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Posted by: Fillipo Simone Sep 1 2008, 08:48 AM

So, the summer window's are closing.

Now we'll have to wait till january to see a new...defender?
Anyway, the 351 pages of the summer thread payed out so,..just post here all rumours, possible and impossible transfers, dreams, hopes..

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Sep 1 2008, 09:07 AM

I suppose asking for a top class centre back would be too obvious?

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Sep 1 2008, 09:14 AM

Yep, it would but then again...repetition isn't bad.

I think we should play Darmain more often to see how he works. Kaladze is just a lost case. I'd even give Senderos the advantage since he's younger and well,..I'm not used to his mistakes and bad marking.

But the real sad thing is that Maldini, at 40 by now, still does not have a young CB besides him who could learn from the master. Why not play Darmain now, beside Maldini/Nesta? What's the alternative? Loan him out and then let go lik Marzorati? Or wait till both Paolo and Sandro retire? And then what? Buy out a new CB?

Anyway, problem is, Galliani seems to be happy with Senderos and he usually is a bit of a slow thinker so the moment he realizes we maybe made a mistake and need another decent CB will be...next summer.

Till then, I think our top priority is a new RB or LB. I don't trust Jankulovski any more, he's to injury prone and his form is constantly unpredictable. After the departure of Oddo we need that extra fullback.

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Sep 1 2008, 09:21 AM

Antonini is good. I think Oddo being left off was a good thing. He's not young, and it's too early for him to be second choice. In any case, we don't even have CL this season, so that kind of quality subs are not an immediate requirement.

You're right, maybe Darmian should be thought of to replace Kaladze. Maybe the war in his country is upsetting him a lot, but then whatever his reasons, we can't let that sabotage our campaign. Let him play a couple of games, and if he repeats the same mistakes, send Bonera/Senderos/Darmian in.

Kaladze can slot in as LB if need be.

Posted by: Bluesummers Sep 1 2008, 09:44 AM

we should wait and judge senderos before decding we need WC cb. just my 0.02 dozers.

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Sep 1 2008, 12:23 PM

I cant see any major signings occuring, barring a significant injury to someone. Instead of Oddo and R99, it will probably be some obscure 16 year old for the Primavera's

Posted by: kurtsimonw Sep 1 2008, 01:10 PM

Top class CB.
Top class GK.
Top class manager.

Posted by: acid911 Sep 1 2008, 02:33 PM

Sign Ronaldo back.
Sell both Abbiati and Kalac to Serie C clubs.
Extend the contract of Maldini by twenty five more years.
Set up Leonardo as the new head coach.

Posted by: LaPalma Sep 1 2008, 02:36 PM

Exchange Nesta with Bochums Anthar Yahia.
Exchange Carletto with Bochums Marcel Koller.
I dunno about the GK situation.

Wow....I'm so funny....seems like I ate a clown this morning.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Sep 1 2008, 03:01 PM

Posted by: KillerMax Sep 1 2008, 08:39 PM

That's... dirty...

Posted by: LaPalma Sep 1 2008, 11:52 PM

I like them...yammy. Better than beer with salt...FACT

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Sep 1 2008, 11:54 PM

Filipo, the window will open and close and the situation will remain the same. Not because I wouldn't want someone in particular, but because there has already been a HUGE change within the squad, with a lot of top top players .. I mean if you thought Madrid had a Galactico period, what is this !!

I doubt a top CB will come, I doubt a top GK will come and @kurt, Carlo is a top coach, whether you agree or disagree the man has trophies to prove it. Maybe now you wont budge from your assumptions, but with time when he is gone and all of Europe's best are after him, and when Milan fail and start jumping from one coach to another, then you will remember ... I'v been through the post Capello era, so I know how much time took for us to lift the CL again ... And until you go through the same experience, then and only then will you not take this coach for granted.

Posted by: acid911 Sep 2 2008, 12:09 AM

I'd honestly not answer this. Galactico was something else, entirely. The best players of their time. At their peak. And while I'm the first to say this was our best transfer season in years, the team of say 2003-2005, give or take, was miles ahead of this.

Maldini, Nesta, Rui Costa, Dida, Stam, Cafu, Kaka, Sheva, Gattuso, oh my! The best of the best. And it cost us over 150m Euros. This one while a very dangerous squad, cost us less than third of that. That was our last Golden Generation right then and there.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Sep 2 2008, 12:30 AM

We do have the stars now, let's just hope they win more than Madrids did!

He does have the trophies, I won't and can't deny that, but I do put it alot down to the stars he had. I'd argue he didn't win enough considering the players he's had.

I support a team outside of the media limelight, a team that isn't considering World class, or even great. I know what it's like to appreciate things, I don't need to have gone through the post-Capello era of Milan to know how to appreciate a coach. Villa were literally 5 minutes from relegation no less than 5 years ago so I know very well what it's like to have one bad season after another.

I also have confidence in alot of the players that we have to be able to finish in the top 4. I personally think Carlo is holding the team back. We have great potential in attack, but he won't utilise it.

Posted by: LaPalma Sep 2 2008, 01:02 AM

I don't agree about Carlo. Trophies aren't guaranteed. Even if you have the best team of all times you have to work very hard to win titles.
As for the appreciation thing. Much depends on the given expectations. But in general supporting Milan is like a holiday when you're a Bochum supporter.

Posted by: KillerMax Sep 2 2008, 02:04 AM

Posted by: kurtsimonw Sep 2 2008, 02:19 AM

Then I don't think Carlo worked hard enough. He had great players and should have won much more, he needs to take just as much blame as the players for not winning enough in my opinion.

Tell me about it. But when you're a supporter of an 'average' club it makes winning something the most amazing feelin gin the World.

Posted by: Bluesummers Sep 2 2008, 02:50 AM

CB: marquez/senderos/etc is good
GK: hildebrand is a choice, but neure, akinfeev ochoa you know the usual
manager: hehhehehhehe mourinho but if not i'll come if needed. I would prefer to coach under chelsea first get some experience but if jumping to the top is what you want i have no problem.

Posted by: TriniKing_CE Sep 2 2008, 04:11 PM

I am guessing you aren't taking his performance vs Real Madrid recently into consideration cuz he looked awful!

Posted by: LaPalma Sep 2 2008, 04:44 PM

Hildebrand is not material for a top club. Never will be.
As for the transfer campaign in general. I agree with R7. Nothing is going to happen. You can rarely sign good player in January, plus we already brought many new players in so....that has to be enough for this season.

Posted by: Kaka Is Brilliant Sep 2 2008, 04:57 PM

Other than Milan I support Torquay United (hometown), we're 18th in the Blue Square Premier. That's 4 divisions down from the Premiership for the people that didn't know. It's not even classed as in 'The Football League'.

Therefore, I have no idea what it's like to support an 'average' club because there just completely S...

So yeah it is kinda nice to 'follow' Milan on-top as well.

Posted by: Darunia Sep 2 2008, 05:20 PM

Alex Silva moved to Hamburg.. there's always Thiago Silva

Posted by: han2503 Sep 2 2008, 08:47 PM

I think Thiago also moved to a german club... not sure...

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Sep 2 2008, 09:01 PM

yea u are rite thiago nerrves the midfielder move to hamburg as well but the defender thiago silva is available but then we can only get him in summer

Posted by: kurtsimonw Sep 2 2008, 09:17 PM

I find it more.. 'rewarding' supporting a smaller club, and if Torquay even got promoted a few times that'd be amazing, while you can't get that sort of satifsfaction supporting a top team.

It is nice supporting a better team, you get to see top players and teams, but you almost expect success, and when it doesn't come it's a disappointment, so there's very little to look forward to alot of the time.

Can't believe Thiago Neves moved to hamburg!

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Sep 2 2008, 09:43 PM

You have a point ... As there is always room for progress when you support a team thriving to get into Europe once again and competing with the top teams in the league It must mean a lot when you actually beat the top teams.

Then again it is an even bigger satisfaction when you support a team, then follow it while it makes history and in the end you feel so satisfied, so overwhelmed that you can always look at the club you support and admired in awe ..

My local team ? Bah, Cap'n Jack Sparrow can tell you

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Sep 2 2008, 11:50 PM

Both are now at HSV (Hamburg); like LaPalma said, HSV had a great transfer period, they snapped does two brazilians, Jansen, Petric, Pitroipa,..

Posted by: vahid Sep 3 2008, 04:06 PM

Manchester City Line Up Mega-Kaka Bid

Goal.com:Manchester City’s new Arab owner Dr Sulaiman Al-Fahim is planning a mega-money bid for Milan superstar Kaka next summer, according to the Daily Telegraph.

Al-Fahim has revealed that his Abu Dhabi United Group (ADUG) company, who are set to take full control of City in the coming weeks, are serious about bringing the best players in the world to the City of Manchester Stadium.

Having already helped snap up Real Madrid star Robinho in a sensational deadline day deal on Monday, it was also revealed yesterday that ADUG were looking to make a £135m bid for Man Utd hero Cristiano Ronaldo.

Now the Daily Telegraph claims that ADUG have their eyes on Milan superstar Kaka too, and could launch a similar bid to bring the Brazilian to Eastlands next summer.

Kaka has been constantly linked with a move to Chelsea over the summer, and has been tipped to join them next year.

However, Man City may look to repeat their Robinho heroics, and once again outbid their rivals for the Brazilian, who may be attracted to a move by the presence in Manchester of national team colleagues Robinho, Elano and Jo.

Posted by: Tennie Sep 3 2008, 04:13 PM

Gotta love delusion sometimes.

Posted by: Giancarlo Sep 3 2008, 04:36 PM

Yeah and I'm Santa Claus. The only reason Madrid sold Man City Robinho is that Man City is not in the Champions League, and Chelsea is. They didn't want to have the possibility of facing their former player on the pitch. And as far as this group is concerned they have conducted business inappropriately, and I hope Man City is deducted points and slapped with fines.

Posted by: Darunia Sep 3 2008, 05:39 PM

Well Man City is the new Chelsea =/

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Sep 3 2008, 06:46 PM

City want Kaka and Ronnie. Are we gonna have to suffer endless speculation about them for the next 4-5 years? annoyingly yes.

I say abuse Ronnie for the next few years, then once he reaches 31, sell him off for a crazy sum to a premiership club

Posted by: Soldier Sep 3 2008, 11:07 PM

I Hope We Sign Thiago Silva In January, or Any other Good CB.
I"d Like too See darmian Sent To Loan, keeping him warming the bench will not do us any good.
Let's Keep Favalli To Occupy that Spot.
Renan wouldn't be a Bad Choice For a keeper, We bring Him In and Then Sent Him On Loan.
I"d prefer not getting any strikers, since this with the Current tactics, Will not do Pato any good.

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Sep 4 2008, 04:54 AM

we cant get a non eu players in jan rite

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Sep 4 2008, 04:59 AM

Nyop....Ivanovic in the winter I hope provided Senderos is no good. But I think we have to see how the team plays now, before deciding if any positions need strengthening. Right now except for GK it's hard to think of anything (on paper).

Posted by: Giancarlo Sep 4 2008, 04:47 PM

Ivanovic is Yugoslav right? Yugoslavia is not part of the EU... unfortunately.

I say get Radoslav Kovac... or go to South America and find a kid with EU status... maybe who knows... Argentina...

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Sep 4 2008, 04:52 PM

There is no Yugoslavia. And yes, Serbia isn't in the EU. They have to deal with their conditions first.

Posted by: Giancarlo Sep 4 2008, 04:54 PM

Gosh. I'm living in the past. LOL. Montenegro broke away from Serbia... before they were called Yugoslavia.

The Federal Republic of Yugoslavia was technically dissolved in 2003.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Sep 4 2008, 04:59 PM

Yep, that's how Yugoslavia ended. But to get us back on-topic, Ivanovic would fill an non-EU spot.

Posted by: Giancarlo Sep 4 2008, 05:07 PM

Yeah.

That's why the suggestion to look in South America, and maybe find someone who is eligible for EU status... it'll be cheaper than looking in Europe. Unless we get Kovac, who is approximately 5 million.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Sep 4 2008, 05:13 PM

I'm against Kovac. We allready have Senderos and Kaladze. We need a classy player, not a fill-in one. Of course, a classy player is hard to get, even harder in January. I guess a Milanesque solution would be to bring back Cannavaro, if he recovers. But then again, I see him with his brother at Napoli ending his career were it started.

Is Zapata eligible maybe?


If we're in such a need - any Serie A mediocre CB > Kovac. Why take the risk with a not-so talented and not-so young defender? The only plus would be that he's probably cheaper.

Posted by: Tennie Sep 4 2008, 05:15 PM

(The fish doll suggests Santacroce.)

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Sep 4 2008, 05:15 PM

why go to argentina or south america get someone from italy like canini, santacore

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Sep 4 2008, 05:16 PM

I'm with the fish doll on that one..

Posted by: Giancarlo Sep 4 2008, 05:20 PM

Zapata is Colombian. I'm pretty non-EU. I hear Santacroce... that's an idea. I know that Kovac would be a fill-in player... but he's pretty much quality. Cannavaro... he's 35 years old. I would even be more in favor of Panucci for now...

The best I can suggest is a defender from South America that can obtain that EU-status. Remember we got Cardacio and he has EU-status.

Posted by: vnata001 Sep 4 2008, 05:28 PM

thiiiiaagggooo sillvaaa. the fact that dunga DIDN'T play him should alert us all to how good he probably is..lol

the fact that Ignashevic was almost one of us just goes to show that it could be someone we've never heard of.

Posted by: Giancarlo Sep 4 2008, 05:31 PM

True. He was benched in favor of Alex Silva. Even though I've heard many Brazilians tell me that Thiago Silva is the better defender... and he also costs more than Alex Silva. Something in the range of 10 million... btw, "Alex Silva was already sold to Hamburg.

Though he's non-EU... unless something can be worked out with that.

Posted by: milano84 Sep 4 2008, 08:40 PM

the nonEU rule only counts for playerso utside italy.... for example we sign amauri for juve who has no italian passport... its fine. we sign adebayor from england (an EU country... but no eu passport) counts as nonEU spot

ps panucci is 35 also. fabio is younger by 5 months

Posted by: Giancarlo Sep 4 2008, 08:42 PM

I'm pretty sure it applies for players in Italy too...

Posted by: milano84 Sep 4 2008, 08:43 PM

i can say almost 100% positive it doesnt.....

Posted by: Giancarlo Sep 4 2008, 08:44 PM

Proof?

And why did you wait all these days until I posted? Hm.

Posted by: Tennie Sep 4 2008, 08:46 PM

I think Amauri has an Italian passport now.

(And please guys: NO MORE BICKERING. If you want to snark at each other, do it in PMs.)

Posted by: zdrossoneri Sep 4 2008, 08:59 PM

Good one!

Posted by: kurtsimonw Sep 4 2008, 09:39 PM

Snark? I must be easily amused or something, that word made me smile.

Posted by: Bluesummers Sep 5 2008, 12:59 AM

To make the record straight. The non eu rule applies anywhere in the world. If you dont have a eu passport or eu heritage in your immediate family then you are not considered eu. Doesn't matter if you moved or not. Adebayor could not be transfered right now if we tried.

Posted by: Giancarlo Sep 5 2008, 02:06 AM

Actually you can apply for the status. It can be further than immediate family. It can be distant relatives. This is often the case in Argentina.

Posted by: Tennie Sep 5 2008, 02:10 AM

Yes, and a number of Argentine players are under invesitgation for fraudulently getting EU passports. It'll be interesting to see how that one shakes out.

Posted by: Bluesummers Sep 5 2008, 02:22 AM

well yeah but in most cases its often rejected. As tennie said there is a huge scandal issues going on with fake Eu and fake age claims and etc. I was just talking the guaranteed case.

Posted by: Giancarlo Sep 5 2008, 02:33 AM

Yeah I know about that. Lazio in particular could be implicated with that. I don't remember if it was Carrizo who was in question...

But still. It's possible. And you can prove it... I'm sure they are cracking down on loopholes and fake passports.

Heh, maybe Milan should sign me. I got EU status (Spanish EU passport)... I play as a defensive midfielder lol... Milan could use one more...

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Sep 5 2008, 05:31 AM

^^

Then the whole point of unloading Brocchi would be lost.

Posted by: Bluesummers Sep 5 2008, 06:47 AM

please no more dm. we just got rid of brocchi lets keep trend up.

Posted by: acid911 Sep 5 2008, 10:13 AM

No, maybe you have really low standards when it comes to funny stuff? I do too. I smile at anything half worth smiling about. Good for health, I heard.

Posted by: morgoth Sep 5 2008, 10:57 AM

Could be a good addition but Napoli will never sell him to us!

Posted by: amancik Sep 6 2008, 11:03 AM

Maggio and Gamberini.

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Sep 6 2008, 05:41 PM

God? Maldini style

Napoli will be pretty reluctant to sell him to us. I get the feeling he may be injury prone like Nesta, but i better wait a few years before a concrete conclusion



Fixed

Posted by: jefri91 Sep 6 2008, 06:45 PM

When you're talking to Galliani tell him I can play in Kaka's place ....

Posted by: zdrossoneri Sep 7 2008, 12:50 PM

I think the chances of a new player in January are very slim but never say never because our situation in defense is very tricky and a CB might come. remember how you used to say Milan would never reinforce with more than two or three players, that's not Milan's philosophy to suddenly change the face of the team, etc.? 11 new players came in and 5 left.

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Sep 7 2008, 02:55 PM

The face of Milan didn't change this summer, Milan just got more depth.

And before the end of last season I stated that Cesear Maldini said Milan was in touch with 5 players at the time ... I don't need to guess, the man himself said it even before the summer.

Now you want to go run rings till Jan, go ahead.

Posted by: morgoth Sep 7 2008, 02:59 PM

Fixed

Posted by: Tennie Sep 7 2008, 03:00 PM

The fish doll gives R7 a cookie. It's been a while. (He wants to know where his harem girl is, though!)

Posted by: zdrossoneri Sep 7 2008, 03:24 PM

I still think you were being too sure here - like it's a fact:



The face of Milan didn't change? Zambrotta, Ronaldinho, Flamini, Abbiati are all new members of the starting XI (and most probably either Sheva or Borriello will be a regular starter too). Milan's XI has changed a lot and it is a fact.

Posted by: acid911 Sep 7 2008, 03:25 PM

I'd ask Jack Sparrow, if I were you.

Posted by: Giancarlo Sep 7 2008, 03:29 PM

Actually we did completely change in many areas. Especially midfield and attack (and attacking midfield too). We can field teams that look nothing like what we fielded before. Our defense is not as changed as the other two areas of the field... however, we did add two defenders... Senderos (lets hope the best for him) and Zambrotta... to say the face of the team didn't change... I can't agree with that.

Now if acquire what... 11 players our face didn't change? Also 5 players left. Including Simic, Oddo and Brocchi. Oh man... Brocchi leaving... that certainly does change the face of the midfield.

Posted by: acid911 Sep 7 2008, 03:41 PM

A lot depends on the definition of 'face. If you mean face in literal term, then that's still the same. Our face is Kaka, and has been for some years now. If you mean face as in team outlook, then yes, we've got some new blood flown in, and things have changed a tad in all departments, to be honest.

But face as in most valuable player, that is still Kaka. Just like inter's Ibra. Barca's Messi. Manchester's Diver.

Posted by: Giancarlo Sep 7 2008, 03:48 PM

Well I think we have different definitions. Of course, our core players are still there (Kaka and when you go back to the defense, everyone's favorite Kaladze)...

I feel we could field a viable team even with Kaka not playing (lets just say with Ronaldinho and Seedorf as playmakers)... which is important to him because it will reduce the pressure on him... and there will be more players that the opposing team has to mark. Kaka was the victim of a lot of harsh tackles last season...

Last season when Kaka wasn't there, we were lacking something. Despite the loss to Bologna, our attack was quite vibrant as was our depth.

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Sep 7 2008, 06:07 PM

Aha .. Thank you for clarifying that, as I was clearly unaware of the players that we had

Posted by: kurtsimonw Sep 7 2008, 06:38 PM

I remember you saying that a few times actually. It seems you were right.

Posted by: zdrossoneri Sep 7 2008, 07:07 PM

Yeah, shelter under this colorless sarcasm. you don't have anything better to say.



That 5 new players actually happened to be 11 new players that comes from someone who claims the face of Milan hasn't changed after this summer (despite the injection of 4-5 new XI players )

Posted by: Habitant Sep 8 2008, 04:02 AM

oh snap!

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Sep 10 2008, 11:31 AM

Mlan have just acquired Senderos, in order to reinforce the defense, and could be that are thinking also to Kulusic for next future. Zvonimir Boban for this reason yesterday was in Vartek stadium, in order to watch the competition among Croatia-Italy Under21, in which Kulusic played.


from TMW

Posted by: sakhratul Sep 11 2008, 08:11 AM

milan still need to get a new defender.. our defence is really fragile at the moment.. we event lost to lugano yesterday..

Posted by: Soldier Sep 11 2008, 07:34 PM

I'm Glad To See We Are Getting Good Young Talent, But I'd like To See a Young Experienced Cb..

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Sep 11 2008, 07:46 PM

Posted by: Giancarlo Sep 11 2008, 07:52 PM

Young and experienced? I dunno about that.

Though Thiago Silva would be good... he has a bit of a blend of both. He has over 130 games with Fluminense...

Posted by: Tennie Sep 11 2008, 08:04 PM

I'd rather see an Italian.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Sep 11 2008, 08:15 PM

Young and experienced would be somebody who's been played since they were 18 or something, and are now 24. That's 6 years of experience, plus they still have a good 10 years to go.

Posted by: Darunia Sep 11 2008, 09:12 PM

So would I... but the lack of good young Italian CBs is a problem (like Lippi pointed out). Sadly, Chiellini isn't leaving Juve anytime soon. I would like a Serie A ready defender, like Zapata. But we don't alway get what we want.

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Sep 11 2008, 10:18 PM

sergio ramos

Posted by: Giancarlo Sep 11 2008, 11:17 PM

No thanks.

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Sep 12 2008, 04:22 AM

yea whatever we cant get him anyway

Posted by: Giancarlo Sep 12 2008, 05:10 AM

No it's not that. I want someone who is good at the back. He doesn't fit the bill.

Posted by: zdrossoneri Sep 12 2008, 09:21 AM

^^

Who does?

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Sep 12 2008, 10:00 AM

ramos is not gud

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Sep 12 2008, 06:26 PM

Ever since he moved to Madrid I have seen a lot of potential in him, and today I consider him the second best defender in Spain, right after Puyol. It would be a dream for me if he came to Milan, but I know Madrid and I know they would never hand over such a quality player to their top European rival.

Posted by: Giancarlo Sep 12 2008, 06:29 PM

No frankly, I think there are better defenders than that. He's overrated. Cristian Zapata, Giorgio Chiellini... are examples of better defenders...

Just because he's good in Spain does not mean he'll cut it Italy.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Sep 12 2008, 07:16 PM

There's also nothing to say he won't be just as good, or even better, in Italy.

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Sep 12 2008, 07:17 PM

Ramos is miles better than Zapata, and is at a similar level to Chiellini. Have you even seen Ramos play?

Posted by: Tennie Sep 12 2008, 07:17 PM

Ramos is quite good, but I see a bit of a Kaladze in him from time to time. Plus he has Real cooties and while that's a good thing for some people for me it's...not.

Posted by: Giancarlo Sep 12 2008, 07:24 PM

No he's not. Not even close. Chiellini can actually defend. Ramos has been known to be a player to go forward, but he makes more mistakes defensively than you can imagine.

He's not even close to Zapata. And Chiellini is way better than him.

Posted by: zdrossoneri Sep 12 2008, 07:55 PM

OK, Giancarlo. enough is enough! he may not be as defensively good as Chiellini, but Zapata... I mean why isn't Zapata playing in a big club if he's THAT good?? (I don't deny he's good. he's only not as good as Ramos). Ramos has been 1st team player at Madrid since 19 and has surely done great. even before that he was great at Sevilla. Maldini didn't label him his successor for no reason...

As for his time-to-time mistakes, let's say he's still young and he plays in a pretty fast league (incomparable to Serie A in that respect). he can and will improve. I mean, he's only 22...

Posted by: Giancarlo Sep 12 2008, 08:00 PM

Zapata is wanted by several key teams... and Antonio Di Natale is in great international form, yet he plays for Udinese too? Does this mean that he sucks because he doesn't play for a good team?

Ramos is a young Kaladze in my opinion... he's reckless and has seen his fair share of red cards. Ramos is one that commits errors often...

Posted by: Tennie Sep 12 2008, 08:04 PM

zd, perhaps you're right about Ramos. Doesn't mean I like him or want him at Milan though. To me, young Sergio is a bit too much of a [insert Porty's favourite word here] to ever want him at Milan, even if one could wash off the Real cooties.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Sep 12 2008, 08:08 PM

He also has 42 caps at the age of 22. At this rate he's going he'll be hitting the 150 cap mark by the time he's 31/32, which is quite insane really. Not even many players of bad countries manage this, but he's playing for the #1 ranked team in the World.

Posted by: dst Sep 12 2008, 08:18 PM

42? REALLY? Now that's impressive!!

Posted by: acid911 Sep 12 2008, 08:56 PM

Spain's ranked number one? Gee, they did win the Euro, yes, but does that translate into top FIFA ranking?

Posted by: dst Sep 12 2008, 09:03 PM

Combined with the fact that at the same time every other team lost...

Posted by: zdrossoneri Sep 12 2008, 09:12 PM

I didn't say he 'sucks'. I said he's good. I think Ramos is pretty good and you don't. we won't agree on this. let's save our energy for something else!



I understand that he may look like a **** in people's eyes, he's certainly no saint. I'm just defending his abilities as a defender. I wasn't saying I want him in Milan, not because of the **** factor - as he's a kind of player that gives his all to his team and that's all a team could ask for -, because I know that's a never-gonna-happen.



42 caps at the age of 22 I thought only Casillas was out of this world in that respect. but now there's Ramos too...

Posted by: acid911 Sep 12 2008, 09:33 PM

Since Brazil, Argentina, and other teams did not participate in the Euros, where does that put them? Maybe Spain are, they did win a major International tournament. I just happen to recall Italy when they won the 2006 World Cup, they were still ranked 2nd behind Brazil.

So that's just what crossed my mind. Spain Surely may have been in the top 5 rankings when the Euros started, and made the jump to first after winning it. Were they out of the top 10, I'm not sure they'd have climbed this much. Then again, the Spanish NT usually is near the top of the lot.

Posted by: Tennie Sep 12 2008, 09:43 PM

For those who are interested, here's the most recent ranking table from FIFA (dated 3 Sept):

1 Spain 1565
2 Italy 1339
3 Germany 1329
4 Netherlands 1295
5 Croatia 1266
6 Brazil 1252
7 Argentina 1230
8 Czech Republic 1134
9 Portugal 1120
10 Turkey 1033
11 France 1019
12 Russia 1013
13 Romania 1007
14 Cameroon 999
15 England 991
16 Scotland 976
16 Bulgaria 976
18 Greece 921
19 Israel 874
20 Ghana 864

Posted by: acid911 Sep 12 2008, 09:52 PM

Appreciated, Tennie. At least, England round off the top 15. And where on God's good earth are Brazil taking a stroll to? Thank you, Dunga!

Posted by: kurtsimonw Sep 12 2008, 10:47 PM

The rankings are a bit stupid really. I'm not going to argue with England being 15th, all of the team above us - except for maybe Cameroon - have at least been good teams over the last few years. But Scotland, Bulgaria, Israel and Ghana in the top 20.. yet no Denmark or Sweden? Okay..

Posted by: zdrossoneri Sep 13 2008, 06:22 AM

The only good thing about this ranking is that Argentina, as usual, in second to Brazil.

Posted by: dst Sep 13 2008, 01:31 PM

Well it's the other way round when the American teams participate in the Copa America...

I think it's a stupid list anyway...

Posted by: acid911 Sep 13 2008, 02:40 PM

Ditto.

Posted by: Bluesummers Sep 15 2008, 05:00 AM

CB def needed.

Senderos/kaladze/maldini/bonera = trash


We need someone to play alongside nesta. Someone who can actually hold up his own and not look good because of nesta.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Sep 15 2008, 05:06 AM

I don't think Bonera is too bad to be honest, and I never thought I'd say this, but playing alongside somebody like Maldini brings him down a level.

Posted by: Bluesummers Sep 15 2008, 05:28 AM

maldini should have retired. He is truly a waste of time these days. 5 years ago if he caused a penalty like that people would be dropping their jaws.

Posted by: Kaka Is Brilliant Sep 15 2008, 05:03 PM

Cameroon! That's funny.

I'd like to see the updated one if we keep winning, no doubt it won't be posted if we're in the top 10

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Sep 15 2008, 06:01 PM

Bonera is good but not world class. He is a very useful player and we should hold onto him. He is better than Kaladze but inferior to Nesta. If we had two WC CB then he would be a thrid choice CB who would play regularly. Getting Senderos was a mistake as was renewing with Maldini and Favalli. I mean what is the f****** point of bringing back Antonini when a f******* 35 year old is played ahed of him at LB

If Maldini keeps playing as he has done recently; he will severely damage his reputation, then again this is a club known for its sentimentality, i wouldnt be surprised if Favalli and Maldini are renewed

We will have to endure our problems until the end of the season. No WC CB will join us halfway through the season. I wish to see Darmian thrown in, but its unlikely Carlo will play him ahed of Favalli or Maldini, which is a real shame as he is a very promising player. Can Albertazzi not mature quickly enough!?

Posted by: acid911 Sep 15 2008, 06:29 PM

Oh really? Nesta gave a (similar or worse) penalty in the same spot towards the very end of last season (which cost us two points that made all the difference), and no one raised an eyebrow. Kaladze makes mistakes like this twice a match, but no one notices. Paolo is too classy to give away a penalty like the one he did yesterday, it was just a freak accident. He just left his foot on there, and the opposing team player was smart enough to get tangled and win a spot kick.

How often do we enjoy jumping on the bandwagon. What good is Nesta if he stays injured more than half the season? Based on rational Paolo is still our best defender (and I'm not saying this because I'm his fan or anything), slow, old hag, and everything. One mistake and everyone's ready to sharpen the knives. Nothing personal to any member here, but that's just how it is. No one seems to understand that maybe he had a bad day at the office? Or maybe there are other issues at work in the dressing room? Or the fact that Carlo fielded Favalli at LB, when Paolo could have played there, where he's still somewhat effective? Or maybe Galliani is cheap enough to not invest in a world class CB? Oh, dear.

It's the same case everywhere, suck players dry and when they lose their usefulness, dump him. Paolo puts in more in every game than guys like Seedorf, Kaladze, who go in for an easy ride. I'm not saying he should play 5 more years. He'll know when to quit. And no it wont damage his reputation one bit. How will it, who'll question the only indisputable best player of all time (in his position at least)? What if he gives in a good performance in the next match, what will we say then? Point is, it's one funking match people. We lost to Napoli similarly last year, which was worse and cost us 4th place, the reactions were less than half of now. Don't abandon ship just yet, fellas, wait and see what happens. Maybe something good will. I know it can't be much worse than our recent losing streak.

Okay, I'm done.

Posted by: Bluesummers Sep 16 2008, 03:32 AM

carlo is the main issue here.

First of all why play favalli when we bought antonini for that reason.

Second why play with 1 striker when for the last 2 seasons every team just uses the "counterattack using the wings" game and just beats our slow defence.

Posted by: zdrossoneri Sep 16 2008, 09:05 AM

Man, agreed with everything you said. the saddest part:

Favalli ahead of Antonini. Carletto is really crazy in the head! no wonder why the results don't come... some of his choices are just awful. Favalli ahead of a young, good and motivated LB? I just don't get it.



Do you think that Paolo is still as good as he was 3 or 4 years ago? well, I don't. I think he's been at fault on 3 of 4 goals we've conceded so far.

Forget the Genoa penalty which is an obvious mistake by Paolo. go and watch Bologna's first goal. this is NOT Maldini. in that scene, he just stands and stares at the ball which is moving rather slowly with a probably 1 meter distance from him. I know many didn't even notice that, but I was shocked. we have SOOO MUCH difficulty in scoring goals, we cannot afford to concede so easily. there must be a reason why Bologna and Genoa type teams' attacks are ripping us apart. what are we gonna do when we face Inter?

It's only natural that you lose your magic at 40. you also lose your speed, you can't make fast reactions, you can't keep up with fast players anymore. it's not unusual. but to keep playing at this age is IMO. but as others have said before, he's a legend and can play for whatever time he wants and nobody have any right to tell him when to reitre. that's true and I don't deny it. I'm just showing what's one of our problems right now.

Here's a second-by-second image of Bologna's first goal. I highlighted the ball you can see it better.

http://tinypic.info/files/zyyia25g9ybtxrzf9mm9.png

Posted by: kurtsimonw Sep 16 2008, 09:18 AM

I was very critical of Nesta towards the end of last season, I thought he was quite poor. But my criticism was just because I don't like him apparently, and that he was playing fine. Some players are above criticism it seems!

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Sep 16 2008, 09:23 AM

^^

Yup esp. Paul McGrath.

Posted by: zdrossoneri Sep 16 2008, 09:30 AM

I'm not defending Kaladze one bit, but if it was him instead of Maldini in that scene people would have killed him (as they said he was at fault on Bologna's second goal while he was not, at all...)
Criticism for all or for none

Posted by: kurtsimonw Sep 16 2008, 09:37 AM

There's always an exception.


A Bingo was his name-o.

Great smiley.

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Sep 16 2008, 01:45 PM

Yep, i agree with you there. I have also said on numerous occasions that some people here can see no wrong with certain players. Maldini is an obvious one. A while back i said that Maldini should only carry on playing if he stay at a high standard. Painfully he cannot play at a high level anymore, if he cant cut it versus Genoa and Bologna just image how much fun Amauri or Ibrahimovic are going to have with him. It isnt like Maldini is playing with new defenders either (Zambro aside). One more poor performance and he should be dropped, and someone new played in his place, Darmian ideally

Posted by: acid911 Sep 16 2008, 05:33 PM

Only if it's constructive. This goes for everyone including me. I support everyone who wear the red and black, even if there last name is Kaladze or heck even Brocchi. It's very easy to find scapegoats for defeats, Paolo is an easy one. Our funking problem is Carlo (with his stupid defensive mindset), our midfield (with guys like Pirlo and Gattuso off color), attack (something really weird going on here), the goalkeepers (off form, or just plain suck), and of course the defense (cracked). We are more worried about not conceding, instead of attacking and creating chances to bury the match. Bah! Look at Sevilla how they come back.

While I'm the first to admit he had a bad day at the office, that doesn't mean we should jump ship just yet. Point is that it should be the same for guys like Kaladze and Nesta if they are off form and make similar mistakes, not Paolo because he's into his fourth decade. He isn't stupid, he'll know when to pull the cord.

Oh, and thanks for the image. Took some time creating it, I reckon.

Posted by: gal_kenny Sep 16 2008, 09:52 PM

Guys on the real, we really need to get Aguero..That kid is very very good..I actually sat down and watched him play and he's freaking good..real talk...Aguero and Pato for the future..wat do ya'll say...Argentianan and brazilian...We hardly buy argentinan so he should be d first.

Posted by: Tennie Sep 16 2008, 09:54 PM

not gonna happen.

Posted by: gal_kenny Sep 16 2008, 10:02 PM

Ait but dang he's good

Posted by: Tennie Sep 16 2008, 10:04 PM

He's very good and probably my 1 exception (this generation) of 'Argies I like' (Last generation it was Batistuta). I generally don't like 'em at all.

For what it's worth, the Atletico stadium in Madrid is really rather nice. I enjoyed it and it was fun to watch him play.

Posted by: acid911 Sep 16 2008, 10:12 PM

Good on you! The only Argies I ever liked were Batigol and then Messi, but this guy is fast climbing that list. Apart from that two other decent guys are Ayala and Mr. Superman Zanetti, but for me, they just round off the top 5.

Posted by: zdrossoneri Sep 17 2008, 09:23 AM

I have to make a sad confession: ever since - which was not a long time ago - I read http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Italian_Argentine, I lost that bad feeling that I had for Argies!...

Posted by: nesta_13 Sep 24 2008, 01:59 PM

In January 2009 I want to see somebody in defend...Cannavaro or Vidic or Brown...

Posted by: Rivaldo Sep 24 2008, 02:16 PM

What about Terry or Puyol?

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Sep 24 2008, 03:11 PM

Chiellini, Chivu?

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Sep 24 2008, 03:21 PM

Mexes, Ramos?

Posted by: Rivaldo Sep 24 2008, 04:01 PM

=)))))))))))


It is funny, but I think this transfer is not Utopia as others in this topic;)

Posted by: KillerMax Sep 24 2008, 04:17 PM

- Merged.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Sep 24 2008, 06:29 PM

Was that a piss take, or do you actually think brown can defend!?

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Sep 24 2008, 10:40 PM

I think he is screwing with you there

Posted by: dst Sep 25 2008, 01:29 PM

Brown!??! Nooooooo

I think Mexes is a move that could be made. As we saw from the transfers of Chivu and Mancini to Inter, Roma cannot afford to reject money when they see it... The thing is, he sometimes has disastrous matches...

My ideal transfer would be Kolo. And I'm sure Seedorf can impose his bigassity on Kolo's big *** and make him talk less!

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Sep 25 2008, 01:30 PM

Oh damn.....I know some people who are racist. You Pana...are the opposite!!!

Posted by: dst Sep 25 2008, 01:37 PM

What's the opposite of racist?

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Sep 25 2008, 01:52 PM

Thelist?

Posted by: amancik Sep 28 2008, 12:03 PM

Sell Kaka'
Buy Hamsik

Posted by: amancik Sep 28 2008, 12:05 PM

The List? What list?

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Sep 28 2008, 07:32 PM

^^

The list of people with big a$$es whom dst loves...

Posted by: MizNelson Oct 1 2008, 06:33 AM

It can be frustrating at times. It's always open season on most players and completely anathema to go off on others. For instance, you criticize Pippo on R&B and most likely you'll catch hell.

Posted by: maldini03 Oct 2 2008, 12:12 AM

Don't crucify me here but i have never been a fan of Pippo he is a glorified cherry picker IMO. He does score some great goals and dont get me wrong i appreciate his contribution and when he scores i am happy but he is too injury prone and I never liked the kind of striker he is. I have always prefered a Toni or Drogba. Big guys that can bully people with exceptionial aerial ability. Borriello can almost fit that bill. I think after this year Pippo needs to retire to make room for Paloschi and maybe begin to be a striker coach. Free up the #9 for Palo.

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Oct 2 2008, 05:11 PM

Hang on a moment, I'm just talking to the carpenter to get the dimensions of the cross fixed. Couple of phone calls to make too, one to Kuwait and one to Germany and then we'll lynch you.

Don't expect to be crucfied...lolzz...that's a laugh. You just called down the thunder brother!!! Dissin SuperPippo...

Psst...a secret...Whoever told you free opinion was allowed in MF lied.

Posted by: zdrossoneri Oct 3 2008, 12:04 AM

+1
Exactly how I feel about Pippo, on every count.

Posted by: Bluesummers Oct 8 2008, 01:44 AM

Pippo to me looks like he's far from finished. His desire is there still.

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Oct 8 2008, 10:25 AM

Bluey...we seem to be agreeing a hell of a lot recently. I'm getting worried....what're you upto?

Posted by: acid911 Oct 8 2008, 11:08 AM

He's stopped being a dozer! Didn't you notice, Captain?

Posted by: PatitoFeo Oct 8 2008, 05:47 PM

I agree with that assessment - Pippo's game has never been about pace or physical strenght. He is like the offensive Maldini: a guy who reads the game exceptionally well and is incredibly skills. I could see Pipp goint until 42.

Posted by: Rivaldo Oct 9 2008, 05:29 PM

Agreed

Posted by: dst Oct 9 2008, 06:20 PM

Yeah... in a nightmare...

Posted by: Rivaldo Oct 9 2008, 07:36 PM

If it was said about Paolo, you would never said this way.

Posted by: acid911 Oct 9 2008, 08:50 PM

Not really. Paolo is a different sort of beast altogether. Not to mention he's a defender, so technically defenders last a tad more than forwards and mid fielders. Inzaghi has already been figured out in Serie A, it's the European stage where he's most effective. Seeing him or any other 'poucher' carry on until 42 does seem a bit scary, more so when they lose pace. Pace was (is) Inzaghi's primary weapon - pace and predatory skills.

But who knows. I still think he has a few good years left in him, as long as he plays selectively. We'll see.

Posted by: dst Oct 9 2008, 10:24 PM

Of course...

After all, Maldini is the living history of Milan... Pippo is a Milan legend after his goals in Athens but he's not THAT big anyway... I respect him and what I said was harsh but the truth is, I never really liked Pippo's game...

Posted by: acid911 Oct 9 2008, 10:49 PM

Who is? Even guys like Costucrta and Nesta have lived under the shadow of Maldini. Baresi was as good as they came, but even he's been left behind by Paolo. I've got friends in England who'd rather die than hear about Italian football, and the only person who they respect is Il Capitano. Inzaghi is well, sort of like a folktale - vitally important to whatever success we've had in recent times, just as guys Nesta, Sheva, Kaka, Rui Costa, even Ambro.

Anyhow, whoever wrote the script of Paolo's story did a darn fine job of it. I wouldn't change on bit of it.

Posted by: PatitoFeo Oct 9 2008, 11:49 PM

I am new to Milan and Serie A so maybe I never knew the pacy Pippo, but the current Pippo is a predator to shame Arnold Schwarzenegger. if I defended with hm on the field I would be afraid to even think about passing to my keeper!

Based on the recent Pippo (since 2003, when I started watching) I dont see a major dip in form for awhile.

Posted by: acid911 Oct 10 2008, 12:09 AM

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Oct 13 2008, 09:33 AM

Hmm....25 years ago...when Pippo was still a kid and Pana was in his late twenties and considered a real prospect for the AEK Athens Reserve squad, Pana tried manmarking Pippo(who was vacationing on the beach in Greece with family). His team lost 7-0 and Pippo scored 4. Ever since then dst has hated Pippo's 'game'.

Pana went from being the Giuseppe Favalli of Athens to being the Titus Bramble of his neighbourhood. So...

Posted by: Tennie Oct 23 2008, 09:14 PM

I don't have the sources to hand but there's been ample speculation the last couple of weeks in Italy that Milan will recall Ignazio Abate from Toro (he's there on one of the dreaded co-ownership deals). He's done magnificently for club and for the U21s since he recovered from the injury he picked up at the Olympics. It's not often you see Gazzetta giving a 7.5 rating to someone whose team (toro) loses 3-0. For those who haven't seen him play, he's very fast, has good ball control, can pass and cross well, and has a wicked shot himself. Generally plays on the right side of midfield but I keep wondering if he could be converted into a RB.

Posted by: TriniKing_CE Oct 23 2008, 09:57 PM

I too have seen the rumours of his possible return come Jan.
But I wonder how many chances he would get if he does return...
(unless injures should play a major part later on in the season - God Forbid.
...I can't see many chances coming his way)

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Oct 23 2008, 10:14 PM

the number of chances favilli gets uptill now if he can be turned to a fullback then yea we should call him but if a midfielder then not in jan

Posted by: dst Oct 23 2008, 10:15 PM

That would be a good move!

Posted by: Tennie Oct 26 2008, 11:11 AM

So, Luca Cigarini is playing for Atalanta - he's there on a co-ownership deal from Parma. He's a playmaker there and for the U21s and is said to be the heir to Andrea Pirlo for the Azzurri. He was quoted today in Gazzetta as saying that he sees Milan in his future and that he'd like to play there because they've always played the best football.

He IS good and I'd not mind seeing him in Milan eventually. Not the very best thing for him to say the day before he plays Milan, though: I imagine his coach at Atalanta isn't going to be too pleased.

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Oct 26 2008, 11:29 AM

we should get him for a sub for pirlo and later take over pirlo role

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Oct 26 2008, 11:30 AM

.. hope he doesn't get the extra motivation...

Posted by: milanisti Oct 26 2008, 01:29 PM

by the way who was this paul mcgarth ?

Posted by: KillerMax Oct 26 2008, 06:40 PM

Jack is going to **** his pants...

Posted by: Rivaldo Oct 28 2008, 05:42 PM

Abate may have time at Coppa Italia and Uefa Cup, if we return him.

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Oct 29 2008, 07:57 AM

I've been wanting Cigarini and/or Dessena for sometime now. But I've given up. If he truly were a Pirlo alike I think we would have nailed him by now.

Right now I think the only person even close to Pirlo is Xavi.

Posted by: Tennie Oct 29 2008, 11:43 AM

New rumor in Mediaset this morning: Milan are after Fabregas.

Discuss.

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Oct 29 2008, 01:05 PM

Bwahahahahahahahahaha!

Discussion over!

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Oct 29 2008, 01:25 PM

sergio ramos thing that he is on bad terms with real it will a dream come true if we sign ramos

Posted by: Tennie Oct 29 2008, 02:04 PM

I wonder how much of the Sergio Ramos thing is him wanting a better contract with Madrid.

Posted by: vnata001 Oct 29 2008, 06:48 PM

well madrid has started inviting offers for Ramos (tribal), but i suspect you're right tennie. Madrid have shown they do not like to be jerked around by their players - ex. Robinho. But Ramos is definitely at the minimum a 35 mil signing. and Fabregas is at least 30 mil. i really can't see either of these happening...if Ramos leaves Madrid, it is for Chelsea and if fabregas leaves Arsenal its for his beloved Spain.

i have a feeling they'll just say "Milan is after me? that is an honor to be wanted by such a club..." in hopes of squeezing more money out of their desired employers. and then maybe when they are one season away from washing up..at ages 32/33, we'll sign them..

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Oct 29 2008, 07:20 PM

well if silvio and the board both want ramos then milan defintly have a chance but this off course if real decide to sell him... madrid based marca claiming abt milan being intersted again after this talks of contract btween real and ramos failed

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Oct 29 2008, 07:27 PM

Croatian newspapers SN (if anyone wants the original/croatian link just PM me) are suggesting that Milan is after Heerenveen's Danijel Pranjić and Roy Beerens.

Pranjic's been regular in the croatian NT for the past 2 years and made a couple of very good games. He can play a LB or LM, and is mostly offensive.

Posted by: Tennie Oct 29 2008, 07:29 PM

The Pranjic rumor is showing up in Tuttosport in Italy.

(Fishdoll gives Flor a )

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Oct 30 2008, 06:41 PM

Milan shop in South America
Thursday 30 October, 2008
Milan scout Serginho (pictured) has brought two young South American defenders to the attention of Adriano Galliani and Ariedo Braida.

The former Rossoneri left-back believes Ezequiel Munoz of Boca Juniors and Joao Miranda de Souza Filho have what it takes to succeed at San Siro.

Munoz, 18, is a strong centre-back with real aerial prowess who was recently called up to the Argentina Under-20 squad.

Meanwhile, Filho is 24 and has made his name at Sao Paulo where he marshals the back line to superb effect.

Braida is said to be keen on both of them, but awaits further reports before advising Galliani to draw up a bid in January.

Milan are also interested in making Philippe Senderos' loan from Arsenal permanent and feel Roma could be tempted to part with Philippe Mexes.

Posted by: vnata001 Oct 30 2008, 07:44 PM

interesting news and forza serginho. however, we don't need an 18 year old foreign defender when we already have a promising Italian one who never plays. A 24 yr old signing would be perfect in terms of age, so miranda/thiago silva/Santacrocce are ideal.

As far as Senderos goes, that little tid-bit has to be nonsense. He hasn't played ONE game for us and we're interested in signing him permanently? He's worse than Kaladze and Bonera (who is actually quite impressive). I still hold out for Senderos getting shipped off and either of MExes/Ivanovic comes.

ALSO.

i also have this feeling that if Adri leaves the dark side and goes back to Brazil again, he may end up in a red and black shirt before his career is over..

Posted by: Tennie Oct 30 2008, 07:47 PM

(The Italian source for the above article is Tuttosport).

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Oct 30 2008, 07:50 PM

so we have made our first signing for this window
MILAN - A.C. Milan communicate the arrival of the footballer David Beckham on loan. The agreement is official: the English champion will be a Rossonero starting from 7 January 2009, when the lists will open.

Posted by: dst Oct 30 2008, 09:32 PM

That guy will never learn. It's a pity he's wasted his talent. Stupid ****!


Well... have fun Becks... <_<Welcome!

Posted by: zdrossoneri Oct 30 2008, 09:56 PM

He really was a monster... I'll never forget the 2005 confederations cup, especially the final. how that explosive striker turned out this fat, lazy, party animal of present is beyond me.

Posted by: chrismcb Oct 31 2008, 04:34 PM

Firstly, I think most people are looking on the Beckham deal pessimistically. I believe that this will benefit both Milan and Beckham. Milan don't have to play him regularly and he would be useful cover for injuries and we can just bring him on from the bench for some games. By buying him we'll get money through sales of merchandise and tickets as well as increasing our global support giving money for transfers. In addition to this he'll be getting some time with a world class time at the top level of Serie A football letting back into the England team.

In January I think we need to sign a new world class defender. I think some good realistic targets are;

Cristian Zapata (Udinese)
Gael Clichy (Arsenal- Considering how we buy most of our players from Arsenal and Barcelona)
Lorenzo De Silvestri (Lazio)

I would like to buy Ramos however I believe we don't have the money to spend 35 million on a defender when they're cheaper options.

Also I think we need a new goalkeeper as most of our goalkeepers are now old and aren't world class with potential options being;

Oscar Ustari (Getafe)
Emiliano Viviano (Brescia)
Igor Akinfeev (CSKA)

Finally I think we need a new striker with the options being;

Mauro Zarate (Lazio)
Giuseppe Rossi (Villarreal)
Karim Benzema (Atletico Madrid)

I'd love to see Aguero in a Milan shirt but I can't see this happening.

I also think we should sell players as well in the January window as I believe we have too many players that are of average quality;

Emerson
Favalli
Bonera
Dida

As well as making the Oddo's loan deal permanent.

I'd like to see Fabregas come to Milan in summer as he isn't a necessary signing as we have enough quality midfielders.

Posted by: Tennie Oct 31 2008, 04:44 PM

Wow. Very thorough thoughts there!

I don't think Milan will be too active in the winter market. Perhaps they'll pick up one player or maybe two but most serious activity will, I think, be done in the summer.

That said, I think the priority must be in defense. In my fantasy world, we'd sign Giorgio Chiellni. However, unless the Juve management have a moment of incredible stupidity, that isn't going to happen. I suspect the Ramos rumors are mostly so he gets a raise, so dont' think he'll be leaving Madrid. I'd prefer to get an Italian defender and right now my vote would go to Criscito, then Santacroce.

As for keepers, my votes are for Adler (Fishdoll shakes his fins angrily as I start fangirling) or Akinfeev.

Forwards? Don't necessarily think we need any of those right now.

Posted by: Il Diavolo Oct 31 2008, 05:32 PM

I bet we won't buy a single player this winter. Galliani would probably say "we have the best formation in the world" - end of story. Zapata? Yes, we definetely need him for next season when Paolo retires. Forwards? Why? We have enough. They will reach their best shape... one day.

Posted by: Darunia Oct 31 2008, 05:58 PM

Whoa chris this isn't FM

Very doubtful we will sign anyone in the winter after all the signings we made in the summer (last couple years have been the opposite)

Zapata hopefully will come in the summer... he's been injured for Udinese and they have done quite well, so maybe they will sell.

Posted by: chrismcb Oct 31 2008, 08:07 PM

I know out of the three areas I said need improving strikers is the least essential area however I believe that we don't really have a world class striker.

I think Shevchenko isn't and won't ever get into the form he previously was

Pato will be world class but in time he will be

Borriello is a very good player but still just not the standard

Inzaghi is scoring goals and is a legend but isn't a 20-35 goal a season striker

Posted by: chrismcb Oct 31 2008, 08:09 PM

I know out of the three areas I said need improving strikers is the least essential area however I believe that we don't really have a world class striker.

I think Shevchenko isn't and won't ever get into the form he previously was

Pato will be world class but in time he will be

Borriello is a very good player but still just not the standard

Inzaghi is scoring goals and is a legend but isn't a 20-35 goal a season striker

Oh and I love FM

Posted by: zdrossoneri Oct 31 2008, 10:15 PM

+1

Only if I were Galliani I would make a deal for a good, young defender in January at all costs. there is a big risk at the back with injury prone/mistake prone/ordinary defenders we have. Bonera is very good as a depth player, but still not world class and not very reliable. Nesta, definitely world class but injury prone. Maldini, God, but he's 40 years old and could sustain an injury any moment. besides he won't be able to play 2 games a week until the end of the season. Kaladze, no comment needed. Darmian, just a decoration on our bench. Senderos, we don't know how well he will perform. but it's better if we don't rely on him much!

The situation will be very tricky in those last months. a serious injury for one or two of our defenders and we will regret not making a move for a defender in January.

Posted by: acid911 Oct 31 2008, 10:27 PM

Good post, zd. A world class defender is the order of the day! If we can't find a world class, then at least get a couple of really good ones. Maybe one Cannavaro of Madrid, and another middle aged one (around 28). But the other guy will have to injury proof and at least Bonera level or higher.

The problem is there aren't many top class defenders in world football at the moment. Even Paolo said so in one of his recent interviews. He said there are some upcoming ones, but then again they're too young and unproven for a club like Milan to look into.

Posted by: Devillito Nov 1 2008, 08:09 AM

+1

Ramos seems like an impossible deal.
Well you can buy any player out there but what's the point when you are not actually using them?
Cristico or Zapata, why are we talking about them if Carlo preferred Favalli?
Pointless.

Posted by: han2503 Nov 2 2008, 05:35 PM

If we buy Zapata or Santacroce for a considerable ammount of money Carlo will play them because he will have pressure put upon him to play him because of the money spent on that certain player, when it comes to Darmian, Carlo will never play him simply because he doesn't believe that a club like Milan should waste time in developing youth, and since we didn't pay any money for him he doesn't feel like he has any obligation to play him no matter what, even if our entire defence is injured or suspended he would be happier to go for something like this

Gattuso--Puma--Ambro--Flamini

Instead of giving youth products like Darmian and Albertazzi a chance

Posted by: acid911 Nov 2 2008, 05:46 PM

Both Ramos and Chillieni seem about as impossible as they come. At least right now.

Posted by: dst Nov 2 2008, 07:53 PM

I really can't see why Chiellini is mentioned... he's a Juve player... it'd be like Milan selling Pato to Juve... won't even in happen in Football Manager.

Posted by: acid911 Nov 2 2008, 08:24 PM

The only reason Chillieni is mentioned is because he's a darn good defender! In fact, the very best of this generation (after the age of Paolo, Nesta and Cannavaro). But I get your point, seeing him in Milan is more impossible than seeing me in Milan.

Posted by: Darunia Nov 2 2008, 10:53 PM

Santacroce was great today... but he's a dream and not a possibility since Napoli will never sell him. Zapata on the other hand though, is possible. But I don't see anything happening til the end of the season.

Posted by: acid911 Nov 3 2008, 12:24 AM

Santacroce was also a bit of beatch, at least came across as one. But you're right, he isn't a realistic target for now. We should look at someone else, if not, then make Bonera and Darmian first choice permanents.

Posted by: dst Nov 3 2008, 01:16 AM

While Napoli are not dumb to let any vital member of their squad join one of their rivals I think they cannot do too much if one of their players demands it.

Posted by: acid911 Nov 3 2008, 01:38 AM

True. That's the case with almost all clubs. They don't actually own the players, none of them do.

Posted by: zdrossoneri Nov 3 2008, 12:49 PM

BRING US SANTACROCE


Did you see how he marked Dinho out of the game?

Posted by: Tennie Nov 3 2008, 01:11 PM

^^^ Trademark infringement!

(Fishdoll agrees, though. Santacroce would be a good buy!)

Posted by: dst Nov 3 2008, 01:12 PM

Dinho was **** actually, he made all of them look great.

Posted by: acid911 Nov 3 2008, 01:23 PM

Anyone would be shtick when they have 3-4 players blocking them the moment the ball was passed to him. Sure it wasn't his best of matches, but he not only got the job done, he also freed up space for the likes of Kaka, Pato and Borriello. Too bad they couldn't capitalize more - Napoli's defense was waterproof too, gotta give them that.

I'll agree though that Ronaldinho is far from his best. Too many areas to improve in.

Posted by: zdrossoneri Nov 3 2008, 01:42 PM

Sorry, Tennie. I couldn't hold it inside anymore

Well, we won the match thanks to him. and it was him who came very close to scoring one or two times, beside Kaka's shot that hit the post. he may play like shite every now and then, but he's still influential!

Posted by: dst Nov 3 2008, 01:45 PM

Ronaldinho was ****. He ran into the defenders losing the ball the time even when he had space. I would make a compilation if I knew how and you'd see, it happened numerous times. Besides what you say is not an excuse, if Kaka manages to find space then so should he.

We won the match thanks to Denis. By the way was the goal credited to Ronaldinho or Denis?

The thing is he lost the ball one too many times when he could have produced something. I don't think we can say Napoli's defenders were great when he literally run into them. Cannnavaro looked like his big brother... Anyway... I know he's not at this best yet but I expect much more from him cause he has immense quality.

Posted by: acid911 Nov 3 2008, 01:53 PM

Ronaldinho.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Nov 3 2008, 02:44 PM

Did Santacroce make any of the usual comments like "I always supported Sacchi's Milan as a kid" or "my father was a bianconeri, so I grew up with Zidane and Del Piero" by now? Any other indication that would connect him in future with Milan?

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Nov 3 2008, 06:46 PM

I am a big admirer of Santacroce, however i have doubts about his fitness. He does seem a bit injury prone. It may be bad luck, but to be safe we should hold off on buying him for a season or two (like Napoli would release him to us anyway)

Zapata is good, but not world class. More Bonera like, so he isnt necessary.

Posted by: acid911 Nov 3 2008, 08:50 PM

Honestly, I'd rather have us buy some very world class defender, and promote Darmian (so he can get ready in a couple of years), than invest in any of Santacroce or Zapata. If we can't, then these two can be an option, but I still think we should have tried and snapped up Cannavaro as a short term fix from Madrid.

Posted by: Darunia Nov 3 2008, 09:42 PM

Cannavaro? Eh.. he's 35 and hasn't been great since the World Cup...

Posted by: acid911 Nov 3 2008, 10:43 PM

True, but he's playing in the Spanish league. Here in the Italian league he could have been more useful and versatile in the closed game. He still is pretty good for the Azzuri (remember how everyone was worried when he got injured before the tournament?). Had we got him for 5-8 million it'd be a good short term fix, in the meantime Darmian got promoted.

There aren't many good/great defenders available worldwide, at least not of the Italian standards. The best bet for a club like Milan is to grow them at home in the youth system. Save money, and at the same time get the desired quality. No more Maldinis and Nestas, I'm afraid. Very few quality ones.

Posted by: TriniKing_CE Nov 4 2008, 01:58 AM

Don't be soo sure...there is always his son to carry on the famous name of Maldini at Milan! (though if this comes to past it will be a few more years well.)

Posted by: acid911 Nov 4 2008, 09:54 AM

True, but I meant as of right now. There sure don't seem too many quality defenders floating around, not in world football, not in Italy, even Paolo said this in an interview two weeks back. But I'm sure Christian and Danial will carry on the Maldini name and dynasty.

Posted by: vnata001 Nov 4 2008, 10:23 AM

ivanovic is really good. he features sparingly at chelsea and we should renew interest. has any one else seen him play? he's quite a skillful, witty defender and wud fit in serie a. santacroce would be nice, no doubt as hes already established and young.

paolo mentioned criscito. is he really that good? does anyone know?

Posted by: dst Nov 4 2008, 10:32 AM

Criscito is good but he's co-owned by Juve so...

Posted by: Tennie Nov 4 2008, 01:01 PM

There's an interview in Tuttomercatoweb with Atalanta's sporting director in which he's quoted as saying that 'it's a little too early in the season' to talk about a transfer of Cigarini to Milan. Apparently there really is interest, however. Note that Cigarini is co-owned between Parma and Atalanta.

Posted by: acid911 Nov 4 2008, 02:33 PM

Isn't Cigarini that Pirlo-type midfielder? I won't mind his talents here, but we really need to look at some defenders too!

Posted by: han2503 Nov 4 2008, 03:34 PM

Good news imo. We HAVE to start thinking about the future, guys like Seedorf and Pirlo aren't going to be around forever.

I think this summer should be focused on getting atleast 2 world class CBs, a creative central mid like Cigarini or Aquilani and another defensive mid to replace Ambro and Puma.

Posted by: TriniKing_CE Nov 4 2008, 06:25 PM

As Dst mentioned he is partly owned by Juve and is either out on loan to Genoa (or co-owned atm), which can in fact make a possible transfer for him that much more difficult for us seeing as they are one of our main rivals.

Anyway I too have heard lots of this kid before as well, so I decided to check what youtube had of him
(I know it isn't the bst way to see how good someone is [viewing them on youtube], as its usually some of their better moments compiled, but it better than nothing):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pVcd589a8E

It's a decent compliation of some of his movements on the pitch. (...Not too bad)
...BTW http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pVcd589a8Ehas a 'high quality' link below as well.

Posted by: dst Nov 4 2008, 06:59 PM

There's no point buying young players as long as Carletto is here. Cigarini will not get better by playing once in two months... and that's what he'll get at best!

Damn it seems that Criscito is not co-owned by Juve, they have full rights... That's sad. I think I can tell what God sees in him, he reminds him of himself in that he's straightforward and he acts quickly and directly with no hesitation. Chiellini and Criscito... they will probably make an awesome defensive duo.

Posted by: Tennie Nov 7 2008, 02:01 PM

Interesting new rumor: the french press is reporting that Eric Abidal is not enjoying life at Barcelona and wants to return to France - specifically to Lyon. If he did so, this would free Fabio Grosso to leave - and he's not happy at Lyon (so the report says).

Posted by: acid911 Nov 7 2008, 03:13 PM

He'll be more than welcome here! Anytime.

Posted by: TriniKing_CE Nov 7 2008, 04:02 PM

I'll be alright with if either of Abidal or Grosso were to turn up at the San Siro for the right price.
Grosso has been know for some less than spectacular performances for his clubs, but I still won't mind if he became a Rossonero and was given a chance (he has impressed me for many occasions with the Azzuri - the talent is there!)

Posted by: acid911 Nov 7 2008, 05:32 PM

There are two different Grossos - one who plays for his club sides, and another who plays for the Azzuti - and while I will admit his club form fluctuates terribly, I still believe he can be molded into the Milan style of football. Milan is very good at this. Sign him up, and have him and Janks back each other. Assign Zamborghini at the RB permanently.

Besides, he's only 30! Just the right age for us, and can play for another 5-6 years!

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Nov 7 2008, 06:58 PM

grosso would be gud but i think we need to get a 2CB (quality ones) more than anything else

Posted by: kurtsimonw Nov 7 2008, 07:12 PM

CB is definitly still the highest priority, in my opinion. When you have Senderos and Kaladze starting games regular, that pretty much explains why!

Posted by: TriniKing_CE Nov 7 2008, 07:35 PM

+1
That speaks Loads!!!

Posted by: han2503 Nov 7 2008, 09:36 PM

Not interested, he's old, and never does well for the clubs, and hasn't exactly been shining for the Azzurri either as of late. We've got Antonini for that backup position plus Zambrotta who can play there. We need to focus on getting at least 2 high quality CBs this summer and a backup RB, not another LB, especially not one like Grosso

Posted by: acid911 Nov 7 2008, 09:46 PM

We'll be out of a LB (Paolo) very soon! And it's the same depth we're enjoying now is because we have Maldini, Janks, Antonini, and Zamborghini for the position. I won't mind him after we've solved our CB conundrum. Even with Sanderos in, I want two center backs.

The more players, the better. That's the only way to win a league. Plus, we'll be in the CL next season, hopefully. It's not like he's coming, of course, but if he does I won't decline an Italian. His bad forms for clubs doesn't mean it'll continue here too. But only if the CB stuff is sorted out, and we've haven't got another (better and younger) option available.

Posted by: dst Nov 7 2008, 10:15 PM

We need a fresh, fast and young CB, period.

Posted by: Tennie Nov 11 2008, 03:09 PM

New rumor today.

Fiorentinanews.it is reporting there's discussion of a possible Montolivo-Gourcuff trade between Milan and Fiorentina in January.

Creative, but I think it's fantacalcio.

Posted by: Rivaldo Nov 11 2008, 04:29 PM

For what this change may be? Joann hasn't place for playing and Montolivo will have? Nonsense.

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Nov 11 2008, 11:27 PM

on current form i would have yoann rather than montolivo

Posted by: zdrossoneri Nov 12 2008, 01:23 PM

+1

Posted by: Tennie Nov 12 2008, 06:01 PM

Mediaset is reporting that Milan are planning to make a bid for Udinese's keeper, Samir Handanovic. According to the article, he's being viewed as a replacement for Abbiati.

Posted by: acid911 Nov 12 2008, 06:08 PM

+1000. He's a very solid replacement for him! Hope it turns out to be true.

Posted by: Darunia Nov 12 2008, 06:51 PM

Have not heard much about him, he's only 24.

Posted by: Tennie Nov 12 2008, 06:54 PM

He's been quite good for Udine this season, from what I've seen.

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Nov 12 2008, 07:10 PM

we need a young keeper but then someone who has some experience as a milan keeper i think this lad looks like a gud keeper

Posted by: acid911 Nov 12 2008, 08:15 PM

Exactly. He also has Serie A experience, is a tall lad at 6-foot-5, plus young at 24 years. A better deal than Lloris, when it comes to young keepers. Udiense have only let in 9 goals up till now, one more than us, which is pretty decent considering they haven't got a defense (and overall team) as strong as ours. Been with Udinese since 2004 and on loan to various Serie A clubs.

In short, I believe he'd be a good transfer, one that could help us now and in the future.

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Nov 12 2008, 08:28 PM

zapata udinese main defender has not even played this season i think

Posted by: Tennie Nov 13 2008, 12:42 AM

Haha. Gotta love the French. Apparently, Olympique Marseille is considering making a bid for Alessandro Nesta. The OM presiden described Nesta as 'an ideal reinforcement' for the OM defense.

Posted by: acid911 Nov 13 2008, 12:58 AM

These French guys do have a pretty good sense of humor. We have ten times more a chance of signing Benzama than Nesta going there. Let's see how big a 'bid' they make, though.

Posted by: Tennie Nov 13 2008, 01:33 PM

This morning's rumors:

Milan may take Bayern centerback Breno (he's brazilian) on loan.
Real Madrid are looking at Roberto Mancini as a new coach.

Posted by: zdrossoneri Nov 13 2008, 02:57 PM

Interesting...

He's not a bad coach after all. he could succeed there.

Posted by: Habitant Nov 13 2008, 03:44 PM

he's supposed to be really good, supposed to be the future of brazil defence..

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Nov 13 2008, 08:20 PM

does breno has eu citizenship??

Posted by: acid911 Nov 13 2008, 08:39 PM

Nope.

Posted by: Tennie Nov 13 2008, 08:44 PM

Good catch, CMF.

Then the Breno story is just that, a story. We've used our EU quota for the year.

Next, please.

Posted by: Giocare08 Nov 14 2008, 11:06 PM

There is a lot of hype surrounding Breno he is supposedly "the future"
Where oh Where have the Italian Defenders gone?

Posted by: Darunia Nov 14 2008, 11:45 PM

Santacroce is Italian

Criscito, Chiellini, there are a few good ones out there...

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Nov 14 2008, 11:48 PM

Good question .. Tennie !!!

Posted by: Tennie Nov 14 2008, 11:52 PM

Hey, don't look at me! I don't have 'em hidden in Fishdoll's cookie jar! Anyway, you guys are still letting dst keep dibs on Nesta! Maybe he's stolen them away!

To be slightly serious, the discussioin is going on in Italy too about the lack of superstar defenders coming up through the ranks. The current U21 group is said to be a little disappointing in terms of defenders (good strikers though), but the group under them - the current U19s - is supposed to have a couple of good prospects, including Milan primavera player Albertazzi.

Posted by: Giocare08 Nov 15 2008, 09:50 PM

What about our Italian Darmian? He should be given a chance maybe this week against Chievo?

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Nov 15 2008, 10:03 PM

all three of these are not possible for milan to get 2 juve one naploi so it will be nearly impossible to get them

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Nov 15 2008, 10:04 PM

i dont see any option available in jan window which we can get whihc will actully give us quality i think only quantity can be added

Posted by: acid911 Nov 16 2008, 01:43 AM

No chance of that happening anytime soon, chap.

Posted by: Tennie Nov 16 2008, 02:03 AM

He was called up. So was Cardacio. Maybe someday...

Posted by: acid911 Nov 16 2008, 02:19 AM

I think he could have been upgraded and given a shot at starting XI. Not regularly, but ala Paloschi, so fans can guage him. Besides it would have done wonders for the boy's confidence and his game too. You know, training with the big boys, learning from them, who knows it might have solved our defense problem a bit too. I mean Paolo's been playing with the team ever since he was 16.

I understand that his time will come. And the state of affairs we're in, the sooner the better. Both Nesta and Kaladze will retire at the same time. So will Maldini, before them. And with the barren lands of world class defenders around the globe, who knows Darmian could turn out to be the next Chiellini, Ramos or Santacrose.

Posted by: Tennie Nov 16 2008, 01:27 PM

Mediaset reports that Milan may make a bid for Udinese's Cristian Zapata in January to shore up the central defensive ranks. The figure listed is 7 million.

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Nov 16 2008, 02:38 PM

let hope it is true we need a strong big CB he could be gud buy imo

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Nov 16 2008, 08:32 PM

^^^Mediaset? That means at least more then the blank goal.com rumours...

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Nov 16 2008, 09:08 PM

yea mediaset i think is the most relible source of al

Posted by: jefri91 Nov 16 2008, 10:51 PM

We should buy Zidane out of retirement... THINK OF THE HEALTH BENEFITS

Posted by: m1ke Nov 17 2008, 12:46 AM

He's a monster on FM

Posted by: kurtsimonw Nov 17 2008, 02:43 AM

Would be a good move.

1. He's a CB
2. He's not Kaladze
3. He's not Senderos

I'm all for it!

Posted by: Darunia Nov 17 2008, 02:49 AM

Please be true. 7 million seems really low. I think it'd take 12-15 million. His injury this season has lowered his value.

Posted by: Habitant Nov 17 2008, 03:11 AM

if he does come i hope we get ride of some of the dead weight we have in def. because i could see the genius giving equal play to favalli and kaladze as well. you give a candy to the baby he's sure to reach out and get a hold of the rum bottle and suck on that , keep all dangerous items out of REACH!

Posted by: zdrossoneri Nov 17 2008, 09:25 AM

Man, Santacroce is great. I'd rather we wait until summer and make a big bid for him.

He wasn't given a chance when we were playing in UEFA Cup with Maldini, Kaladze, Senderos, etc. out. instead Carlo chose to play Favalli in the center.

A friendly advice: forget about Darmian becoming anything as long as he is at Milan/under Carlo.

Posted by: LaPalma Nov 17 2008, 09:47 AM

Hmmm...I dunno, but I wouldn't pay more than 10 million for him as he lacks CL experience. On the other hand...he's quite something played some good football in the past two seasons.

Posted by: acid911 Nov 17 2008, 10:03 AM

You know it's not so hard, giving these young player a match or two in a season. What other reason you think we're in this mess, without investing in youth? And no, Kaka and Pato don't count. We should have grown up at least one striker, midfielder and defender from our youth in these generation (five years). If only Wegner could invite Carlo over for a cup of tea.


I'd put it squarely between 10-12 mil. Fifteen is stretching it, seven seems too good to be true unless Galliani includes someone else in the deal. Emerson, hopefully.

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Nov 17 2008, 10:46 PM

Not as monstrous as Barzagli used to be

Posted by: Tennie Nov 17 2008, 11:02 PM

But he WAS called up for the Italy U20 game. So I would like to think there's some hope left. How many people other than me have actually seen the kid play, anyway? Anyone?

As for players coming up through the ranks, I guess Antonini doesn't count, acid? Asking for 1 first teamer in every major position is expecting an awful lot. I doubt any club in England even comes close. Germany may have some contenders (Leverkusen comes to mind), so too might Spain (guys who follow spain might know better), but in Italy the only team I know of that comes close to that is Juve and I think that's in part because Calciopoli forced 'em to keep a lot of the kids they'd normally have farmed out to provincial teams or to B&C.

Perhaps expectations are just a mite too high.

Posted by: MizNelson Nov 17 2008, 11:09 PM

Agreed, especially the last two sentences. He should stay with the club in some capacity.

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Nov 18 2008, 12:11 AM

Who? Darmian or Albertazzi?

I have seen them both play (Alb for Bologna). I think in the future Albertazzi will be a better player, but Darmian is a little better at the moment

Posted by: Tennie Nov 18 2008, 12:22 AM

Darmian was called up for the U20, whoearthepatriots. (You're one of the few I know to regularly watch/keep track of B and the primavera players).

I've seen Darmian play for the senior team, for the primavera (primavera games are fun to watch) and for the U19s (where I've also seen Albertazzi).

I agree with your assessment, though yeah. Albertazzi needs another couple of years I think. Did he always play LB for Bologna?

Posted by: acid911 Nov 18 2008, 05:19 AM

The more the merrier, that's my motto! I mean, not play them every other match, but some taste wouldn't hurt. Say playing Darmian in a UEFA Cup match with Paolo and other senior members. And so on and so forth. We don't always splash gazillions in the transfer market, so homegrown talent is a must. Particularly in Serie A, so they are accustomed to the ways of Milan and general tactics.

How hard is it to find a tall kid and train him rigorously in defense so by the time he's 18-20 he's ready to take his place in the senior side? A five year cycle, maybe? Would save us the trouble of signing people like Sanderos.

Posted by: TriniKing_CE Nov 19 2008, 09:27 PM

Zapata has Eu citizenship?!
I wasn't aware of that!

Nice!
Btw - Whats the reason for his falling out of favour in Udinese's lineup?

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Nov 19 2008, 09:29 PM

He's been injured since before the season started

Posted by: TriniKing_CE Nov 19 2008, 09:34 PM

Thanks for clearing that up!

Posted by: Tennie Nov 19 2008, 09:36 PM

It's a broken cheekbone, btw. not messed up ankle ligaments or anything of that sort.

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Nov 20 2008, 10:54 AM

corrie again linked us with ramos again i consider it fantacalcio

Posted by: Tennie Nov 20 2008, 01:49 PM

Gazzetta is reporting that the Spanish press (probably Marca and/or As, haven't looked) are saying that Madrid want Ancelotti.

Posted by: acid911 Nov 20 2008, 01:59 PM

Give them Ancelotti, get Ramos. Na, they'll win another couple of CLs if we do that.

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Nov 20 2008, 02:11 PM

And you can take that to the bank

Posted by: acid911 Nov 20 2008, 02:17 PM

Already did. I want Carlo to leave for any national team, if he does leave, in fact.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Nov 20 2008, 02:32 PM

Ancelotti?
That's a good one... Arrigo, please explain what kind of climate covers that Madrid-zone...

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Nov 20 2008, 02:53 PM

Galliani confirmed that there will be a replacement for Maldini .. Though it is Corriere, I am almost sure Milan already hve a player in mind.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Nov 20 2008, 02:55 PM

Maldini the LB?
Maldini the CB?
Maldini the leader character?
Maldini the idol?
Maldini the captain?

Which one I'm not sure..

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Nov 20 2008, 03:09 PM

There will never be another Maldini, not like him