past my natural bias when watching Milan’s biggest rivals, but truth be told; this season I have thoroughly enjoyed watching Juventus play.

From the endless runs of Lichsteiner on the flanks, the startling form of Claudio Marchisio at the beginning, Vucinic finally finding his feet and the reminiscent displays of Pirlo in 2006 is mouthwatering.

Even though Sulley Muntari’s disallowed goal against Juve may carry weight on that one result, there are plenty of matches in which Milan should have sealed the deal and didn’t, and Juve should have had penalties and didn’t.

Not focusing on how the Bianconeri would have managed if they had played in Europe this season too, overall, the passion, exuberance and cohesiveness in which Conte has managed to create with this side has left me impressed and believing they deserve the long awaited success.

Boateng key to Rossonero Catalan success

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 09:35:00 +0000

Kevin-Prince Boateng’s Milan face the crippling task of lining-up against Barcelona in the quarter-final of the Champions League round on Wednesday evening.

As if facing the Catalan’s alone wasn’t bad enough, Milan will have to do it without one of their world’s best defenders Thiago Silva, goal scorer of the first match between the two Alexandre Pato, right-back Ignazio Abate and Mark van Bommel.

Blighted by a plethora of injuries to have hit the Rossoneri, the Via Turati outfit will be welcoming back one player who could very well prove to be the key which unlocks the dressing room of a successful team. His middle name may be ‘Prince’ but he has since marked himself as the King of Milan and Kevin-Prince Boateng will be hoping to spread geography into Europe.

With six matches played at the San Siro between the Spanish and Italian giants, Boateng will be out to make it honours even with a win to equal the same amount of wins for Milan, as there have been for Barcelona at the famous ground.

Two Rossoneri wins, a draw and three victories to the visitors, the contest between the pair has been tight throughout the years and it should prove to be the same despite the list of missing names.

The Italian game has always pride itself on its defensive prowess but with the defensive duo out, Massimiliano Allegri will have to resort to a centre-back pairing of the timeless, yet fragile, Alessandro Nesta and the volatile Philippe Mexes.

Just like the rule of Kung Fu: ‘the hand which strikes also blocks’ and Boateng and co. will be looking to their offensive abilities to lead the fray. One player who is aware of the number of danger men in the Milan set-up is Barcelona shot-stopper Victor Valdez.

“Milan are full of dangerous player, we will have to be aware. It will be difficult to pass this round, but it will be fundamental that we play our game,” noted the Spaniard.

Robinho and Zlatan Ibrahimovic are expected to lead the attacking force. But it is the Ghanaian workhorse who is expected to act as a catalyst with his visionary creative play and world class goals all while sitting tucked behind the Swede and the Brazilian.

Famous for his interpretations of Michael Jackson, the moon-walking slick-footed midfielder has netted four domestic goals and one less in the current Champions league complain, but it his presence in the squad which undeniably changes the dynamics of the game.

His pace, precision, and above all, the confidence in which the 27-year-old instills in his team is unaccountable for. Boateng possess the ability to change the face of the game at any given moment, most notably his half time introduction against Lecce, where he netted a hat-trick in ten minutes to bring his team 3-3 before an eventual 4-3 win.

His opening goal in the 15^th minute against the 4-0 destruction of Arsenal, and his world class second-half strike against Barcelona- to bring the teams level despite being eventual losers- has left Boateng the centre of every play which Milan creates.

While teams may fatigue towards the end of the match the opposite happens for Boateng. With all but one goal (against Arsenal) being struck in the second half, the tireless persona of his has been compared to that of an animal.

“He has a winning character, and he is like an animal on a physical level. He is a powerful midfielder who knows how to shoot with both feet,” noted Barcelona’s youth product Bojan Krkic.

Like a pawn on a chessboard Boateng is essential to linking up the Diavoli’s attack and it will be no different when he takes to the field of the historical 80 000 seater Guiseppe Meazza stadium this evening.

Will the fans be seeing their Ghanaian King do the celebratory moon walk after 90 minutes? Time will tell.

Robur to March into survival

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 09:51:00 +0000

“Our fate, however, always depends on ourselves,” the words of Guiseppe Sannino as he prepares Siena for yet another relegation struggle.

With only twelve games remaining on this year’s Serie A calendar, the month of March is going to be a decisive one for the Robur. While Cesena and Novara look good and buried, as well as resigned, to dropping back down into Serie B, Siena are sitting on a knife’s edge as they are only four points above Lecce- who occupy the dreaded and final spot of the drop zone.

Whilst every game from now until May 13 should be crucial in order to secure Serie A salvation, Sannino’s men are practically staring safety right in the face as they look to continue steamrolling sides, like they so famously did to Palermo and Cagliari in their previous two games.

The match against Chievo on March 25, will round off a sequence of games in which the Tuscans are undoubtedly capable enough in mustering up some points, if not all nine.

Cesena, lead by their former coach, Mario Beretta, Novara and Chievo are the three tests which await the Bianconeri in their climatic month.

A trip to the Stadio Dino Manuzzi in Emilia-Romagna and one to Shakespeare-inspired city of Verona will prove to be the toughest of the lot as Siena’s away form is far from anything worth bragging about. Tallying up a lowly total of just five points on the road- lower than any other team competing against relegation- Siena will have to play their cards correctly in hope of avoiding having to face Udinese, Lazio, Inter, Milan, Atalanta and Napoli in a desperate state for points.

“Humility, in fact, must accompany us forever. We will fight until the last minute, for this team, and for this city,” noted the debuting Serie A tactician.

The first two teams can be considered as already having one foot in the Serie B door; therefore, allowing Siena to approach their adversaries without fear, with a positive attitude and with the belief that victory is just as probable as finding a prosciutto crudo piadina at an autogrill.

However, an eye must be kept on the resurgent side of Serse Cosmi’s Lecce, who has often proved to be capable of making a surprise blitz when away from the Via del Mare. Although, this weekend’s travels for the Salentini, could fall in favour of the Artemio Franchi outfit: as a trip to the historic San Siro without their coach Cosmi and three players, will leave Lecce’s legs quaking more than Mount Edna.

While Siena hope that their Serie A counterparts Milan will do them a favour, a win against Cesena will provide them with the perfect stepping stone towards safety.

"These games are often the most difficult,” noted the Bianconero captain Vergassola.

“If I were them [Cesena] I would never give up, because there are still many matches and many points available.”

Should they fail to get maximum points or even six out of the nine, the relegation battle may be forced to go down to the wire- a risk the 2006 and 2008 Serie A survivors are not willing to take.

Outside of the month of March, five of the nine teams- in which they are set to face- all sit in the top half of the table; therefore, making maximum points from every tie in March even more crucial. And should Siena be as successful in getting the points, as the people of the medieval town are in making Cantuccini, Sannino’s group will fall just two points shy of the 40 points; generally considered as the safety zone.

So while survival of the fittest may be well in reach of the Tuscans, a big test will also come in when they have to face Napoli in the second leg of the Coppa Italia. Carrying a 2-1 advantage into the second leg at the San Paolo, managing the Coppa and the trials and tribulations of domestic football at the same time, will prove to be the ultimate test of character for the Bianconeri.

They will look to their mentor and motivator Sannino, for strength, encouragement and humility to play the game they know best in order to out run the pack of Lecce’s Wolves, to make March their magical moment.

Arsenal’s revenge needs to be eaten cold

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 17:46:00 +0000

Arsenal are at base camp and Milan are at the peak of the Champions League mountain, as the Gunners prepare to take on the steep mountain they will have to climb when they meet Milan at the Emirates; in hope of overturning a 4-0 lashing they were dealt in the first leg at the San Siro.

However there is a slight glimmer of hope: like Everest, which has been conquered before, so can Milan. Albeit the task that lies ahead is of a complete different nature, the Rossoneri will have to keep up their guard in hope of avoiding an avalanche of similar repeats in seasons past.

It wasn’t the sweetest of Valentine’s for the English during the first leg, but like their domestic Premiership rivals Liverpool, they will be hoping that they can mimic a comeback and pull out a near mission impossible.

As they say, anything can happen over ninety minutes of play but when it comes down to 180 minutes even more can happen as Arsene Wenger will be on tenterhooks that the Fat Lady is yet to sing her praises.

Like February 15, few could have predicted the final result that was to be gifted to Milan, and this leg promises to be the exact same as Arsenal are swirling on cloud nine with their reinvigorated form.

With the anger instilled in them from the San Siro, the Gunners are ready to make Massimiliano Allegri’s men feel the wrath of their arsenal as they seek vengeance from the pain and humiliation they had to endure.

“We want to make the impossible possible. From the first leg it looks impossible but we have to have a real go, play with belief and think we can do it,” the Frenchman told Arsenal.com.

“You never know. Maybe I will change the structure of the team to go for it and see if we can put them under pressure and score some goals.”

The Italians are well aware of comebacks as the simple mentioning of the words ‘Istanbul’ and ‘Deportivo’ leaves every player and Milanista shuddering at the immediate thought.

There is little doubt that Arsenal’s anger has reached boiling point but they must be wary, as the good old saying goes: ‘revenge is a dish best served cold’. They will need to keep cool and maintain a level head if they hope to overcome a Rossonero side who are currently oozing confidence with every touch of the ball.

“We have a good lead and we’re confident. Arsenal can be devastating at home but if we play like we can we can make it without problems,” noted Milan’s Algerian delight of Djamel Mesbah.

Tuesday night will undoubtedly be a heated affair as Milan rightly favours their chances of progression more than the sun rising the next day. Though Arsenal’s furiousness could lead them into the classic case of having to dig two graves, as they could do as much unforeseen damage to themselves should they go all out for a result.

Nevertheless, like the milk maid and her pail, Milan cannot count their chickens before they have hatched as 90 minutes still separates them from success or a catastrophic failure.

Exclusive Gianluca Vialli Interview.

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 10:40:00 +0000

I had the pleasure to sit down with Gianluca Vialli and interview him about his illustrious career as a player, in which he won numerous titles for his respective clubs.

The interview was published in the weekly newspaper of Soccer Laduma and it has finally been put onto Milan's Curva Sud.

Enjoy!

Once again, grazie Luca!

Inzaghi- Il vero Rossonero

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 15:40:00 +0000

“It's a dream since I was a child to score twice in the final, and the ones I scored yesterday evening were the most important in my life. It was an unforgettable game. It's something that will stay with me all my life and two goals in the final speaks for itself,” the words of Filippo Inzaghi, in May 24 2007, expressing his utter joy in sealing Milan’s seventh and- to date- last Champions League trophy.

Having scored twice, in the revenge match against Liverpool in Athens, the first a lucky deflection off his shoulder from an Andrea Pirlo free-kick, the second a diagonal slip-through ball by Riccardo Kaka, to slice under Pepe Reina and roll into the back of the net.

His reaction? A state of pure uncontrollable ecstasy.

Although, that may have been his last great season to date, with injuries and fitter, younger players having seen him dropped down the pecking. Pippo or rather ‘SuperPippo’ still holds a certain section in every Milanista’s heart that gives the sensation of fragile butterflies, every time he walks onto the field for those brief, yet, concluding minutes of the game.

Labeled as the man who was ‘born in an offside position’ by none other than Sir Alex Ferguson, Inzaghi was loathed by his rivals, loved by his teammates, adored by the fans and respected by all.

After all, who could not love the lanky, crouched over, six-yard goal-poacher who celebrates even more wildly with every passing goal he nets?

Though for one person in particular, Pippo left chills running down his spine every time…

“Look, he can’t play football at all, he just knows how to get in the right place” – Johan Cruyf.

While this could be the case on often an occasion, that ‘right place’ saw him break records on numerous junctures.

Winning the Capocannoniere crown with Atalanta, saw him earn big money moves to Juventus and then to Milan, thanks to his striking prowess, while at the same time haunting Italian and European defences alike. Inzaghi also holds the record as the player to score the most hat-tricks; topping the likes of Guiseppe Signori, Hernan Crespo, Roberto Biaggio, Marco van Basten and many more.

While in European club competitions, Inzaghi is the second highest goal-scorer of all time, having netted 70 times on the big stage with Raul topping him by just four strikes.

Giovanni Trapattoni- a fond admirer of his work- describing him as: “an enormous pain in the neck for every defender: he is always there, gets ruled offside dozens of times, but in the end he always manages to punish you”.

So much so, Inzaghi made Bayern Munich his personal play toy where he netted over a decade of goals against them; seeing him haunt the goalposts of Oliver Kahn like a ghost with unfinished business.

For the Azzurri the push for international success so often left a sour taste in the mouths of the players and the nation. However, in June/July 2006 Inzaghi formed part of a successful story in hunt of international glory as he was selected in the final 23-man squad of Marcello Lippi’s Italy.

The goal poaching merchant was the oldest outfield player selected in the squad, edging out Marco Materazzi by 10 days and Captain Fabio Cannavaro by 43. Nevertheless, despite the ongoing questioning of his inclusion in the squad, Inzaghi played a colossal role in ensuring qualification for the final 16, with his goal against the Czech Republic.

However, despite the accumulated success he has enjoyed, the 38-year-old has recently found himself become more of bench warmer than a first team player under Massimiliano Allegri.

Always been a player to practically breathe down the neck of every defender, there almost came a time in which the number 9 nearly waved goodbye to Milanello and move to Siena in order to have one last shot of regular game time.

But it was his undying love for the team, his teammates and the fans that set him above the rest of so many footballers, as he opted to stay at Milan for the remainder of his final six months as a player.

"I did not do it, it was tough to leave this environment, leaving my team-mates and fans in two hours without saying goodbye, to the San Siro stadium as it should be and how will I do so in May. So I decided to stay.”

As June fast approaches little can prepare the Rossoneri faithful for the tearful and heartfelt goodbye that will emanate around the San Siro. His extreme, yet catchy, goal celebrations will surely missed, whilst the whispers of ‘Oi oi oi Pippo Inzaghi segna per noi’ will remain deeply embedded in the crevices of the historic San Siro.

As a banner in the Curva Sud recently read, “Senza Pippo non siamo Allegri”, a play on words directed at the coach, but that is the inevitable truth that will last for years to come.

Udinese left with gaping hole due to AFCON

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 06:34:00 +0000

With the African Cup of Nations fast approaching MTNFootball.com takes a look at what it means for Udinese to lose their African trio of; Emanuel Badu, Kwadwo Asamoah, and Mehdi Benatia, for the months of January and mid-February.

With Serie A traditionally famous for its defensive prowess, Udinese have had to bid adieu to one of the most currently inform and impressive defenders in the Italian peninsula: Benatia.

The Moroccan has been a colossal influence for both club and country in recent years where he helped lead his country through an impressive African Cup of Nations’ campaign. Meanwhile for his domestic side, Mehdi helped the Zebrette to finish fourth last year; seeing them qualify for the Champions League preliminary qualification round.

It is his physical and powerful presence, as well as his calm and visionary play which allows him to interpret and read the game almost replicating the great Italian defenders to have played before him.

His three-man defensive partnership alongside Maurizio Domizzi and Larangeira Danilo have proven to be rock solid this season, where not only have they helped their team remain unbeaten at home but they boast the one of best defensive records in Serie A coming into the Christmas break.

Benatia’s immediate replacement would be Damiano Ferronetti who has the potential to do well but his erratic persona sees him offer little security; therefore, making the loss of the Moroccan even more concerning.

But the gaping hole will come in the midfield where Francesco Guidolin has resigned himself to having let go three players- two of which are constant starters and have formed an unbreakable bond, that has seen them concede little possession as well as orchestrating some of the most attractive counter-attacking football in the peninsula.

For the Zebrette the loss of Asamoah and Badu could prove to be a huge test for their side as their recent outing to Genoa proved to be the case, which saw them fall 3-2 to a side that replaced their coach just before the Christmas break.

The match at the Marassi was the first match Udinese played without their African trio and they couldn't have gotten off to a worse start as they proved that a lot of work lies ahead of them.

"We must not let ourselves get affected by those who are not here," noted Guidolin after the disappointing match.

"Instead we ought to give ourselves our best in training and the match situation, looking to the present and battling for every ball."

The Bianconeri immediately bounced back with a 2-1 win over Catania at the Friuli stadium , but they are yet to keep a clean sheet since the departure of their Africans.

Nevertheless, the club have responded swiftly to their absence of their great Ghanaians by bringing in Gelson Fernandes from St. Etienne. The youngster is highly rated and is expected to provide the desired cover for during of the Cup of Nations tournament. In addition, the Bianconeri also had a budding star coming through their ranks in the shape of Theirry Doubai.

The Ivory Coast youngster narrowly missed out in the final 23-man squad for Les Elephants but the youngster has since been loaned out to Sochaux in order to gain more first team experience.

But it is Fernandes' need for team adjustment that could prove fatal should they fail to absorb the pressure that the city and the team expect of them.

A good day at Guidolin's office already sees him have a slim squad at his disposal and with Benatia's position being filled by an erratic player and the Ghanaian's positions being occupied with inexperienced players: Udinese could have an exceptionally long month on their hands.

Nevertheless, hope lies in Guidolins's ability to easily instill the belief in his squad which will undoubtedly prove key during these testing months for Udinese as they look to keep their Championship hopes as well as a Champions League spot alive.

Tactics Separates Europe's Giants As Group Leaders

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 08:18:00 +0000

With two of Europe’s most historic teams, Barcelona and Milan, set to battle it out on Wednesday evening at the San Siro, it will be a game of passion, pride, history and above all tactics.

With seven titles to Milan and four to Barcelona, there will be little separating the two squads. Having met on 12 previous occasions each team has four wins to their name, as well as having shared the spoils on four different occasions.

For the teams qualification has already been signed, sealed and delivered, having seen them along with Real Madrid, as the first three teams to ensure a spot in the round of the last sixteen.

All that remains now is the battle for top spot in Group H, a spot that both Pep Guardiola and Massimiliano Allgeri will be keen to possess in order to avoid the likes of Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Inter and Chelsea.

Ahead of Wednesday’s match Milan coach Allegri admitted that it will be a tactical affair at the San Siro where they will ‘have to do more and better than we did in Barcelona.’

For the Rossoneri there are few doubts or worries over the player’s fitness and the starting line-up: with just Antonio Cassano and Gennaro Gattuso as notable absences from their long injury lay-offs.

The home side is expected to field their traditional formation of 4-3-1-2, which will see Zlatan Ibrahimovic used as an assist man to Alexandre Pato.

With the Swede playing a deeper role, Pato will be given more freedom to move in and around the box, a factor on which he thrives. In addition, this will see Ibrahimovic act as a decoy in his runs by pulling the likes of Javier Macherano aside, freeing up the Brazilian and allowing for Kevin-Prince Boateng to push forward from his ‘trequartista’ role.

The midfield will line-up the well rested Mark Van Bommel and Antonio Nocerino while Clarence Seedorf and Alberto Aquilani will battle it out for the final spot. The backline will see Ignazio Abate, Alessandro Nesta, and Thiago Silva with the left-back position still remaining in doubt.

“In some moments on Wednesday, we’ll have to have the patience to deal with their ball possession but that’s nothing to be ashamed of. Up front won’t only be up to the forwards but to the whole team.

“We’ll have to improve our defence compared to how we did at Barcelona and that’ll be up to the while team,” Allegri.

In the first leg at the Camp Now, which ended in a 2-2 draw, the Rossoneri often lacked the ability to gain a good run of possession but their man-to-man marking and the closing up of spaces on Xavi and Andres Iniesta, saw Barcelona fail to grab a good hold of their famous tika-taka possession and passing play.

At the San Siro they will be expecting to line-up a 4-3-3 formation.

Carlos Puyol is set to start at right-back due to Dani Alves’ suspension and Adriano’s injury, which will see Gerard Pique and Mascherano partner each other in the centre.

Kieta will take the role of the holding player, in which he will try impede the threat of Boateng and Seedorf or Aquilani, while the creative minds of Xavi and Cesc Fabregas will be utilized due to Andres Iniesta’s untimely injury.

Van Bommel will be Milan’s first line of defence in which he will seek to disrupt the buildup play of Pedro, David Villa, Querca or Alexis Sanchez in providing Lionel Messi with the ball.

In a high profile match where tactics is what separates the winners from the losers, and the greats from the average, it will be a highly contested battle that will bring about passion, flair, a vintage style of play between two of Europe’s finest.

With each team itching for top spot, the battle between Spanish and Italian tactics will be put to the test, where technique on the field will be the only thing separating each team from being group leaders.

All eyes on Balotelli

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 19:05:00 +0000

“Why always me?” the famous statement that took the footballing world by storm was cast into the limelight by none other than Italy’s and Manchester City’s Mario Balotelli.

A controversial kid with a troubled background, Balotelli provides far from the run of the mill entertainment each week, seeing his name emit more headlines for the bad and the ugly than the good.

In the year of 1990 Mario was born in to a family of Ghanaian immigrants in Palermo, Sicily. Living in a cramped house and under poor living conditions, along with suffering from a life threatening disease- that saw him undergo various heart operations- the Barwuah family (his birth name) decided to give him up for adoption.

At aged three he was adopted by Francesco and Silvia Balotelli where they brought him up in the Province of Brescia. It was there where he began his football career with Lumezzane before signing for Inter in 2006 at the age of 16.

With Inter he scored two goals on his debut in a 4-1 over Reggina in a Coppa Italia match. His confident and cocky attitude, not to mention his ability to score sensational goals caught the attention of the nation, both good and bad.

At Inter he was adored by his fans, while among the rest of the Italian peninsula the African-born Italian was a constant subject of racial abuse week in and week out, seeing signs such as "Black Italians do not exist".

His response? Fight fire with fire.

As the continuous taunting grew, Balotelli became more cocky and ill-disciplined, but so did his eye in front of goal. The cheekier he became the more audacious his efforts in front of goal where, subsequently seeing him score some stunners.

However, under Jose Mourinho the two colossal egos did not amalgamate well as the Portuguese out casted him from the squad for long periods of the season, saying: “I can't accept that from someone who is still a nobody, who hasn't made it yet, who is still a talent with potential. He needs to train harder.”

Balotelli responded: “I had a love-hate relationship with Mourinho. He needs to learn how to respect people.”

August 12 2010 Inter and Manchester City agreed terms to sign the notorious striker seeing him reunite with the only coach, Roberto Mancini, who could possibly keep his temperament at a simmering point rather than boiling.

However, two days before penning in a deal with City, Cesare Prandelli awarded him his first national call-up to the Italian squad where they played and lost to Ivory Coast.

Since then, ‘Super Mario’ has featured four more times in the Azzurri strip where he has now been given the opportunity to lead the Italy attack.

With Antonio Cassano and Guiseppe Rossi facing up to six months on the sidelines, Cesare Prandelli is relying on the former U-21 star to deliver his goods in the national set-up.

With the certain ability to score from set pieces, his uncanny capability to have the guts to create the most daring of scoring opportunities, and his credited pace, the 21-year-old has no reason to not be able to become a national hero.

With the perfect opportunity to pave the yellow brick road to a starting spot in the Italian outfit for next year’s Euro, all eyes now remain on the highly controversial figure.

'Ibra-pendenza' more than just the goals

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 13:45:00 +0000

Ibra, as known by his fans, has an inherent ability to create a certain calm and ease amongst his teammates with his towering figure, as he seamlessly absorbs all the reliability that is put on him by the squad.

Having won the Scudetto for the first time in seven years in 2010/2011, many critics put it down to Massmiliano Allgeri’s side being highly dependent on Ibrahimovic, even coining the term ‘Ibra-pendenza’.

Since his arrival in the summer of 2010 from Barcelona, it became nothing short of obvious that the big Swede was set to lead the Rossoneri front-line alongside Robinho and Alexandre Pato.

Though with the likes of the rising Brazilian Pato, the rejuvenated Ronaldinho, the arrival of Robinho, and the goal-poaching master Fillipo Inzaghi; it seemed unlikely that the team could rely heavily on one player with such a world renowned front-line.

An early injury to Inzaghi saw the veteran ruled out for the whole season, while Ronaldinho was deemed surplus to requirements with new coach Allegri, leaving the tactician with only a few options available to him.

Though it wasn’t plain sailing for the young Brazilian, Pato, either, he suffered three injury lay-offs before December, resulting in the Swede becoming the focal point of Milan’s play, with support from Robinho.

These injuries, coupled with Ibra’s impressive from, undoubtedly became a determinant on Milan’s reliance on the 6ft5 striker.

In the first twelve matches (9 Serie A and 3 Champions League) of the 2010/2011 season for Milan, Ibra made 11 appearances, scoring seven goals and bagging two assists; however, only five wins were amounted in total.

In the eight Serie A matches Ibra played, he was decisive on three occasions; seeing him either net the winner or the equaliser, or providing an assist for the winning goal.

However, the team endured a troubling start to the season that saw them only win four of their first nine league games; all four wins Ibrahimovic was present in, proving decisive in three of the four winning clashes.

Undoubtedly boasting an impressive record in Serie A it is in Europe where Ibra surprised. Often been labeled as a ‘flop’ on the big stage, Zlatan provided three goals in three matches Champions League matches, leading them to one win, one draw and a loss.

He was instrumental netting the goal that saw Milan draw 1-1 to Ajax Amsterdam, as well as scoring the two goals in a 2-0 win against Auxerre.

Tallying up a total of four goals in eight Champions League fixtures, at a ratio of one goal every second game, it can be seen that there is a huge reliance on the big up man front.

While in the league, the striker struck four goals past his opponents with a brace of assists in eight out of the nine league matches he played.

It was during the first half of the 2010/2011 season where Milan were put under scrutiny for their heavy reliance on Ibrahimovic, where he netted 10 out of his 14 league goals all before the December break, as well as netting just over a quarter of Milan’s total amount of Serie A goals.

The first thirteen games of this season, has proven that there is still a hefty reliance on the former Barcelona player’s prowess in front of goal.

The 30-year-old has scored a tally of seven goals and two assists in all competitions, providing four decisive moments so far.

However, the centre-forward has been criticized for a lack of involvement in terms of other spheres in the game: such as distribution and crossing. According to Tuttosport in the six appearances made in Serie A this term, Zlatan only managed 2.64 passes in 90 minutes of play, and has a low success rate at crossing, with only 29% of his efforts reaching its desired target.

In the four matches that he missed out on at the beginning of this season, the defending Serie A Champions only managed to scrape one narrow win, while drawing two and losing one.

The talismanic forward has such a presence about him, that when his 6ft5 physique is not present on the field: the team evidently struggle without him.

Without him occupying a position in the final third, the Rossoneri are often found lacking a certain edge and flair about them.

Therefore, when considering the mentioned statistics along with what the Malmo born player provides, during a game, it is clear as day, that Milan are highly dependent on his ability to place the ball into the back.

Be it whether or not he is scoring, or whether or not he is just present on the field of play, Milan are colossally dependent on the Swedish international.

Udinese hold Africa's power of three

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 09:50:00 +0000

They say good things happen in threes and for Udinese that certainly seems to be the case, as the famous yo-yo club has managed to find themselves three of Africa’s rising stars, in the shape of Emmanuel Badu, Mehdi Benatia and Kwadwo Asamoah.

Renowned for their constant fluctuation on the Serie A league table, as well as alternating between first and second division in the early 90’s, the Zebrette have finally seemed to have found a rhythm of consistency in the past few seasons.

At the start of the 2009 campaign Udinese made their first steps in securing youngsters for the future; players who would grow and prosper, along with providing a sense of stability that has lacked so much at the Stadio Friuli.

Their first notable signing was that of the Ghanaian Kwadwo Asamoah, who, after joining Udinese on a six month loan spell from Torino in January 2009, moved on to be a permanent player in that summer transfer window.

Despite finding themselves in a relegation battle where they eventually finished 15^th and 9 points clear from the bottom, there were several players who didn’t disappoint.

Asamoah worked his way into the regular first team football where he under no circumstances failed to impress.

It was against Fiorentina where he scored his first goal for the Bianconeri, which left many blown away by his ability with the ball, even earning praise from the opposition.

The Ghanaian’s strong tackling, close ball control and ability to pick the right pass proved to be a colossal attribute that season that helped prevent then coach Pasquale Marino from avoiding the drop.

The following season saw the arrival of two more unknown talents, who would eventually; prove to be fundamental in an Udinese side who lost three of their top players- Gokhan Inler, Alexis Sanchez and Christian Zapata- to bring in an impressive profit of €40m.

Mehdi Benatia and- fellow Ghanaian to Asamoah- Emmanuel Badu were signed, sealed and delivered to the squad in 2010. Though despite only losing their previously mentioned magic trio in the summer of 2011, the three African’s ran through fire to prove their worth under new coach Francesco Guidolin.

The season of 2010/11 saw Udinese qualify for the Champions League under Guidolin. It was a season that saw them produce some of their best displays in recent history, and it was with the assistance of their African trio and Sanchez that helped to harvest some of their best form.

Having lost their revelation Sanchez to Barcelona in the summer of 2011 along with Inler and Zapata, many thought that their departures would be a gargantuan loss to the side; however that was not to be the case.

Badu stepped into his accustomed defensive central position with ease, as he took over from Switzerland’s Inler’s position, which saw him mold to the new formation of 4-1-4-1 and 4-4-1-1.

Badu’s transition into the central midfield role was completed with such success that the Zebrette faithful haven’t had a chance to mourn the sale of Inler to Napoli.

Badu partnered up well with fellow countryman Asamoah to cover the attacking midfielder role of Giampiero Pinzi.

Behind the two Ghanaians there is the defensive pillar of Morocco’s Benatia, who has since taken over from Zapata, has seen his defensive prowess swiftly earn his way into first team football.

Playing over 30 matches and scoring three goals in little over a year, has seen the solid 6ft2 stopper do nothing but impress Guidolin.

With Benatia’s strong defensive ability, coupled with the excellent cover provided by the two pairings from Ghana, it is unsurprising to see the Bianconeri joint leaders of the Serie A table with only one goal conceded: the least out of any Serie A side this season to date.

Labeled as the heir to Alessandro Nesta, Benatia has even been called by former teammate Samir Nasri to join Arsenal.

“Oh yes, he wants me to come. When I was in France playing for a small team he used to tell me, ‘I will speak to Arsene Wenger’. I always replied he was crazy.

“We are big friends, we shared the same room in Marseille,” concluded the 23-year-old.

Despite strong calls from clubs playing in Europe Benatia did reiterate that he was in no hurry to leave the city of Udine.

There is little doubt that the power of the admirable African threesome has been a key component to Guidolin’s success this season, with the trio having already been linked alongside Europe’s elite further demonstrating that they have a bright future ahead of them.

Andrea Pirlo: Timeless Elegance

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 09:53:00 +0000

All it takes is a gentle wisp of the ball to create the most magical moment out of nothing. Who may possess this power some may ask?

Not Ronaldinho, nor Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi but Andrea Pirlo: the midfield maestro of Italian football; the brains and the creator of beautiful football in a league that many feel is losing its status of being amongst the elite.

It wasn’t until long ago where critics and fans had written off the 2006 World Cup winner. Poor form and injuries saw his performances sadly stagnate to a point where he was no longer featured in Massimiliano Allegri’s first team choice at Milan.

His history of priceless performances and simply beautiful moments couldn’t even save the experienced player from facing a move away from his beloved Milan.

But it has been since his arrival to Juventus that the fairydust has started to work its power again, seeing Tinkerbell (his nickname to Milan fans) find a new surge of life in the Black and White shirt.

Nevertheless, it has not only been with Juventus that Pirlo has put out performances reminiscent of his two famous campaigns; where he won the World Cup and the Champions League in 2006 and 2007 respectively.

It has also been under the guidance of the mastermind, Cesare Prandelli- who has been the force behind the Azzurri’s recent European qualifying success- where Pirlo has risen to new heights.

Despite having missed out on the first few qualifying matches for Italy, due to injury, Pirlo immediately made an impact upon his return to the international set-up.

Against Serbia on 7 October the elegance and grace of the midfielder was unleashed once more when he attempted an audacious 82 passes with an astonishing 71 of those completed: a percentage that only the top conductors of football can succeed in.

Italy’s qualification saw them break a new record of eight wins, two draws, with only two goals conceded and 20 scored, and there is little doubt that the winner of 79 caps for Italy helped lead them to new heights.

A fond admirer of the timeless Pirlo, Cesare Prandelli has openly admitted that the Azzurri live off every vital touch the master makes.

“It would be very difficult to do without him in the team. Nobody dictates the play like he does.

“He also has a characteristic that few people consider – he provides a calmness to the play and instills a tranquility into his teammates.”

With his unique style of play that defines ‘Football Elegance’ and his ability that can without doubt change the national team set-up with a touch of the ball, Andrea Pirlo is the vital component to a successful Euro 2012 for the four times world champions.

Moscardelli Reignites The Flight In The Flying Donkeys

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 18:56:00 +0000

If someone had to mention Davide Moscardelli a year ago to any ordinary calcio fan, it would be acceptable to, if not the norm, to not know who he is. However, over the past week Moscardelli has become a household name across the board of calcio fans.

The Belgium born forward has lead his current side, Chievo, to churn out the most unexpected, yet most vital of results for not only the boys in the yellow, but for the big name teams such as Roma, Milan and Inter who have struggled to find form at late.

Though, despite his two match-winning goals in the past week, the story of the 31-year-old stretches further back up until the start of his career that has been met with highs and lows, as well as some entertaining controversy.

Moscardelli started his playing career in one of Italy’s amateur clubs, Maccarese, back in 1997 before moving to Guidonia Montecelio in 2001. It was here that he started to open the eyes of the Italian scouts when he scored 20 times in 27 league games.

Despite seeing his team suffer a 10 point deduction due to his playing in a match when he was meant to be suspended; the deduction was of no significance as he still managed to lead the side to promotion.

His effectiveness in goal scoring, saw Chievo and Sangiovannese sign him on a co-onwership deal in which he mustered up an average of a goal per every second game played: a feat that saw him brought to Serie B in 2003.

It was during his time in Serie B where was dubbed the nickname Battigol as he was often compared to the famous Gabriel Batistuta.

Spells at Triestina, Rimini, Cesena, and Piacenza eventually saw him return to the ancient city of Verona to play for Chievo.

His second spell in the City saw a love affair like Romeo and Juliette begin when he scored on his debut to ensure a 2-1 win over Catania on August 29 2010. In the next match, he scored a goal in an away match that beat Genoa 3–1, a team he would soon become used to scoring against.

In a matter of a week the ‘new Battigol’ has seen himself become a super sub and a player that has put an end to teams currently on top of the table.

On Wednesday 21 September 2011 Moscardelli came on in the 59^th minute, in place of Thereau, to face an inform Napoli, who were fresh off a 3-1 thrashing of the defending champions Milan. With the scores tied with no goals the odds were in favour of the Azzurri to net the winner, but it was wasn’t to be a the Belgian latched on to some poor defending to score the only goal of the game.

The win saw the Flying Donkey’s put an end to Napoli’s 100% undefeated record as other teams leapfrogged the Partenopei above the table; sending the Ultra’s and the city into utter elation.

The happiness wasn’t short lived as the 6 ft 1 star struck twice within five days as he scored yet another match winner in the 93^rd minute. His latest victims? Genoa!

The Grifoni were joint leader’s coming into the weekend, but the striker continued to haunt the Marassi side as not only did he knock them off the top of the table, he ended Walter Mazzarri’s short lived reign in first place- the first time the tactician had reached such heights in 12 years- as well as ending Genoa’s unbeaten run since May.

If that wasn’t enough salt rubbed into the wounds, Moscardelli’s last minute strike was the fifth time he had netted against Genoa, a side who is his favourite target.

After netting two back-to-back match winners as well as knocking the teams off the top of the table, Cesena (the Bentegodi outfit’s next opponent) are dreading the arrival of the big Belgian.

Moscardelli has certainly made himself a household name in recent weeks and has undoubtedly installed a new air of confidence in the ‘Ceo’, leaving defenses worried across the Italian peninsula.

Inter's Tactical Dilema

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Sun, 18 Sep 2011 11:01:00 +0000

Following Inter’s 4-3 loss to Palermo in week 1, much of the criticism has been shifted on to coach Gian Piero Gasperini’s new implemented 3-4-3 formation: something that the players and the fans have not seemed to warm to.

The formation can be seen to lay emphasis predominantly on the attack and the distribution from midfield to attack, this being evident in their transfer work primarily focusing on the front-line.

With Samuel Eto’o’s departure, Inter brought in Diego Forlan and Mauro Zarate, the latter a player famous for his greediness and lack of passing on the field.

Palermo’s pace was too much for Inter to handle as they pinned the Nerazzurri back and often seeing them beat the offside trap, a concern for any team with only three defenders on the field.

Gasperini’s un-Italian-like formation was excellently exploited by the Sicilians whilst Sneijder’s absence was evident on the field. The risk of running such a formation is that Sneijder will be compromised for the majority of the game, if not all, as he is famous for refusing to play out of his desired position.

Inter’s players are renowned for their unwillingness to change styles, and are calling for the formation to be reverted into the Leonardo’s 4-3-1-2 with which they flourished under late last year. However, like drawing blood from a stone, Gasperini’s compromise between Inter’s strengths and his tactical grounding is a 4-3-3 system- a compact and more stable formation he resorted to in the latter stages against Palermo.

The question is whether or not this system will work for the Nerazzurri?

“In my opinion Wes shouldn’t worry. He can play anywhere in midfield, he just has to convince himself of this. He’s certainly not a competitor for me in midfield, I don’t see my team mates as competitors,” Stankovic said to SkySports24.

Stankovic’s quote confirms last year’s World Cup finalist’s resistance in implementing a new positional play in a new and different change of formation.

Despite only winning the Coppa Italia under Leonardo, as opposed to the treble with Jose Mourinho, Sneijder’s best form was undoubtedly seen during the Brazilian’s era, of a 4-3-1-2 formation divergent to the Portuguese’s 4-2-3-1.

Under Leonardo, Sneijder played in a deeper role that allowed him to move more freely as well as having more options available for him to pass to, whilst under the former Chelsea man, Wesley played closer to the front forcing him to play shorter, quicker passes.

The restricted style of play under Mourinho, was by no means a flaw, but it restricted the midfielder’s movement around the field, thus not allowing him to score as many goals. Under Mourinho, Sneijder scored just four goals, whereas with Leonardo on the bench he was able to increase his goal scoring tally; bringing him close to his goals coring ratio when at Ajax.

The two pivotal points in midfield used by Leonardo allowed Sneijder to move more freely and distribute the more options available to him, but this has not been seen so far under Gasperini.

Gasperini’s traditional formation of 3-5-3 sees an overcrowded midfield, that leaves the defence often exposed therefore having to see the wingers track back for cover. The 5-man midfield doesn’t work for Sneijder as he can’t play on the wing, because that would force him to be a wing-back, moving him back into a defensive role when need be: a position he does not like.

Whilst in a 3-4-3 formation Sneijder is met with a similar problem, as he is does get to play his much desired ‘trequartista’ role. Though along with Sneijder come the positional worries over Diego Forlan.

There is no denying that the Uruguayan works best alongside another center-forward but under Gasperini- who prefers to lay his focus on one main striking point- Forlan is pushed out into a wider position due to the three man attack.

Should Gasp stick to a 3-5-2 formation, with which the striker has played in with his national side Urguguay, this allows him to sit a little bit more deeper, giving him room to move through defenders and score from in or outside the box.

The question is which player do you make happy? Play Sneijder in a position that suits him best, bringing out his best abilities or play a formation that will see the side score more goals: something that has been lacking for the Nerazzurri.

Should the players embrace change and work at the formation, with a possibility of having a wing back that can alternate the formation into a 4-3-3 to control the game, Gasperini’s men sure have the quality and depth, with the likes of new arrivals Zarate, Ricky Alvarez and Joel Obi, to make it succeed.

Whilst the new formation comes at a cost of possibly losing Sneijder; who is probably on his way out in January, whereas Zarate offers pace and a lethal shot but his unwillingness to pass to other teammates may be his downfall.

Obi offers versatility in the midfield as he can play on either side but he is traditionally accustomed to a three-man midfield: once again bringing up the option of a 4-3-3 system.

However, with European football well underway and the Serie A title to contend with, there isn’t much time to experiment. It is up to Gasperini whether to play it safe and keep the players happy or to push their limits and develop a side that could be absolutely lethal, and especially potent in attack, should they adapt to the two reverting new formations.

Massimo Oddo, The Class Clown Waves Farewell.

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 21:07:00 +0000

The old and wise saying goes 'out with the old and in with the new'. Old? Yes. Wise? Debatable... Well in terms of Milan's transfer market at least. After every season, teams undergo a change where they release the flops, or in a more kinder way of saying it, deemed surplus to requirements and bring in fresh new blood to help revitalize the team in order for them to contend for another title.

With Milan several new fresh faces and legs arrived at Milanello looking to add new depth, life and energy into the squad, however, in addition to the arrivals players had to depart. Naturally it would have to be the more experienced players: the type of player that would no longer find himself in the starting line-up week in and week out.

Marek Jankulovski had his knee decide his future for him, whilst Nicola Legrotaglie's six months contract- which saw him only play for 30 minutes before getting injured- ultimately saw him walk out the Milanello front door.

Whilst Andrea Pirlo opted to leave in order to seek new adventures in Torino after the club refused to offer him a contract for more than one year. His transfer undoubtedly has left many Milanisti sad and he will forever be remembered.

Another player to depart, but who will never be forgotten, is Massimo Oddo. A calm and often looking lethargic player on field was a different character off field, as he is warmly remembered for his various drunken antics during celebrations.

It was during the World Cup final celebrations on the field that saw Oddo almost instantaneously become drunk and turn into a self-employed barber, where he cut off Mauro Camoranesi's hair in the center circle of the field, on a chair.

In Athens, after Milan claimed their seventh Champions League title, Oddo was once again up to his tricks where he fulfilled the Jester character and ran around in pure elation. Whilst last year's Scudetto winning trophy was no different.

It was as if the referee hadn't even blown the final whistle that saw Massimo strip down into his underwear and ran laps around the Stadio Olimpico before he was asked to cover himself.

However fun the memories are, Oddo will not be purely remembered for his alter-ego, but he will also be remembered for some beautiful assists, precise crosses, and his sprints down the right flank.

Just like in 2008 Oddo has found himself sent on loan, only this time to Lecce.

This will be his second loan spell a way from the club as he was shipped off to Bayern Munich the year after Milan won the Champions League, and it has happened again after winning the Scudetto.

We want to thank Oddo for his service at the club and the endless laughs he provided the fans and players.

Grazie di tutto Massimo.

Antonio Nocerino: The last minute swoop

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 04:53:00 +0000

The last few hours of the 'mercato' can be described as nothing but pure and utter mayhem for teams, players, journalists and fans. Whilst technical directors and managers have their phone permanently attached to their ears, the fans are sitting on the edge of their chairs anxiously waiting to see whether a big swoop will take place, or whether or not a beloved player of theirs leaves the club.

For Milan it was last day madness like no other. Before the final day Milan's transfer gurus Adriano Galliani and Ariedo Braida had declared 'il nostro mercato e' chuiso' (our market is closed)- sure we had heard these words before; it was just last year they said the same thing but landed up notching Robinho in the final hours.

As any Milanista knows, never, and I repeat, never believe a word Uncle Fester has to say when it comes to player signings. Not only can he lead the fans grasping at every word that comes out of his mouth but he can create such propaganda - which people still fall for- about potential player arrivals, that are just down right insatiable.

Despite Galliani often fooling us Milanisti into such a belief, resulting in many getting angry at him when no such prolific player arrives, many of us still tend to fall into the trap and get swopped into the idealistic world Galliani has so beautifully painted.

This year was no different.

Galliani opted to go for the title of Mr X; creating the illusion that a big name player would join the Serie A champions. He even went so far as to state his shoe size, nevertheless; to cut a long story short, no such player arrived leaving many fans upset.

As we came into the final few hours of the 'mercato' many Milanisti had lost hope and rather followed the last minute transfers out of pure footballing interest than in hope of Galliani bringing in a player. After all, the mercato was by no means bad for Milan; seeing Philippe Mexes, Taye Taiwo, Stefan El Shaawary and Alberto Aquilani all arrive.

No matter how hard it is to admit it, and despite the amount of times we all say never trust a word Galliani says, we all do. Yes, we actually believed that this time the well oiled, ancient door was truly closed with regards to the Rossoneri's mercato.

However, true to form Galliani and Braida netted up a swoop that no journalist, player or fan could have expected. In the final 45minutes, of what was undoubtedly a final day of utter mayhem in the transfer window Galliani surpirsed all by bringing back to the San Siro... Antonio Nocerino!

A clever and solid buy, at the value of 1m, for five years plus the co-ownership of Ferreira between Milan and Palermo, could only but put a wide smile across the Milanisti faces.

A perfect replacement for the injured Mathieu Flamini, Nocerino provides depth and the stability to the midfield that was still lacking something which quite evident to see during preseason matches.

So Uncle Fester goes on to pull another cat out of the hat and one that he can be exceptionally proud about. Although, not the type of player that would fill the criteria of Mr X, Antonio Nocerino is a significant replacement that can only do well in Mister Allegri's side.

Benvenunto Noce!!

Welcome Aquaman

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Sun, 28 Aug 2011 08:48:00 +0000

After weeks of endless rumours and discussion, Thursday finally saw the arrival of Alberto Aquilani to Milan and what a joy it is to welcome him.

The classy midfielder has had a tough few years since his departure from Rome; seeing injuries, the transition to a different league and low confidence, effect his playing time and match performance.

At Juventus last year, Aquilani was the player to complete more passes than any other player in the Bianconeri shirt; showing glimpses of the player that earned him the title of one of "Italy's most exciting youth prospects". Nevertheless the Aquaman has returned to Serie A and is more determined to bring back the Roman gladiator that has been slumbering for some time.

Upon arrival to Milanello the player couldn't hide his joy at joining the Serie A champions: "I am very happy to be here. I am a lucky person, not everyone gets to play at Milan and i have this great opportunity to."

The midfielder was brought in to add more depth and creative flair into the squad as life after Andrea Pirlo begins.

The fans are certainly looking forward to seeing what he and the team will produce this season and we warmly welcome him into the squad.

Mr X Philosophy

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Sun, 14 Aug 2011 15:13:00 +0000

There has been much debate surrounding the scenario of the true identity of Mr X as well Milan's transfer season; with some fans feeling disappointed in it and others still living with the belief that the big name will arrive on the last day of the transfer window. A typical Adriano Galliani strategy they say.

When Galliani had announced that a certain Mr X will be arriving, he seemed to indicate that he and the club knew the true identity of the player being labelled Mr X, giving the indication that they had already lined up a certain player.

However, as time went by with just three more weeks left of the tranfser campaign, fans are starting to wonder if the original Mr X deal fell through or if Galliani is waiting until the last moment to reveal the player.

The latter option seems the least likely, as both Riccardo Montolivo and Alberto Aquilani have been linked alongside that title in recent weeks, though rumours of their possible arrival only started to appear after the Mr X story was created.

With this in mind it is safe to conclude that Montolivo or Aquilani are not Mr X or rather the original Mr X.

Mr X was created towards the end of last season whilst rumours of Montolivo's arrival only started to circulate after he refused to sign a contract extension with Fiorentina, leaving the fans unhappy and calling for his departure.

In addition, speculations about Aquilani moving to Milan are the most recent. The former Roma player was set to replace Montolivo at Fiorentina, but that deal subsequently fell through as Liverpool couldn't agree a deal that would suit the player and team; resulting in rumours about a possible move to Milanello.

Therefore, it can be concluded that Aquilani and Montolivo are not Mr X, as they were only associated with the label weeks after Galliani first mentioned Mr X. However; should one of the players arrive this summer and the transfer guru does announce him as the 'real' Mr X, this confirms my theory that there was no real Mr X or Milan have failed to secure the intended initial player.

I have long felt that Galliani created the Mr X as a propaganda to keep the fans enticed and excited for the transfer season. Having a made up identity would also create an air of calmness amongst the fans as they start to believe that Galliani and Braida have already organised a big name to join the squad, thus lifting off the pressure load to sign a player straight away.

Last year's transfer season was one of Milan's best to date in recent years and it is simply near impossible to better a transfer campaign like last year. This is why I believe why Mr X was created.

He was created to give the fans hope, whilst allowing Galliani to buy more time to find a player that will make the fans feel satisfied with this summer's transfer season. So far Milan's market strategy has worked out, with several great players being brought in, but they are missing a key player in the midfield.

Andrea Pirlo's departure has left a void in the midfield as big as the Grand Canyon itself; making it an extremely tough task to find the ideal player to fill that gap that was so well owned by Pirlo. Not to mention, no player would want to have that colossal task.

The mystery behind Mr X remains uncertain. The fans will never know if Galliani really did have a proper identity behind the label; seeing that deal fall through or whether he created a propaganda to put the fans at ease to buy him time to find an ideal replacement for Pirlo.

Whatever the truth may be there is still work to be done, and it needs to be done fast as there are only three more weeks in which Galliani can put his charming skills to use and swoon in a player.

In conclusion I do not believe that Riccardo Montolivo nor Alberto Aquilani are the original Mr X but rather this has become a story that has been blown out of the water by the media. Despite this, both Aquilani and Montolivo are two top players that are dynamic and have a creative flair about them, and I for one would warmly welcome them to the San Siro.

Montolivo Milan's Mr X?

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 11:31:00 +0000

The transfer season is well underway with some teams having ceased at the opportunity to capture several players while other teams have remained waited to pounce at the perfect time.

One team that insured to their fans that they were to have an active transfer season was Milan as they promised to bring in a big name player. Such a big name he would be that management even went as far as to dub him the title of Mr X.

This Mr X would be a young, dynamic and highly rated player that would bring in another dimension of flare to the Rossoneri line-up. However, with several names having been linked to Milan no such player has been brought in; seeing fans losing hope.

Nevertheless Monday's news seemed to bring in a ray of hope for Galliani as Montolivo's future at Fiorentina is now in doubt. It can be considered as credible evidence that Mr X will finally be arriving at Milanello in the next few weeks.

It seems likely that Riccardo Montolivo is set to become Milan's leading signing of the summer. The Fiorentina captain saw himself in hot water with the Viola management and the fans as he refused to sign a contract extension that is set to expire in 2012. His refusal has thus seen him been stripped of captaincy increasing speculation that a departure is on the cards.

It has since been reported that Milan are ready to offer around 5mil plus a co-ownership deal with Alberto Paloschi to lure the Azzurri international to the San Siro.

With the deal almost imminent fans have questioned whether Montolivo truly is Mr X material. His talents are undeniable but his poor form on the international big stage and Fiorentina's disappointing season has left many wondering if he will be able to deliver on the big stage.

Should the deal go through the transfer is set to be completed by early next week.

Rossoneri Preseason Matches

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 06:46:00 +0000

Tuesday afternoon marked the opening of the new season for the Rossoneri as Coach Massimiliano Allegri held his first training session ahead of the 2011/2012 season. Adriano Galliani opened up Milanello with a press conference which saw the new players presented to the press and the fans along with the season's new kit also on display.

The Serie A champions will have a tough task defending their crown this season and have brought in several reinforcements to strengthen the squad. Filippe Mexes, Taye Taiwo, Stefan El Shaawary have all been brought in to strengthen the squad whilst Alberto Paloschi has also earned a call back into the squad.

Life after Andrea Pirlo has begun and there seems to be no time to rest as the Diavoli have a full preseason ahead of them. From the Audi cup to the SuperCoppa Final against Inter the possibility of trophies is at arm length.

With confidence high and the legs well rested the players are looking forward to a new season. Here are the dates for the preseason.

26/07/2011
Audi Cup- Semi Final:
Bayern Munich - Milan

06/08/2011
SuperCoppa Italiana
Milan - Inter

14/08-2011
Friendly
Malmo - Milan

21/08/2011
Trofeo Berlusconi
Milan - Juventus

Milan: All Talk And No Mr X.

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Sun, 10 Jul 2011 18:57:00 +0000

As this past football season came to a close for both Milan and Serie A many started to speculate which new names would arrive at Milanello in the summer.

Big names from some of Europe's heavy weight sides as well as the up and coming names from South America were continued to be drawn alongside the Rossoneri. Amongst the rumours Milan's sporting director Adriano Galliani took the bold step in enticing the fans and press by claiming that they will sign a well established player. However, Galliani failed to give any specific name but rather brandishing him "Mr X".

Enough to drive any fan dilly, with who this possible player could be, especially after Galliani seemed adamant that the Diavoli had practically secured the player and it was just the signature that needed to be put on paper.

It has been several months since the "Mr X." story started to circulate; seeing Milan fail to produce any signing worthy of the "Mr X." title. Filippe Mexes was brought in from Roma on a free transfer, despite being one of Serie A's most solid defenders the Frenchman has past his peak ruling him out of the running.

Along with Mexes arrived the much raved about Taye Taiwo. The 25-year old has been named on of Africa's leading defenders but he lacks the experience to fall into the category of a 'big name player'.

Finally the only other notable signing for Milan has seen the 18-year-old Stefan El Shaawary sign from Padova. Born of an Egyptian dad the youngster saw himself quickly branded the hottest property in Serie B with his impressive campaign. Nevertheless his sole ten minutes in Serie A football isn't worthy of the "Mr X." title.

So who could it be?

It seems every week or even every day a new name is linked with the San Siro giants but nothing of a solid nature. Even Massimiliano Allegri's comment of the player wearing "a size 42 shoe" has since been considered a cover up to try keep the anxious fans at bay and maintain what little element of hope they have.

With all talk and nothing solid to show for it, it seems that management have lead their fans on false hope and are now stressing to capture a big name that will fall into the ideal standard of "Mr X".

With funds and EU spots a possible problem for Milan the fans are loosing hope with each passing day as the closing of the transfer window seems to draw nearer and the new season to start even sooner.

Come hell or high water Galliani will have to pull all his string to sign a player soon!

Andrea Pirlo, Grazie Di Tutto

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Sat, 21 May 2011 13:17:00 +0000

When The Great Paolo Maldini retired fans accepted the inevitable. The emotions felt was expected and accepted by all Milanisti as they recalled the memories of a hero and bid him a touching farewell. Though when a player unexpectedly leaves after 10 years at the helm of the midfield; feelings of sorrow and deep sadness follows.

There is one player's departure from Milan that has been met with controversy. It is Andrea Pirlo's announcement of his departure from the Scudetto champions that has brought anger and tears to the fans.

At the age of 31 it is still believed that the ex-Reggina player still has at least two good years in him. It seems unjust to let a player who has faithfully served the Rossoneri as well as encapture the beauty of Milan's midfield magic walk out the Via Turati doors so easily.

Since his arrival in 2001 Pirlo has been the essence of and at the heart of Milan's play, creating and distributing the ball with great ease. His ability to envisage a pass that will turn into a magnificent run by a player followed by a goal has often left football admirers speechless at times.

The silent yet powerful leader's delicate passes, flawless tackles, pin-point precise free-kicks and all round magical style of play has left little room to wonder why he is considered one of football's last geniuses. A true great who served his team and his nation well.

Wherever Pirlo went be it in Serie A with Milan or with the Azzurri national team, success followed. With Italy in 2006 he sported his famous 21 shirt in a team full of heros which won the World Cup. Playing the central and key role to the Azzurri set-up saw Lippi's side built around Pirlo's movements and runs. His endless amount of assists and his goal again Ghana in the opening game left no one surprised to see him win the best midfielder award.

At Milan, more success followed with numerous titles and medals to his name. In his ten years Pirlo has played over 400 games and has won 2 Champions League trophies, 2 Scudetti, a Coppa Italia, a Super Coppa Italiana, 2 European Super Cups and a Club World Cup.

Trilly or Tinkerbell as he is known to his fans has won the love and respect of all Milanisti leaving fans unspirisingly upset over his exit.

It is with his prefect play, his elegance and grace in which he will be remembered and admired for. A true legend who has left Milan honoured to have him play for them. Andrea Pirlo was and is an absolute pleasure to watch with and off the ball, seeing him define the term 'Football Elegance'.

It is with this final note that we, the fans of The Curva Sud, thank Pirlo for his dedication, leadership and beauty. In these past 10 years we have seen him grow from strength to strength making us proud and honoured to bare witness to such a football great. We wish him luck on his new adventure and we look forward to meeting him in the future.

Andrea Pirlo, grazie di tutto

Taye Taiwo Agrees A Three-Year Deal

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Thu, 19 May 2011 07:35:00 +0000

Whilst players were discussing contract extentions at Milanello a new face arrived at the Via Turati outfit in the form of Taye Taiwo. The Nigerian was there to undergo a medical at the club and hopefully agree terms of a possible transfer to the Scudetto Champions.

After passing his medicals it is said that Galliani and co. held discussions with his manager and have agreed a three-year deal for the left-back. He will join the Rossoneri in the summer as a free-agent as his contract is set to expire with Marseille.

The full back is set to fill in the void that was most frequently exposed during the season, along the left flank, which will see him work under the guidance of veteran Alessandro Nesta and Thiago Silva.

The fans are only hoping that the young defender will add more stability in the back line and some fresh, fast-paced football.

Welcome Taiwo!

Five Rossoneri Renew. Pirlo Out

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Thu, 19 May 2011 07:25:00 +0000

Mixed emotions circulated around Milanello on Wednesday afternoon as players drifted in and out my Adriano Galliani's office to discuss contract renewals. With over half an out field squad of player's contracts set to expire June 30 it was only natural that discussions started to take place.

The first to renew their contracts were Flavio Roma, Mark Van Bommel and Thiago Silve. The unused goalkeeper signed for the squad a year ago and has barely featured for the Rossoneri but an agreement between club and player has been made in which sees Roma exend his contract by one more year. Likewise Mark Van Bommel has also agreed to extend his six month stay until June 30 2012.

The Dutchman proved vital in the Rossoneri's Scudetto success seeing him come in to replace the injured Pirlo. Despite offer a different dimension to the game than the midfield Maestro the ex-Bayern Munich player won of the hearts of the fans through his consistency.

Thiago Silva was also brought in to extend his contract by another 4 years seeing it end in 2016. The Brazilian is undoubtedly one of the fans favourite and it looks like he is set to write his name in the history book of Legends for Milan.

Finally it was Alessandro Nesta and Pippo Inzaghi's chance to meet with Galliani. The future os Nesta was in doubt but all possibility of a retire was squashed when he and his fellow friend Inzaghi extended their contract by one more year.

Unfortunately sad news has also struck the Scudetto champions as it seems that Andrea Pirlo has failed to come to an agreement with the society.

Upon arriving at Milanello Pirlo stated: "I have come to say goodbye."

No official announcement has been made yet but to much of the dismay of the players and fans a divorce from a ten year relationship with the club looks inevitable.

In what brought joy to see the champions extend their contracts; was met with a final whip of sorrow as a true legend seems to have bowed out.

Further meetings with Seedorf, Gattuso and Ambrosini are expected to take place in the week.

Grazie Mister. Grazie Milan

noreply@blogger.com (Milanista) — Mon, 16 May 2011 12:18:00 +0000

To be a fan or a "tifoso" of an Italian football side is something that very rarely happens by choice but rather by family history.

One is usually born into their squad rather than watching individual teams and chosing one they like the most.

For Milan they have won over the hearts of many non-italian fans seeing their support base increase all over the world. This season has proved no different as their Scudeto triumph saw the Rossoneri work their way into millions of hearts.

One man who played a fundamental role was undoubtedly Coach Massimiliano Allegri. The Livornese arrived at Milanello with the pressure to turn a side lost of its glory days into a winning side.

Having won Coach of the year with Cagliari in the previous season expectations were high for the Tuscan to deliver and he did just that!

After a shocking pre-season, that saw the Rossoneri have their worst start to a season ever, in which Milan failed to win one game. As the season progressed however, Allegri certainly shocked Serie A fans.

His tactical brain proved flawless as he brought out the best in each individual player allowing them to unleash their creative selves. Whilst the brining in and incorporation of the January transfers aided and provided more depth to an knjury stricken squad.

Not only managing to bring out the best in each individual; Allegri also successfully formed a formation that saw the team work together and for each other. Be it pushing forward or tracking back each area was covered by another player when a player stepped out of position. Total football at work.

The team was joyous to watch as each match they approached with a confident mentality and ground out stylish wins. With vital wins against Juventus, Napoli, and rivals Inter; as well as securing a comfortable lead in first place in November, it is no wonder as to why the Diavoli were awarded their 18th title.

Grazie Mister for transforming Milan into a side reminiscent of their glory days. Grazie to the players who stuck by each other and never gave up. You have reignited our red and black passion of being a Milanista and have seen yourself earn more fans. Such a great team, Grazie Milan!!!

Sei Tutta La Mia Vita.