Donadoni: No Favourites As Roma Meet Juventus
Italy coach Roberto Donadoni has declared today's much-awaited contest between Roma and Juventus at the Stadio Olimpico too close to call...
Roberto Donadoni has held court on today's must-see clash between Roma and Juventus, judging the contest as intriguing, yet too close to predict.
"It is close," he admitted.
"For Roma, this is a chance to cement themselves as a top-level club this season, showing their play-style that reaps both spectacle and good results.
"As for Juventus, I don't want to say it's a final test, as it's a bit too early to make such judgements.
"Their issue is not so much their place in the standings, but rather the way the team acts over the course of 90 minutes. That's where you see the make-up of a good squad."
Donadoni, whose Italy side is lies third in Group B in the qualification race for Euro 2008, will watch the match with interest, several of his international stars being involved in the fray.
Some of these, according to the manager, could prove to be the difference between the sides - as could one or two foreigners.
"Of course captains Totti and Del Piero are likely to be decisive, but I have a lot of fun thinking about who else can turn the game," he said.
"For example, think of Amantino Mancini, Alberto Aquilani, or even Philippe Mexes, who gets forward a lot at set-pieces.
"From a Juve point of view, keep an eye on Giorgio Chiellini."
Donadoni's reluctance to place too much importance on Totti and Del Piero may stem from the former's retirement from international football and the latter's recent outbursts to the press.
'Alex' claimed that he would "never again" play out of position for Italy, following the Azzurri's defeat to France.
Donadoni briefly touched on the issue, saying, "I heard what Alex said, and I respect his thoughts.
"I feel this way for everyone - it is quite proper to wish to play in your natural position. But it's just as understandable for me to put the interests of the national team first when making a decision."
Roma kick off against Juventus at 15:00 local time.
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