Leaf_Fan_85

Hello all again!

I have returned with my new Juventus story. Once again, some players that I know were created solely for the purpose that I promised them once I do become a professional soccer manager, they'd get a job. Only two of the 7 players I crteated are wonderkids, mainly because I know how they play, and are already in the Canadian Youth Setup. For restriciton purposes, they have their European backgrounds so I can bring them in, and if their homeland chooses to take them, so be it. I also re-created a legend just because I wanted him to have one last season of glory in a Juventus jersey. I hope you enjoy this secret surprise
Enjoy.
BTW Any feedback, and or comments are much appreciated. Thanks, and cheers for reading.

May 30th 2005 ~ In The Beginning….
I had just touched down in my birthplace, the small town of Roseto Valfatore in the province of Foggia, region of Puglia in Italy. It’s been 25 years since I’ve been in this city. My usual travels to my dad’s hometown of Teramo in Abbruzzo, and Foggia, with the occasional stops to Turin, Milan, Rome, Venice, Florence and of course Pisa never allowed me much time to return to the city of my birth. I had come over after many years of frustration back in Canada. I had moved there when I was a mere 6 weeks old, but traveled to my home country every chance I got. Living in Canada usually means hockey is your one sport. But for me, that wasn’t the case. I was born a soccer player, and will die a soccer player. And if it weren’t for a severe knee injury 6 years ago, I’d probably be playing here, rather than looking for a job as a football manager. But, after graduating from York University in Toronto, with a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and in Sports Management, I decided that being the man in charge is my one all consuming goal, now I can no longer play. But this will definitely be a much tougher stage of my life than the relatively easier Canadian Soccer Association’s views of “football.” I had managed my former high school’s team since I was in 11th grade, coaching the juniors to glory. Just a shame my team couldn’t do the same. After high school, I continued on as coach of both programs, and simply dominated every year. I knew I had talent, but it wasn’t until I won the national high school championship that I decided this would be my final career choice.

Once I arrived in Italy, I took my coaching equivalency, and passed with flying colours. My uncle, who had greeted me at the airport, informed me that a few jobs had opened up in Italy, including one that shocked me. He told me Fabio Capello was done with managing, and was going to retire in a few days. The job of manager of the club I grew up watching since I was a kid was available. Juventus Football Club. I got the number for their headquarters, and threw my name in the hat. They thanked me for my interest in the position, and would call me in a few days to set up an interview. I figured it was just a formality, but the next day, after returning from a visit to aunts and cousins, my uncle informed me Juventus had asked for an interview that afternoon. I packed my overnight bag with my best suit and caught the next train to Turin.

I entered the Foro Strada Altessano HQ of Juventus Football Club, and saw no one else in the waiting area. Looking around, seeing some of the hardware the club had won over the years, made my heart jump into my mouth. It had just hit me as to how big this move was for me. The secretary snapped me out of my daydream, and let me know the board was ready for me. I entered the room, and shook the hands of the men behind the team. Franzo Grande Stevens, Luciano Moggi and Roberto Bettega all welcomed me, and asked me to sit. I explained to them my goals, my targets, and my ambitions. I informed them that my goal was to win 2 of the 3 major trophies in football by season’s end. I also informed them I wanted to have a bit of an Italian influence on the squad, in order to help Lippi’s hopes of World domination, and for my personal benefit. The board conversed for a few moments, and felt I had said enough of the right things, and right then and there, I was offered the job. Without hesitation, I accepted, realizing how difficult this will be. However, with the money I’ll be receiving, I was more than ecstatic, and immediately called my uncle, and let him know of the good news. He joked about a job for himself, being that he used to play with the Juventus Primavera many years ago, and now having his degree in physiotherapy, would like to be apart of the senior squad. I told him to sell the house, and get his things, as he and my aunt would be joining me in Turin.

The board informed me they would officially announce my signing on June 10th, and until then I could start looking for a new place and a vehicle, all on the company of course, thanks to my big signing bonus. The dream had finally come true.

Leaf_Fan_85

June 10th 2005 ~ Welcome To Juve…
The day had arrived. I didn’t sleep one second that night, I was so nervous about my presentation as manager of La Vecchia Signora. Mr. Grande Stevens made the grand announcement as I was named as the new boss of Delle Alpi. The crowd wasn’t too happy with the announcement, but I didn’t care. Mr. Grande Stevens then let me take the podium, to answer the questions of the media. They asked the usual questions, and I gave the usual answers. My goal was to win the treble, and won’t stop at anything to succeed. But they were shocked when I answered their question about how many players I planned to bring into the first team setup. When I said as many as it takes, the fans in attendance looked at me as if to say, what on God’s green Earth are you talking about? I told the media that I would secure many of Italy’s top signatures to play for Juventus, and that would be that. I thanked them for their time, and went to work.

I finally entered my new office. It was fairly large, with a very large desk. MY laptop and briefcase were both on the desk, and my posters were in the corner. I began to set them up, and finally put my final poster on the wall, when a familiar voice greeted me.

ADP: That was a great game. Our last Champion’s League victory. I’ll remember that day forever.
CC: Alessandro! Wow, this is truly an honour. It’s great to finally meet you. I’ve been a huge fan since you were at Padova.
ADP: Thanks Mr. Cardelli.
CC: Please Alex, call me Carlo.
ADP: Ok, Carlo. Well, I had a question for you. At the press conference, you mentioned you wanted to bring in as many people as possibly. Did you really mean that?
CC: Indeed I did Alex. When you last dominated Europe, you had a fairly young team. You were only 21, Ferrara and Inzaghi, and Vieri were just starting to make a name for themselves…
ADP: I know. Those were great times. But, I’m not getting any younger, and neither is Fabio or Pavel and…
CC: Alex, relax. You 3 are my core group of veterans, and have jobs at Juventus for life. I even promise a job for you after you retire on the coaching staff if you so choose. You 3 won’t be going anywhere. I promise. However, some other players will not be so lucky….
ADP: Well boss, I’ll let the boys know that you expect results, and to work harder than ever in training to stay here. I promise.
CC: Thanks, Alex. Oh, and one more thing.
ADP: Yea Carlo?
CC: Can I have your autograph?

Leaf_Fan_85

June 12th 2005 ~ The Games Begin.

I arrived bright and early for training that morning, and was in complete awe at the training grounds of Delle Alpi. Now that the team owned the stadium since Torino moved out to their new arena, and left Delle Alpi for us. I explained to the boys I had a few kids coming over that I knew very well in Canada, and had coached them. I warned of their skill, and the seniors should be a bit nervous about them joining the team. They had youth, and were extremely hunger to play here, so I want the senior squad to play just as hard as they do when they show up. Also, the legend will be coming in soon, and will be shocked as to who I talked out of retirement. A major player in the 90’s who my uncle met a few months ago, got me his contact and once offered the Juve job, had asked him to come back for one more season, with a huge payday. The player’s speculated who it could be, but I wouldn’t reveal who it is until he arrives. I also informed them some bids have been made, and some have been shipped out. They will find out after training that morning, and if they don’t like it, too bad. They also found out how tough of a coach I am, and I warned them that if we don’t win games we should win, they won’t be happy with me. I also let them know I’ll be holding press conferences after every game, and a player or two will join me on nights, and expect to have some fun in winning the trophies and the many games.

That morning, I received a fax from our PR person in England, that our tour there would indeed occur there in 3 weeks, playing the likes of AFC Bournemouth, Leeds and Sheffield UTD. I also set up a Juventus vs. Reserves game just before our SuperCup game against Inter in late August as a test for the youngsters against the seniors, to get a feel of what the competition will feel like. I decided that I would leave the office for 3 weeks to get my affairs in order, and return once my legend player arrives. The media had speculated who it could be. Gianluca Vialli, Fabrizio Ravanelli, and even Antonio Conte were rumored, but it wasn’t them. There was one name they omitted, probably because it was nearly impossible I talked him to coming back. But it was true, and he’d be here in 3 weeks…

Leaf_Fan_85

July 1st 2005 ~ THE RETURN OF A LEGEND!

I had called a press conference first thing that morning. I was excited. The fans would either bow at my feet, or hate me for my tenure here. Either way, this would be a blockbuster announcement of biblical proportions. The press speculated for weeks who it was. But no one had been correct. I would have let slip who it was if they got his name, but no one did. As I said before, they probably didn’t think HE would be even possible. But I did it. I took the podium, with a big smile on my face.

CC: Ladies and gentlemen, members of the media, and of course our devoted faithful. I have called you here today, to make 2 very important announcements. I had secured the signature of 2 very important players and being this is the time to make my mark on the team, decided now was the time to do it. This individual played an important role in my life at an early age. At age 2, I watched my Azzurri win the World Cup. This team was one of the greatest international teams Italy had ever assembled. They had arguably the greatest goalie to ever kick or handle a football in Dino Zoff. A rock solid defense, a great midfielder in Bruno Conti, and overall, a great team atmosphere. But there was one player, who despite the team playing well beyond expectations, who stood out, and carried the team on his back. He was a former Juventus player, and an Italian legend. His name was Paolo Rossi. Today, I’m proud to announce that Mr. Rossi has joined Juventus Football Club as our newest coach. Please make Mr. Rossi feel welcome to our team.

With that, Paolo Rossi came to the stage, and I shook his hand. We posed for photos, and the crowd was going wild. They had never expected something like this from me. I think I have begun to win them over.

CC: Now, for my major signing. This man is a lot like Paolo Rossi. He is a former Italian international and a former Juventus icon as well. He carried each team he played for on his back, and he was the reason I became a football player. He had all the tools. Speed, charisma, a great left foot, and not to mention, one of the most recognizable hairstyles in Italy. Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you, now with his second tour of duty with Juventus Football Club, Mr. ROBERTO BAGGIO!

Roby entered the forum, and the crowd was ecstatic. They were so shocked when they saw Baggio, a few of them feinted. I had done it. My rise to fame. Baggio was once again a Juventus player, and I had officially won the fans over. Roby gave a speech as to his dream to win a European trophy, and once again, possibly have a chance to win the World Cup. Those were his motivations to return to football, and thanked me for the opportunity. I gave him his number 18 jersey, since he had asked Alex not to relinquish his number 10, because he truly deserved it. I, along with Paolo and Roby posed for photos, and the fans were chanting my name. I had brought that spark to the Juventus squad that was missing all those years, and now finally had the moment Roby deserved. I told the fans this was only the beginning, and many more big names would soon be joining the team. This was turning out better than I had planned.

Leaf_Fan_85

July 2nd 2005 ~ New Blood Rising.

After that hectic day of keeping that huge secret for so long, I was able to breathe easily for the first few moments as I woke up. I had purchased a nice loft a mere minutes away from the stadium and my office. My uncle and aunt had bought the apartment next door, and we decided to tear down the wall, and make it one large apartment. I was after all paying his salary, so it all worked out. I received a phone call, and my eyes widened. My goalie from Canada, Joe Carbonara called me, saying he and the boys had arrived safely to Turin, and were waiting for me at the airport. I told my uncle to let the office know I’ll be there once I get my “packages” from the airport. Figuring the Ferrari wouldn’t be able to fit all 7 players (you have to love working for the owners of Ferrari, as the Agnellis are) I decided to take the company chartered bus to pick them up. I arrived at the airport, greeted my players and took them to Delle Alpi. All in all, 7 youngsters to help Juventus’ already bright future.

Giuseppe Carbonara – GK – Canadian/Italian
This kid has all the tools to be the future or any team. Great hands, great sense of the game, and at 6’3, will be a great goalie for many years to come. He was snapped up and brought over to Italy, and unless taken by the Italian national squad, will most likely be the future of Canadian soccer.

Pietro Cioffi – SW/DC – Canadian/Italian
This young man was a teammate of mine in high school. Although small in height (only 5’10), his determination and work rate are second to none and his heart measure well over 10 feet. His leadership is second to none, and will be one of the better defenders, and benefit from learning from Cannavaro.

Claudio Cioffi – DC – Canadian/Italian
Pietro’s younger brother. Although bigger than his brother (6’1), he’s not as talented, nor is the leader his brother is. However, he’s still better than most players his age, and with the right development, will be a great player too.

Jamie Del Zotto – ML/C/R – Canadian/Italian
Jamie is a friend of mine from high school. He’s never been to Italy, and will definitely be staying with me until he gets accustomed to life here. He’s a real workhorse, and plays his hardest everytime he’s on the field. He’s a tenacious player who can score from just about anywhere outside the 18 yard box. Will be a great midfielder for Canada.

Steve Daponte – ML/C/R – Canadian/Portuguese
Steve is another friend of mine from Canada. He’s more of a finesse player, unlike best friend Jamie. He’ll need some help getting used to a European lifestyle, but with myself and Jamie, the 3 amigos will cause havoc in Turin, both on and off the pitch.

Marco Mazzotta – AM/FC – Canadian/Italian
The other wonderkid that I groomed to be a future superstar. This kid is a coach’s dream. He can run, pass, and score on command. The best thing of all, he’s levelheaded. His mother asked me to personally take care of him, being that he’s so young (15). I promised her he’ll be fine, just as long as he listens and does as he’s told. He’ll be the next superstar in football.

Carlito “Little C” Cardelli – ST – Canadian/Italian
My nephew. He’s a big kid for his age (6’4 at 15). He’s got the tools to be a great power forward/target man in Serie A. He won’t beat you one on one, but will cause problems in the air. A Luca Toni type player who will benefit from the Italian style of football.

The boys had finally arrived at Delle Alpi, and took out their gear, and were very anxious to get to training. They were as wide eyed as I was at my first day in Turin, and at their first training session, ran harder than I’ve ever seen them run. They displayed their flair, and passion for the game, and I couldn’t be happier.

Leaf_Fan_85

July 5th 2005 ~ The Future Is Friendly
I woke up that morning and learned my first few transfers were now coming in. This was a very exciting time to be a Juventus fan.

Riccardo Montolivo – M/AMC – Italian
The young Italian playmaker has already been associated with the likes of Pirlo, and Bruno Conti. A definite bright future player will hone his skill at Delle Alpi, and will most likely lead the charge of the U21 side until he’s no longer eligible.

Andrea Lazzari – AMC/FC – Italian
Another prominent U21 international, Lazzari joined from Atalanta, and felt the chance of playing in Europe was just too good to turn down. He will see minutes in late games, and some lesser contests, especially in the Italian Cup. Will have a nice future at Delle Alpi.

Giampiero Pinzi – WBR/MR – Italian
Pinzi, at age 24 will see more minutes at wingback, should Chiellini not live up to expectations. A good crosser, he will help our chances at creating an attack from the backfield.

Kim Kallstrom – MC – Swedish
I really like this player. He was touted to be a star a few years ago, but has since sizzled off a bit. Maybe a move to Italy will help him regain some flash in the football world. Will be a second XI player for now.

Morgan De Sanctis – GK – Italian
The former Juve Reserve has returned for a second stint in Turin. Will probably duke it out with Carbonara for the interim number 1 spot between the Juve sticks. He brings international and big game experience to the team, and would be a welcome addition to any squad.

To close the day, I have sent Reuben Oliveira to Villareal for $10 million.

July 6th 2005 ~ Ca$h Money

The day opened with a major transfer.

Bayern Munich have splashed the cash on Juventus ST Zlatan Ibrahamovic for a reported initial $59 milion, and the offer could increase to $80 million if bonuses are triggered, as well as a 20% sell on clause. Manager Carlo Cardelli felt that although Zlatan was an integral part of the team last year, he looked too much like a giraffe for his liking. He’s gone and that’s that. He did promise that the money from the sale would be put to good use, and that his plan would come together shortly.

Also, Antonio Chiementi moved to Triestina for $1.3 million, and there are rumors of two former Parma players returning to Italy after being poached due to Parma’s bankruptcy last season.

Leaf_Fan_85

July 7th 2005 ~ Coup D’Etas

I had called another press conference to announce several coups’ that will seal the Serie A for Juventus. That morning, I announced my spending of two big names in Andrea Pirlo of Milan, and Antonio Cassano of Roma. The fans had some choice words for Cassano, who they felt would disharm the squad’s harmonic state at Turin, but I assured him, the hot headed Barese would stay in line. The Pirlo move was an easy decision, but difficult to pull off, with Milan being owed 50 million over the next year. However, I feel it was well worth it.

The bank account didn’t remain empty, as some more players have moved in the meantime. Lilian Thurham has moved to Liverpool for $7 million, Emerson goes to billionaire Roman for a cool $26 million, and Adrian Mutu returns to England, landing in Manchester for a hefty $20 million price tag. Once the Juve fans see who’s coming in to replace them, they will be more than satisfied with them. At least I hope they are…

July 9th 2005 ~ So Long UEFA Cup

Palermo, after selling Luca Toni in the summer had decided a few youngsters and a veteran didn’t do much to put them in the UEFA Cup.

Fabio Grosso – WBR – Italian
The Italian international is now the starting Right Wing Back for Juventus. Along side Zambrotta, I have a major threat down the flanks, and plan to use it to my fullest advantage.

Andrea Barzagli – DC – Italian
Another Sicilian steal for the Turin giants, Barzagli will be a key substitute in games where my defenders become a bit fatigued. The 24 year old won’t be thrown into the fire right away, but will be eased into big money games.

Leandro Rinaudo – DC – Italian.
The 22 year old will also be eased into regular first team football as the year’s progress. Disappointed to leave Palermo, but wants to win the Serie A desperately. Will eventually get accustomed to life up north.

And now, the centerpiece of my attack, the perfect fit to the playmaker Pirlo, the crossing system I tend to employ, ladies and gentlemen….

Luca Toni – ST – Italian.
I’ve been a big fan of the 6’4 striker since his days at Brescia. The former 50 goal scorer in 2 seasons for Palermo hitman will be on most ends of crosses and long ball played up to him by my wingers and midfield. Juventus have replaced the goal scoring machine Zlatan with one of their own in Big Luca. I can’t wait to see Luca alone in front, with Del Piero, Cassano and Baggio playing behind him.

Leaf_Fan_85

July 10th 2005 ~ The final pieces.

I had secured the final pieces to my puzzle, minus my two youngsters from England. They are, in no particular order…

Alessandro Nesta – DC – Italian
The best defender in the world has made the move from Milan to Juve after the disgusting loss to Liverpool in the final. Nesta was apparently sick to his stomach after the game, when his goalie The Brazilian sieve couldn’t save a beach ball, and wished to be moved to a true contender. Ancelotti had no choice but to accept Juve’s offer, since Nesta basically refused to go anywhere else. With Nesta and Cannavaro, Juve boast the best defense pairing ever. Period.

Alberto Gilardino - ST – Italian –
Prince Albert wasn’t too happy with his summer move to Milan, especially after it was announced Christian Vieri was coming over. He was promised he’d be in the first team, and they went out and bought Vieri. That sent him over the top. Although the 3rd choice striker at Juve, he came in knowing that, and well frankly money talks. He’s getting a better contract here, and will be called upon to score some big goals off the bench, and promised he’d see more time down the road.

Carlos Tevez – AM/FC – Argentinean
The youngster is the cousin of a teammate of mine in high school. He didn’t like in Brazil, and is more than happy to move to Italy, and be a feature in Delle Alpi for many years to come. He’s hoping the fans will forget the horrendous stories thrown his way by the media in South America, he wants a clean slate, and promises to behave.

As of right now, that is it for my spending. The players will all meet tomorrow at training, and I will run down my expectations, and prepare them for our first game. Until then, its time to ship out some more dead weight.

Leaf_Fan_85

July 10th 2005 ~ The final pieces.

I had secured the final pieces to my puzzle, minus my two youngsters from England. They are, in no particular order…

Alessandro Nesta – DC – Italian
The best defender in the world has made the move from Milan to Juve after the disgusting loss to Liverpool in the final. Nesta was apparently sick to his stomach after the game, when his goalie The Brazilian sieve couldn’t save a beach ball, and wished to be moved to a true contender. Ancelotti had no choice but to accept Juve’s offer, since Nesta basically refused to go anywhere else. With Nesta and Cannavaro, Juve boast the best defense pairing ever. Period.

Alberto Gilardino - ST – Italian –
Prince Albert wasn’t too happy with his summer move to Milan, especially after it was announced Christian Vieri was coming over. He was promised he’d be in the first team, and they went out and bought Vieri. That sent him over the top. Although the 3rd choice striker at Juve, he came in knowing that, and well frankly money talks. He’s getting a better contract here, and will be called upon to score some big goals off the bench, and promised he’d see more time down the road.

Carlos Tevez – AM/FC – Argentinean
The youngster is the cousin of a teammate of mine in high school. He didn’t like in Brazil, and is more than happy to move to Italy, and be a feature in Delle Alpi for many years to come. He’s hoping the fans will forget the horrendous stories thrown his way by the media in South America, he wants a clean slate, and promises to behave.

As of right now, that is it for my spending. The players will all meet tomorrow at training, and I will run down my expectations, and prepare them for our first game. Until then, its time to ship out some more dead weight.

Leaf_Fan_85

Sorry about the double post. It's been a long day, and I wasn't paying attention. Anyways, the story continues...

July 17th 2005 ~ Kick Off.

Marcelo Danubio Zalayeta’s move to Chelski has been delayed due to a work permit issue. Hopefully it gets resolved, as I wouldn’t mind the $11 million from the billionaire jerk. Also, Leandro Rinaudo has been a hot acquisition, seeing that some squads are interested in his services for the season. He wouldn’t be able to play much here anyway, so this could help him out. Also, I still have one or two more potential transfers coming in, but will be role players at best. Some talented youngsters of the U21 international squad. But I digress. We left for England a few days ago, and arrived here this morning for the morning walkthrough to today’s opening match. I was still unsure who would start where up front. With 4 positions open for a potential of 7 players, the task was a difficult and interesting one. Do I go 2 striker and 3 attacking midfielders? 2 and 2? 3 and 1? Or use 2 and a floater behind, and bring the other later on. I knew this much, Pirlo and Nedved would play in the middle of the pitch, Chiellini and Zambrotta play the wings, Nesta and Cannavaro round out the defensive line, and De Sanctis in goal. That leaves Baggio, Del Piero, Cassano, Gilardino, Toni, Tevez and Montolivo. I think I’m going to go with Toni alone up top, and Baggio, Del Piero and Cassano. Here’s to victory.

Friendly Match
Juventus vs. Bournemouth
Fitness First Stadium, Bournemouth

Starting Lineup:
GK – De Sanctis
DC – Cannavaro
DC – Nesta
WBR – Chiellini
WBL – Zambrotta
MC – Nedved
MC – Pirlo
AMC – Cassano
AMC – Baggio
AMC – Del Piero ©
ST – Toni

Subs: Carbonara, C, Cioffi, P. Cioffi, Barzagli, Grosso, Pinzi, Kallstrom, Montolivo, Lazzari, Camoranesi, Tevez, Gilardino

It took 44 minutes for the Juventus squad to open the deadlock, despite them dominating possession (well over 60%), shots (18) on target (11) and chances (at least 7 really good chances). Toni lobbed one just over the keeper on a clean breakaway. Cassano struck the woodwork and the ball bounced clear. And then Pirlo thought he broke the one sided affair by putting home a header from a Cassano cross, but the linesman figured Pirlo was offside. On the ensuing free kick, Cannavaro headed the ball back up field, and Antonio Cassano found a blazing Roberto Baggio with a pinpoint pass between 3 defenders, and the 28 year old made no mistake in the 18 yard box, and give Juventus a late first half goal. My plan was to sub in all my bench players, minus Barzagli, since I wanted the Cioffi brothers to get a taste or pro football with a weaker side. So the exodus had begun.

Half Time
Juventus 1 (Baggio 44’) Bournemouth 0

The second half started the same way the first half did. Juventus dominated possession and the whole match, but it wasn’t until the 94th minute the Juventus sealed the match. Despite Juve having chance after chance after chance to score, Alberto Gilardino made it 2-0 as the entire Bournemouth team was in the box (minus the corner taker) for a corner kick. Juventus clears, and from 70 yards away, Gilardino buries the ball into the back of the net. Just after the goal was scored, the ref called the game, and Juventus walked away the victors. The scoreline flattered Bournemouth, as they should’ve lost more heavily, but this was the team’s first game together after all. Let’s see how the team does with a new formation against Leeds.

Final Score
Juventus 2 (Baggio 44’, Gilardino 90’) Bournemouth 0
MOM: Carlos Tevez