Channel 4: cannavaro admits decline
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Juventus defender Fabio Cannavaro insists he still has the desire to win things but admits he isn't the player he was in 2006.
The 35-year-old former World Player of the Year re-joined the Bianconeri this summer after three years at Real Madrid.
His return has angered a section of the club's fans, which believes he betrayed them by leaving amid the Calciopoli scandal.
Doubts over his ability aren't lacking either after some very poor performances in the Confederations Cup last month.
“I have returned to a group that I already know. There are new players and a lot of youngsters, but the work ethic, the will to win and the spirit that carried this club to the top in Italy is still the same,” Cannavaro said.
Asked to describe his feelings on hearing about fans protesting against his transfer, Cannavaro replied: “I am very sorry. A footballer never likes to be protested against. I understand the bitterness, but we have explained the motivations that brought me to that choice.
“On my part there wasn't the desire to show a lack of respect to anyone. It's clear to everyone that I am here to work, to give my best and to win something.
“I was the first person to be sorry to leave this club. I came here after having spoken with the club. We did not even spoken about figures with Alessio Secco. It already suited me like this. I was happy to return,” Cannavaro explained.
“We are speaking about Juve. It wasn't a certain regret. In that difficult moment for the club I was clear with them and they were clear with me.
“We found the best solution for me. I went abroad and they made a good sale. Now we look to the future because we have to look to the future.”
Asked about his own physical condition, Cannavaro replied: “I think about being able to give a lot. I come from a difficult championship like La Liga.
“Physically, I feel good. Sure if we think to the Cannavaro of 2006 I might as well be at home. I have a problem with my calf. I am working and I am happy with my preparation.
“I always see myself on the pitch, but we need to speak with Coach Ferrara. There is a great friendship between us, but he is my trainer. It's strange, but he makes the choices.
“This team is being reinforced well. Now we need to work and rediscover the mentality that there was also last year, but that sometimes went missing, albeit carrying the team to second place.”
Finally, Cannavaro cast his eye back to the Scudetti that were revoked from Juventus in 2006.
“I have the medal at home. For me, they will always be titles that we won,” he concluded.
http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/jul20o.html
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