Ferrara: Nedved and the Scudetto! Tuesday 14 July, 2009
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ciro Ferrara knows fans expect the Scudetto and remains “convinced” Pavel Nedved will be part of his staff at Juventus.
The midfielder has said he will not play again in Italy, but could continue his playing career overseas, turning down the chance to join the Bianconeri at a staff level.
“At this moment Nedved needs to take a break, as I did when I took a three-month holiday,” explained Ferrara.
“I am convinced that before the end of the season this option will be taken, as he was enthusiastic about my proposal.”
This will be Ferrara’s first full campaign as a Serie A Coach, having replaced Claudio Ranieri for the final two games of 2008-09, but already the pressure is on.
“Nobody asked me to win the Scudetto, because it was not necessary for them to tell me. We have a good shot at the title, but words get you nowhere.
“The field of play will decide if we have overcome the gap from last season or not. Inter certainly remain the favourites.”
Felipe Melo will put pen to paper on his contract in the next few days, sealing a £21m move from Fiorentina and prompting a change in tactics.
“We will adopt the diamond midfield,” explained the Coach. “Melo has the right characteristics to play with [Momo] Sissoko. Diego can give his contribution behind the strikers or in other midfield positions.”
The club has declared a new left-back and striker are not needed, but Ferrara does not close the door completely.
“I cannot help but be satisfied with our transfer campaign. We probably haven’t finished yet, but only if we manage to cut down the squad.
“We don’t want to sell Tiago, as he can do very well in central midfield, although he is struggling a little in training at the moment.
“I spoke very clearly to [David] Trezeguet and told him I cannot give any guarantees, but I would like him to remain with us.”
The exit sign is looming clear as day for Danish midfielder Christian Poulsen, though.
“I spoke to Poulsen and made my point of view very clear. It is in any case pleasing to see someone train so diligently every day despite being in this difficult situation.”