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Elkann to pull plug on Ferrara?[/FONT]
Sunday 24 January, 2010
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Newspapers claim Ciro Ferrara’s time at Juventus is up, as patron John Elkann intervenes personally.
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The Coach again refused to resign and insisted he would “find a way out” of the crisis, but last night’s 2-1 home defeat to Roma – the fifth loss in six games – could well be the final straw.
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President Jean-Claude Blanc and recently-appointed assistant general manager Roberto Bettega reiterated their faith in Ferrara.
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However, the way to avoid an about-face from the administration would be bringing in patron Elkann to break the news and make the decision.
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Elkann is the heir to the FIAT empire and Agnelli family who have owned Juventus for generations.
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He is a committed fan of the club and many among the supporters have called for him to take over as the new President.
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If Elkann does pull the plug on Ferrara, a new tactician is needed before Thursday’s Coppa Italia quarter-final with Inter.
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Guus Hiddink was the main candidate, although a combination of wage demands and a reported snub from the Dutchman have seen him drop down the standings.
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Former Juve star Michael Laudrup has offered himself up as caretaker manager, while Dino Zoff and Alberto Zaccheroni could fulfil the same role.
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A more long-term option would be ex-Barcelona Coach Frank Rijkaard.[/FONT]