Re: Re: No Huge Signings This Summer-Moggi
Luppi shldn't be blamed for the defeat
Alessandro Del Piero has shielded the Juventus Coach from criticism, discussed his future and his role for the Azzurri.
“Even if we lost the Champions’ League Final,” noted the Bianconeri captain, “this has been a great season for the club.”
Del Piero was one of only two Juve players to successfully convert their penalties in the shoot-out with Milan.
“We won the Scudetto and reinforced our position on the European stage after two unimpressive campaigns. Obviously we are all still upset, but it will give us the strength to aim for the trophy next year.”
Marcello Lippi was heavily criticised in the press for his tactics during that Old Trafford Final and there were reports he offered to resign.
“Lippi will stay with us and all together we will try to get the Champions’ League back to Turin,” insisted the forward.
“The criticism was unfair. It’s too easy to use hindsight when something doesn’t go as planned, but I say Lippi did everything he could to help Juve beat Milan.”
Giovanni Trapattoni has revealed that Del Piero will be pushed out wide onto the left flank if he starts against Finland.
“I came here with the intention of playing,” he pointed out, “but this is not club level and all players must accept sitting on the bench at times. As for my position, playing out wide is not a problem.”
Juventus are currently embroiled in contract renegotiations for several star players, including David Trezeguet, Edgar Davids and Del Piero.
“You can never say never in football,” he noted, “but I really don’t think I’ll leave Juventus. There is less money circulating in the sport now and it’s tough to get a transfer if you are on high wages.”
Del Piero is one of the highest paid players in Europe, but admits he is willing to reduce his deal.
“I am not worried about my contract. It is only right that a contract is divided between steady wages and a performance-related percentage of pay.”
Director General Luciano Moggi claimed this week that there would be hardly any new buys making their way to Juventus over the summer.
“Moggi doesn’t always tell the truth,” smiled Del Piero. “I think the club will work wisely on the market without making massive changes to a successful team.”
http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/jun7d.html