JUVENTUS FC 2011 2012
Last Season: 7th
Coach: Antonio Conte
Squad Analysis: Disastrous season last year with Del Neri at the helm. Started very brightly but faded big time, with every position besides midfield not good enough. Buffon can't be relied upon as he is constantly injured now although Storari provides good cover. The fullback positions have been a weakness for a couple years now, with Sorenson, a youngster being preferred to Motta. On the left they have Grosso and De Ceglie, neither of who inspire great confidence. The Juve fans must be happy they have Chiellini, as without him they would have been mid-table easily. He is a colossus, I don't like him, but I admire him. Bonucci is the other centre back who had an average year, but it was his first season so you could excuse him to an extent. They had a great midfield I felt last year with Krasic - Aquilani - Melo - Marchisio (even he's not a left mid, he filled in admirably). With Aquilani seemingly back at Anfield and Melo on the outer, I think they should personally pair Pirlo and Marchisio. Krasic is maybe the only Juve player I like, a great winger - very similair to A.Valencia for those who haven't seen him play, although he looks like a young Pavel Nedved. Up front Amauri looks like he is leaving after proving to be a massive flop, club legend Del Piero can't cut it consistently at this level anymore, however loan stars Quagliarella and Matri proved to be great signings. To buy both outright, Juve would have to let go of 24 million dollars combined at least, which I can't see happening.
To the coach, Conte, I can't see him being a success. He'll be another Ciro Ferrara IMO, just doesn't really inspire any sort of confidence. They've already signed Pirlo, Ziegler and Pazienza on bosmans, but they are just average players which they have to many of. Pepe, Grygera, Martinez, Iaquinta, Sissoko, Salihamdzic should all be sold if they are serious about winning trophies. The speculation about Aguero coming is garbage, there is nowhere in the word that Sergio is coming to Turin this summer for a number of obvious reasons. However I can see Juve spending a bit of money this summer, they have no choice to try and ship in some quality. Next season though I think they'll be in the Europa League places, in and around there. Definately won't be making the UCL.
Player to watch: CLAUDIO MARCHISIO - Very tidy player that plays in the heart of midfield. Can defend and attack and is one of the few that came out of last seasons campaign with his reputation intact. Manchester United were reportedly interest a few weeks ago, but I can see him spending his whole career at the Old Lady. Big season next year for the future captain.