Claudio Ranieri (52 Viewers)

Amaurisimo

Amaurisimo

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Dec 8, 2007
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16 September 2008 Juventus.com


Ranieri

Juventus are looking to redeem themselves in the Champions League. All the Bianconeri want this, especially those who went through the last two years' events, but also Claudio Ranieri, who almost went all the way a few years ago while at Chelsea and now wants to try his hand at winning the European title again.

Just like his lads, the Manager is all fired up for the debut against Zenit. «We're perfectly aware of how strong we are. We know we're facing a Club that represents Russian football, a movement that is in the spotlight now, thanks to consistent investments; a team that are living a great period, seeing their recent wins. They're difficult opponents; they'll play on the counter-attack. So we'll need to stay very focused, but we're ready».

After seeing his team's good performances against Fiorentina and Udinese, Juventus' Manager is expecting another excellent game, knowing he can count on the motivation of a significant part of the squad. «They definitely have the right motivation, particularly those players that have made history here at this Club. They can make use of their great international experience, something I'll certainly be considering when I choose the line-up. All the players are in good physical condition, but the players that have suffered in the last two years, when they saw their place in Serie A and in the Champions League taken away from them, and had to work real hard to get back at the top, well now these lads have the chance to play in the tournament they deserve».

Juventus' desire to make up for the last two years, versus Zenit's desire to become one of the teams to watch; if we consider Real Madrid's pedigree, Group H looks set to be one of the most exciting ones: «According to the UEFA ranking, considering results from the last five years, we're above the Russians. But at this moment in time, Zenit are on the same level as us. It isn't easy winning the UEFA Cup and beating Manchester United. So they can count on a level of self-confidence they previously didn't have».
 

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Mike-e-y

Mike-e-y

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Jul 18, 2004
11,188
#4,103
sensible quotes from ranieri, good to see he's not underestimating zenit, who are one of the strongest teams in the CL this year. If we play to the same standard that we did against udinese we should be alright tonight and credit to ranieri for the style of football we have played at the start of this season, lets hope we can keep it up
 
Amaurisimo

Amaurisimo

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Dec 8, 2007
4,622
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Ranieri: We passed Zenit test Channel 4


Wednesday 17 September, 2008



Claudio Ranieri praised Zenit and insisted it was only normal they should pressure Juventus in Turin.

“It was a complicated and very tactical game, as Zenit are in better physical shape than we are and play with five midfielders plus three who move a lot upfront,” he said of the 1-0 win.

“We knew they were very good on the counter, so I was pleased we rarely allowed them that chance.

“It was a struggle and my compliments go to Zenit, as if they won the UEFA Cup and European Super Cup, then of course they were going to trouble us. It was very important to start the group with a win.”

This is a very tricky group, as Real Madrid beat Bate Borisov 2-0 to go top alongside Juventus.

“We had four midfielders against their five, so under pressure it is simpler to lose the ball. We were also a little tense, but after our first chance we got into our stride a bit more.

“It is a complicated group. I don't know Bate Borisov, so we have had to research them, but between Real Madrid, Zenit and Juventus there are already three excellent teams.”

It was quite a return to the Champions League for Juve, who sealed the victory with a spectacular Alessandro Del Piero free kick.

“We've been out of Europe for two years and although there are some figures still here, it is a new team and we want to experience this with enthusiasm.”

Ranieri stuck by the 'old guard' in this game, but assured that would not always be the case.

“We created this squad in order to give everyone an opportunity to play and to recover. Now we are in good shape considering it is September, so when everyone is like that I can rotate the squad.”
 
Amaurisimo

Amaurisimo

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Dec 8, 2007
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Ranieri: Amauri's a bargain! Channel 4



Sunday 21 September, 2008


Claudio Ranieri gave an injury update on Gigi Buffon and hailed Amauri as “a fantastic signing.”
The Brazilian scored the winner away to Cagliari this afternoon, a result that puts Juventus top of the table alongside Inter awaiting Lazio’s result tonight.

“He is a fantastic signing and a master of working the ball,” grinned Ranieri.

“Those who haven’t played as much have done very well so far and it isn’t easy to be ready when you are called.”

Juve made the trip without the injured David Trezeguet, Alessandro Del Piero, Mauro Camoranesi, Cristiano Zanetti, Jonathan Zebina and Zdenek Grygera.

“It would’ve been better if we had been able to get a more comprehensive result and put it under lock and key.

“Instead the game remained open until the very end and Cagliari had the chance to equalise with Alessandro Matri.

“We weren’t at our best in front of goal, but on a pitch in poor condition it was difficult to pass the ball around the way we usually do.”

Goalkeeper Buffon went off at half-time clutching the inside of his upper right thigh, making way for Alex Manninger.

“We will evaluate his condition tomorrow. I preferred not to risk it, so we’ll calmly look at the extend of the problem.”

Tiago Mendes made a rare appearance in the second half and Ranieri has not given up on the midfielder who refused moves to Everton, Monaco and Tottenham.

“Tiago has great technique and has shown himself to be open to helping out the team. Who knows, maybe this year without pressure he will be able to prove his quality.”
 
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