[Zed.D]

Ancelotti Gives Juve Fans The Finger!

Milan boss Carlo Ancelotti could be in hot water after making an obscene gesture to the Juventus fans at last night's Trofeo TIM.

The Rossoneri were taking part in the annual three-way competition in Turin with Juventus and Inter when Ancelotti reacted angrily to verbal abuse from sections of the home crowd by raising his middle finger.

This obscene gesture could put Ancelotti in trouble with the footballing authorities, and he has already moved to apologise for his actions.

"Yes I did raise my little finger and it was my response to the ignorant people," explained Carletto, who coached Juventus from 1999 to 2001.

"With hindsight I think that I would do the same thing. There's no need to look for video evidence because I'm not scared to admit what I did.

"It's the first time that I have reacted like that and perhaps the last but I couldn't accept those insults.

"Luckily it was a little isolated group who would have been better off at home. They also had abuse for Jose Mourinho, Gianluca Zambrotta, Marco Materazzi and Dejan Stankovic."

Milan won the Trofeo Tim after defeating both Juventus and Inter on penalties, and Ancelotti was pleased with what he saw from his side.

"I was happy with our performances this evening, even if we gave away goals a little too easily," he stated.

"Abbiati had a great evening and I am happy for him. It will be a good battle for the No 1 shirt."

Goalkeeper Abbiati was the hero of the shoot-out win against Inter, saving three spot-kicks, as well as making a wonder-stop from Olivier Dacourt during normal time.

goal.com

[armiss]

Very natural reaction to insults that can sometimes happen for everyone !

[dst]

... he did not need to do that. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sleep.gif)

[CrazyMilanFan]

not the best of things to do (IMG:style_emoticons/default/dry.gif)

[Tennie]

Apparently, the Juve ultras were chanting the same thing they chanted when he took over from Lippi in 1999 (which was NOT popular with the fans): 'A pig can't coach'.

[misha]

Everyone has his boiling point...

[Jack Sparrow]

Carlo of all people...hahaha...they must have brought out his past as a Juve coach.

[kurtsimonw]

What a loser.

I see people are going easy on Carlo for some reason though, let's see what happens when Jose does his first controversial thing of the season!

[Tennie]

Wow, you don't seem to be a fan of Carletto, Kurt.

As for what the merda coach does...well, if he starts talking about eggs and omelettes again, he'll probably be ridiculed. This is, after all, a Milan board and not a merda board. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

[Zed.D]

I see people are going easy on Carlo for some reason though, let's see what happens when Jose does his first controversial thing of the season!

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

[kurtsimonw]

Wow, you don't seem to be a fan of Carletto, Kurt.

As for what the merda coach does...well, if he starts talking about eggs and omelettes again, he'll probably be ridiculed. This is, after all, a Milan board and not a merda board. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

No, I'm not. I think he did a very poor job with an excellent group of players. To only win what he's won with the likes of Dida, Maldini, Stam, Nesta, Pirlo, Rino, Ambro, Kaka', Rui, Sheva, etc. is not good enough really.

I'm not bothered of Jose gets ridiculed, I think it will just make some people look a bit silly with how they'll defend something 1 minute, then blast it the next, just because it was done by a different person. And I'm not saying you're one of those people, just so you know. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif)

[Portman]

What a loser.

I see people are going easy on Carlo for some reason though, let's see what happens when Jose does his first controversial thing of the season!

Ancelotti is a top-coach, a role-model for many young lads, should have been more careful.

As for the fans, it's natural (in 'latin-countries' like Italy, Spain, Portugal this things to happen. We love to insult, provoke, etc. We're nothing like the British, German, etc).

[Tennie]

As for the fans, it's natural (in 'latin-countries' like Italy, Spain, Portugal this things to happen. We love to insult, provoke, etc. We're nothing like the British, German, etc).

True, this! I learned some interesting insults going to Benfica games!

[Zed.D]

As for the fans, it's natural (in 'latin-countries' like Italy, Spain, Portugal this things to happen. We love to insult, provoke, etc. We're nothing like the British, German, etc).

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

[Rossoneri7]

Ancelotti is a top-coach, a role-model for many young lads, should have been more careful.

As for the fans, it's natural (in 'latin-countries' like Italy, Spain, Portugal this things to happen. We love to insult, provoke, etc. We're nothing like the British, German, etc).

He should have been more careful ... But if, of all people, Carlo gives a reaction like that, it must have been something very harsh that was being thrown at him

[acid911]

Carlo of all people...hahaha...they must have brought out his past as a Juve coach.

They did. Unsurprisingly. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif)

I see people are going easy on Carlo for some reason though, let's see what happens when Jose does his first controversial thing of the season!

Let's. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif) Should be fun.

Wow, you don't seem to be a fan of Carletto, Kurt.

No. He isn't. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) Hehehe.

No, I'm not. I think he did a very poor job with an excellent group of players. To only win what he's won with the likes of Dida, Maldini, Stam, Nesta, Pirlo, Rino, Ambro, Kaka', Rui, Sheva, etc. is not good enough really.

Ditto. He should have won at least double, if not more. Particularly in Serie A. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/dry.gif) His arrogance is what lets him down during 38 games in the league. Sticks to his ways.

[acid911]

He should have been more careful ... But if, of all people, Carlo gives a reaction like that, it must have been something very harsh that was being thrown at him

Of all people? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) Carlo has had his moments, the one exciting moment I remember was when in Istanbul when we scored our 2nd or 3rd goal. That was very unlike-Carlo. But apparently, fans did say something very harsh, and while he should have been more careful (with him being a public personality and all), I can't blame him.

If any, it was a very un-elitist thing to do. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sleep.gif) Something which I won't associate with other top name people.

[LaPalma]

Hmmm....well...not really classy IMO. What Porty said. Carletto should have been more careful in regard of his position as role model.

Should he have won more? I don't think so. Other clubs also had great teams at that time, especially Juve. He did well. People always tend to believe it's easy to win titles with high-profile teams. But it isn't. Coping with all these stars certainly isn't the easiest ob jobs.

[dst]

I see people are going easy on Carlo for some reason though, let's see what happens when Jose does his first controversial thing of the season!

It's vice versa for you! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif)

[milanista1899]

"Yes I did raise my little finger and it was my response to the ignorant people," explained Carletto, who coached Juventus from 1999 to 2001.

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) Wrong one Carlo! Wonder if that'll save him & the fact it wasn't caught on camera. If not the fans/juve should be punished too.

[agenth]

anyone have a pic of it? XDD (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif)

[acid911]

Should he have won more? I don't think so. Other clubs also had great teams at that time, especially Juve. He did well. People always tend to believe it's easy to win titles with high-profile teams. But it isn't. Coping with all these stars certainly isn't the easiest ob jobs.

We didn't have stars. More like titans: Paolo, Nesta, Kaka, Rui, Sheva, and what not. All these players were a cut above the regular stars with teams have. And for them to have won only one Serie A in this period is a bit of a letdown, honestly. His real test came last season, when he did not have these stars, and we all know what happened. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif)

Of course, it's a controversial and polarizing topic, and I understand that. All I'm saying is that he could have (or should have) won a bit more than this. Look at Manchester, champions of England - and - champions of Europe. While we weren't even the best club in our city when we won in Athens. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/huh.gif) Other big clubs in recent memory did this too, Madrid and Bayern Munich spring to mind. I agree with you that it's not easy winning, but he had at a time the best XI in the world, and a little more success would not have gone unnoticed.

What we have isn't by any means slouch. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) I'd take the bunch of CL wins and finals, semis, etc any time of the day. Peace out!

[acid911]

Coping with all these stars certainly isn't the easiest ob jobs.

Well coping is a relative word. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif) Guys like Paolo, Nesta, Sheva, Kaka, even Rui don't need much coping. They have done and seen it all. It's the second and third tier stuff (Seedorf, Kaladze, Brocchi level people) that need to be managed. Plus the family atmosphere at Milan always helped, and that is one of the reasons for our success at all levels.

Does Carlo deserves credit? By goly, he does! But only as much as he deserves. Same goes for anyone else. Saying Ancelotti was the reason of our golden period, well honestly that's stretching it out a bit. Technical brain, yest. But he's terrible with man management, especially with youngsters. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/dry.gif) We'd have had another highly creative mid in Gorcuff if he built his confidence, instead of relegating him in favor of Seedorf, Brocchi, and Emerson. That's bad. No one should be allowed to play with other people's careers.

I may sound like I don't like or appreciate what he's done, but the reality is far from it. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif) Carlo is easily one of the best coaches. Of all time. No matter how much I disagree with his game philosophy.

[Portman]

He should have been more careful ... But if, of all people, Carlo gives a reaction like that, it must have been something very harsh that was being thrown at him

Who cares? He shouldn't have done that. Period.

Cristiano Ronaldo had 65.000 people booing and insulting him in Luz (Benfica stadium) and showed that finger.
Not only he was punished by UEFA but even nowadays (that was 3-4 years ago) many, I mean MANY, people hate him and don't respect him in Portugal. People didn't forget that thing and will always be in their memories when the name "Cristiano Ronaldo" appears.

Who cares if that 65.000 were insulting his mother, father, dog, etc? It was him, who earn zillions, who gets the best girls around, who plays for the best clubs in the world, who have the best cars, a role-model for thousands of kids in the world... who should be careful. Not the 65.000 people.

[acid911]

Who cares? He shouldn't have done that. Period.

Cristiano Ronaldo had 65.000 people booing and insulting him in Luz (Benfica stadium) and showed that finger.
Not only he was punished by UEFA but even nowadays (that was 3-4 years ago) many, I mean MANY, people hate him and don't respect him in Portugal. People didn't forget that thing and will always be in their memories when the name "Cristiano Ronaldo" appears.

Who cares if that 65.000 were insulting his mother, father, dog, etc? It was him, who earn zillions, who gets the best girls around, who plays for the best clubs in the world, who have the best cars, a role-model for thousands of kids in the world... who should be careful. Not the 65.000 people.

Truth. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/king.gif)

Besides Carlo isn't a 21 year old kid like Cristiano. A man of his age and stature should have more. I remember Paolo and company being abused by fans during our dark age in the 80s and early 90s. They did nothing of this sorts. And so shouldn't the coach.

[kurtsimonw]

Ancelotti is a top-coach, a role-model for many young lads, should have been more careful.

As for the fans, it's natural (in 'latin-countries' like Italy, Spain, Portugal this things to happen. We love to insult, provoke, etc. We're nothing like the British, German, etc).

Agreed.

But I think most countries have insulting chants towards managers. Like Arsenal fans telling Glenn Roeder to "sit down tumor boy" after it had been recently discovered that he had a brain tumor. It gets quite bad really.

Besides Carlo isn't a 21 year old kid like Cristiano. A man of his age and stature should have more. I remember Paolo and company being abused by fans during our dark age in the 80s and early 90s. They did nothing of this sorts. And so shouldn't the coach.

Exactly. And this is what annoys me with this club as it prides itself on its class! But Galliani insulting other clubs, or Carlo doing this.. we should make sure our own employees stop giving the club a bad name. Either that or they should get the boot.

[dst]

Who cares? He shouldn't have done that. Period.

Cristiano Ronaldo had 65.000 people booing and insulting him in Luz (Benfica stadium) and showed that finger.
Not only he was punished by UEFA but even nowadays (that was 3-4 years ago) many, I mean MANY, people hate him and don't respect him in Portugal. People didn't forget that thing and will always be in their memories when the name "Cristiano Ronaldo" appears.

Who cares if that 65.000 were insulting his mother, father, dog, etc? It was him, who earn zillions, who gets the best girls around, who plays for the best clubs in the world, who have the best cars, a role-model for thousands of kids in the world... who should be careful. Not the 65.000 people.

Exactly. Besides, Zambrotta, Mourinho and the Inter players also were treated the same way yet no one reacted the way Carlo did. I can't see how anyone can justify it anyhow when it's common knowledge that it was shameful, period.

This post has been edited by dst: Jul 30 2008, 06:22 PM

[kurtsimonw]

Exactly. Besides, Zambrotta, Mourinho and the Inter players also were treated the same way yet no one reacted the way Carlo did. I can't see how anyone can justify it anyhow when it's common knowledge that it was shameful, period.

It's bad enough doing it, but then trying to defend your actions. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif)

[Rossoneri7]

Who cares? He shouldn't have done that. Period.

Cristiano Ronaldo had 65.000 people booing and insulting him in Luz (Benfica stadium) and showed that finger.
Not only he was punished by UEFA but even nowadays (that was 3-4 years ago) many, I mean MANY, people hate him and don't respect him in Portugal. People didn't forget that thing and will always be in their memories when the name "Cristiano Ronaldo" appears.

Who cares if that 65.000 were insulting his mother, father, dog, etc? It was him, who earn zillions, who gets the best girls around, who plays for the best clubs in the world, who have the best cars, a role-model for thousands of kids in the world... who should be careful. Not the 65.000 people.

I didn't say it was an excuse ... I'm saying it must have been something really harsh to provoke someone like Carlo, who really doesn't give into such things ... Was it right or wrong ? It was wrong no questions asked.



p.s. CR is a piece of trash ... People like Figo or Rui those were class, those were the men. So no matter what this kid wins, no matter what individual award is won by him he will remain trash! Him back stabbing Rooney at the WC, you could see right there what type of a person he is. I wouldn't be surprised if he did show that finger. The person I'd be surprised at is Carlo !!

[Portman]

I didn't say it was an excuse ... I'm saying it must have been something really harsh to provoke someone like Carlo, who really doesn't give into such things ... Was it right or wrong ? It was wrong no questions asked.



p.s. CR is a piece of trash ... People like Figo or Rui those were class, those were the men. So no matter what this kid wins, no matter what individual award is won by him he will remain trash! Him back stabbing Rooney at the WC, you could see right there what type of a person he is. I wouldn't be surprised if he did show that finger. The person I'd be surprised at is Carlo !!

Figo only thinks about money. He's no example, though he's a gentleman. Rui, Vitor Baia, Paulo Sousa, Futre, etc were class.

But Rooney is no example too. No player in Man Utd is an example to anybody. Just a bunch of arrogant pric...

[Tennie]

I like Giggsy. Granted, he's about the only United player I DO like....

[acid911]

p.s. CR is a piece of trash ... People like Figo or Rui those were class, those were the men.

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) Sorry, couldn't resist.

Honestly, Figo was overall a class act, but he's had his moments when it comes to being an arrogant turd. Not quite the level of Christiano, but darn close. Even headbutted a player in the last World Cup. Rui, on the other hand, was and is almost immaculate.

[Zed.D]

No player in Man Utd is an example to anybody. Just a bunch of arrogant pric...

Except for Ryan Giggs and [probably] Paul Scholes

[Portman]

I like Giggsy. Granted, he's about the only United player I DO like....

I used to like him but since he put his hands in Kaka's neck trying to threat him or so... I've lost all the respect I had for Giggs.

It was in Old Trafford's 2-3 CL semi-final, 2 seasons ago.

[dst]

Figo is class? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) That man left Barcelona for Madrid just for the money... how is that class?

It's bad enough doing it, but then trying to defend your actions. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif)

He didn't. He admitted doing it and I don't think he tried to justify it or felt sorry for doing it. Which is the only good thing in this whole story...

Anyway... it's over now, it's sad and I hope we won't see anything like that again in the future!

This post has been edited by dst: Jul 30 2008, 07:15 PM

[acid911]

Figo only thinks about money. He's no example, though he's a gentleman. Rui, Vitor Baia, Paulo Sousa, Futre, etc were class.

Exactly. I'd take one Rui over a dozen Figos. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif) I'm not talking about Figo the player - he was of course one of the absolute best - but if I wanted to be like anyone, it'd be someone along the lines of Rui Costa.

[Zed.D]

I used to like him but since he put his hands in Kaka's neck trying to threat him or so... I've lost all the respect I had for Giggs.

It was in Old Trafford's 2-3 CL semi-final, 2 seasons ago.

This? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)

(IMG:http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/06Fkabk8Xx81T/340x.jpg)

[acid911]

Figo is class? That man left Barcelona for Madrid just for the money... how is that class?

Yup. And got a dead pigs head thrown at him in a match. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif) That's class for you. Compare that with Rui Costa staying at Fiorentina and giving up on CL just for the love of his club. Or how many CL matches Gabrial Batistuta missed by being loyal to Fiorentina for that matter. Money is important yes, but it's not everything last time I checked.

The classiest players are those who rise above the money barrier. Very few do. Same goes for coaches. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) Good thing that members here understand.

[acid911]

This?

Exactly. And in an earlier match, he made a free kick goal when the other team wasn't ready. That's about as unsportsmanlike as it gets. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) He's a legend though, and who am I to mess with legends!

[Rossoneri7]

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) Sorry, couldn't resist.

Honestly, Figo was overall a class act, but he's had his moments when it comes to being an arrogant turd. Not quite the level of Christiano, but darn close. Even headbutted a player in the last World Cup. Rui, on the other hand, was and is almost immaculate.

He's a merda player now, so I don't blame u for taking a laugh (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)

But overall, Figo is a class player, I have followed him since his Barca days (more of old school in terms of my taste I know (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif) ). Headbutted ?! What about Zidane, does that make him any less of a class player ? Don't dig a lot (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif)

[Zed.D]

Exactly. And in an earlier match, he made a free kick goal when the other team wasn't ready. That's about as unsportsmanlike as it gets. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) He's a legend though, and who am I to mess with legends!

Well Porty said Giggs throttled Kaka, but it's the other way around! I don't get it (IMG:style_emoticons/default/huh.gif)

This post has been edited by zdrossoneri: Jul 30 2008, 07:24 PM

[Rossoneri7]

Figo is class? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) That man left Barcelona for Madrid just for the money... how is that class?

Zidane left Juve for Madrid ... Does that necessarily mean its for the money ?!

Ronaldo left inter for Madrid, does that mean he left for money ?!

Both Barca and inter pay BIG ... It's just that Madrid is a bigger club.

[acid911]

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/friends.gif)

Agreed. It doesn't matter whether I like a player or not, as long as they've served the game well, they deserve our respect. What they do, or how they do it, is their personal matter of course. Some are built on aggression, while others are more calm and serene.

[Portman]

Well Porty said Giggs throttled Kaka, but it's the other way around! I don't get it (IMG:style_emoticons/default/huh.gif)

I saw the thing live. First Giggs put the hands on Kaka' and then, obviously the brazillian reacted.

[Tennie]

^^I'd forgotten about that. That was the first leg of the semis, where Il Capitano and Rino both went out injured right around halftime.

Giggs did grab Kaka first, Porty's right.

As for Figo, he's been a very good player but money has been a big motivator for him, from the time he moved from Sporting to Barca on. Rui...was and is a class above.

[LaPalma]

Exactly. And in an earlier match, he made a free kick goal when the other team wasn't ready. That's about as unsportsmanlike as it gets. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) He's a legend though, and who am I to mess with legends!

And I say that it's cleverness. Ryan Giggs never misses a trick. That's what makes him unique.

[Zed.D]

I saw the thing live. First Giggs put the hands on Kaka' and then, obviously the brazillian reacted.

I don't remember Giggs putting his hands on Kaka's throat, but I'm almost sure Giggs was at fault for it, not Kaka. doesn't matter. one is a legend, the other is a legend in the making. and of course both great players. these things happen in football, I'm sure even Maldini has had his share of it.

[acid911]

I saw it too. As a matter of fact Giggs tried his best to provoke the Brazilian by saying some words. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) The photo though is classic.

[Zed.D]

^^I'd forgotten about that. That was the first leg of the semis, where Il Capitano and Rino both went out injured right around halftime.

Giggs did grab Kaka first, Porty's right.

As for Figo, he's been a very good player but money has been a big motivator for him, from the time he moved from Sporting to Barca on. Rui...was and is a class above.

Oh, then it is Kaka's reaction to it.

As for Figo, I don't think just because he dared for more means he lacks class. he's always looked like a gentleman to me!

[acid911]

And I say that it's cleverness. Ryan Giggs never misses a trick. That's what makes him unique.

Obviously, in the world of sports that we live now, it's a must. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif) But still it would have made it better if he took his time and score the goal then. That's showing due respect to the opposing team.

I don't remember Giggs putting his hands on Kaka's throat, but I'm almost sure Giggs was at fault for it, not Kaka. doesn't matter. one is a legend, the other is a legend in the making. and of course both great players. these things happen in football, I'm sure even Maldini has had his share of it.

Blasphemy! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/ohmy.gif) Where's dst when you need him! He didn't, and I'm sure of it. Partly because of his personality and cool mindedness, and partly because he's a defender, they don't get so hot-headed. At least that's the way I've seen in all Paolo matches and videos, he's shown complete class.

[Tennie]

How about the only reason his ending up in Spain was because he'd signed contracts with two separate Italian clubs and was barred from going to Italy for at least a year because of it? Or his moving from Barca to Real because he wanted lotsandlots more money? Nah. Figo's a very good player - one of the best of his generation - but classy? Not so much, at least not nearly as much as Rui, Futre, et al.

[acid911]

As for Figo, I don't think just because he dared for more means he lacks class. he's always looked like a gentleman to me!

Paolo dared for more, and he never lacked class. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif) But anyway, you like Giggs and I respect that. He is after all a very good player. And gentleman as you put him. I'd however not look forward to playing against him in a football match. Hehe.

[Zed.D]

Blasphemy! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/ohmy.gif) Where's dst when you need him! He didn't, and I'm sure of it. Partly because of his personality and cool mindedness, and partly because he's a defender, they don't get so hot-headed. At least that's the way I've seen in all Paolo matches and videos, he's shown complete class.

Come on don't be biased. I have followed less than half of Maldini's career and I have seen his anger a few times! you mean he has never reacted angrily to a player in his 23 year old career?

[Tennie]

Could you give an example of the anger, zd?

[Zed.D]

Paolo dared for more, and he never lacked class. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif) But anyway, you like Giggs and I respect that. He is after all a very good player. And gentleman as you put him. I'd however not look forward to playing against him in a football match. Hehe.

Thing is, Paolo started at the best club possible. but Figo not (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif) had he decided to stay with Barca he would have never won the CL! Real is always the #1 in Spain and he felt he deserves to be at the #1 club in Spain, can't blame him for that.

[Zed.D]

Could you give an example of the anger, zd?

I have seen it, and it is NO BIG DEAL. what's the matter with you guys? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif)

If you guys are so desperate for proof, I will bring one. [no headbutts of course.. just pushing another player angrily or something like that - lightweight!]

[Tennie]

Actually, I think Figo felt he deserved more money than Barca were paying him. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif) Real happened to offer the sort of salary he wanted so...

[acid911]

Come on don't be biased. I have followed less than half of Maldini's career and I have seen his anger a few times! you mean he has never reacted angrily to a player in his 23 year old career?

25. Anyway, maybe he did. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif) But I didn't see any arrogance in him. Even when he was yellow carded he hung his head in shame. Never intentionally fowled anyone, and certainly not headbutted anyone or grabbed someone by the neck. Come to think of it, I can wager my house that he didn't badmouth other players just for the sake of it. Anger is a natural reaction, particularly at the rate the athlete's heart is beating per minute. Literally twice as much.

There has to be a reason where everyone - and this includes opposition players from Inter, Juve, English clubs, everyone - respects him. Give me another one that's at Maldini's stature at this very moment? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif) He's without doubt Italy's favorite son. By a country mile. Or three.

[Zed.D]

25. Anyway, maybe he did. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif) But I didn't see any arrogance in him. Even when he was yellow carded he hung his head in shame. Never intentionally fowled anyone, and certainly not headbutted anyone or grabbed someone by the neck. Come to think of it, I can wager my house that he didn't badmouth other players just for the sake of it. Anger is a natural reaction, particularly at the rate the athlete's heart is beating per minute. Literally twice as much.

Oh my god, are you nuts? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) I never said those things! I was talking about Giggs and how sometimes even humble players lose it for a second. football is the most stressful sport after all. it's not abnormal to react sometimes. in fact it is abnormal not to (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif)

[acid911]

If you guys are so desperate for proof, I will bring one. [no headbutts of course.. just pushing another player angrily or something like that - lightweight!]

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) Lightweight doesn't count. Hehe.

Anyway, as for Figo moving up the food chain, that's every player's right. Not everyone sells their souls to their clubs. Plus as zd mentioned not many people had a club as Milan as their first. It's just that moving up solely for the sake of money is what I consider un-classy. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif) Image Pirlo going to another club just for getting paid higher. Or Del Piero leaving Juve because he thought he was underpaid. This is what our friend Adebayor is trying to do. He's 24, there's a lifetime to make money.

[acid911]

in fact it is abnormal not to

Agreed. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/cool.gif)

[Tennie]

(Related comment -- I have spent time lurking on some Italian calcio boards. While the zebra fans generally dislike things rossoneri - which isn't a surprise - the one thing they do respect completely is Il Capitano. There were even happy birthday Paolo posts by guys who have del piero icons.)

[acid911]

(Related comment -- I have spent time lurking on some Italian calcio boards. While the zebra fans generally dislike things rossoneri - which isn't a surprise - the one thing they do respect completely is Il Capitano. There were even happy birthday Paolo posts by guys who have del piero icons.)

Talk about it. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) That's Paolo for you!

[Tennie]

I have seen it, and it is NO BIG DEAL. what's the matter with you guys? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif)

If you guys are so desperate for proof, I will bring one. [no headbutts of course.. just pushing another player angrily or something like that - lightweight!]

I don't think there's anything at all desperate in asking someone for proof to back up a statement they make regarding something they've seen. I think it's fair.

[Zed.D]

(Related comment -- I have spent time lurking on some Italian calcio boards. While the zebra fans generally dislike things rossoneri - which isn't a surprise - the one thing they do respect completely is Il Capitano. There were even happy birthday Paolo posts by guys who have del piero icons.)

No surprises (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif) how can anyone not like/love or at least respect him? he truly is a rarity in football. even Maradona and Pele get disrespected by some people, but not Maldini. (IMG:http://www.millan.net/minimations/smileys/king.gif)

[acid911]

Offtopic alert: Well, you're lethally close to the 5,000 post mark Ten. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/cool.gif) Congrats in advance.

[Zed.D]

I don't think there's anything at all desperate in asking someone for proof to back up a statement they make regarding something they've seen. I think it's fair.

It also means I am a liar unless I bring a proof (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif) I have no reason to lie as I have seen such moments even from Maldini [but as I said very lightweight compared to those of Zidane!] but I don't know which matches. I will try to find one anyway...

[LaPalma]

Well...there's not a lot players in football that deserve as much respect as Paolo does. But I think we shouldn't be to harsh on these guys. But I personally don't believe in the old Udo Lattek phrase "Players don't leave for other countries to get to know a new culture. They go there to get to know a new currency." When Michael Ballack left Bayern for Chelsea two years ago he was widely criticized cause people thought he only left for the money. But fact is he didn't. he could have earned as much money at Bayern. But he was seeking a new challenge. Leaving Bayern for club with much bigger competition in midfield. And he also wanted a realistic chance to win the CL. I think it's like that for many players. Figo for example. He was Barcas huge star, but at Real he had the chance to play for the most decorated club in the world etc..
We shouldn't demand a kinda behavior from players we wouldn't be capable of ourselves.

But obviously there's also those who are really only into money (hrmpf...Adebayor...)

[Rossoneri7]

Offtopic alert: Well, you're lethally close to the 5,000 post mark Ten. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/cool.gif) Congrats in advance.

Yes ... So make it worthwhile (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif)


Gosh I remember my 5k ... it was just like yesterday, eh han (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif)

[acid911]

Yes ... So make it worthwhile

When has her posts ever been less? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) She, with guys like you, Porty, Nova (for the videos), and a whole lot of other members I'm forgetting (you know who you are) are the lifeline of this place. Seriously. I've been to other Milan forums, and they seem like ghost houses compared to this.

[agenth]

someone in here, - i forgot whom sorry -, said figo's leaving barca for Real was understandable (since they were nr 1 in the world).

imo it is inacceptable,. clearly he had no honor for barca's jersey and fans.
what would you do, if kaka left milan for inter? that's for me the same like what figo did.

and I'm being a neutral here. i fell in love with football because of figo, so I have a soft spot, but not a blind one for him.

[Habitant]

He should have been more careful ... But if, of all people, Carlo gives a reaction like that, it must have been something very harsh that was being thrown at him

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif)

[Habitant]

i can understand why carlo did, does it make it right? no.

it doesnt matter who does it, whether carlo is considered an angel by some, a wrong is a wrong. and if this was mourinho or anyone else you'd be all over him like hound dogs.

hypocrites.

[weeeow]

absolute legend! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/cool.gif)

[Rossoneri7]

When has her posts ever been less? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)

I was merely joking there (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif)

Cuz u dont want to get a dead fish in the mail .. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif) (which in her case means I sleep in the piranha tank )

[acid911]

Cuz u dont want to get a dead fish in the mail .. (which in her case means I sleep in the piranha tank )

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif)

[MizNelson]

Ancelotti is a...role-model for many young lads, should have been more careful.

Somehow, I can't quite picture young players aspiring to be like Ancelotti.

[Tennie]

When has her posts ever been less? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) She, with guys like you, Porty, Nova (for the videos), and a whole lot of other members I'm forgetting (you know who you are) are the lifeline of this place. Seriously. I've been to other Milan forums, and they seem like ghost houses compared to this.

I was merely joking there (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif)

Cuz u dont want to get a dead fish in the mail .. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif) (which in her case means I sleep in the piranha tank )

(IMG:http://images.cjb.net/782e6.gif) (IMG:http://images.cjb.net/782e6.gif) (IMG:http://images.cjb.net/782e6.gif)

The fish doll hasn't sent you to the piranha tank for quite a while, R7. It's about time you take a dip. Acid, perhaps Pola would like to play guard for a little while? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/96.gif)

Somehow, I can't quite picture young players aspiring to be like Ancelotti.

Ancelotti was a pretty darn good player in his day, actually. He was the De Rossi of his era - and he came to fame at Roma. Here's a list of honors:

As a player
A.S. Roma
Coppa Italia: 1979-80, 1980-81, 1983-84, 1985-86
Serie A: 1982-83

A.C. Milan
Serie A: 1987-88, 1991-92
Italian Supercup: 1988
European Clubs' Cup: 1988-89, 1989-90
UEFA Super Cup: 1989, 1990
Intercontinental Cup: 1989, 1990

As Milan coach
Coppa Italia: 2002-03
Serie A: 2003-04
Italian Supercup: 2004
UEFA Champions League: 2002-03, 2006-07
UEFA Super Cup: 2003, 2007
FIFA Club World Cup: 2007

For the record, while I understand why Ancelotti was provoked into flipping off the Juve ultras, I agree that it wasn't the right thing to do and that it sets a poor example.

[dst]

Zidane left Juve for Madrid ... Does that necessarily mean its for the money ?!

Ronaldo left inter for Madrid, does that mean he left for money ?!

Both Barca and inter pay BIG ... It's just that Madrid is a bigger club.

You don't get it. You just don't go to your club's greatest rival... not when you're an idol for your club's fans. I don't judge a player if he leaves his club because another one offers him more money. Those guys are professionals, they don't just play because they enjoyed it, it's also their job, where they make their money from. If I had an offer that would see me earn more and the conditions were good I'd take it too... but in football there are other factors as well. Figo surely had more choices but he left for Real cause they offered more than anyone else... well you just don't do that! He's a money-whore and a traitor. He's as class as a brick.

[acid911]

The fish doll hasn't sent you to the piranha tank for quite a while, R7. It's about time you take a dip. Acid, perhaps Pola would like to play guard for a little while?

Pola's on it, captain! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif) The eerie atmosphere of the deathly tank:

(IMG:http://i33.tinypic.com/20f982.jpg)

[Jack Sparrow]

Sigh...I still don't get where this conversation started and how it ended up wiith a picture of a polar bear looking over a cliff, like he wants to end it all.


So now what is the consensus? That Carletto shouldn't have flipped the bird at Juve fans, but at Figo, Giggs and Adebayor??

[Bluesummers]

i dont get why we talk about figo , zidane etc like they are bad people. Any one would move to a higher club if they would pay more money and better conditions. 99% of people are like that. You guys gotta stop refering to them as money whores. They go week in week out training their bodies, with pain and are expected to perform and win. Yes they are paid millions but its rightly so. Imagine all teh stress they have to deal with on a daily basis. Most people would go insane.

People like maldini and others who stay with their clubs have found the perfect setting for them so they dont see money as a big factor of movement. Thats why right now kaka doesnt move to chelsea or madrid because his wife is happy, hes happy, hes getting paid well and over all he enjoys where he lives. Is kaka a money whore? absolutely. He wouldn't be getting paid 9m if he wasnt.

the point is you work at a job and you want to go to highest point possible making the most money. Cr7 wants to go to madrid because they are the best club in the world in terms of popularity and history and they pay very good. I mean why not? Hes not even from england. He owes nothing to them. He would have made it just as big anywhere else.

[Zed.D]

People like maldini and others who stay with their clubs have found the perfect setting for them so they dont see money as a big factor of movement. Thats why right now kaka doesnt move to chelsea or madrid because his wife is happy, hes happy, hes getting paid well and over all he enjoys where he lives. Is kaka a money whore? absolutely. He wouldn't be getting paid 9m if he wasnt.

Not quietly, there must be a difference between Kaka and average players. what, did you expect him to get as much money as Brocchi or guys like that?

[Tennie]

Bluesummers, the issue with Figo is that he clearly stated he wanted a huge pay rise (that part's not what I'm objecting to) and when he didn't get it, he moved to his club's greatest rival (that's what I object to - he was the Captain of Barcelona, had just won Player of the Year, etc.) It'd be like Kaka demanding a huge raise, not getting it, and transferring to Inter.

[Rossoneri7]

You don't get it. You just don't go to your club's greatest rival... not when you're an idol for your club's fans. I don't judge a player if he leaves his club because another one offers him more money. Those guys are professionals, they don't just play because they enjoyed it, it's also their job, where they make their money from. If I had an offer that would see me earn more and the conditions were good I'd take it too... but in football there are other factors as well. Figo surely had more choices but he left for Real cause they offered more than anyone else... well you just don't do that! He's a money-whore and a traitor. He's as class as a brick.

What don't I get ? I understand the electrifying duel between Madrid and Barca .. But to me its more like there are two clubs on top of the footballing pyramid: Milan & Madrid.

And any player dreams of playing for either.

The situation where money is involved would be more like Shevchenko leaving Milan for Chelsea.

At Barca, Figo was one of the highest earners, he was loved by the fans yes, because that was his time to shine !! But, when a choice comes for him to move to either Milan or Madrid, I think there is something that motivates him (as it would any player) more than money.

A recent example is Ronaldinho, who choose Milan over Chelsea and then City (i.e. BIG $$$).


So again tell me what I don't get, because in my book he choose to play for one of the top two clubs in European football.

This post has been edited by Rossoneri7: Jul 31 2008, 02:31 PM

[Jack Sparrow]

Well yeah maybe...but the feeling of Barca towards Real, is in some ways even harsher than the feelings between the Milanese clubs. There are political ideologies at clash here too, besides the whole Catalonia vs Castille thing.

So in a way, the Barca fans felt betrayed more than we did with Sheva. What if Sheva had left to Juve instead of a club from a different country.

Similarly I doubt the Barca fans would have been as pissed, if he'd moved onto say Milan intead of Real. He went to Real supposedly coz of the money, since that seemed to him to be the only problem he had with playing in Barca. Not, anything else. Since almost always, at the start of a season Real and Barca always seem equals.

[Rossoneri7]

Well yeah maybe...but the feeling of Barca towards Real, is in some ways even harsher than the feelings between the Milanese clubs. There are political ideologies at clash here too, besides the whole Catalonia vs Castille thing.

So in a way, the Barca fans felt betrayed more than we did with Sheva. What if Sheva had left to Juve instead of a club from a different country.

Similarly I doubt the Barca fans would have been as pissed, if he'd moved onto say Milan intead of Real. He went to Real supposedly coz of the money, since that seemed to him to be the only problem he had with playing in Barca. Not, anything else. Since almost always, at the start of a season Real and Barca always seem equals.

What is it about money ?! ... He was on a HUGE contract with Barca .. How would moving to Madrid increase his wages significantly ?

The ONLY outburst that came out of the Barca fans was that he was a traitor because he choose Madrid.

But anyone with 2 braincells could see that he took a step higher, he didn't waste his time in a club like Barca .. A player of his abilities wanted the CL, the La Liga and Madrid could offer to him and as history shows, he won them.


I can't believe this is snowballing into me defending a merda player.

[Tennie]

I'm going to respectfully disagree with you on this one, R7. I don't think Figo's move to Madrid - from being captain of Barca - can be justified. It wasn't right. If he'd wanted to move to a bigger club than Barca, there were other options (Milan, Zebras, etc) that wouldn't have been viewed as a betrayal.

[Jack Sparrow]

What is it about money ?! ... He was on a HUGE contract with Barca .. How would moving to Madrid increase his wages significantly ?

The ONLY outburst that came out of the Barca fans was that he was a traitor because he choose Madrid.

But anyone with 2 braincells could see that he took a step higher, he didn't waste his time in a club like Barca .. A player of his abilities wanted the CL, the La Liga and Madrid could offer to him and as history shows, he won them.


I can't believe this is snowballing into me defending a merda player.

OK...just accept defeat then and you won't have to carry on. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif)

No I get your point. He was receiving enormous wages in Barca. But at Madrid he was receiving enormous wages + 100,000 grand for good measure and the shot at all the glory right?

The question must be, would he have gone to Madrid for lesser than what he was earning with Barca? Like Ronaldo did when he came here? Then you can agree that it was a pure footballing based ambition.

But since he didn't, and he came to Madrid where he was getting higher wage, obviously the money does come into play here. But you're right...it was not just the money.

Here is the interview from Figo

France Football: Frankly, no one was expecting you to leave Barcelona.

Luis Figo: This has surprised a lot of people and it’s quite logical…

France Football: Why did you leave?

Luis Figo: The principal reason is that I had received propositions which offered me better and more advantageous conditions than those I had in Barcelona, and moreover, these clubs were ready to pay my transfer clause-out. I have naturally informed the Barça’s president of that time of these offers and he answered me that he would not change my situation. From there, I took the decision that I had to take.

France Football: Is it only for an economical reason that you have left?

Luis Figo: No, not only…well, yes, at the beginning of the issue, with the valorization of my contract. It is normal; I had spent 5 years at Barça. So, if I am loved the way they pretend it, if they want me, then they need to prove it. Other clubs wanted me for my footballer qualities and for what I represented. And I stayed in Barcelona for 5 years while always giving all I could, doing always the maximum to help my team. I believed, at least at the beginning, that those people would be demonstrating that they wanted me and were ready to do the necessary efforts to keep me. That’s is why I have immediately communicated with the Barça management telling them: “there’s this, that and this…” I wished only one thing: that we talk and find an agreement. But they did not tell me anything and did not wanted to start the smallest dialogue and I have logically opted for another solution. After, the affair has simply followed its path, and if I am here today, it is for other reasons than those purely economic.

France Football: You perfectly knew what you were exposing yourself at, by signing for Real Madrid?

Luis Figo: Yes, I did not ignore that this decision would cause a few shocking waves. I perfectly knew what would result out this, but I’ve always been ready to face it and assume my responsibilities and their consequences. Now, I have to remind that as early as early as last season, when Barça was eliminated by Valencia in Champions League, I informed the necessary people (Barça management). I absolutely did not hide anything about this matter, from the beginning to the end of this issue. I have always been clear, even crystal clear. So, if they did not want to fix this matter, if they did not judge it necessary to revalorize my contract and my conditions as I was hoping and requesting, I have nothing to be blamed for. I am totally assuming my choices and everyone must assume their share of responsibilities.

France Football: Did you want to stay in Barcelona?

Luis Figo: I did not have any reason to leave and change club! I have only examined the situation as it was being really presented to me. In those conditions, I have to think of my family and me. However, this is not the reason why I ended up in Real. Once again, it is the lack of dialogue that has generated everything, and has accelerated the rhythm of the events.

I don't think it was exclusively for playing for the love of Madrid. There is no love for Madrid mentioned in his interview. Just bitterness at being not treated 'specially' at Barca. Barca did have a very good project then for the future. His and Ronaldo's departure suddenly changed a lot of things for them. I guess kinda like if Pato and Kaka left us. No matter how much money we would make from it, there would be a hole right?

[dst]

What don't I get ? I understand the electrifying duel between Madrid and Barca .. But to me its more like there are two clubs on top of the footballing pyramid: Milan & Madrid.

And any player dreams of playing for either.

The situation where money is involved would be more like Shevchenko leaving Milan for Chelsea.

At Barca, Figo was one of the highest earners, he was loved by the fans yes, because that was his time to shine !! But, when a choice comes for him to move to either Milan or Madrid, I think there is something that motivates him (as it would any player) more than money.

A recent example is Ronaldinho, who choose Milan over Chelsea and then City (i.e. BIG $$$).


So again tell me what I don't get, because in my book he choose to play for one of the top two clubs in European football.

I just said it... you either get it or you don't!

[Zed.D]

What is it about money ?! ... He was on a HUGE contract with Barca .. How would moving to Madrid increase his wages significantly ?

The ONLY outburst that came out of the Barca fans was that he was a traitor because he choose Madrid.

But anyone with 2 braincells could see that he took a step higher, he didn't waste his time in a club like Barca .. A player of his abilities wanted the CL, the La Liga and Madrid could offer to him and as history shows, he won them.

Spot on (IMG:style_emoticons/default/cool.gif)

I'm going to respectfully disagree with you on this one, R7. I don't think Figo's move to Madrid - from being captain of Barca - can be justified. It wasn't right. If he'd wanted to move to a bigger club than Barca, there were other options (Milan, Zebras, etc) that wouldn't have been viewed as a betrayal.

Maybe because Madrid were starting the Galacticos era then and he saw the future in it!

[Tennie]

(Madrid didn't win too much with the Galacticos, did they?)

[acid911]

(Madrid didn't win too much with the Galacticos, did they?)

They won decently. I mean a CL and a couple of league titles. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif) Beckham and friends had a fun little time there during that era.

[kurtsimonw]

I dont think it's "right" to go from Barca to Real, or visa-versa, but he has the right to do so. Barcelona agreed to the transfer, so they only have themselves to blame.

[Zed.D]

(Madrid didn't win too much with the Galacticos, did they?)

They did alright. CL, Super Cup, La Liga, intercontinental... what more could they win? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif)

[acid911]

They did alright. CL, Super Cup, La Liga, intercontinental... what more could they win?

UEFA Cup, anyone? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif)