The Archive

November 2006

AC Milan reject Sheva talk
30.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Milan have denied that they are in talks with Chelsea to bring Andriy Shevchenko back to the San Siro.

The Ukrainian has failed to adapt to life in the Premiership after his £30m move to Chelsea in the summer, fuelling speculation that he could return to the Serie A as early as January on loan.

“Adriano Galliani wishes to make it clear that there have been no negotiations with Chelsea to bring Shevchenko back to our club,” read an official note on the Rossoneri’s website.

The news suggesting Sheva’s return spread on Wednesday, although it seems that the rules limiting the arrival of non-EU players from a foreign club would make a January move impossible.

In the meantime, Shevchenko has reiterated his commitment to Chelsea and his desire to be a success in English football.

“I give 100 per cent all the time – I am committed and hungry for success with Chelsea,” said the player after the win at Bolton on Wednesday.

“I have total respect for the club and fans as well as for football in England and the culture of the country.

“There are always good and bad moments in sport, that’s normal. If that means there is criticism then I respect that,” concluded the former Dinamo Kiev star.

Oliveira admits goal relief
30.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Milan striker Ricardo Oliveira was relieved after ending his goal drought in Tuesday’s Coppa Italia tie with Brescia.

The Rossoneri qualified for the quarter-finals with a 6-3 aggregate success, continuing the club’s mini revival after returning to winning ways in Serie A against Messina.

“Winning is fundamental,” Oliveira told the club’s website. “For a striker a goal is important, especially as I hadn’t scored for 844 minutes.

“That is way too long, it had never happened to me before,” continued the Brazilian, who netted his second goal for the outfit, after the one in Week 1 with Lazio.

“I’m satisfied because I scored and I played well, but I must continue working, I’m sure better times are just around the corner.

“Milan are a great club and the technical potential is enormous, just like the passion of our fans, and that’s exactly why I am sure things will change.

“Milan invested a lot in me and I want to show them I am able to repay this trust,” continued Oliveira, whose sister was kidnapped in Brazil at the beginning of October and is yet to return to her family.

“I must remain focused on my work. I speak often with people in Brazil to get updates on the situation, but unfortunately there’s been no news.

“Now I try to think as little as I can about the problem and just work and work more. My teammates help me, I must have faith and remain calm. This will pass, it will all work out.”

In the meantime, Alessandro Nesta and Serginho could be set for a two-month stop, as both players are expected to undergo surgery.

The former Lazio man injured his shoulder in the Champions League tie with Anderlecht, while the Brazilian has not recovered from his hernia problem.

Both Rossoneri might be operated on before Christmas and are not expected to be back in action for a couple of months.

Loophole blocks Sheva return
30.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Andriy Shevchenko cannot complete a loan comeback to Milan in January due to a legal loophole on non-EU players.

Newspapers in England are today insisting that the Chelsea star is so unhappy at Stamford Bridge that he is in negotiations for a shock return to San Siro mid-season.

However, the rules limiting the arrival of non-EU players from a foreign club would make this impossible, as the Rossoneri have already filled their quota with Ricardo Oliveira’s switch from Real Betis Sevilla.

If Shevchenko were to come back to Serie A, it would have to be in the summer, when another non-EU place opens up.

There is another alternative, one already used by Juventus when they brought in Adrian Mutu following his contract termination with Chelsea.

If another Serie A side with a free non-EU place signs the player, then turns him over to the larger club, this gets around the regulations.

Yet this would be very tricky to complete in a purely loan deal, so Chelsea would have to sell Shevchenko to another side in order to then send him forward to the Rossoneri.

The Ukrainian and former European Player of the Year moved to Chelsea for around £30m in the summer.

Sheva set for AC Milan loan?
29.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Chelsea are ready to allow Andriy Shevchenko to rejoin Milan on loan in January, reports in England are suggesting.

The Ukrainian signed for the Stamford Bridge outfit in a £31m move this summer, but has not yet adjusted to his new reality.

He’s scored just three League goals this term and has been heavily criticised by the Press in recent weeks.

According to The Sun newspaper, Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho is prepared to send the striker back to the San Siro for personal reasons.

Not only is Shevchenko struggling to adjust to the change, but wife Kristin is also believed to be finding life tough in London with their two small children.

Milan would welcome Sheva back with open arms, especially given their attacking problems since he was sacrificed six months ago.

Should the former Dynamo Kiev man leave, Chelsea would ponder making a £21m move for Valencia man David Villa in January.

However, President Juan Soler has claimed that no firm bid has been made and any buyer would have to pay Villa’s £100m buy-out clause.

Shevchenko has been consistently associated with an imminent return to the Rossoneri, even if he has ruled out such a possibility on numerous occasions.

AC Milan set Dida deadline
29.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Milan Vice-President Adriano Galliani has told Nelson Dida to quickly come to a decision on his Rossoneri career.

The goalkeeper’s agreement expires in June 2007 and their has been whispers of a split given that talks over a new deal have not yet brought a compromise.

The Brazilian’s agent, Oscar Damiani, had recently stated that the two parties were close to an agreement, but the knee injury suffered by Dida in Athens has brought negotiations to a halt.

“I hope Dida renews his contract as soon as possible so we can stop all the rumours involving our goalkeepers,” said Galliani.

“If Dida opts not to sign for us then we will be forced to consider alternative options,” he added.

“Nelson is aware of our conditions and knows there are parameters that must be respected. Obviously he remains our first choice and if he stays with us he will be the No 1.”

The club have been linked with Marco Amelia of Livorno and AEK shot-stopper Stefano Sorrentino as possible Dida replacements, but Galliani insists they are not on their way after Christmas.

“There will be no arrivals in January,” added the chief. “We will not make any moves on the market because we hope that Dida will recover sooner than expected from his injury.”

Galliani was also asked to comment on Ramon Calderon’s latest Kaka pledge after the Real Madrid chief said he didn’t think his gravestone would say: ‘Here lies the man who did not bring Kaka to Madrid.’

“I don’t know what to say, I don’t like this gravestone talk,” responded the Rossoneri official.

“In any case, I will try to do all I can so that mine will one day say: ‘Here lies the man who kept Kaka at Milan.’”

AC Milan win delights Ancelotti
29.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Milan boss Carlo Ancelotti was pleased with more than just qualification after last night’s Coppa Italia win at Brescia.

Two early goals allowed the Rossoneri to collect a 2-1 victory at the Rigamonti, 6-3 on aggregate, to secure safe passage into the last eight.

“This kind of game must always be played in the best possible way and I think we interpreted it correctly,” noted the Coach.

“It was a very balanced match and both sides had several opportunities to find the back of the net.

“Ricardo Oliveira returned to scoring ways and that is always important for a striker. He is slowly recovering his best condition.

“Yoann Gourcuff is also improving with every game. His determination and personality continue to grow. I am sure he will be an important player for Milan.”

Ancelotti’s side, who got back to winning ways on Saturday against Messina, can now focus on the Serie A championship.

“We are slowly getting back on track and we hope we can continue to win games,” added the former midfielder.

“However, we are still in an emergency situation with regard to injuries. I just hope to have players like Rino Gattuso, Nelson Dida and Serginho back as soon as possible.”

Milan have had a nightmare start to the season, but the tactician is looking to the future with optimism – even if he won’t have any reinforcements in the New Year.

“I am sure we will do well starting from January, but it would be great if we could do so even earlier, in order for our Christmas holidays to be more serene,” he noted.

“[Vice-President] Adriano Galliani has said that Milan will not buy anyone during the January transfer window and I accept that will be the case.

“At the moment, we want to focus on the most important objective which is for our injured players to recover completely,” concluded the Coach.

Iaquinta rejects AC Milan rumour
29.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Udinese star Vincenzo Iaquinta has shot down claims he will be joining Milan after Christmas. “They are not true,” he stated.

The Rossoneri have been associated with a host of strikers in a bid to correct their misfiring attackers.

Having sold Andriy Shevchenko to Chelsea in the summer, Pippo Inzaghi, Alberto Gilardino and Ricardo Oliveira have scored just one League goal each.

“I’ve read the reports which have claimed that I’m on my way, but I am only thinking about Udinese right now,” said the international.

“I have a contract at Udinese until 2010 and my future will just sort itself out.”

Udinese have suffered from inconsistency so far this season, but they are still just four points shy of a Champions League spot.

“I’m sure that we will have a good season,” added the World Cup winner. “However, we have to start collecting results and winning with more regularity.”

The Bianconeri were the first side to be beaten by Chievo in the League on Saturday following a 2-0 loss in Verona.

Brescia 1:2 (3:6 on aggregate) AC Milan - match report
29.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Scorers: Oliveira 15 (M), Zoboli og 19 (M), Hamsik 43 (B)

Milan are safely through to the quarter finals of the Coppa Italia after a 2-1 win against Brescia on Tuesday evening.

After returning to winning ways in the League on Saturday against Messina, the club’s mini revival continued at a cold Stadio Rigamonti.

Milan went into the game with a 4-2 first leg lead and with seven youth team players in their squad.

Boss Carlo Ancelotti clearly believed that qualification was firmly in the Rossoneri’s control and their promising start suggested they’d stroll into the last eight.

Although Brescia threatened with Hamsik and Stankevicius, the five-time Coppa Italia winners took the lead on 15 minutes.

The impressive Gourcuff floated in a corner which was flicked on by Andrea Pirlo for Ricardo Oliveira to head home his second of the season from the six-yard line.

The Serie A side increased their lead soon after thanks to a Zoboli own goal. The defender, who was perhaps fouled by Marco Borriello at the time, accidentally put a Gourcuff volleyed cross past his own goalkeeper.

Although Oliveira created a sublime chance for himself in minute 35, Brescia finished the half well.

Possanzini and Stankevicius wasted close range opportunities, before the home boys hit back. A wonderful quick counter-attack saw Hamsik slot home a perfect Possanzini pullback just before the break.

The second period opened with a dangerous Pirlo free-kick and a Cristian Brocchi long ranger, before Brescia went close to making it 2-2 on the night. Former Under-21 international Del Nero came off the bench and his angled shot across the face of goal just drifted wide.

Oliveira then went close after his header from a Borriello cross was tipped over, before Brescia struck the woodwork. Zoboli set himself up for an overhead kick in a packed area and his acrobatic 73rd minute effort skimmed the crossbar.

Substitute Gilardino – on two occasions – and Oliveira attempted to make the Rossoneri’s grip on the game even tighter, while Jadid was denied by Zeljko Kalac, but it ended Brescia 1 Milan 2.

The latter will now play the winners of the Arezzo-Livorno tie which currently stands at 2-1 to the Serie B minnows.

Carletto's Coppa hope
28.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Coach Carlo Ancelotti hopes that Milan can prove that their recent crisis is behind them in the Coppa Italia clash with Brescia.

The Rossoneri defeated Messina on Saturday, returning to winning ways thanks to captain Paolo Maldini.

Next up is a game with against the former Serie A outfit, with Milan leading 4-2 from the first leg, despite having slipped to a 2-0 goal deficit.

“The Coppa Italia will help us to continue on the right path,” said Ancelotti. “We have an advantage from the first leg, but we must be careful.

“The victories increase our serenity, but the road is still long and there are many obstacles that we must be ready to overcome.

“We need to evaluate the condition of some of our players, including Daniele Bonera.

“Paolo Maldini and Clarence Seedorf won’t play, Kaka won’t be in the starting line-up but may be part of the match later in the game.”

Carletto then went on to explain the outfit’s objectives for the season, a list which is unsurprisingly topped by the Champions League.

“The Coppa Italia remains third on our list. The first is the Champions League, the second is the :eague, in which our main objective is to reach fourth place,” explained the former midfielder.

“At the moment everything is focused on the other competitions, but perhaps a good game and a good result tomorrow night could improve our overall situation.

“As for January, our priority is for our injured players to recover, then we will see. At the moment, our strikers aren’t doing too well but they are great players and we must be patient.

“Once our play improves and speeds up, I am sure our strikers will have more opportunities to score,” concluded Ancelotti.

Real still want Kaka
27.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Real Madrid chief Ramon Calderon will not give up on his dream of bringing Milan star Kaka to Spain.

The attacking midfielder was at the centre of a transfer battle between the two clubs in the summer, when the Rossoneri warned the Merengues against making any attempts to contact Kaka.

However, the Spanish club’s officials had recently stated that they were still considering making an offer for the Brazilian.

“We have signed a contract for our television rights, the most impressive one in professional sports,” said Calderon to Spanish newspaper Marca.

“The money will allow us to sign the best players in the world. We will see if the promises I made in the summer about Kaka will become a reality,” added the chief, referring to the statements released during the campaign preceding his election at the helm of the club in June.

“One thing is certain, I don’t think they will write on my gravestone ‘here lies the man who did not bring Kaka to Madrid’. I do not make promises that I do not keep,” concluded Calderon.

Maldini could play on
26.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Paolo Maldini has admitted that he may reconsider his retirement plans after scoring in Milan’s 1-0 win over Messina on Saturday night.

The captain, who will turn 39 in June, did recently suggest that this would be his last campaign as a professional.

But the Rossoneri faithful are urging him to reconsider, especially after his display at the Meazza in Week 13.

“I think I am in a position to still give something to this team, otherwise I would have already quit by now,” he stated.

“I would love to continue because I still enjoy playing and training. However, it is sometimes hard to work in pain,” added the defender who is still struggling with fitness issues.

“You will have to ask my knee whether we can continue or not. However, anything can happen between now and June.”

Maldini also used last night’s performance to silence some of his critics who have been questioning his worth recently.

“I’ve not liked some of the things which have been said and written,” he underlined after his 28th career League goal.

“However, I’ve not been giving them too much weight. I’m just focusing on doing my job on a daily basis.”

Ancelotti: Win was vital
26.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Milan boss Carlo Ancelotti insists tonight’s win over Messina will allow his players to get their campaign back on track.

After collecting just one point from their last four games, there was understandably talk of a crisis at the San Siro.

But the side got back to winning ways thanks to a single Paolo Maldini goal which the Coach believes will calm nerves.

“These are three important points which will help us work without anxiousness from now on,” said the tactician after the final whistle.

Although happy with the result, Ancelotti is well aware that his club have some way to go to get back to their former greatness.

“The side still needs to grow,” he added. “We had a few problems in the first half, but I’m happy with how we ended the game.

“Kaka? He played well and deserved a goal the more the match went on.”

The Brazilian did shine and also hit the woodwork, even if he isn’t too disappointed with his failure to ripple the net. “It went well as winning was all that counted,” he claimed.

“We took the lead early which made things easier, it’s just a shame that the second goal didn’t arrive.

“Their goalkeeper [Marco Storari] was in good form tonight. He deserves credit as we kept trying to score and he just parried.”

Messina boss Bruno Giordano accepted the defeat with dignity and a little bit of disappointment.

“It went as we expected in terms of the fact that they kept the ball for long periods. We did well though and with a little luck we could have netted a positive result," he said.

“We wanted to contain them but we conceded after 10 minutes.

“Christian Rigano? We can’t attack all of the time as we must take into account the interests of the team.

“You can’t expect to come to the San Siro and create 15 attempts on goal. You need a little bit of luck.”

AC Milan 1:0 Messina - match report
26.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Scorer: Maldini 13 (M)

Paolo Maldini grabbed the only goal of the game as Milan got back to winning ways against Messina. The Rossoneri captain headed home a 13th minute opportunity to breath new life into the club’s problematic campaign.

Milan went into the tie hungry for a win that would ease their mini crisis. The Rossoneri had only collected one point from their last four games and the pressure has been increasing on boss Carlo Ancelotti.

Yet the tactician’s job has been made spectacularly difficult by an injury crisis. Goalkeeper Dida was the latest casualty to be ruled out – for two months – in midweek, while Seedorf only started on the bench this evening after picking up a minor complaint in training. Gourcuff took his shirt on the left-hand side of midfield.

Messina, fresh from last week’s 4-1 home humbling to Lazio, fielded a 4-5-1 system which was designed to stifle the Rossoneri. Yet that didn’t really happen in the opening 45 minutes where the San Siro giants threatened and entertained.

Gilardino went close on 10 minutes after some fine footwork by Gourcuff who is confirming himself as a star for the future. The striker’s right foot shot beat the ‘keeper, but he failed to add to his solitary one Serie A goal so far this term.

Milan did take the lead soon after through their symbol. Pirlo floated a dangerous ball into the penalty area from a free-kick and Maldini jumped highest to head past Storari. It was a lead which they managed to hold on to until the break, even if they wasted numerous chances to increase it.

Bonera was getting forward dangerously and he assisted Gilardino and Gourcuff on separate occasions. The first cross saw Gila head wide, while the Frenchman forced a save from Storari. The latter also denied Kaka a chance at goal in minute 27 and a Pirlo long ranger.

Messina’s only real effort of the opening 45 unsurprisingly fell to Serie A top scorer Rigano. He underlined his heading ability, but he failed to get the necessary contact or direction to beat giant Australian custodian Kalac.

The second half started in the way the first ended – with Milan pushing for a second. Inzaghi and Gourcuff both saw early efforts sail over the bar, until SuperPippo asked Storari to expertly save his fine volleyed effort.

Milan’s lack of a killer instinct almost came back to haunt them in the 66th minute when Rigano’s header just skimmed past the post with Kalac beaten. Yet that was an all too rare Messina attack as the Rossoneri continued to have the better chances.

Storari was again superb to deny a Maldini header and a shot from substitute Seedorf, until the woodwork interfered with the Diavolo’s season again. After hitting 10 posts in 12 games already, the on-fire Kaka made it 11 with a sublime effort.

Floccari and Kaka exchanged efforts in the closing stages but they didn’t change the result of the tie. Milan, for tonight at least, are now just eight points away from fourth place and next season’s Champions League.

Milan: Kalac; Bonera (Nesta 70), Simic, Maldini, Jankulovski; Brocchi, Pirlo, Gourcuff; Kaka, Inzaghi (Seedorf 72), Gilardino (Borriello 87)

Messina: Storari; Zoro, Iuliano, Rea, Parisi; Lavecchia (Alvarez 52), De Vezze, Cordova, Coppola (Floccari 64), Masiello; Rigano (Di Napoli 74)

Ref: Gava

Tavano agent mentions AC Milan
26.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Valencia striker Francesco Tavano could join Milan in the January transfer window, his agent has insisted.

The Italian has failed to feature regularly for the Liga club since his summer switch from Empoli and a New Year return is expected.

Although Roma have been associated, his representative claims a Rossoneri switch is more likely.

“To have a request from Roma is something which we are proud of, but I don’t think there has been any contact to kick start the negotiations,” noted Stefano Guercini.

“However, there is the possibility that we will see Tavano back in Serie A after the Christmas break.

“Hopefully he could join Milan, a side who are following him and a team that Tavano really likes.

“Francesco is happy in Spain, but it is clear that Italy is in his heart.”

The player himself is keeping all of his options open and has revealed that he may know what lies ahead in the very near future.

“I’ve got a meeting scheduled with the club to discuss our plans in the next few days,” noted the creative striker. “I just hope this situation can be resolved soon.

“Where will I go? That really doesn’t matter. I would even stay with Valencia so long as I am considered on a par with everyone else.”

AC Milan ponder Sereni swoop
26.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Lazio’s Matteo Sereni is the latest goalkeeper to be linked with a January move to Italian giants Milan.

The Rossoneri are expected to sign a new shot-stopper after Nelson Dida picked up a knee injury at AEK Athens in midweek.

The Brazilian international will definitely be out for at least two months, but could also be sidelined for as many as four.

With that in mind Milan are looking for a custodian and Sereni is a realistic target for a New Year loan move.

Sereni, 31, is only a back-up at the Stadio Olimpico as Lazio boss Delio Rossi prefers veteran No 1 Angelo Peruzzi.

The former Ipswich man would come with the added bonus of being eligible to play in the Champions League.

Milan have also been paired with Livorno’s Marco Amelia, yet his use in the UEFA Cup this term means he wouldn’t be able to feature in Europe’s premier club competition.

Dida injury blow
24.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Milan will be without first-choice goalkeeper Nelson Dida for at least two months due to a knee injury.

The Brazilian hurt his knee during the Champions League match with AEK Athens and was forced to leave the pitch before the end of the 1-0 defeat on Tuesday evening.

The player underwent detailed medical tests on Thursday, which confirmed the initial fears, as Dida suffered a partial lesion of his left quadriceps tendon.

Further tests will follow in the next few days but the initial prognosis is of a two or three month stop, if there are no further complications.

Milan may now bid for Livorno goalkeeper Marco Amelia in January as an immediate replacement for the injured No 1, as suggested by the latest reports in Italy.

Gilardino backs AC Milan revival
24.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Milan striker Alberto Gilardino is confident that the Rossoneri’s winning cycle has not ended, despite their recent poor run.

The San Siro outfit are struggling to find their best form in Serie A, although they managed to qualify for the Champions League knockout stages despite the 1-0 defeat to AEK Athens.

“We have suffered due to the very short break after the World Cup, but we will soon recover the morale we need,” said Gilardino.

“Now we will try to win as much as possible and try to improve our fitness during the break. Even if I have not been here long, I can guarantee that the Milan cycle has not ended.”

Milan’s attacking department has not lived up to expectation, having scored only five times in the last five matches played, with four of these goals netted in the Coppa Italia match with Brescia.

“It’s not only the strikers’ fault. To put this difficult moment behind us we need everyone’s determination and help,” explained Gila.

“The transfer market? I do not listen to rumours, I only want to work well in order to be ready whenever Coach Carlo Ancelotti decides to send me on to the pitch,” concluded the striker.

Milan host Messina at the San Siro on Saturday in what will definitely be an interesting match, as the Rossoneri are currently six points behind their Sicilian opponents going into this game.

Kaka staying at AC Milan
24.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Kaka will not be leaving Milan for Real Madrid, according to transfer market consultant Ernesto Bronzetti.

The Brazilian, who the Rossoneri have always said is not for sale, was at the centre of a transfer battle between the two clubs in the summer and Real Madrid President Ramon Calderon recently confirmed the star remained a target for the Merengues.

“Real Madrid would like to buy Kaka, that is for sure,” said Bronzetti to Tgcom.

“However, I don’t think he will leave the Rossoneri, Vice-President Adriano Galliani will never let him go, not even if he were offered the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.”

Carlo Ancelotti’s future at the club has also been questioned recently during the outfit’s poor run, but Bronzetti believes he will not be leaving the San Siro.

“He is one of the best Coaches on the market, this is just a strange period for him but he will not leave according to what I know. Last year Real Madrid wanted him but Galliani said no and extended his contract.”

Bronzetti is also convinced that there will not be any sensational moves during the January transfer window.

“Milan may make a few signings, as well as Roma, because their squad is not large enough. Inter are already competitive and I don’t think they are planning anything big.

“Buffon has at least two Italian clubs interested in him – Milan, who have not yet extended Nelson Dida’s contract and Inter.

“Barcelona and Manchester could also make an offer, whereas Real already have a goalkeeper,” continued Bronzetti, who does not think that Antonio Cassano will return to Italy.

“I think he will stay in Spain, there are no clubs interested in him. Milan do not need strikers, Massimo Moratti likes Antonio but I don’t think there will be any move for him. Furthermore, Antonio is not a player who would accept any team.”

The transfer consultant then commented on the rumours suggesting David Beckham could move to the Nerazzurri when his contract with the Merengues ends in June 2007.

“This could happen, although I believe that Moratti will renew Luis Figo’s contract. Beckham could move to the United States, but in the end he may decide to stay with Real,” concluded Bronzetti.

AC Milan consider Amelia swoop
24.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Milan look set to bid for Livorno goalkeeper Marco Amelia after Nelson Dida picked up an injury during the Champions League match with AEK Athens.

The Brazilian hurt his knee and was forced to leave the pitch before the end of the 1-0 defeat and there are fears that he could be sidelined for two months.

The latest Rossoneri injury in the defensive department forces Milan to reconsider their next market plans and could convince them to answer Amelia’s call.

The Italian International is keen to leave the Tuscan minnows with the San Siro his preferred destination, as confirmed by the player himself last week.

“I would like to move to Milan – I think this is normal because we are talking about one of the strongest clubs in the world,” Amelia had insisted.

Coach Carlo Ancelotti thanked Amelia for his availability, but was keen to stress that Milan are well catered for between the sticks.

“We want to thank Amelia, but Milan’s goalkeepers are Dida, Zeljko Kalac and Valerio Fiori,” he noted.

“His arrival in January is unthinkable. We are looking at various players on the market – not for the winter transfer window, but for next summer.”

If Dida’s injury is confirmed to be serious, the Via Turati outfit may contact Livorno, considering that Kalac’s performances in his Coppa Italia appearances have been far from impressive.

Inzaghi: We should have won
23.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Pippo Inzaghi is delighted with Champions League qualification, but insists Milan should have beaten AEK Athens on Tuesday.

The Greeks beat the Italian side 1-0 in a game in which Inzaghi struck the post, but the draw between Lille and Anderlecht ensured that the Rossoneri topped Group H anyway.

“We deserved to win, but unfortunately we were off target in front of goal and their goalkeeper did well,” he stated. “That’s the way it goes in football sometimes.

“Nevertheless, our main objective was to qualify and we can now concentrate of recuperating some positions in the League,” added the former Juventus man.

“It has been said that we are not cynical enough in front of the net, but I don’t think that is the problem.

“We played well last night, but sometimes you have few chances and you finalise, other times you have many chances but the ball just won’t go in.

“It’s just one of those moments. I scored six goals in the first six games and now I am not scoring anymore, just like the other strikers,” continued the 32-year-old.

“Maybe we will grab four goals in the next game. We need to say that yesterday’s performance was positive, [AEK ‘keeper Stefano] Sorrentino played really well, but we could have done more.”

In the meantime, Sao Paulo defender Ilsinho has denied that he is close to moving to the Rossoneri.

“I have read this news in the newspapers, but there is nothing concrete,” said the 21-year-old to ESPN Brazil.

“Furthermore, I would like to play my entire career with Sao Paulo if possible, just like goalkeeper Rogerio Ceni.”

The defender was watched by transfer guru Ariedo Braida during his trip to South America and has been targeted as a successor to 36-year-old Marcos Cafu.

AC Milan eye Mexes
23.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Milan are reportedly interested in Roma defender Philippe Mexes and could make a move when the January transfer window opens.

The 24-year-old Frenchman is contracted to the Giallorossi until 2008, but a clause in the agreement would allow him to leave for as little as £7.5m.

Roma’s sporting director Daniele Pradè has admitted they would have to fight to hold on to Mexes after the club put new contract talks on-hold until the New Year.

Milan are keen to strengthen their defence, seeing as veterans such as Paolo Maldini, Alessandro Costacurta and Marcos Cafu may be retiring in June.

Mexes had recently denied that he was interested in leaving the capital city club, despite having attracted the interest of clubs of the likes of Real Madrid.

“I cannot see myself playing for another club, it’s not about the money and in any case I have no intention of availing myself of the rescission clause,” the defender had declared.

The Giallorosso’s name remains the first one on Milan’s wish list, followed by Palermo man Andrea Barzagli, although he is valued at £14m and is also a reported target for Juventus.

Juventus snub AC Milan’s Trezeguet bid
22.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Juventus have rejected a January bid from Milan for star striker David Trezeguet, according to reports in Italy.

The Frenchman had already been paired with the Rossoneri during the summer after the Old Lady were relegated to Serie B, but his departure was blocked by the club.

According to the Turin-based newspaper Tuttosport, Milan have made a fresh offer to Juventus to bring the French international to the San Siro after Christmas.

However, the Bianconeri management have no intention of letting the former Monaco man leave as they consider him a key player for an immediate return to Serie A.

The striker, who has been valued at £14m, is contracted to Juve until 2008 and he has failed to commit his future to the Bianconeri.

With that in mind, Milan could make a fresh bid in the summer as they are still looking for a suitable Andriy Shevchenko replacement.

Manchester United, Liverpool and Lyon are also interested in the player’s services and the striker’s father and agent Jorge will meet Juve officials shortly to discuss possible options.

Meanwhile, sporting director Alessio Secco and Coach Didier Deschamps are already working on the Juventus of the future.

"Deschamps has all that is needed to stay here with us for a long time,” said Secco to Tuttosport.

“He could start a new era, just like what happened with Marcello Lippi. Didier was a Juventino and he knows the environment very well.

“He accepted the Serie B challenge with us because he was eager to sit on the Juve bench.

“We are already starting to plan in view of a return to Serie A. We have been contacting our most important players to convince them to stay with us and we are planning three important signings – but I cannot reveal their names…”

Brocchi hits out at Inter
22.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Milan midfielder Cristian Brocchi has revealed that his Inter stint was a nightmare. “It was the worst year of my career,” he declared.

The 30-year-old played for the Nerazzurri in 2000-01 before joining city rivals Milan, but he hardly has pleasant memories of his time with the Via Durini outfit.

"At Inter I spent the worst year of my career. I got injured and then, when I recovered, I was sold,” said Brocchi in an interview to the Italian weekly magazine Chi.

“The rush of always wanting to change is the defect of those who have too much money,” he added.

“By acting this way, Inter never managed to build a solid base of players who could represent a reference for the others.”

Brocchi, who spent last season on loan at Fiorentina, also denied reports that there is increasing tension within the Rossoneri camp.

“The squad is very united, there’s great humbleness and respect amongst us. You can be sure that here you will never see dramas like those that took place at Inter,” he continued.

“Considering that after the Calciopoli scandal Juventus were relegated to Serie B and strong opponents like Milan, Lazio and Fiorentina were penalised, if Inter don’t win this year, then they will never win.

“They even took advantage of Juve’s difficult moment to purchase Patrick Vieira and Zlatan Ibrahimovic who otherwise would never have been bought so easily,” concluded Brocchi.

Cafu ponders future options
22.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Marcos Cafu will decide whether to end his Milan stint or sign a new contract with the Rossoneri at some point in January.

The 36-year-old had sensationally stated over the weekend that he wanted to return to Brazil next year, but he admits that he could decide to stay on at the San Siro.

“There is a good chance that I might renew my agreement,” said Cafu to the Brazilian news agency Estado.

“But I have also had some offers from other Italian and European clubs and one in Brazil, so I am thinking about the decision to make and talking with my family about it.

“I think I will decide on my future by January and it will be final,” continued the two-time Scudetto winner.

“It would be nice if I could choose whether or not I want to continue my career instead of getting in a situation where nobody wants to sign me.”

Cafu, who arrived at Roma in 1997 from Palmeiras, joined Milan in 2003 and has since then appeared in 88 Serie A matches, as well as 32 Champions League games.

Milan are set to undergo a complete renovation process in 2007, as veterans Paolo Maldini and Alessandro Costacurta have both confirmed that they will probably retire at the end of the season.

Seedorf not superstitious
22.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Clarence Seedorf has urged his Milan teammates to put more effort into scoring goals rather than complaining about bad luck.

“I don’t want to talk about bad luck, as we can do something more in front of goal and some of these chances could’ve been converted with a bit more cynicism and focus.”

The 1-0 defeat at AEK Athens was their fifth in seven competitive games, but the Rossoneri still qualified for the final 16 thanks to the 2-2 draw between Lille and Anderlecht.

“We’re very happy to be through and that little boost doesn’t hurt in the circumstances. In any case, the team is united and enthusiastic, so with that approach we are bound to get out of this situation and our qualification helps morale.”

Milan had been undefeated in the Champions League this season, but their dismal Serie A form has seemingly spread to Europe as well.

“It’s the knockout rounds next, but right now we must focus on Serie A. Milan’s problem at the moment is needing to relax and have more belief in front of goal. We cannot expect luck to turn all by itself, we have to help it along,” continued Seedorf.

“The midfield can give the defence more protection and the strikers support. I’ve seen a definite improvement in this respect over the last two games, as we’ve given our opponents hardly any scoring opportunities.”

The San Siro giants’ fall from grace has provided some juicy newspaper headlines, but the Dutchman claims it’ll only help them along, including reports that Paolo Maldini will retire this summer.

“We have to take everything the media has said about us and transform it into motivation. I hope the Press keeps talking about Maldini as a former player, because it’s really boosting him and giving him the desire to prove everyone wrong. He’s our captain and a great player, so he’ll keep going while he feels like it.”

Seedorf was booked during the AEK Athens game for measuring the distance between a free-kick and the wall and remained unrepentant.

“Why is it in the rules? I called the referee and he ignored me, so I had to prove a point! Anyway, I managed to get the wall back to where it was supposed to be, so I couldn’t care less about the yellow card!”

Luck will change, says Maldini
22.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Captain Paolo Maldini is praying that qualification to the last 16 of the Champions League represents the end of Milan’s bad luck.

They lost their first game of the competition 1-0 to AEK Athens last night, but still progressed as Group H winners after Lille and Anderlecht drew 2-2.

“We had many opportunities tonight, but the main problem is represented by injuries,” said Maldini after the match in which Pippo Inzaghi also struck the post.

“Tonight we had two youth team players on the bench which means we are limited right now.

“I hope someone returns to action soon because playing a match every three days with the same men isn’t easy,” added the defender.

Milan lost Marcos Cafu to injury in training this week, Dario Simic in the pre-match warm-up and goalkeeper Nelson Dida in the second half.

“All these injuries are really strange, especially Dario’s,” added Maldini. “I hope that our unfortunate moment is over seeing that we have qualified as group winners.

“Today, with all the negative things there was also good news. Our mindset is not a problem, if we made it tonight then we can always make it. I am sure everything is about to change.”

Striker Ricardo Oliveira, who has struck the post three times in Serie A this season, believes that the main problem is due to the lack of goals.

“We must score. This is the priority,” said the Brazilian. “The team is playing well but we are missing chances. We hope to solve this problem as soon as possible.

“We must continue to work hard. We have advanced to the knock-out stages which is very important and we must remember that,” ended the former Betis man.

Galliani sounds calcio warning
22.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Milan vice-President Adriano Galliani has warned Italian football must change its economic rules to keep up with Spanish sides.

“We did what we had to with Kaka, penning a new five-year contract. We’ll keep Kaka close by, but Spanish football has an advantage on the transfer market because of their more comfortable economic packages, lower taxation and relaxed rules on non-EU players,” explained the former Lega Calcio chief.

“All these other players we’re interested in cannot be picked up because of their passports. If this system doesn’t change, the Serie A sides won’t be able to play many Champions League Finals over the next few years.”

The Rossoneri have been locked in several transfer battles with Real Madrid this year, including over Kaka, Higuain and Marcelo.

“If you count up the number of big players Milan and Inter signed 10 years ago and their transfer activity this summer, you’ll see an incredible difference. The limits on non-EU members entering Serie A has seen important figures leave Italy, including two Ballon d’Or winners this summer in the form of Andriy Shevchenko and Fabio Cannavaro.

“If something isn’t done about it, then calcio faces a bleak future purely from a level of infrastructure.”

Galliani was also upset at the number of fitness issues affecting Milan this season, as Dario Simic pulled out during the warm-up of their 1-0 Champions League defeat at AEK Athens.

“Before the game I was counting how many players were injured and by the end of the match it was six just from the defence and goalkeeping sections. It’s really incredible, I can’t figure out how we’ve managed such a run of bad luck.”

They have nonetheless qualified top of Group H thanks to their record against the other clubs, so the vice-President is confident.

“We have to get back some of our injured players, but above all some good fortune, as the team does create a lot of scoring opportunities.

The Champions League is our natural stage. I think our passage to the next phase will prove to be a turning point, as I saw the players smiling and relieved at the final whistle,” he continued.

“People act as if Milan have been in a crisis forever, but our first defeat was October 22 after 11 games without losing in all competitions. This side is not ringing the death bells yet. It was caused by the lack of holiday and early start to the Champions League, the Calciopoli trial, injuries and bad luck, so it all came together.”

The real problem has been the lack of goals, especially when it comes to the forwards, but once again in Athens they were kept out by the frame.

“The difference between an upright and a goal is a couple of centimetres, so I consider all those posts we’ve hit with alarming regularity to be semi-goals and that reduces the deficit we can see,” insisted Galliani.

Milan are facing a future without Paolo Maldini, with reports today that he is to retire at the end of the campaign.

“I haven’t asked Paolo. It’s purely a physical issue and he’ll see how he feels at the end of the season, I don’t think he’s made a decision yet. He is so strong that he could play until the age of 45, the only problem is the cartilage.”

Ancelotti thinks positive
22.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Carlo Ancelotti focused on the positive aspects of Milan’s qualification and insisted his era would continue despite their dismal form.

“What went wrong? Just the fact that this is a period when everything is happening,” said the Coach after their 1-0 Champions League defeat at AEK Athens.

“We lost Marcos Cafu and Dario Simic at the last minute on top of the six players at home, then Dida got injured. We had a host of chances and hit the woodwork, but despite it all we are qualified and this gives us the strength and confidence to keep going.”

The Rossoneri are still certain of top spot in Group H thanks to Lille’s 2-2 draw with Anderlecht, even after losing their unbeaten record in the Champions League this season.

The injury crisis continues, though, as Cafu suffered a setback yesterday, then Simic pulled out with a problem during the warm-up and Dida hurt his left knee in the second half.

“Dida picked up an injury and was able to carry on for a while, but then it got worse. We’ll see what the situation is after some tests over the next few days.”

Milan dominated the match in Greece and had almost 70 per cent of the possession, but couldn’t hit the back of the net.

“The team played very well at the start and kept the tempo high with three or four clear-cut chances. They were also good in the second half, but hit the upright with Pippo Inzaghi and had a few more opportunities,” added Ancelotti.

“When a striker is without goals, it’s like he’s missing the fundamentals of his game. We just have to maintain the strength to keep going, focus, work hard and trust the goal will come eventually.”

The winning goal was a soft one, as Clarence Seedorf gave away a free kick on the edge of the area and the defensive wall didn’t seem to be set out very well when Julio Cesar curled in.

“I always tell my players that if they let a goal in the very top corner we must compliment our opponents. If it doesn’t, then we’ve made a mistake,” said the Coach.

“We have to remember that, regardless of the defeat, we achieved our objective in topping the Group so that in February we’ll get back into the tournament in better shape. Of all the negative things that have happened recently, we’ll take it as a positive sign that we lost and still went through.”

With their appalling form, losing five of their last seven games in all competitions, the Press asked what this meant for the future of the Ancelotti era.

“This era is continuing. I like the idea of staying at Milan for 10 years, but I’d like to do it the way I am now – on the field every day, in sync with the club and planning together for the future.”

Maldini confirms retirement idea
22.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Paolo Maldini has confirmed this morning’s reports that this may be his last season as a professional footballer.

The Milan captain has been suffering with knee problems for some time and stories on Tuesday claimed he would end his extraordinary career after 23 seasons with the Rossoneri.

“Everything is going fine at the moment,” noted Maldini, a seven time Serie A winner, to Milan Channel.

“I am playing with continuity and that is what I planned on doing at the start of this campaign. I am very happy.

“But I am not thinking about renewing my contract next year. If I were to think about June now then I could consider quitting.

“However, I may change my mind in the meantime. Many other things might happen, but at this time in the season I admit that I am considering such an option.

“In June I will turn 39 which is a fairly considerable age for a footballer, but I don’t want to think about that problem now.

“I am trying not to think about the renewal and the possibility of retiring. The will to continue doing my job at my best is what allows me to remain at these high levels,” concluded Maldini.

Italy’s most capped player, thanks to his 126 games, is likely to play against AEK Athens in the Champions League this evening.

Fiorentina vs. AC Milan kick-off moved
22.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

The Week 16 fixtures Fiorentina-Milan and Udinese-Cagliari have had their time-slots switched round.

This means that the Viola will take on the Rossoneri at the Stadio Artemio Franchi with an 18.00 local time (17.00 in the UK) kick-off on December 16.

The evening match on Saturday will instead be Udinese-Cagliari at the Stadio Friuli, which will start at 19.30 UK time.

The decision to exchange the two games was made due to a conflict of security and crowd control issues in Florence.

Popular singer Claudio Baglioni’s concert will be at the Mandela Forum in the same city as the match against Milan on December 16, prompting fears over the large numbers of people travelling in the area.

AEK Athens 1:0 AC Milan - match report
22.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Scorer: Julio Cesar 32 (A)

Milan dominated possession and hit the woodwork with Pippo Inzaghi, but lost their Champions League unbeaten record at AEK Athens. They still qualify for the next phase thanks to Lille's 2-2 draw with Anderlecht.

The Greek outfit had never won a match in this tournament before a fortnight ago, but managed to notch up their second on the trot in a shock result that confirms the Rossoneri's dismal period of form.

Carlo Ancelotti had originally picked Dario Simic, but he suffered an injury in the warm-up, so Cristian Brocchi had to improvise as a right-back with Yoann Gourcuff coming into midfield. They needed only a point from this match to be sure of their passage to the next phase, but AEK Athens were also in the running for a place in the final 16.

Alessandro 'Billy' Costacurta made history as the oldest player ever to appear in the Champions League, the 40-year-old stepping into the breach with Marcos Cafu, Alessandro Nesta and Serginho injured.

There were chances for both sides in the opening three minutes, as ex-Roma defender Traianos Dellas turned a free header off target from a corner kick, then Clarence Seedorf's volley from a Kaka cross was charged down by former Inter man Bruno Cirillo.

Goalkeeper Stefano Sorrentino - also an ex-Serie A star at Torino - beat away a Ricardo Oliveira snapshot before Dida blocked a similar effort from Liberopoulos.

Milan went closer than anyone after nine minutes, as Daniele Bonera's cross found Pippo Inzaghi and Sorrentino came flying out to close down the striker from six yards. From the resulting corner, Kaka's header was just wide.

Sorrentino was again brave, rushing forward to pluck the ball off Kaka's foot following a smart one-two with Inzaghi. Two minutes later Sorrentino performed another desperate save on Inzaghi.

SuperPippo couldn't believe it when he was kept out by Sorrentino once more, a brilliant one-handed save at the near post from his left-foot strike after hooking down a pass.

Yet AEK threatened against the run of play on 23 minutes, as Cirillo's piledriver from long-range took a deflection to leave Dida stranded, the ball thumping the upright.

Zikos' effort was comfortably held, but the Greeks broke through from a set-piece. Julio Cesar curled in a free kick from outside the area that slotted into the far top corner with Dida going the wrong way, as the defensive wall split.

Andrea Pirlo's free kick was flicked on for Kaka at the back post, his finish hitting the side-netting, and a weak Ricardo Oliveira effort was easily gathered.

Ancelotti made a substitution at half-time, introducing Marek Jankulovski for Costacurta, pushing Bonera into central defence so he could take the left flank.

Inzaghi's luck hadn't improved, though, as when he finally managed to beat Sorrentino, flicking on Jankulovski's low cross with the outside of his right boot, his shot thumped the base of the upright on 54 minutes.

There was chaos in the Milan area on the hour mark, as a goal clearance was allowed to bounce. Dida managed to parry the first attempt and Nikos Liberopoulos fired the follow-up wide following a series of defensive errors.

Dida made up for it moments later, as Julio Cesar was left unmarked to get away a volley with the outside of his left foot, but the Brazilian goalkeeper flew to palm it out with one strong hand. Dida suffered a knee injury in that move, but was able to continue.

Kaka's shot from a corner was charged down by a mass of defensive bodies, but when it came time to replace Oliveira, it was youngster Marco Borriello who was chosen rather than Alberto Gilardino. It was his first appearance in the Champions League since 2003.

Dida's palms were stung by a fierce Kiriakidis strike from 25 metres and Kaka drilled over.

There was controversy when Seedorf was booked for pointing out the wall was only six yards away when Milan were waiting to take a free kick from the very edge of the area. When it was finally taken, Borriello fired it wide.

Dida's earlier left knee injury finally forced him off the pitch, so Zeljko Kalac came on for the last 12 minutes, the final substitution at Ancelotti's disposal.

Borriello couldn't quite get on the end of Jankulovski's fine cross, flattening Cirillo in the process, then Inzaghi with his back to goal set up the ex-Treviso striker for another effort that was charged down.

Pirlo aimed one of his trademark long-range free kicks at the far top corner, only just missing the target.

AEK Athens: Sorrentino; Cirillo, Dellas, Papastathopoulos, Tziortziopoulos (Moras 78); Emerson, Zikos, Tozser (Kiriakidis 66); Manduca; Liberopoulos, Julio Cesar (Hetemaj 86)

Milan: Dida (Kalac 78); Brocchi, Costacurta (Jankulovski 46), Maldini, Bonera; Gourcuff, Pirlo, Seedorf; Kakà; Ricardo Oliveira (Borriello 70), Inzaghi

Ref: Braamhaar (Hol)

Rijkaard set for AC Milan switch
21.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Frank Rijkaard could leave Barcelona at the end of the season for Milan, according to speculation in Italy.

The Dutch tactician is contracted to the Camp Nou outfit until 2008, but his deal allegedly has a clause – dubbed the ‘Milan clause’ – which would allow him to walk away from his £2m a season deal in June.

Rijkaard has been linked with the Via Turati club in the past few weeks following the whispers that Carlo Ancelotti is on his way out – even if his deal is also set to expire in 2008.

La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that the relationship between the former Milan midfielder and his current Spanish club has deteriorated.

Rijkaard is allegedly tired of the tension between himself and Johan Cruyff, who has been sponsoring the arrival of Marco Van Basten.

The pink paper believes that much will depend on Milan and Barcelona’s future in this year’s Champions League, but suggests that Rijkaard could also take a sabbatical at the end of term in view of starting a fresh challenge in 2008.

Meanwhile, the Catalan giants have turned down a supposed January Milan offer for defender Juliano Belletti.

The Spanish side have insisted that the player is currently unavailable for transfer, but they may consider a sale at the end of the campaign.

Maldini reveals quit plans
21.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Milan captain Paolo Maldini is set to retire from football at the end of the season, according to the latest reports in Italy.

The Rossoneri symbol is in his 23rd campaign with the club, a new record in Italian football as the previous best was Silvio Piola’s 22, but it may also be his last.

Maldini, who will turn 39 next year, is still suffering with knee problems which haven’t been solved by the surgery he had in Belgium at the end of the last campaign.

“Things are not going well,” said the captain to some friends, according to Il Corriere dello Sport. “Both knees hurt and it isn’t easy to train this way.

“I have played some good matches recently, but the situation is not that positive for the future. At this point in time I think I will retire at the end of this season,” added the Rossonero.

The legendary stopper has made 591 appearances in Serie A so far, winning seven Scudetti with Milan.

He was capped 126 times by the Nazionale over 14 years, an all-time record in Italy, ending his Azzurri career on June 18, 2002, in the 2-1 World Cup defeat against South Korea.

Maldini has not yet decided on what he will do after he hangs up his boots, but he doesn’t seem keen on following his father’s example and becoming a Coach.

“To say the truth, I haven’t thought of what I will do after I stop playing football,” Maldini has stated in the past. “But in any case it’s too early to think about it.”

Dida will extend, say AC Milan
21.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Milan Vice-President Adriano Galliani says the club is determined to extend the contract of goalkeeper Nelson Dida.

The Brazilian’s agreement expires in June 2007 but there have not yet been any talks regarding a new deal, fuelling speculation that the player could be set to leave the Rossoneri.

“We will extend his contract,” said Galliani to Sky Italia. “We will meet as soon as possible and I hope Dida will stay with us for many years to come.

“If we do not reach an agreement then we will face the problem in July, but it would not be dramatic if Dida were to leave.

“I am convinced that contracts can be renewed if both parties involved want this to happen, but can also not be renewed without this being a drama.

“However, I hope he will stay even if no one is irreplaceable in the team,” added the former Lega Calcio chief.

Should Dida quit the San Siro, Milan may make a move for either Livorno’s Marco Amelia or Gigi Buffon of Juventus.

Galliani was also asked to comment on River Plate ace Gonzalo Higuain, a Milan target who Real Madrid made a £5m bid on Monday – an offer which was rejected as being too low.

“Is our offer higher than Real Madrid’s? I don’t think so. It will be very hard for Italian clubs to compete with the Spanish ones as they have higher revenues,” he added.

“There are less taxes in Spain and if things continue this way I fear that in a few years’ time Italian football will not be able to keep pace with the top clubs in Europe.”

Ancelotti's final countdown
21.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Carlo Ancelotti is confident Milan will wrap up qualification at AEK Athens on Tuesday. “We’ll return here for the Champions League Final,” he said.

The Rossoneri need a point to reach the knock-out stages of the competition in a stadium which will host the 2007 European Cup finale in May.

“A draw would be sufficient, but AEK’s quality has improved since September and we must be very careful,” said Ancelotti, whose side beat the Greeks 3-0 at the San Siro in Matchday 1.

“They will give their all, but we will do the same. I hope the team will show the same determination I saw in Empoli on Saturday.

“Our main objective is to be sure of qualification,” added the Coach.

However, Ancelotti expects his struggling Serie A side to face some difficulties this evening in an atmosphere which is expected to be hot.

“I’m worried by the fact AEK have won all of their points at home,” he added. “They play with the same strength home and away, but the extra factor is their fans.

“I am sure it will be a very entertaining and open game because both sides want to win.

“I don’t want to talk about our recent bad luck as we don’t want any alibis. I can only say that luck favours the brave and I guess that Milan are not brave at the moment.”

The match is scheduled at the Olympic Stadium in Athens, a venue that brings back happy memories for the Rossoneri.

“It’s an important stadium for us because this is the city where we won the Champions League in 1994 [4-0 against Barcelona]. We are now here to test the pitch and return for the Final.”

The Rossoneri were reportedly interested in AEK goalkeeper Stefano Sorrentino, as Nelson Dida is yet to extend his contract, but Ancelotti has dismissed all rumours.

“Sorrentino is a good player but we already have three goalkeepers and we aren’t interested in him,” concluded the tactician.

The Rossoneri, currently on 10 points, have never lost to Greek opposition in European competition, while the other game in Group H will see Lille play against Anderlecht.

AEK Athens (probable): Sorrentino; Moras, Cirillo, Dellas, Tziortziopoulos; Hetemaj, Zikos, Emerson, Tozser; Julio Cesar, Liberopoulos

Milan (probable): Dida; Cafu, Maldini, Simic, Jankulovski; Brocchi, Pirlo, Seedorf; Kaka; Oliveira, Inzaghi

Ancelotti eyes Athens glory
21.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Carlo Ancelotti is keen for Milan book their spot in the knockout phase of the Champions League against AEK Athens.

The Rossoneri are first in Group H with 10 points and are on the brink of qualification ahead of Tuesday’s match, despite their struggles in Serie A this term.

“We are not taking anything for granted, we still need one point to qualify and our objective is to do our best and stay in first place,” said Ancelotti before leaving for Athens.

“We want to play well and see some improvements on the field. We will leave our worries about the League behind us – the Champions League can help us regain serenity.

“Paolo Maldini said that this season reminds him of the one which ended with the Champions League victory in Manchester and I hope he is right.

“I am optimistic because I understand the group’s value, the players’ quality and the unity of the squad,” continued the tactician.

“We are still the first club in Europe, we have earned this leadership in the past five years and we want to keep it.

“In any case, the match in Athens will not be easy, they have improved a lot since the game on Matchday 1,” said Ancelotti, referring to the 3-0 win at the Stadio San Siro.

“I think we must continue what started with the step forward against Empoli. The standings don’t make me sad, instead the situation pushes me to find a solution to the problems that we have.”

Vice-President Adriano Galliani also believes that the Rossoneri are not going through a crisis and will soon return to winning ways in the championship.

“We have always done well in Europe and also in Italy. In the past season we earned 88 points and we were first in the European rankings,” explained Galliani.

“We are going through a difficult moment that I hope will finish soon. Milan aren’t in a crisis, I don’t understand why everyone is focusing on the recent games.

“Certainly we aren’t satisfied with the season, but there is no reason to talk about a crisis because there isn’t one.

“Europe remains our first objective, in addition to reaching one of the top four places in Serie A and going as far as possible in every competition,” concluded the former Lega Calcio chief.

Maldini staying positive
20.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Paolo Maldini believes that Milan can take plenty of positives out of their goalless draw with Empoli on Saturday.

The Rossoneri may have been unable to score against the Tuscan side, but they hit the woodwork twice with Ricardo Oiiveira.

“This has not been a fortunate period for us, but the squad has shown good unity and we remained concentrated until the final minute,” Maldini told Milan Channel on Sunday.

“Empoli are an excellent side, and they are doing well in the championship. As for us, I think we have taken the first step forward to come out of what has been considered a ‘crisis’.

“There is a thin line between a win and a defeat, it’s just a few centimetres of woodwork.

“In the past, we have been able to break the deadlock but this year it hasn’t happened and this is a problem because scoring and winning is decisive.”

Maldini hit back at those who have criticised the Rossoneri saying that the side is too old.

“We continue to do our job without listening to those who don’t know anything about football, but the Coach sees what we do in training during the week,” said the 38-year-old player.

Milan travel to Athens where they will play AEK on Tuesday in their Champions League Group H tie, as they look to secure qualification to the knockout phase.

“I have to say that this season is like that of 2002-03, when we had some problems in the League and then had great success in the Champions League,” concluded the captain.

Oliveira rues bar tab
20.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Milan have hit the woodwork 10 times in 12 games, but Ricardo Oliveira is confident their luck will turn.

“I am training well and think sooner or later luck will give me a hand,” said the Brazilian who has struck the crossbar twice and upright once in the last two matches.

“I am convinced that I will start scoring goals again quickly, because I feel increasingly as if I really belong in this team.”

It has been a difficult time for the Brazilian, whose sister was kidnapped several weeks ago and has not been heard from since.

“It’s not easy to play in my current situation, but I want to keep going and feel it is the right thing to continue in my work. Playing for the Selecao on Wednesday was also important, as it gave me confidence and security, but it’s not enough.”

The Rossoneri are now 19 points adrift of the leaders – which could turn to 22 if Inter beat Reggina this afternoon – and the main problem has been goals.

Last season’s top scorers in Serie A have netted just 11 times in 12 games, but the statistics also show a different side.

Of the 10 occasions in which they’ve hit the woodwork, seven of them could’ve been decisive for the final result.

“It’s crazy, I don’t think we can keep going like this for much longer,” said Marcos Cafu. “Ricardo already hit the bar against Roma, then struck the crossbar and the upright at Empoli. Sooner or later his luck will turn.

“If the strikers aren’t scoring, then perhaps it’s also because the rest of the team isn’t providing enough support. In this difficult moment we must all continue to help each other and maintain our belief.”

Ancelotti curses unlucky streak
19.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Carlo Ancelotti claims he saw improvements in Milan’s performance at Empoli, but that bad luck continues to strike his team.

“In my opinion, the side played fairly well and we didn’t allow our opponents any real scoring opportunities,” he said after the 0-0 draw at the Stadio Castellani.

“It was overall a small step forward and in the second half we could’ve done better upfront, but a draw is an acceptable result.”

The Rossoneri are having real problems hitting the back of the net this season and once again found the woodwork instead.

In the first half alone, Ricardo Oliveira struck the frame of the goal twice – first the crossbar and then the far upright.

“These were two very important incidents, because our unlucky streak continues. We hit the woodwork twice again today and at the moment the results are not reflecting our performances. This was certainly an improvement on the 2-0 defeat at Atalanta,” added Ancelotti.

“We were more focused and balanced in the middle of the park, especially against a fast-paced team. We didn’t allow them many counter-attacks and that was the key issue, so we can find some positives in this draw.”

Empoli boss Gigi Cagni agreed that Lady Luck had smiled on his men at the Stadio Castellani this evening.

“It was a great performance from my men and it’s doubly satisfying because we deserved it. Of course, we had a bit of luck, but you also make your own luck in this world,” said the Coach.

“Igli Vannucchi is a player of great talent who has made a lifestyle choice in acting as leader for Empoli, an example for our younger squad members to look up to. I’m optimistic we can avoid relegation, even if we must maintain our trademark aggression and pace.”

Cafu: I'm going home
19.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Marcos Cafu has sensationally announced he’s returning to Brazil permanently, possibly as early as January.

“I want to go home. It could happen in January or at the end of 2007, I don’t know yet,” he was quoted as saying in Brazilian newspaper ‘La Folha de Sao Paulo.’

“There are negotiations already in place, not only with Sao Paulo. I thank everyone for having opened so many doors and now it’s up to me to choose.”

The 36-year-old defender had already considered his career almost over after his contract with Roma expired in June 2003, agreeing a move to Japan’s J-League.

However, Milan gave him the opportunity to extend his Serie A stay, which is now in its 10th season.

“I want to be closer to my family. I’ve already spoken to some clubs, but there is nothing concrete yet.”

Cafu had returned to Brazil to take care of family matters earlier this year and it seems it could be a permanent arrangement.

The Rossoneri have earmarked his replacement at right-back, fellow Brazilian Ilsinho of Sao Paulo.

“Even if he is still only at the start of his career, Ilsinho has already proved he can become a big name who matters on the world stage.”

Pendolino made his Serie A debut in Roma’s 3-1 win at Empoli on August 31, 1997 and has notched up five goals in 142 appearances for the Selecao.

Empoli 0:0 AC Milan - match report
19.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Milan's dismal form continued with a stalemate at Empoli, but Ricardo Oliveira hit the woodwork twice.

The Rossoneri had lost four of their last five Serie A games and, including the Calciopoli penalty were eight points adrift of Empoli.

It was the Tuscans who had the first real chance after 11 minutes, as Antonio Busce' got down the right flank and Dida only just got hold of his cross before Luca Saudati came sliding in from six yards.

Milan went incredibly close to an opener soon after, as Ricardo Oliveira unleashed a strike from 20 metres that took a slight deflection to smash against the crossbar.

Moments later, Marcos Cafu combined with Kaka for a shot tipped on to the side-netting. From the resulting corner, Ricardo Oliveira's header was cleared off the line by Fabio Moro.

Davide Matteini went off on the counter-attack and brought a save out of Dida, but it was mainly Milan in the first half, a free kick touched on for Clarence Seedorf to drill wide.

Marek Jankulovski performed a crucial tackle to stop Igli Vannucchi as he sprinted into the area and Oliveira's header whistled wide from Paolo Maldini's cross. It took a deflection off Raggi's shoulder, but the referee did not award a corner kick.

Ricardo Oliveira was again frustrated by the frame of the goal, as on the stroke of half-time his angled drive had beaten Balli, but was stopped short by the base of the far upright.

After the break the Rossoneri spread the play to an unmarked Kaka, whose powerful but central finish stung the palms of Balli.

Vannucchi went off on the counter-attack for a Busce' shot smothered by Dida, then Pippo Inzaghi replaced a disappointing Alberto Gilardino. Seedorf smashed a volley so off target that it went to the outside corner of the penalty area, then Inzaghi was unable to turn in Cafu's centre.

Yet Empoli were very dangerous on the counter, as Busce' was allowed to roam forward and Dida fingertipped his angled drive round the far post. From the resulting corer, Matteini's volley was over. Milan co-owned striker Nicola Pozzi came on to refresh the home side's front line.

Dida spilled another long-range Vannucchi snapshot and substitute Marco Borriello's header into the air from a defensive mess-up was off target.

Yoann Gourcuff floated the ball back across the face of goal for a Borriello header, but in stoppages the Rossoneri had another great chance to win it. Billy Costacurta and Maldini redirected a corner kick and Balli stuck out a foot to make a decisive reaction save.

Seedorf's long-range free kick flew wide of the upright, but neither team could break through the deadlock.

Empoli: Balli; Raggi, Marzoratti (Adani 68), Vanigli, Lucchini; Marianini, Moro; Buscè, Vannucchi, Matteini (Ficini 80); Saudati (Pozzi 66)

Milan: Dida; Cafu, Costacurta, Maldini, Jankulovski; Brocchi, Pirlo (Gourcuff 68), Seedorf; Kakà; Ricardo Oliveira (Borriello 78), Gilardino (Inzaghi 59)

Ref: Tagliavento

AC Milan admiration delights Ronaldinho
18.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Barcelona ace Ronaldinho has fuelled talk of a Milan move by admitting he is honoured by the Rossoneri’s interest.

The 2005 European Footballer of the Year has been linked with the club for some time and the Via Turati outfit have not ruled out the idea of making a summer bid for the Brazilian.

“I can only be honoured by the fact that a glorious club like Milan and an important person like Silvio Berlusconi are interested in me,” said Ronaldinho.

“I am pleased, but for now I am a Barcelona player and I want to only think about Barcelona.”

The player’s brother and agent Roberto Assis agrees with his client, although a meeting is allegedly scheduled in Madrid with a Milan official on Friday.

“The relationship between Ronaldinho and Barcelona does not seem destined to end,” said Assis, who was thought to be trying to get his brother a new Nou Camp contract.

“We enjoy it here and if we haven’t spoken to the club it’s because we do not think there is any need.

“At the time being I do not see any reason to not continue with Barcelona, but I do not have a crystal ball and cannot predict the future.

“I have an excellent relationship with Milan,” added the representative.

Assis also noted that he soon intends to travel to Milan and offer his support to Ricardo Oliveira, another of his clients, who is anxiously awaiting news about his kidnapped sister.

“Ricardo is going through a difficult time, which has nothing to do with football at all,” he continued.

“I am sure that he will prove his true value when he recovers his best condition. Now we can only hope that his personal problems get solved.”

Real keen on Kaka
18.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Real Madrid President Ramon Calderon has confirmed that Milan star Kaka remains a target for the Merengues.

The attacking midfielder was at the centre of a transfer battle between the two clubs in the summer and sporting director Predrag Mijatovic had recently stated that the Spanish side intended to renew their attempts to sign Kaka.

Real Madrid have now finalised the sale of their television rights, a contract worth £570m over the next seven years, boosting their transfer kitty considerably.

“Kaka and Lionel Messi? Why not?” said the chief in an interview to Onda Madrid.

“If their current clubs were to sell them we would definitely be interested,” added Calderon, whose club has just secured the signing of Brazil full-back Marcelo from Fluminense.

The Galacticos are also reportedly closing in on Gonzalo Higuain of River Plate and Fernando Gago of Boca Juniors, both eyed by Milan transfer guru Ariedo Braida.

In the meantime, Kaka put in a decent performance for the Seleçao in Wednesday’s friendly against Switzerland, scoring the decisive goal in the 2-1 win.

Teammate Ricardo Oliveira also returned to the international scene, after being ruled out of the World Cup by a knee injury.

“It's always important to play for the Seleçao, I was disappointed not to play in the World Cup,” said the striker after the match.

“I am settling in very well and finding my form at Milan – they are a great club.”

Amelia eyes AC Milan move
16.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Livorno goalkeeper Marco Amelia has revealed that he is hoping to join Milan in January.

The Italian International is keen to leave the Tuscan minnows, with the San Siro his preferred destination as the Rossoneri No 1 Nelson Dida is yet to extend his deal with the Via Turati club.

“I would like to move to Milan – I think this is normal because we are talking about one of the strongest clubs in the world,” said Amelia.

“I am flattered that my name is being associated with the Rossoneri. The transfer window will reopen in January and anyone interested in my services will have to speak to Livorno.

“I like it in Livorno, but I don’t think a side that is fourth and in good form can be criticised by its President,” he added, referring to Aldo Spinelli, who has repeatedly lambasted Coach Daniele Arrigoni for his tactical choices.

“If there will be an opportunity to leave, I hope I will not miss it,” concluded the former Roma man.

Nesta stands by Rossoneri
16.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Alessandro Nesta has rejected claims he is to leave Milan for a return to Lazio and reveals why the Azzurri dropped him.

“I am happy here and so is my family,” he told Milan Channel. “I’ve never spoken about this, just leaving the newspapers to say what they wanted to. The rumours I want to leave are completely untrue.”

The 30-year-old has been on disappointing form this season and his contract is set to expire in 2008, prompting reports he is looking for a return to hometown club Lazio.

“We are talking to the club, just as other Rossoneri players have, before signing a new contract. This is why I think we’ll stay here.”

The defender missed much of the World Cup with an injury and that could still be affecting his form, so he agreed with Coach Roberto Donadoni to skip tonight’s international friendly against Turkey.

“I spoke to the people I needed to and explained at the moment I’m not in great shape physically. I have to recover my fitness, that is my priority, then we’ll see how my body responds and decide from there.”

Most of his Milan teammates are also lacking their usual sharpness, falling to four defeats in their last five Serie A games.

“We are paying the price for the very short summer holidays, as we had to rush back to prepare the Champions League preliminary round game at the last minute,” he explained.

“We are aware we’re not great at the moment, even if we put everything we’ve got into our performances. Perhaps it isn’t much right now, but we’re working hard to get back to our old selves. Now we have to notch together a run of positive results so that we can sort ourselves out over the Christmas break.”

Following Coach Carlo Ancelotti’s assurances earlier today, Nesta also pointed out there was no truth in the rumours about locker room bust-ups between Daniele Bonera and Yoann Gourcuff.

“When a team is in difficulty, the media tries to sink them without trace. These are things we have to learn to ignore so we can focus only on working. Sooner or later, it’ll all get back to normal.”

Ancelotti reveals AC Milan truth
16.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Milan boss Carlo Ancelotti has cooled rumours of growing tension within the Rossoneri changing rooms.

Newspaper speculation this morning suggested that not everything was well in the camp, with Ancelotti even looking for the squad insider who allegedly fed reporters with information around the alleged training ground bust-up between Daniele Bonera and Yoann Gourcuff.

But Ancelotti has this afternoon looked to put the record straight during his Press conference at Milanello.

“Many things have been written over these last few days,” began the tactician.

“I feel that I must reply by saying that the team, the Coach and the club are in perfect synchronization and this unity will allow us to put this difficult period behind our shoulders.

“Critics have the right to express their opinions, but reporting things that haven’t happened is another thing. I am making this clear so we don’t have any more surprises in the next few days.

“Journalists can criticise the Coach and team, that is perfectly legitimate, but you cannot make up things that are not true,” underlined the under-fire boss.

The Rossoneri have been struggling to find their best form and are currently 20 points behind Serie A leaders Inter and Palermo.

In the meantime, Milan representatives will meet with the brother and agent of Barcelona ace Ronaldinho this week, according to newspaper La Repubblica.

The Rossoneri have not yet ruled out the possibility of signing the Brazilian ace, who is yet to extend his contract with the Blaugrana.

The chances of seeing Ronaldinho at the San Siro may increase if Coach Frank Rijkaard leaves the Camp Nou.

The former Milan man has been listed as a possible replacement for Ancelotti if he were to leave the bench in June.

Viola plan Bonera bid
15.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Fiorentina could launch a January bid to sign unsettled Milan defender Daniele Bonera, according to reports.

Bonera moved to the San Siro in the summer after four seasons with Parma, but has struggled for form in the first part of term and was also involved in an alleged bust-up with teammate Yoann Gourcuff on Monday – although that has been denied.

Fiorentina director general Pantaleo Corvino is looking for a new defender to add to Coach Cesare Prandelli’s squad and reports suggest that club President Andrea Della Valle is keen on the 25-year-old talent.

Prandelli has already worked with the player at Parma and has a high consideration of Bonera, who can easily adapt to all roles in the defensive department.

If Milan were to agree to a transfer, a loan deal could be finalised in January, allowing the former Brescia man to join the Viola as they fight to remain in Serie A.

Lippi denies AC Milan talks – again
15.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Marcello Lippi has once again denied that there is any truth in the latest rumours linking him to the Milan bench.

The World Cup winning Coach has been paired with a move to the San Siro, amidst whispers that Carlo Ancelotti will end his five-year stint with the Rossoneri in the summer – even though his contract doesn’t expire until 2008.

But after already rubbishing the story last week, the former Juventus maestro has again hit out at the speculation.

“Last week it was Napoli, two weeks ago it was Spain, now Milan. Not even half a word is true in what has been written,” said Lippi to TG1.

Lippi, who is keen on starting a new job in 2007, has stated several times that he has not received any offers from Italian clubs since taking time off at the end of the German triumph.

Lippi has been associated with a move to Mexico and a return to Napoli, where he worked in 1993-94, but rumours have also suggested his next job may be in England.

The Viareggino was also eager to comment on Francesco Totti’s latest performances with Roma, as the player seems to have rediscovered his best form again.

“I chose to support him and believe in him after he injured his ankle. I am happy to see that he is now a fully recovered player.

“It’s a pleasure to see him happy and confirm himself as a real leader for his side,” concluded Lippi.

Bonera denies Gourcuff row
15.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Milan defender Daniele Bonera has denied clashing with teammate Yoann Gourcuff in training. “This story was invented,” he declared.

The Corriere dello Sport reported on Tuesday that the pair had a confrontation during training and that the alleged homesick Gourcuff was even considering a return to Rennes.

“This is something which was made up by someone who wants to create problems to a group which already has some to solve,” said Bonera to Milan Channel.

“This is a delicate moment and hearing that I had a row with Yoann makes no sense.

“He and I have a really good relationship, we live near each other and once in a while we travel to Milanello together in the same car,” added the former Parma man.

“There really are no problems between us and when we heard about this thing we even laughed about it.

“The newspaper said that the fight was caused by a tackle during training, but on Monday there was no such episode.

“And even if there had been a tackle, that would be no reason to fight, it’s part of the game,” concluded Bonera.

Gourcuff was also eager to deny the row and confirmed that he is happy at Milan since his summer switch.

“I read the newspapers and what was written about me and Bonera. There are no problems, there was no quarrel and I get on with everyone,” said the midfielder to Milan Channel.

“I am very pleased to be here so I was surprised to read this. This would not happen in France, you wouldn’t see this in the papers, I suppose I have to get used to the Italian Press.

“I hope to stay here for a long time and become a great Milan player. The atmosphere is good even if our results haven’t been excellent.

“Of course it would have been better to come back to a team that was top of the table after my injury.

“The positive thing is that the Champions League has been going well, we haven’t lost and are top of our group after a series of good results,” concluded the 20-year-old.

Empoli vs. AC Milan - match preview
15.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Empoli and Milan seem to have swapped roles in recent weeks and the Rossoneri will be eager to return to the norm with a win at the Stadio Carlo Castellani. With the pressure mounting Empoli could deliver a knockout blow to Carlo Ancelotti and Co.

Four defeats in their last five Serie A matches has left the Milan fans reeling, and many have started calling for Ancelotti’s head to roll. The lack of goals from strikers Alberto Gilardino, Ricardo Oliveira and Pippo Inzaghi has been given as the main reason for their dreadful start and they could find their futures in as much threat as their Coach’s if they once again fail to find the target.

The last three weeks have been particularly downhearted for the Rossoneri. As if losing to Inter in the Derby della Madonnina wasn’t bad enough, following it with further losses to Atalanta and Roma must have put a real dent in their confidence. It is that resulting low morale that Carletto must combat if he is to stay in employment much longer.

Ancelotti’s task isn’t made any easier by some important absentees including World Cup winner Gennaro Gattuso. The battling midfielder is unlikely to feature for Milan again until early 2007 and to make matters worse his usual replacement Massimo Ambrosini is also injured. Add to that the similar problems for Serginho, Kakha Kaladze and Giuseppe Favalli and the Rossoneri medical staff are being kept busy.

In Francesco Pratali and Sergio Almiron, Empoli Coach Luigi Cagni has his own injury worries, even if they are less numerous than his opposite number. But that isn’t to say they won’t be just as costly with Pratali in particular being a rock in defence for the Azzurri so far and both players will be badly missed.

The Tuscans have hardly set Serie A alight so far, but they have been picking up plenty of points. They are now just one point away from the final Champions League place and have gone five matches without a defeat. Most of those results have been draws, but you can’t argue with their League position and they have only conceded two goals in their last four matches. The Azzurri have already beaten Palermo at the Castellani this term and will be confident they can add Milan to their collection of big-name scalps.

Man on fire: Cristian Brocchi (Milan) – The Rossoneri may be underperforming this season, but Brocchi’s excellent showings when covering for Gattuso have justifiably earned him his first call-up to Roberto Donadoni’s Italy squad.

Last season: Empoli 1-3 Milan

Form guide: Empoli (D D D D W) Milan (L W L L L)

Empoli (probable): Balli; Raggi, Marzoratti, Vanigli, Lucchini; Marianini, Moro; Busce, Vannucchi, Matteini; Saudati

Milan (probable): Dida; Simic, Nesta, Maldini, Jankulovski; Brocchi, Pirlo, Seedorf; Kaka; Gilardino, Oliveira

Ancelotti facing AC Milan ultimatum
14.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Carlo Ancelotti will be replaced by Milan unless he ensures the side qualify for next season’s Champions League.

The Rossoneri are struggling in Serie A, but club chief Silvio Berlusconi and Vice-President Adriano Galliani have both confirmed their trust in Ancelotti who is under contract until 2008.

However, it is understood that Ancelotti must guide the side to a top four finish or face the realistic possibility of being replaced.

Although they are 20 points behind leaders Inter and Palermo, they are still just nine points shy of fourth.

Nevertheless, several names have already been strongly associated with his job should things not improve.

They include Marcello Lippi, Barcelona boss Frank Rijkaard, Dutch tactician Marco Van Basten and Luciano Spalletti, who has not yet discussed a contract extension with Roma.

In the meantime, Ancelotti is aware that the present situation is fragile and knows that things must change in a hurry.

“This is a delicate situation and what we have done so far is not enough,” said the former Reggiana, Parma and Juve boss.

“We must give more, this is what I told the players in the dressing room after the match against Roma. We make too many mistakes,” added the former midfielder.

“In the past we got away with certain errors, but now we are paying for every single distraction dearly. Therefore we must avoid any kind of mistakes.

“Whenever we went through a difficult period in the past, I saw our players use their pride to emerge from it.

“The key is our defence. At the start of the season it was excellent, but we’ve lost concentration too often in the past few matches,” concluded Ancelotti.

AC Milan give up on Gago
14.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Milan have reportedly lost out to Real Madrid in the race to sign Boca Juniors midfielder Fernando Gago.

Rossoneri transfer guru Ariedo Braida is presently scouting in South America and had eyed Gago and Gonzalo Higuain of River Plate, but both youngsters would seemingly prefer a move to Madrid.

Now the AS newspaper claims that Gago, similar in style to former Real and Milan man Fernando Redondo, is on the verge of reaching an agreement with the Merengues.

“He is going to happily come to us, he is a talented player and I believe we have been very lucky,” said former Fiorentina striker and current Real sporting director Predrag Mijatovic.

“I think buying him is a good move, although we still need to finalise the deal. He’s wanted by other big clubs, but he prefers Madrid.”

Milan have also targeted Ilsinho of Sao Paulo as a successor to 36-year-old Marcos Cafu after Lazio again told them to forget about Massimo Oddo.

The 21-year-old Ilsinho was viewed by Braida over the past few days and impressed the club official who is considering an offer.

However, the defender does not have an EU passport and could therefore land at the San Siro only in June if a non-EU spot is left vacant.

The player is under contract until 2009 and has been valued at something around £1.7m.

Meanwhile, there seems to be growing tension in the Milan locker room after Daniele Bonera and Yoann Gourcuff allegedly argued on Monday.

The Corriere dello Sport reports that the pair clashed during training and the homesick French starlet may even be considering a return to Rennes.

Cafu expects AC Milan revival
14.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Marcos Cafu has insisted that Milan are not a side in crisis. “Two or three wins would put us back on track,” he declared.

The Rossoneri suffered their fourth defeat in five games on Saturday, losing 2-1 to Roma at the San Siro, and are now fifth from bottom – 20 points behind joint leaders Inter and Palermo.

“A defeat is always hard to accept and it isn’t easy, but we must try to react and leave this difficult period behind us,” Cafu told Milan Channel.

“It's a tough time, but we know that two or three consecutive victories would put things back on track and help to create the right kind of confidence we need to look ahead with optimism.

“We lost on Saturday although we played well and this is exactly what happened in the derby where we didn’t do badly, but were still defeated 4-3.

“This is just how things are going right now – we are playing well but not winning any points.”

Although Milan quickly wiped out their eight point Calciopoli deduction, the San Siro giants have stalled in recent weeks.

“It’s unpleasant to look at the table and see that we only have seven points,” added the former Roma full-back. “Nobody expected this situation but as we got ourselves into it, we will get out of it.”

Cafu also took comfort from the fact that he had lived through a similar experience while he was with Sao Paulo.

“After a series of less than positive results, we were able to turnaround the situation and this is how we were able to win the League for the sixth year in a row,” he noted.

“This means that what is happening here is something that has been known to happen to every team in the world, but it can be solved and that is what we must try to do.”

The World Cup winner also underlined that he doesn’t consider his international career to be over despite now being 36.

“The relationship between Brazil and myself isn’t completely over, my objective is to arrive at 150 games and I am only two short. Then, as for the future, we will see what happens.”

Oddo snubs AC Milan interest
14.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Massimo Oddo says he is tired of being paired with a move to Milan and hopes to imminently sign a new contract at Lazio.

The Italian international was heavily paired with a switch to the San Siro during the summer, but no transfer fee was agreed after Lazio chief Claudio Lotito refused to lower his £8m asking price.

And with the January transfer window on the verge of opening, rumours of a move to the struggling Rossoneri have now unsurprisingly started once again.

“I would like to continue here, but I also believe Lazio need to make the first step,” said the club captain from Italy’s training camp in Bergamo ahead of the Turkey test.

“Over the past four years my name has always been mentioned while the transfer window was open.

“I enjoy living in Rome, but now I hope the club will make a move given that my contract ends in a year and a half,” concluded the 30-year-old former Verona player.

Milan see Oddo as an ideal heir to Marcos Cafu even if Lotito has again reiterated the club’s intention to keep the stopper at the Stadio Olimpico.

“Oddo? He is not on sale,” said the fiery chief last night. “He is our captain and there is no way we will let him leave.”

Oddo was on target for Lazio at the weekend when he curled home a free-kick during the 5-0 trouncing of Udinese.

Seedorf back for Oranje
14.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Clarence Seedorf has been named in the Holland squad for the friendly with England after a two-year absence.

The Milan midfielder will replace Wesley Sneijder of Ajax, who picked up an injury on Sunday and will not be available for Coach Marco Van Basten.

Seedorf last appeared for the Oranje in Euro 2004 and had recently admitted that he still wanted to play for his national team.

Van Basten, formerly of Milan, had previously hinted at a return for the former Real Madrid ace, but it would appear as though he will merely be a squad player for his country.

“In the last two years I spoke three times with Clarence and explained to him why we didn’t invite him,” said Van Basten last week.

“Clarence had his chance under five Coaches and never convinced. We chose a new direction two years ago and found no reason to pick him.

“He must compete with Rafael Van Der Vaart and Sneijder. For the time being, those two have my preference.

“I will not say that Seedorf will never get a chance with me as Coach, but the fact is that I prefer other players for now.”

Holland will host England on Wednesday evening at the Amsterdam Arena in one of the most high-profile friendlies scheduled this week.

Nesta considers Azzurri exit
13.11 || webmaster

Football Italia

Milan defender Alessandro Nesta is considering retiring from international football, according to reports in Italy.

The 30-year-old has struggled for form of late, and he is not part of the squad who will face Turkey in a friendly on Wednesday in Bergamo.

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