[acid911]

So, the last match of the first round. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif) I don't know what to put up here, seeing our last performance in Rome, other than maybe, just maybe, Milan may give me an early birthday present (on January 19). This match, however is two days back, this Saturday. We have a fruitcake to take care of, named Gilardino, who's on second place as the league top scorer with 12 goals. And sorry to say this, but how many goals does Borriello have up till now? One, maybe, two. Pity he's injured so much, I had high hopes for him.

Anyway, we'll see what happens in this week. Unless something really strange happens and both inter and Juve lose their games, I'll officially call it quits this season. Finish 4th, or 14th, no big deal for me, because we certainly don't look like a team to win the Scudetto now, almost half-way through the season. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/dry.gif) Even if we do, we won't deserve it. Even if we win each match from now on. I'll still cheer for the team before the start of every match, forgetting everything, but this isn't the stuff Champions are made of. The contenders give you a chance to climb back, and we do what? Blow it away. Maybe we'll win the UEFA Cup, and hopefully divert our attentions to that tournament from now on. Oh, and I'm hoping for a win, but also hoping for Gila to score the first goal of the match; it'll be worth seeing his reaction. The good days, the all-or-nothing days:

(IMG:http://i41.tinypic.com/2gxiirc.jpg)

You guessed it, time for some stats between the two clubs, current rankings, head to head, top scorers, etc. Only this time there aren't any available at the time of going to press. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) I'll update the thread once they come in. Ha! Okay they're in, right from the oven:

(IMG:http://i40.tinypic.com/awt6va.jpg)

(IMG:http://i44.tinypic.com/zmxm6d.jpg)

(IMG:http://i42.tinypic.com/30910z9.jpg)

(IMG:http://i43.tinypic.com/r1ae0i.jpg)

Date: Saturday, 17 January, 2009
Time: 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm GMT
Place: Stadio Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro)

Forza Milan! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/devil.gif)

(big edit to add in the stats images)

This post has been edited by acid911: Jan 17 2009, 07:22 PM

[Giocare08]

I can see us winign here I'm feeling :
Abbiati
Zambrotta-Maldini-Kaladze-Janku
Beckham-Pirlo-Ambro
Kaka- seedorf
PATO
Pato has been in good form and the Viola have a loss last week. They will want to win badly to keep them in the race for Champions. I think a 1-1 tie with Gila and Kaka scoring. I agree with everything you said acid but i dont want to give up hope yet. I dont mind Juve winning it but Inter would be a serious smack in the face as me and my father bet on the scudetto winner and he is an Inter fan.(Dont ask how it happened as my grandfather is a Juve fan)
(IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif)

[arivanjj]

Mutu is out (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

[Tennie]

So is Osvaldo (2 game ban). Frey is questionable.

[acid911]

I can see us winign here I'm feeling :
Abbiati
Zambrotta-Maldini-Kaladze-Janku
Beckham-Pirlo-Ambro
Kaka- seedorf
PATO

Good squad, but I think Seedorf has lost the right to start years ago. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/dry.gif) He makes himself look like a clown two out of three times he gets the ball, so maybe the last 30 minutes as a sub would be good. Not that Ronaldinho too much of an improvement, but I'll take a guy that can't run than a guy that doesn't want to run, 365.25 days a year. My choice:

Abbomination
Zamborghini * Mr. Football * Kalmagaddon * Janks
Flamini * Steel Factory Owner * Ambro
Golden Boy * English Lad
The Duck

Pato has been in good form and the Viola have a loss last week. They will want to win badly to keep them in the race for Champions. I think a 1-1 tie with Gila and Kaka scoring. I agree with everything you said acid but i dont want to give up hope yet. I dont mind Juve winning it but Inter would be a serious smack in the face as me and my father bet on the scudetto winner and he is an Inter fan.(Dont ask how it happened as my grandfather is a Juve fan)

Wow, some really interesting family you go there, Gio. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) Don't tell me your mother is a Roma fan. Anyhoo, if anyone wants to give up hope now's the time. I, however, am with you in thinking that still some good can come out of this season. And if you read my previous post (hypothetically speaking, don't start reading all 4,663 of my posts here), you'll find out that I'm always hopeful, more so at least one day before a match. Going into the right frame into each encounter is the least that should be expected.

Oh, and about winning the league, I'd much rather have Napoli win it than any of inter or Juve, thank you. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/mad.gif) Napoli is my least favorite club, but still when it comes to the Scudetto, I want neither the snakes nor the zebras winning this year. Of course, I also want world peace, but hey, let's leave it at that!

Mutu is out

I'd have preferred him being in, but oh well. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif) The feeling is infinitely better once you defeat a full strength opposition. That's if you defeat them first, of course. Anyway, this is one match I don't want Milan to win. If we can spare Roma two free points, than Gila deserves all three. Besides, Fiorentina for the 4th once again (sorry zd, you being a Napoli fan and all).

[Tennie]

Kalmagaddon. That's a new one. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

(Fishdoll and I offer apologies to our boardmember from the Republic of Georgia for all the Kaladze jokes).

Actually, i don't think he's going to play. He's having an MRI today and there's talk of him going to see Doctor Martens in Belgium - that usually = surgery. Gazzetta is projecting a (surprise surprise) 4-3-2-1 with Favster playing next to Il Capitano in the center of defense.

[arivanjj]

I'd have preferred him being in, but oh well. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif) The feeling is infinitel better once you defeat a full strength opposition. That's if you defeat them first, of course. Anyway, this is one match I don't want Milan to win. If we can spare Roma two free points, than Gila deserves all three. Besides, Fiorentina for the 4th once again (sorry zd, you being a Napoli fan and all).

i just genuinely hate him... nothing personal.

[acid911]

Kalmagaddon. That's a new one.

It's also a keeper. For me, at least. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif)

(Fishdoll and I offer apologies to our boardmember from the Republic of Georgia for all the Kaladze jokes).

No worries, Ten. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif) The people of Georgia probably share our enthusiasm in bashing that guy. He can be that bad sometimes. Of course there are times when he's good too, but I still don't think we deserve him and his antics.

Actually, i don't think he's going to play. He's having an MRI today and there's talk of him going to see Doctor Martens in Belgium - that usually = surgery. Gazzetta is projecting a (surprise surprise) 4-3-2-1 with Favster playing next to Il Capitano in the center of defense.

I'm all for it. Thanks God for God! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/devil.gif) In fact, Paolo hasn't been anywhere near injured this season, and I hope it stays this way. We'd have been very lost indeed without him, now that Nesta has had more than his fair share of knocks. Of course, I get to like Favster more every match.

i just genuinely hate him... nothing personal.

That's fine. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/innocent.gif) We all like or dislike certain players. In fact, I wasn't talking about Mutu in particular. Generally, a good victory for me is when you take on a fully fit opponent. An even sweeter one is when half your team is our injured and you defeat an opposition that's full strength. Nothing tops that!

[MizNelson]

Kaladstrophe. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)

[Zed.D]

@ ari

Good to see you around more (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif)




While I expect the players and the fans to show Gila some respect, I hope we make him look miserable on the pitch! Gila has a point to prove, so do we.

I predict a 3-1 win (IMG:style_emoticons/default/ohmy.gif)

[acid911]

@ ari
Good to see you around more

+1. Second that. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sleep.gif)

While I expect the players and the fans to show Gila some respect, I hope we make him look miserable on the pitch! Gila has a point to prove, so do we.

Can we, now? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif) We made someone like Vučinić look class a couple of days back, Gila is another story.

I predict a 3-1 win

A case of too little, too late. We'll see. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) If the midfield functions like it did in the last match, I don't think we'd be able to score anywhere near 3 goals, even if we're playing at home. Roma was an 11th position team, without Totti and others. Last I checked, Fiorentina is 5th. Still, all I want is a good match. Been a couple of weeks, since I watched one.

[CrazyMilanFan]

ok so another match and another xmas tree

[acid911]

ok so another match and another xmas tree

Yeah, well in my formation above I wanted to include two strikers, but hey who are we kidding?! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) I really wanted to, but as long as Carlo's in charge it's Christmas all around, all the time, 12 months a year. He seems to have a passion for 4-3-2-1.

[Tennie]

There will be two training sessions today. The first training session has taken place, and it was a lot of individual work (some in the gym, some running springs, some in the sand pit, etc).

[kizo]

(Fishdoll and I offer apologies to our boardmember from the Republic of Georgia for all the Kaladze jokes).

I Think it refers to me, Yes?

Appology isn't necessary as people who really understand football in Georgia share the same enthusiasm about kala's recent atrocious plays. Kala appears not to be good anymore, but he was quite good in past seasons, espacially in 05-06.

So he needs to step up, and if he works well, he might not be flop anymore.

His marriage might also be the factor of not playing well. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)

He isn't playing well recently, but please everyone agree to fact that she has beautiful wife.

rumours are spreading here that she is pregnant

(IMG:http://img382.imageshack.us/img382/6550/post681231864405gm8.jpg)

This post has been edited by kizo: Jan 14 2009, 03:24 PM

[Tennie]

The same rumors about her being pregnant are in the Italian gossip pages too, kizo. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

Anyway...one player who won't be appearing for the Viola this weekend is Giampaolo Pazzini. He's been sold to Sampdoria. Going from Samp to Fiorentina is Emiliano Bonazzoli, coming on a loan-with-option deal.

[Tennie]

Afternoon training has taken place.

Rino came out onto the practice pitch without crutches to say hi to everyone before going to the gym for therapy.

Bonera participated in the full training session, including the practice game.

Ronaldinho has the flu.

Kaka participated in the full training session.

[acid911]

He isn't playing well recently, but please everyone agree to fact that she has beautiful wife.

Oh, you mean she as in Kaladze? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/blush.gif) Very beautiful!

[kizo]

Oh, you mean she as in Kaladze? Very beautiful!

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) Just small mistake

His Company KALA Capital is having some problems with Ministry of Economic Development of Georgia

He might lose lots of money if they don't figure it out .

This post has been edited by kizo: Jan 14 2009, 05:57 PM

[acid911]

Just small mistake

No, I'm fairly certain everyone here appreciates you bringing out the truth. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif) No mistakes here, I always thought Kaladze was a bit feminist. Anyway, I think he sometimes gives a solid performance particularly in big games. But the fact that he's arrogant despite not being in the league of top defenders, and also gets away with any and all mistakes is my big gripe with him.

His Company KALA Capital is having some problems with Ministry of Economic Development of Georgia
He might lose lots of money if they don't figure it out .

Oooo, some underhand deals, huh, Kal? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) Hope he sorts everything out.

[Zed.D]

Bonera participated in the full training session, including the practice game.

God knows we need him!! will he be ready for Fiorentina game?

[dst]

I hope you accept my apologies too kizo cause there's a big possibility that Georgia has been a collateral victim in one of my rants... (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sleep.gif)

And wow... that woman surely is a reason to get lost in your thoughts... but we're paying the price!

Kaladstrophe. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)

Here's a self-centered though: I don't want my nickname included in his! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif) We can make that Kalastrophe...

[kizo]

I hope you accept my apologies too kizo cause there's a big possibility that Georgia has been a collateral victim in one of my rants.

OK. Accepted (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)

And wow... that woman surely is a reason to get lost in your thoughts... but we're paying the price!

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)

BTW, Kakha's car in Georgia, Mercedes G Class has only '4' on number plate.

This post has been edited by kizo: Jan 14 2009, 09:32 PM

[Zed.D]

BTW, Kakha's car in Georgia, Mercedes G Class has only '4' on number plate.

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/blink.gif) interesting!...

[han2503]

Hopefully we'll see a much more well balanced side to the one we saw against Roma.

I personally would like to see this

Zambro--Paolo--Bonera--Antonini
Flamini--Pirlo--Seedorf
Kaka
Pato--Sheva

As mentioned in Tennie's training report, Bonera is back in full training, so I'm endlessly hoping that he will be fit to start.

Janku needs to be taken off a bit and re-find his form, I know he's never been a solid defender but the mistakes he's been making lately are really shoking. Even though Antonini is not a natural defender either, I think he's really solid at the back, he's put in more sold defensive displays as a fulback then solid offensive ones. The only reason he sometimes makes mistakes is because he's played on the right and I can only assume that he's not as comfortable on that wing as he would be on the left.

Seedorf, as bad as he sometimes is, is still an essential part of how Carlo's Milan work, without him we struggle a lot. I think it was someone in the Milan - Udinese thread that said something along the lines of, 'Whether Seedorf is playing like a world class footballer or an ametour we still play better with him on the pitch' And sadly I think truer words have never been said. Now let's wait for the Cap'n to come on and give us a detailed assey on why Milan depend on Seedorf so much (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif) I'm personally one of those who sometimes wants to throw things at the screen when I see Seedorf playing the way he does, but sadly we do need him in the game in order for our system to work

Dinho has been below par these last couple of games, I think Carlo needs to do to him what he did at the start of the season, which is to give him a breather for a couple of games, and then introduce him back in. I think Sheva and Pato play well next to eachother, plus I always love to see Kaka playing in his old position, going through the middle and cutting to the wings or releasing the forwards, I think the xmas tree restricts him way too much to the wings, which is a waste for a player like Kaka.

This post has been edited by han2503: Jan 14 2009, 10:13 PM

[novfan]

Hopefully we'll see a much more well balanced side to the one we saw against Roma.

I personally would like to see this

Zambro--Paolo--Bonera--Antonini
Flamini--Pirlo--Seedorf
Kaka
Pato--Sheva

+1 (IMG:style_emoticons/default/thumbup.gif)

[MizNelson]

Here's a self-centered thought: I don't want my nickname included in his! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif) We can make that Kalastrophe...

Crybaby. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)

[arivanjj]

Gazzetta's Probable Formations
(IMG:http://img118.imageshack.us/img118/8373/formuf9.jpg)

[acid911]

I personally would like to see this

Zambro--Paolo--Bonera--Antonini
Flamini--Pirlo--Seedorf
Kaka
Pato--Sheva

No point in living a hopeless dream, Hanny boy. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif) You and I both know this formation won't happen, let alone the players. As usual it'll be one striker in the center. And Sheva, well let's just say it'll be a while since you'll see him start in Serie A regularly. Don't get me wrong, I personally would like to see this too, but I won't bet my farmhouse on this happening. Not against, Fiorentina, at least.

@ Ari, great to have you officially back. Darn, I missed the Gazzetta images. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) Cheers!

[dst]

Anyone wanna bet on Beckham and Ronaldinho starting?

[Zed.D]

Anyone wanna bet on Beckham and Ronaldinho starting?

Oh, I don't (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif) we're on a making-$$$ course. we have to show off with all our Galacticos these days.

[Jack Sparrow]

If Ronaldinho doesn't recover, Becks will play in the deep three with Zee and Kaka up front behind Pato. Let him play, I'm more bothered about our defence.

[Zed.D]

But Milan stalwart 'giancarlo' said:

"We're not going to let ourselves fall, especially if we get the defenders we want in January. 1 - Milan, 2 - Juve, 3 - Inter. I think Inter will slip up during the 2nd half of the season, and Milan usually historically steps it up. The fact we are third and not 8th like last season, is important."

http://www.goal.com/en/news/1675/goalcom-p...or-the-scudetto

LMAO (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) "Milan stalwart 'giancarlo'"...

[arivanjj]

@ Ari, great to have you officially back. Darn, I missed the Gazzetta images. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) Cheers!

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) thanks acid (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif)


i dont know wat the big fuss is about.. Beckham played better than most of the players last game and he'll probably play better than them if he starts this game... we could use his presence considering our wonderful situation.

This post has been edited by arivanjj: Jan 15 2009, 12:55 PM

[Jack Sparrow]

+1 to ari.

*moons goal.com*

[KillerMax]

At least he is motivated... Him and Pato were the only ones really against Roma...

[vnata001]

i still think it is a bit silly to play becks in the holding midfield. We lost Rino and replace him with Becks? they aren't close to being similar players..

it's also a dangerous game we play doing that. there were NO defensive mids in our lineup against roma, and our CB pairing was favalli and maldini. Good counter attacking sides will exploit the fact that we have no midfield terrier and blow by maldini and fav with pace.

BUT..if we play well doing this, then whose to say we shouldn't..i just don't think i have ever once seen beckham used in a holding midfield roll.

[Tennie]

But, vnata, we're selling lots of jerseys! [/sarcasm] (IMG:style_emoticons/default/innocent.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/innocent.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/innocent.gif)

Actually, the goals conceded v roma weren't the fault of the two cbs; they were the fault of the lb/rb.

[acid911]

LMAO "Milan stalwart 'giancarlo'"...

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) Can't wait till the day Giancarlo gets his own reality show!

i dont know wat the big fuss is about.. Beckham played better than most of the players last game and he'll probably play better than them if he starts this game... we could use his presence considering our wonderful situation.

Hit the nail right on the stinking head there, Ari. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/king.gif)

At least he is motivated... Him and Pato were the only ones really against Roma...

Um, Paolo? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/innocent.gif) His double save was half decent, and he had a solid game. Any idea of how much we'd stink if he had retired last season. If Nesta was there, then it'd be a different story, but I think Maldini's been one of the most consistent players we had this season - in his capacity, of course.

BUT..if we play well doing this, then whose to say we shouldn't..i just don't think i have ever once seen beckham used in a holding midfield roll.

True. But we'll need to work a lot of things out, in my opinion (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif) Beckham is here to add something, and it'll be up the management to find out how he adds up to our game. At the very least, we'll know we have someone to fall back upon in case of injuries from now till March. A free, utility player that also puts money in the bank, and gives his constant best isn't half as bad as it looks. Even if he is a media hog.

Actually, the goals conceded v roma weren't the fault of the two cbs; they were the fault of the lb/rb.

Exacto! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) Oh, how I wish we played wingers instead of LB/RB shtick. A defensive lineup of 3 base defenders staying back, with a front line of holding midfielders, and the rest of the attack flowing through two wingers, AMs, and two forwards. But who am I kidding?!

[jefri91]

1-2 for Viola and Kaka will move to city

[Jack Sparrow]

Actually, I'm really worried about the effect this saga is having on the players. I wouldn't be surprised if we lost coz of this.

[Ry4n]

i think we will win but only 1 - 0

[Jack Sparrow]

Your mouth to god's ears my friend. Coz I don't see it happening. Me being pessimistic...it would seem apocalypse is going to happen soon.

[MizNelson]

Anyone wanna bet on Beckham and Ronaldinho starting?

Blech.

[Zed.D]

1-2 for Viola and Kaka will move to city

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif)

I love jefri's posts!!

[MizNelson]

We're going to be so distracted from the events of this week that I'll be surprised if our heads are in this match from the opening whistle. A loss is not out of the question.

[Zed.D]

Gila is sooo lucky (IMG:style_emoticons/default/dry.gif)

[acid911]

Gila is sooo lucky

Why? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif)

[Tennie]

One bit of news that might (hopefully) cheer zeddie at least a little bit.

Roberto Rosetti will be referee for this game. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/innocent.gif)

[Zed.D]

Why? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif)

Because he will probably take advantage of the team's probable lack of concentration after all this Kaka to City rumors.

One bit of news that might (hopefully) cheer zeddie at least a little bit.

Roberto Rosetti will be referee for this game. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/innocent.gif)

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) it's a must see then. thanks!

[Zed.D]

CONCENTRATED ON THE VIOLA

1/16/2009 2:48:00 PM

On the eve of the clash against Fiorentina, Carlo Ancelotti spoke about various topics during the press conference: the Kaka issue, the arrival of Mattioni and tomorrow’s clash against a direct opponent for the Champions League.

(IMG:http://media2.acmilan.com/200709/7934_news.jpg)

MILANELLO – These are the declarations of Carlo Ancelotti during the press conference on hte eve of the Milan-Fiorentina game scheduled for tomorrow evening at 8.30pm at San Siro:

ON AN EVENTUAL TRANSFER OF KAKA
“On the Kaka issue I say that there is a negotiation right now where the club will have to make the evaluations. My personal hope is that of holding on to Kaka for many years because he’s an important and fundamental player for this team and it is therefore normal that he is given a great importance.

“We cannot make comparisons with the football of twenty years ago, in today’s football there are great investors and therefore it’s obvious to make some evaluations in this sense.

“This remains an issue tied to the entity of the offer which has been made, differently to the previous offers which were smaller.

“With or without Kaka the club’s objectives remain unvaried, with the minimum objective being that of reaching a Champions League place for next season and winning the Uefa Cup. The squad would still remain competitive for the Scudetto, even though it would lose an important player like Kaka.

“He is still a great professional and the situation he is going through does not disturb him and he lives it up with serenity. I think that he will evaluate the pros and cons of the issue, but it still remains the fact that the club has not decided and he must respect this decision before making determined evaluations.

“My idea remains that Ricky is a very important player for the team, but the club has the right to make determined choices according to its ideas. I’m just the coach and I must respect the decisions. The club has the right instruments to be able to decide without my advice. I have technical evaluations to make, not administrative ones.”

ON FIORENTINA
“Sunday evening will be a very important game because Fiorentina is a direct opponent for the Champions League. We need a game and a particular atmosphere, so I hope that the stadium is full and that the team is full of enthusiasm and will to do well.

“Fiorentina is a solid team, will play the game openly using as always very good offensive tactics. They will attack us and could create us problems. We shall re-meet Gilardino who is doing well. He found the right environment and we must keep an eye on him.”

ON THE ANTI-FIORENTINA FORMATION
“Beckham will play from the first minute. The only doubt remains that of Ronaldinho who had some fever problem during the week; we shall evaluate his conditions today. In the case that he does not manage, he will be substituted by a midfielder. Bonera will be available, but will not start from the beginning. Kaladze remains unavailable and Monday he will undergo a visit by professor Martens. Seedorf, instead, is quite fine and could start from the first minute. He’s bringing the knock to his knee back from the Uefa Cup game against Portsmouth. He worked on his own to be able to recover completely.”

ON MATTIONI’S ARRIVAL
“He’s a very young lad, of 1988, with very good offensive qualities. For his characteristics he can be useful to our type of game and can give a very good push, but he needs to improve the defensive phase. In prospective he is a very good player.”

ON THIAGO SILVA
“He’s a very reactive player who plays to anticipate his opponents and he is very strong in the high balls. He’s a type of player who has characteristics which we lack, pity that he cannot play before June.”

ON A POSSIBLE RETURN OF GOURCUFF
“Gourcuff is a player who eventually could not substitute Kaka because he has different characteristics. He’s slower and less dynamic. If he had to return to Milan he would not have a certain first team place, but he would have to fight for a place with the other midfielders.

“Now he is doing well because he found a sure place. He got more conviction in his qualities. When he was here he was evaluated for what he had done and if he didn’t deserve to play he didn’t play.”

[Zed.D]

This remains an issue tied to the entity of the offer which has been made, differently to the previous offers which were smaller.

My idea remains that Ricky is a very important player for the team, but the club has the right to make determined choices according to its ideas. I’m just the coach and I must respect the decisions. The club has the right instruments to be able to decide without my advice. I have technical evaluations to make, not administrative ones

@ those who say the club has nothing to do with all these and it's only Kaka's wish to leave for Man City, I think Ancelotti's words are clear enough.

This post has been edited by Zed.D: Jan 16 2009, 03:06 PM

[Zed.D]

Dinho hit by three-game ban

Friday 16 January, 2009

Milan star Ronaldinho has been handed a three-game suspension for elbowing an opponent against Lazio.

The Rossoneri lost to Lazio in the Coppa Italia last 16 on December 3 and tempers ran high at San Siro.

Sports judge Gianpaolo Tosel reviewed video evidence today and found Ronaldinho guilty of 'hitting an opponent in the face with his elbow.'

The panel also judged that Dinho's actions were intentional because of the 'unnatural height of his elbow.'

The news will come as a blow to Carlo Ancelotti, who had just welcomed the Brazilian back to training after a bout of 'flu'.

Udinese's Fabio Quagliarella and Emanuele Belardi have been handed one-game bans, as has Giuseppe Biava of Genoa, Milan's Emerson, Sampdoria midfielder Daniele Dessena and Manolo Pestrin of Serie B side Salernitana.

Great. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif)

[acid911]

Great.

The Scudetto is finally ours! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/devil.gif) Nothing can stand in our way of total domination both in the league, Europe, and everything else we play in. We'll demolish anything that stands in our way. Muwahahahaha!

[vahid]

Great. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif)

It's just for Coppa.not important yet!

[Zed.D]

It's just for Coppa.not important yet!

I don't think so. at least the article indicates that it will affect Serie A games as well...

[vahid]

I don't think so. at least the article indicates that it will affect Serie A games as well...

Guardian says it's just for three cup games

[Zed.D]

Guardian says it's just for three cup games

I hope it is true! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/innocent.gif)

[Tennie]

Frey is out for the game. Wasn't even called up.

Here are the Viola call ups:

Portieri: Storari, Seculin.
Difensori: Comotto, Dainelli, Gamberini, Gobbi, Kroldrup, Pasqual, Vargas, Zauri.
Centrocampisti: Donadel, Kuzmanovic, Melo, Montolivo, Santana, Semioli.
Attaccanti: Bonazzoli, Gilardino, Jovetic.

[CrazyMilanFan]

MILANELLO - Questi i 18 convocati di Carlo Ancelotti per Milan-Fiorentina:
Abbiati, Dida, Antonini, Favalli, Jankulovski, Maldini, Senderos, Zambrotta, Ambrosini, Beckham, Flamini, Pirlo, Inzaghi, Kakà, Pato, Seedorf, Shevchenko, Ronaldinho.
Giocatori indisponibili: Bonera, Kaladze, Nesta, Gattuso, Borriello.
Giocatori non convocati: Cardacio, Darmian, Emerson.


atleast no emerson tommarow

[vahid]

Tomorrow the fans should show that they want Kaka to stay.I don't know how but they have to!

[Darunia]

I'd rather see Flamini from the start than Beckham or Seedorf... but that won't be the case.

[acid911]

Tomorrow the fans should show that they want Kaka to stay.I don't know how but they have to!

Maybe they shouldn't come and watch. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) An empty stadium, and a loss of a couple of millions sure will pain Fester and friends. We brought in Ronaldinho two years late, and we're planning to off load Kaka two years (at least) too early. Who's next? Why don't we sell Nesta too once he recovers, seeing as he's our only star after the Brazilian?

[Tennie]

I think that's a bit excessive, acid, even from you.

[whoarethepatriot...]

Maybe they shouldn't come and watch. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) An empty stadium, and a loss of a couple of millions sure will pain Fester and friends. We brought in Ronaldinho two years late, and we're planning to off load Kaka two years (at least) too early. Who's next? Why don't we sell Nesta too once he recovers, seeing as he's our only star after the Brazilian?

What will pain the management is a lack of Brazilians (which they are trying their hardest to rectify) and an incomplete roster of faded stars. Why dont we just relocate to Brazil? At least then the board will have an unlimited amount of Brazilians to feast upon

[acid911]

I think that's a bit excessive, acid, even from you.

Yeah, and hence the (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) icon, since it was said in jest. A player is a player is a player. A club is a club is a club. But rest assured things will come down hard (if the deal goes through) on the responsible party. More so if they don't spend that money on buying cream-of-the-crop players.

[Tennie]

Why is nobody upset at the 30million Kaka's father is getting out of the deal? Surely a finger or two should be pointed in his direction if folks are going to verbally string up the club.

[Zed.D]

@ Tennie

Do you think Kaka's father alone can do anything? I mean if the club's position was like that of Kaka, would this deal go through?!... the club want Kaka to join City as much as his father does, otherwise they would have told City simply what they told Real, .Kaka is not for sale.

[Tennie]

Agan, zeddie, no evidence.

[acid911]

Agan, zeddie, no evidence.

True. No evidence of anything. Not yet.

[MizNelson]

Why is nobody upset at the 30million Kaka's father is getting out of the deal? Surely a finger or two should be pointed in his direction if folks are going to verbally string up the club.

I completely am of the belief that both he and Kaka's agent are responsible for this ruckus. Greedy and meddlesome lot, they are. Last year, they used the Madrid situation to sucker Milan out of more money to keep him at the club.

[han2503]

I'm with sd on this one, if the club were not interested in selling we would have already hear about a million statements coming out that Kaka was absolutely not for sale. Like what happened this summer with the Chelsea offers and the summer before that when Real came knocking.

The fact that they're 'negotiatin' or whatever the hell they're doing is a clear indication enough that they were tempted by the money.

Imo, Kaka could do much better for himself, thus this is leading me to believe that the push is coming more from Milan's end rather then Kaka.

The fact that Galliani hasn't come out harping on about how Kaka is not for sale is what really scares me, it's clear he's really involved in this and won't open his mouth on the subject, with Galliani that's a clear indication of something is going on.

This post has been edited by han2503: Jan 16 2009, 10:46 PM

[acid911]

I completely am of the belief that both he and Kaka's agent are responsible for this ruckus. Greedy and meddlesome lot, they are. Last year, they used the Madrid situation to sucker Milan out of more money to keep him at the club.

Um, last I checked they were the same person: Kaka's father is his agent. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif)

[han2503]

Um, last I checked they were the same person: Kaka's father is his agent. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif)

Yeah but then there's that Diego Kotchso (sp?) guy, it's all very confusing...

[mishie]

I'm with sd on this one, if the club were not interested in selling we would have already hear about a million statements coming out that Kaka was absolutely not for sale. Like what happened this summer with the Chelsea offers and the summer before that when Real came knocking.

The fact that they're 'negotiatin' or whatever the hell they're doing is a clear indication enough that they were tempted by the money.

Imo, Kaka could do much better for himself, thus this is leading me to believe that the push is coming more from Milan's end rather then Kaka.

The fact that Galliani hasn't come out harping on about how Kaka is not for sale is what really scares me, it's clear he's really involved in this and won't open his mouth on the subject, with Galliani that's a clear indication of something is going on.

in answer to you first piece the pulling coming from Man.City aided by Kaka's agent/father they believe he is the weak link and can be swayed by the money hence the €35m fee if the transfer goes through and as for the club being tempted by the money who wouldn't but saying that it would cause Silvio more trouble having it than not.


the intail bid was rejected immediatley thats common knowledge hence Man.Citys move towards the agent/father so Galliani can't say anything that hasn't been said because its basically out of his hands

[Bluesummers]

For mancity to even make a legal bid for kaka, four things must occur.


First they must get the nod from the agent=kakas father or whoever= YES

Second they must get the nod from the club and settle and negotiate on a price and after that the club must agree the price before the player is allowed to be talked to= milan have agreed on the bid and have said yes to the sale= YES

Mancity must then sit down with kaka/agent and agree terms= They have = YES


Last and most importantly, Kaka must agree to the transfer. Its his choice if he doesn't want to move he can say f*** you all and i'm not leaving till my contract finishes. Then milan can either make him rot or just forget about the whole fiasco but the relationship between kaka and management is over guys.


At this point if kaka says no he'll feel ackward at the club and probably feel unwanted. If he says yes he will be putting himself in a bad situation at 26 but also saving milan from debt.



Now this decision isn't about kaka wanting to play outside of milan anymore. Its about what's best for the club. If we sell him it'll benefit us to no ends, but if we dont we may never again have this big$$$ of an opportunity to fix the mess galliani created.

This post has been edited by Bluesummers: Jan 17 2009, 07:02 AM

[acid911]

Maybe it's just me, but I still don't think we're in a mess. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/huh.gif) Financially, speaking of course. We're a mess when it comes to team chemistry, formation and league, but a new coach and some new young talent is all that's needed. Unless the management are plain blinded by $$$.

[Bluesummers]

Maybe it's just me, but I still don't think we're in a mess. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/huh.gif) Financially, speaking of course. We're a mess when it comes to team chemistry, formation and league, but a new coach and some new young talent is all that's needed. Unless the management are plain blinded by $$$.

no man were in a mess. We cannot afford to spend more than 40 million euro a year. This year was special, next it will not be the same. While other clubs are spending that much just on single players. If we cannot compete it means we will lose our place in the market which= club ultimatly losing supporters and dying.

[acid911]

All that's because we've been a crap team for more than two years. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif) You get some money if you qualify for the quarterfinals, semifinals and finals of a CL, as well as what, 100m if you win it. Same for UEFA Cup, but a lesser amount. If we weed out the freeloaders, and sign some youth, we won't need to spend so much each transfer window. One high class player, plus a couple of academy youth is all that's needed a year to maintain this team.

Getting rid of freeloaders is must. And then get young proteges ready for established players.

[Bluesummers]

All that's because we've been a crap team for more than two years. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif) You get some money if you qualify for the quarterfinals, semifinals and finals of a CL, as well as what, 100m if you win it. Same for UEFA Cup, but a lesser amount. If we weed out the freeloaders, and sign some youth, we won't need to spend so much each transfer window. One high class player, plus a couple of academy youth is all that's needed a year to maintain this team.

Getting rid of freeloaders is must. And then get young proteges ready for established players.

I definatly agree with you on that. But thers a few things to consider. In order for youth to work we must have a great youth academy or a coach like wenger who believes in youth products. We dont have either. Second even with our current starts it seems impossible for us to finish first. We have been making fourth barely and last season we paid for it and are in uefa cup.


If i didnt like kaka so much i would say galliani/berlu as smart or even considered geniuses for selling him at that price. That money could do us wonders. Imagine benzema fabregas mexes frey and that wouldn't even be 100 yet. Second we could upgrade our youth academy drastically and maybe return to the old club we were. But it'll come at a price. This is a project and we wont be signing any of those players this winter so we might even be playing uefa cup next season who knows.

[Zed.D]

Even if we're financially in a mess, selling Kaka is not the answer. I'd rather we bring every washed-up superstar and make Milan a bigger circus than it is right now, but don't sell one of our most important players.

[han2503]

in answer to you first piece the pulling coming from Man.City aided by Kaka's agent/father they believe he is the weak link and can be swayed by the money hence the €35m fee if the transfer goes through and as for the club being tempted by the money who wouldn't but saying that it would cause Silvio more trouble having it than not.


the intail bid was rejected immediatley thats common knowledge hence Man.Citys move towards the agent/father so Galliani can't say anything that hasn't been said because its basically out of his hands

If Milan had rejected the bid then no ammount of persuasion would be enough to make ths happen. Yes money is being offered to his father but Milan have a contract with the player and can decline any offeres being made, his agent has nothing to do with it, the power is in Milan's hands. It's always been that way.

It's clearly obvious that Kaka does not want to leave. Why would he, if it was Real Madrid that made this offer I would be inclined to believe that Kaka is the one that pushing for it the most, but this is Man f*****n City for God's sakes!!!! Why would a player is his prime like Kaka go to a team that is struggling not to be relagated right now? Maybe if he was in his 30s and wanted a final pay out before he retires, but not now when he still has a good few years at the top ahead of him. This move is carreer suicide for Kaka and he knows it, that's why he does not want to leave.

Milan however see the money and it's clear they're going for it. Galliani has in the past made comments that Milan could sell Kaka/Pirlo in order to recoup money, so it's not so hard to beleive that when a big enough offer is dangled in front of them they have caved, even if losing Kaka, at no matter what ammount is going to do the club more harm then good.

Finally, I can't believe some of you are defending the management even after this whole fiasco, what happened to the proud Milan that never sells it's stars for money? Looks like our team is selling out big time. The whole point of Milan, of why a lot of us fans are proud of this club is because of this main reason, the fact that the club is loyal to it's own. This cannot be defended, our star player, the face of our team is being forced to leave the club against his own will to a team that is not good enough for him because the club wants the money more then him.

If he doesn't leave for Man City this January he WILL leave for Real in the summer, now that he knows that the club are willing to put a price on his head and sell him for the first will bidder is enough for him to see how little he's wanted.

He's always said that he'll stay as long as he feels wanted by the club, now our belowved management have made it abbundently clear how much they want him (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif)

[Bluesummers]

If Milan had rejected the bid then no ammount of persuasion would be enough to make ths happen. Yes money is being offered to his father but Milan have a contract with the player and can decline any offeres being made, his agent has nothing to do with it, the power is in Milan's hands. It's always been that way.

It's clearly obvious that Kaka does not want to leave. Why would he, if it was Real Madrid that made this offer I would be inclined to believe that Kaka is the one that pushing for it the most, but this is Man f*****n City for God's sakes!!!! Why would a player is his prime like Kaka go to a team that is struggling not to be relagated right now? Maybe if he was in his 30s and wanted a final pay out before he retires, but not now when he still has a good few years at the top ahead of him. This move is carreer suicide for Kaka and he knows it, that's why he does not want to leave.

Milan however see the money and it's clear they're going for it. Galliani has in the past made comments that Milan could sell Kaka/Pirlo in order to recoup money, so it's not so hard to beleive that when a big enough offer is dangled in front of them they have caved, even if losing Kaka, at no matter what ammount is going to do the club more harm then good.

Finally, I can't believe some of you are defending the management even after this whole fiasco, what happened to the proud Milan that never sells it's stars for money? Looks like our team is selling out big time. The whole point of Milan, of why a lot of us fans are proud of this club is because of this main reason, the fact that the club is loyal to it's own. This cannot be defended, our star player, the face of our team is being forced to leave the club against his own will to a team that is not good enough for him because the club wants the money more then him.

If he doesn't leave for Man City this January he WILL leave for Real in the summer, now that he knows that the club are willing to put a price on his head and sell him for the first will bidder is enough for him to see how little he's wanted.

He's always said that he'll stay as long as he feels wanted by the club, now our belowved management have made it abbundently clear how much they want him (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif)

Oh yeah forsure. Hes definately gone in the summer. If he stays here through the next half of the season i dont even expect him to try to pull out performances. Real is getting perez as president its all falling together like a jigsaw puzzle.

But silvo/galliani and co will get what they deserve. As if they can just do whatever they want and the fans wont respond. I'm gonna laugh when our stadium attendance is less than 10k. Rightly deserved.

[Zed.D]

If Milan had rejected the bid then no ammount of persuasion would be enough to make ths happen. Yes money is being offered to his father but Milan have a contract with the player and can decline any offeres being made, his agent has nothing to do with it, the power is in Milan's hands. It's always been that way.

It's clearly obvious that Kaka does not want to leave. Why would he, if it was Real Madrid that made this offer I would be inclined to believe that Kaka is the one that pushing for it the most, but this is Man f*****n City for God's sakes!!!! Why would a player is his prime like Kaka go to a team that is struggling not to be relagated right now? Maybe if he was in his 30s and wanted a final pay out before he retires, but not now when he still has a good few years at the top ahead of him. This move is carreer suicide for Kaka and he knows it, that's why he does not want to leave.

Milan however see the money and it's clear they're going for it. Galliani has in the past made comments that Milan could sell Kaka/Pirlo in order to recoup money, so it's not so hard to beleive that when a big enough offer is dangled in front of them they have caved, even if losing Kaka, at no matter what ammount is going to do the club more harm then good.

Finally, I can't believe some of you are defending the management even after this whole fiasco, what happened to the proud Milan that never sells it's stars for money? Looks like our team is selling out big time. The whole point of Milan, of why a lot of us fans are proud of this club is because of this main reason, the fact that the club is loyal to it's own. This cannot be defended, our star player, the face of our team is being forced to leave the club against his own will to a team that is not good enough for him because the club wants the money more then him.

If he doesn't leave for Man City this January he WILL leave for Real in the summer, now that he knows that the club are willing to put a price on his head and sell him for the first will bidder is enough for him to see how little he's wanted.

He's always said that he'll stay as long as he feels wanted by the club, now our belowved management have made it abbundently clear how much they want him (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif)

100% agreed. I don't know why some are trying to make it look like Kaka is desperate to to betray Milan for money, join Man City and help them fight relegation. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif)

Had it been Madrid, I would have given the management the benefit of the doubt, but Man City? no way Kaka is pushing for it. no way the management don't want it to go through either.

[Tennie]

no man were in a mess. We cannot afford to spend more than 40 million euro a year. This year was special, next it will not be the same. While other clubs are spending that much just on single players. If we cannot compete it means we will lose our place in the market which= club ultimatly losing supporters and dying.

Blue, what is your source for the insight into Milan's financial situation? have you read the club's audit? do you know the current level of operating loss? Do you know what the operating loss is at other clubs? Do you know the tax situation in Italy compared, say, to that in England or Spain? How about the percentage or amount of money coming from media deals?

[A.X]

Great. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif)

it will take effect in 2010 not this year ... so u have to wait to the next season and then be happy wid it .. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/blink.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif)

[TriniKing_CE]

CONCENTRATED ON THE VIOLA
1/16/2009 2:48:00 PM
On the eve of the clash against Fiorentina, Carlo Ancelotti spoke about various topics during the press conference: the Kaka issue, the arrival of Mattioni and tomorrow’s clash against a direct opponent for the Champions League.

MILANELLO – These are the declarations of Carlo Ancelotti during the press conference on hte eve of the Milan-Fiorentina game scheduled for tomorrow evening at 8.30pm at San Siro:

ON AN EVENTUAL TRANSFER OF KAKA
“On the Kaka issue I say that there is a negotiation right now where the club will have to make the evaluations. My personal hope is that of holding on to Kaka for many years because he’s an important and fundamental player for this team and it is therefore normal that he is given a great importance.

“We cannot make comparisons with the football of twenty years ago, in today’s football there are great investors and therefore it’s obvious to make some evaluations in this sense.

“This remains an issue tied to the entity of the offer which has been made, differently to the previous offers which were smaller.

“With or without Kaka the club’s objectives remain unvaried, with the minimum objective being that of reaching a Champions League place for next season and winning the Uefa Cup. The squad would still remain competitive for the Scudetto, even though it would lose an important player like Kaka.

“He is still a great professional and the situation he is going through does not disturb him and he lives it up with serenity. I think that he will evaluate the pros and cons of the issue, but it still remains the fact that the club has not decided and he must respect this decision before making determined evaluations.

“My idea remains that Ricky is a very important player for the team, but the club has the right to make determined choices according to its ideas. I’m just the coach and I must respect the decisions. The club has the right instruments to be able to decide without my advice. I have technical evaluations to make, not administrative ones.”

ON FIORENTINA
“Sunday evening will be a very important game because Fiorentina is a direct opponent for the Champions League. We need a game and a particular atmosphere, so I hope that the stadium is full and that the team is full of enthusiasm and will to do well.

“Fiorentina is a solid team, will play the game openly using as always very good offensive tactics. They will attack us and could create us problems. We shall re-meet Gilardino who is doing well. He found the right environment and we must keep an eye on him.”

ON THE ANTI-FIORENTINA FORMATION
“Beckham will play from the first minute. The only doubt remains that of Ronaldinho who had some fever problem during the week; we shall evaluate his conditions today. In the case that he does not manage, he will be substituted by a midfielder. Bonera will be available, but will not start from the beginning. Kaladze remains unavailable and Monday he will undergo a visit by professor Martens. Seedorf, instead, is quite fine and could start from the first minute. He’s bringing the knock to his knee back from the Uefa Cup game against Portsmouth. He worked on his own to be able to recover completely.”

ON MATTIONI’S ARRIVAL
“He’s a very young lad, of 1988, with very good offensive qualities. For his characteristics he can be useful to our type of game and can give a very good push, but he needs to improve the defensive phase. In prospective he is a very good player.”

ON THIAGO SILVA
“He’s a very reactive player who plays to anticipate his opponents and he is very strong in the high balls. He’s a type of player who has characteristics which we lack, pity that he cannot play before June.”

ON A POSSIBLE RETURN OF GOURCUFF
“Gourcuff is a player who eventually could not substitute Kaka because he has different characteristics. He’s slower and less dynamic. If he had to return to Milan he would not have a certain first team place, but he would have to fight for a place with the other midfielders.

“Now he is doing well because he found a sure place. He got more conviction in his qualities. When he was here he was evaluated for what he had done and if he didn’t deserve to play he didn’t play.”

Concentrated on the Viola - acmilan.com

[acid911]

Not that it matters much (with all the attention on the Kaka saga), but I've edited the original post and added in the stats image. Just got them in. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif) Feel free to take a look if your heart desires.

[acid911]

Oh what the hell, I'll add them here too! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) Here they are:

(IMG:http://i40.tinypic.com/awt6va.jpg)

(IMG:http://i44.tinypic.com/zmxm6d.jpg)

(IMG:http://i42.tinypic.com/30910z9.jpg)

(IMG:http://i43.tinypic.com/r1ae0i.jpg)

[Ry4n]

Cheers Acid im sure it going to be a good game !

[Darunia]

MILAN: Abbiati; Zambrotta, Maldini, Favalli, Jankulovski; Beckham, Pirlo, Ambrosini; Kakà, Seedorf; Pato.
FIORENTINA: Storari; Comotto, Gamberini, Kroldrup, Vargas; Kuzmanovic, Felipe Melo, Montolivo; Santana; Jovetic, Gilardino.

[Rossoneri7]

Forza Milan !! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/devil.gif)

Thanks for the heads up acid

[vahid]

Some body send Kaka pics plz! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif)

[CrazyMilanFan]

i hopw kaka scores

[Zed.D]

We will either make a mess of everything and embarrass ourselves, or win and win convincingly! it won't be a balanced game IMO.

[Ry4n]

Starting in 5 mins

FORZA MILAN !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/devilsmiley.gif)

[CrazyMilanFan]

san siro is amazingly full

[Tennie]

Hm. Didn't expect Ronaldinho to be dropped for this one. Interesting. (Weren't we asking for this at the end of the Roma game?) Two former milanista on the pitch for the Viola.

(ZEDDIE: ROSETTI ALERT!)

[Zed.D]

Hm. Didn't expect Ronaldinho to be dropped for this one. Interesting. (Weren't we asking for this at the end of the Roma game?) Two former milanista on the pitch for the Viola.

(ZEDDIE: ROSETTI ALERT!)

Probably due to the flu?


(GOOD! I THINK HE WILL GIFT KAKA A PENALTY!)

[CrazyMilanFan]

rosseti almost gave a penelty