Nedved back in the saddle
Pavel Nedved has returned to the playing field, while the Agnelli family reassure fans they will not abandon Juventus.
The Czech international has been out of action since suffering a knee injury during the Euro 2004 semi-final defeat to Greece, but played 45 minutes in a friendly game yesterday evening.
The 5-0 victory over Berretti boosted confidence and fitness levels ahead of next week’s crucial Champions’ League qualifier against Djurgarden. Alessandro Del Piero was on target along with David Trezeguet, Olivier Kapo and Marcelo Zalayeta’s brace.
However, the lack of major new signings this summer has caused unrest within the Juve fanbase, as the death of the Agnelli brothers Gianni and Umberto has seen the family pull away from its close rapport with the club.
“My father Umberto and my uncle Gianni were always very close to Juve,” explained Andrea Agnelli, “because this side is like a genetic part of our family. We will continue the tradition they created.”
Yesterday’s traditional friendly game at the Villar Perosa training ground was the first in many decades without either of the two honorary Presidents. Andrea Agnelli may not have the presence of those figureheads, but he insists he will keep a close eye on the club.
It is a particularly tricky time for the Bianconeri, who finished last season without a single trophy and must win in Sweden on Wednesday to enter the Champions’ League.
“We respect Djurgarden, but also realise our own potential. Hopefully we will also have Nedved back, as he can always give a telling contribution.”
The supporters continue to await the revival of another player, captain Alessandro Del Piero, who has disappointed so far this summer.
“He is an extraordinary person and will be back stronger than ever,” assured Agnelli. “The transfer campaign has been a good one and we are convinced that Juventus are just as good as any other side in Serie A.”
Pavel Nedved has returned to the playing field, while the Agnelli family reassure fans they will not abandon Juventus.
The Czech international has been out of action since suffering a knee injury during the Euro 2004 semi-final defeat to Greece, but played 45 minutes in a friendly game yesterday evening.
The 5-0 victory over Berretti boosted confidence and fitness levels ahead of next week’s crucial Champions’ League qualifier against Djurgarden. Alessandro Del Piero was on target along with David Trezeguet, Olivier Kapo and Marcelo Zalayeta’s brace.
However, the lack of major new signings this summer has caused unrest within the Juve fanbase, as the death of the Agnelli brothers Gianni and Umberto has seen the family pull away from its close rapport with the club.
“My father Umberto and my uncle Gianni were always very close to Juve,” explained Andrea Agnelli, “because this side is like a genetic part of our family. We will continue the tradition they created.”
Yesterday’s traditional friendly game at the Villar Perosa training ground was the first in many decades without either of the two honorary Presidents. Andrea Agnelli may not have the presence of those figureheads, but he insists he will keep a close eye on the club.
It is a particularly tricky time for the Bianconeri, who finished last season without a single trophy and must win in Sweden on Wednesday to enter the Champions’ League.
“We respect Djurgarden, but also realise our own potential. Hopefully we will also have Nedved back, as he can always give a telling contribution.”
The supporters continue to await the revival of another player, captain Alessandro Del Piero, who has disappointed so far this summer.
“He is an extraordinary person and will be back stronger than ever,” assured Agnelli. “The transfer campaign has been a good one and we are convinced that Juventus are just as good as any other side in Serie A.”
