Milan set higher standard
Friday, 10 September 2004
By Paolo Menicucci
"Squadra che vince non si tocca" goes the Italian saying - in other words, "If the team is winning, don't change it." Unless you're AC Milan, that is. After dominating Serie A last season, both in entertainment and results, Milan did not need to tinker with an already formidable squad. But the champions have - and how.
Stronger than ever
The Rossoneri have strengthened in every department - Jaap Stam in defence, Vikash Dhorasoo in midfield, Hernán Crespo in attack - and it is hard to see who will challenge them in the new-look 20-team Serie A. Especially if, with captain Paolo Maldini reverting to left-back, Stam gels with Alessandro Nesta, Kakà continues his startling development and Andriy Shevchenko has another explosive season.
'Competitive squad'
Juventus, third last season, are determined to close the gap. Fabio Capello has replaced Marcello Lippi and overseen an active summer in the transfer market. Capello, who has won six titles in 12 years of management, brings Jonathan Zebina and Emerson with him from AS Roma, and Juventus have also signed Italy captain Fabio Cannavaro and Zlatan Ibrahimovic. The Swedish international brings creativity to the attack and Capello said: "With Zlatan and Cannavaro we have a complete and competitive squad. Now we have to prove it on the pitch."
Adriano key
There is change at the top too for FC Internazionale Milano, who have appointed the rising star of Italian coaching, Roberto Mancini. He has set about recreating his former S.S. Lazio side at the San Siro, while Edgar Davids adds considerable muscle to the midfield. Inter's season, though, could depend on whether Brazilian striker Adriano, the most likely to beat Shevchenko to the scoring title, can flourish alongside Christian Vieri, another powerful left-footed striker.
Völler test
Roma have undergone a summer of turmoil following the traumatic departure of Capello. In came Cesare Prandelli, but he resigned for family reasons, opening the door to former fans' favourite Rudi Völler. Roma, second last season, lost Emerson, Walter Samuel and Zebina, but have promising youngsters such as Matteo Ferrari, Philippe Mexes, Simone Perrotta and Ahmed Hossam 'Mido'.
De Rossi shines
The Giallorossi are also expecting a great season from midfield player Daniele De Rossi, Italy's new star man, but will still start a step behind Milan, Juventus and Inter in the title race.
Parma change
AC Parma have become Parma FC and despite their financial troubles have managed to hang on to their diamonds, Alberto Gilardino and Daniele Bonera. Silvio Baldini, the new coach, has also signed his former player at Empoli Calcio, Massimo Maccarone.
Lazio difficulties
The future of Lazio, the other club with huge financial problems, is less predictable. Paolo Di Canio, the home-town hero, is back, but on transfer deadline day the new president, Claudio Lotito, realised he had only 14 senior professionals and brought in no fewer than nine players. The new coach Domenico Caso will probably find the going tough.
Palermo back
The biggest surprises could come from newly promoted sides ACF Fiorentina and US Città di Palermo. The Viola have spent well, bringing in the likes of Martin Jørgensen, Fabrizio Miccoli, Javier Portillo and Hidetoshi Nakata. The Sicilians are back in the top flight after 20 years and their extensive and passionate support, as well as a few important signings, should propel Francesco Guidolin's side to mid-table at least.
Young guns
UC Sampdoria and Brescia Calcio have similar expectations, while the rest will compete to avoid relegation and nurture their young stars. After five years of heavy spending, and the subsequent financial meltdown, Italian clubs are ready to invest in youth.
uefa.com
Buy on AliExpress.com
