Kevin-Prince Boateng has revealed how Lionel Messi acknowledged his rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo. Boateng, who played alongside Messi in Barcelona said the Argentine once asked him if it was tough to score in&nbsp;Seria A - the Italian top-division football league where Ronaldo moved in to play for Juventus in 2018.&nbsp;

Speaking on former Manchester United player Rio Ferdinand's YouTube channel, Boateng said Messi did not speak much, despite being the captain but showed some interest in understanding the Italian league.&nbsp;

“He [Messi] is the captain but doesn't speak. We spoke one time in the shower because he asked if it's difficult to score in Italy because Ronaldo was there at that time, and he showed the rivalry between them. I told him that it was more difficult that Ronaldo was there, and he scored every game for three years. People forget too easily what he's done there," said Boateng.

<h2>‘It was good while it lasted’</h2>

Notably, Boateng's revelation comes weeks after Ronaldo spoke regarding his rivalry with Messi, stating it was good while it lasted.

"I don't see things like that, the rivalry is gone. It was good, spectators liked it. Those who like Cristiano Ronaldo don't have to hate Messi and vice versa. We've done well, we have changed the history of football. We are respected all over the world, that's the most important thing," said Ronaldo.&nbsp;

"He's followed his path and I have followed mine, regardless of playing outside of Europe. From what I've seen, he's been doing well and so have I. The legacy lives on, but I don't see the rivalry like that. We shared the stage many times, it was 15 years. I'm not saying we're friends, I've never had dinner with him, but we're professional colleagues and we respect each other."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-changed-football-but-rivalry-is-gone-cristiano-ronaldo-opens-up-on-competition-with-lionel-messi-633337">Also read |&nbsp;We changed football but rivalry is gone: Cristiano Ronaldo opens up on competition with Lionel Messi</a>

Notably, Ronaldo scored 101 goals in 134 appearances for the Turin-based club before returning to Manchester United in 2021. It was during this time that Messi also moved on from his boyhood club and ended up at&nbsp;Paris Saint-Germain as a free agent. He is now with Inter Miami in MLS while Ronaldo is enjoying his time with Saudi Arabian league team Al-Nassar.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Kevin-Prince Boateng has revealed how Lionel Messi acknowledged his rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo. Boateng, who played alongside Messi in Barcelona said the Argentine once asked him if it was tough to score in Seria A - the Italian top-division football league where Ronaldo moved in to play for Juventus in 2018.

Kevin-Prince Boateng has revealed how Lionel Messi acknowledged his rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo. Boateng, who played alongside Messi in Barcelona said the Argentine once asked him if it was tough to score in Seria A - the Italian top-division football league where Ronaldo moved in to play for Juventus in 2018. Speaking on former Manchester United player Rio Ferdinand's YouTube channel, Boateng said Messi did not speak much, despite being the captain but showed some interest in understanding the Italian league. “He [Messi] is the captain but doesn't speak. We spoke one time in the shower because he asked if it's difficult to score in Italy because Ronaldo was there at that time, and he showed the rivalry between them. I told him that it was more difficult that Ronaldo was there, and he scored every game for three years. People forget too easily what he's done there," said Boateng. ‘It was good while it lasted’ Notably, Boateng's revelation comes weeks after Ronaldo spoke regarding his rivalry with Messi, stating it was good while it lasted. "I don't see things like that, the rivalry is gone. It was good, spectators liked it. Those who like Cristiano Ronaldo don't have to hate Messi and vice versa. We've done well, we have changed the history of football. We are respected all over the world, that's the most important thing," said Ronaldo. "He's followed his path and I have followed mine, regardless of playing outside of Europe. From what I've seen, he's been doing well and so have I. The legacy lives on, but I don't see the rivalry like that. We shared the stage many times, it was 15 years. I'm not saying we're friends, I've never had dinner with him, but we're professional colleagues and we respect each other." Also read | We changed football but rivalry is gone: Cristiano Ronaldo opens up on competition with Lionel Messi Notably, Ronaldo scored 101 goals in 134 appearances for the Turin-based club before returning to Manchester United in 2021. It was during this time that Messi also moved on from his boyhood club and ended up at Paris Saint-Germain as a free agent. He is now with Inter Miami in MLS while Ronaldo is enjoying his time with Saudi Arabian league team Al-Nassar. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Is it difficult to score in Italy?': Messi questioned teammate after Ronaldo's move to Juventus

Leonardo Bonucci has confirmed that he is taking legal action against Juventus, claiming that the Serie A club has not told the truth about their treatment of him after he was frozen out and eventually sold over the summer.

Veteran defender Bonucci, who has won a host of trophies with club and country over his long career, was shunted aside by Juve in pre-season, missing out on July's tour in the USA and training away from the first team. And the 36-year-old said he had made the "hard decision" to sue the club for which he played over 500 times and won eight league titles for what he considers "humiliating" treatment.

"It's a decision that's been a long time coming and is due to the fact that I've read and heard a lot of things that aren't true," said Bonucci in an interview with Mediaset released on Thursday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-qualifiers-marquinhos-earns-brazil-late-win-over-peru-635818">FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: Marquinhos earns Brazil late win over Peru</a>

Bonucci, who signed for Union Berlin last month, claims he was only told in mid-July that he was no longer in Juve's plans, contrary to the club's version of events in which he was told twice, in October last year and February.

"I didn't have any discussion with the club on that date, nor did I with the coach (Massimiliano Allegri), who called me into his office at the end of March... he told me in his way that I should quit at the end of June because I wanted to be a coach so I needed to speed things up," Bonucci added.

"I told him that I respected his decision but that I intended to play on until at least the end of the European Championship next year. The conversation ended there."

<h2>- 'Holding Juve back' -</h2>

Bonucci claims that he was then told by Juve after their last home match of last season that he would be fifth or sixth choice for the coming campaign, and says his reply was "no problem".

He says he then heard nothing from the club until a home visit in from sporting directors Giovanni Manna and Cristiano Giuntoli who told him that his "presence in the dressing room was holding Juve back".

"I am simply asserting my rights provided for in (professional football's) collective bargaining agreement... which says players should be put in the condition to train with the team, regardless of any selection decisions, and have the right to acceptable physical preparation for the coming season," said Bonucci.&nbsp;

"I wasn't given that... I wasn't given the chance to go out onto the training field with my own teammates, take part in training matches. I felt empty and humiliated, and not put in the condition to do what I love most and that's play football."

Bonucci, who says he will donate any proceeds from his legal action to charity, was also left out of Luciano Spalletti's first Italy squad this month, losing his captaincy of the national team.

He was Azzurri skipper under former coach Roberto Mancini following the retirement of Giorgio Chiellini last year, and became a national hero in 2021 as a key part of the team which won the last European Championship.

Last month Juve denied claims by the head of the player's union, Umberto Calcagno, that Bonucci's "dignity is being trampled on".

Juve defended the "legitimacy of its actions towards all registered players who are recognised and are fully guaranteed all the rights" agreed in football's collective bargaining agreement.

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Leonardo Bonucci has confirmed that he is taking legal action against Juventus, claiming that the Serie A club has not told the truth about their treatment of him after he was frozen out and eventually sold over the summer.

Leonardo Bonucci has confirmed that he is taking legal action against Juventus, claiming that the Serie A club has not told the truth about their treatment of him after he was frozen out and eventually sold over the summer. Veteran defender Bonucci, who has won a host of trophies with club and country over his long career, was shunted aside by Juve in pre-season, missing out on July's tour in the USA and training away from the first team. And the 36-year-old said he had made the "hard decision" to sue the club for which he played over 500 times and won eight league titles for what he considers "humiliating" treatment. "It's a decision that's been a long time coming and is due to the fact that I've read and heard a lot of things that aren't true," said Bonucci in an interview with Mediaset released on Thursday. ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: Marquinhos earns Brazil late win over Peru Bonucci, who signed for Union Berlin last month, claims he was only told in mid-July that he was no longer in Juve's plans, contrary to the club's version of events in which he was told twice, in October last year and February. "I didn't have any discussion with the club on that date, nor did I with the coach (Massimiliano Allegri), who called me into his office at the end of March... he told me in his way that I should quit at the end of June because I wanted to be a coach so I needed to speed things up," Bonucci added. "I told him that I respected his decision but that I intended to play on until at least the end of the European Championship next year. The conversation ended there." - 'Holding Juve back' - Bonucci claims that he was then told by Juve after their last home match of last season that he would be fifth or sixth choice for the coming campaign, and says his reply was "no problem". He says he then heard nothing from the club until a home visit in from sporting directors Giovanni Manna and Cristiano Giuntoli who told him that his "presence in the dressing room was holding Juve back". "I am simply asserting my rights provided for in (professional football's) collective bargaining agreement... which says players should be put in the condition to train with the team, regardless of any selection decisions, and have the right to acceptable physical preparation for the coming season," said Bonucci. "I wasn't given that... I wasn't given the chance to go out onto the training field with my own teammates, take part in training matches. I felt empty and humiliated, and not put in the condition to do what I love most and that's play football." Bonucci, who says he will donate any proceeds from his legal action to charity, was also left out of Luciano Spalletti's first Italy squad this month, losing his captaincy of the national team. He was Azzurri skipper under former coach Roberto Mancini following the retirement of Giorgio Chiellini last year, and became a national hero in 2021 as a key part of the team which won the last European Championship. Last month Juve denied claims by the head of the player's union, Umberto Calcagno, that Bonucci's "dignity is being trampled on". Juve defended the "legitimacy of its actions towards all registered players who are recognised and are fully guaranteed all the rights" agreed in football's collective bargaining agreement. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Leonardo Bonucci to take legal action against former club Juventus over 'humiliating' treatment

French footballer Paul Pogba has been provisionally suspended for an anti-doping offence, Italy's National Antidoping Tribunal (NADO) announced on Monday (September 11).

French footballer Paul Pogba has been provisionally suspended for an anti-doping offence, Italy's National Antidoping Tribunal (NADO) announced on Monday (September 11). Pogba, who is currently plying his trade for Italian Seria A club Juventus, was tested after his side's victory against Udinese on August 20 where he was an unused substitute. According to reports, the test results showed elevated levels of testosterone - a hormone that increases an athlete's endurance. "The National Antidoping Tribunal informs that, in acceptance of the instance proposed by the National Antidoping Prosecutor, it has provided for the provisional suspension of the athlete Paul Labile Pogba," NADO was quoted as saying by news agency AFP. The anti-doping agency said the test concerns the 'A' sample, and if the 'B' sample also returns positive for testosterone, the midfielder could face a four-year ban. Juventus released a statement in the aftermath, acknowledging the failed test and said they were considering the next steps. "The club reserves the right to consider the next procedural steps," read the statement. Watch | Gravitas: Spanish football Chief Luis Rubiales steps down × Wanted to quit football: Pogba The announcement by NADO came hours after Pogba, in an Al Jazeera interview, said he was almost driven to walk away from football after allegedly being blackmailed by an organised crime gang. "When there is money you have to be careful. Money changes people. It can break up a family. It can create a war," said Pogba. "Sometimes I was just by myself thinking: 'I don't want to have money anymore. I just don't want to play anymore. I just want to be with normal people, so they will love me for me - not for the fame, not for the money.' Sometimes it's tough. This life, you have to go through it. It will only make me stronger," he added. Also read | Paul Pogba shockingly admits to using witchcraft but denies it was to cast a spell on Kylian Mbappe Notably, Pogba's brother Mathias was arrested in September last year on suspicion of involvement in the alleged extortion plot. Once regarded as the next big thing in world football, Pogba never managed to hit the highs of the 2018 World Cup or his first stint with Juventus. His tumultuous staggered stay at Manchester United was plagued with injuries, controversies and fallout with colleagues and coaches. Pogba's arrival at Juventus last year was seen as the start of a new chapter but injuries once again hindered his progress. Having sat out the entire season, the doping violation could effectively mean curtains for Pogba's career who turned 30 earlier this year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Juventus and France midfielder Paul Pogba provisionally suspended for doping

Italy great Gianluigi Buffon, one of the most decorated goalkeepers of all time, called time on his 28-year long career in a social media post. The 45-year-old's retirement announcement on social media platform X, formerly Twitter, read, "That’s all folks! You gave me everything. I gave you everything. We did it together." Have a look at the tweet here:

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
That's all folks! 
You gave me everything. 
I gave you everything. 
We did it together. <a href="https://t.co/bGvIDsoFsG">pic.twitter.com/bGvIDsoFsG</a>
— Gianluigi Buffon (@gianluigibuffon) <a href="https://twitter.com/gianluigibuffon/status/1686727431887933440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The 2006 FIFA World Cup winner had a sensational career which saw him winning 10 Serie A titles, one Ligue 1 trophy, five Coppa Italia and six Italia Supercoppa titles as well. The Italian legend had made his professional debut with Serie B club Parma at the age of 17. Buffon's last two years of professional football also came with Parma.

He won Coppa Italia, UEFA Cup and Italian Supercoppa with the club (Parma) four years after joining it in 1995. The goalie then moved to Juventus in 2001 for the then-world-record transfer fee of $57 million.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-womens-wc-france-beat-panama-6-3-after-dianis-hat-trick-to-reach-knockout-stage-621731">FIFA Women's WC: France beat Panama 6-3 after Diani's hat-trick to reach knockout stage</a>

While at Juventus, he had best time of his playing career, winning 10 Serie A titles and a Serie B as well during 2006-07 relegation of the club to the second tier. He moved to Ligue 1 club Paris Saint-Germain in 2018 as a free agent and won his only Ligue 1 title. He, however, returned to Juventus next season.

With Juve, Buffon reached the Champions League final thrice but failed to win the elusive trophy even once.

As an international player, Buffon holds the record of most caps for Italy with 176 appearances. In 2006, the year Italy won the FIFA World Cup, Buffon was also named as a contender for the prestigious Balllon d'Or.&nbsp;

The goalkeeper, however, finished as runner-up behind his Italy teammate Fabio Cannavaro. He hung boots from national duty in 2017 after playing for nearly 20 years since his debut in 1997.

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Italy great Gianluigi Buffon, one of the most decorated goalkeepers of all time, called time on his 28-year long career in a social media post. The 45-year-old's retirement announcement on social media platform X, formerly Twitter, read, "That’s all folks!

Italy great Gianluigi Buffon, one of the most decorated goalkeepers of all time, called time on his 28-year long career in a social media post. The 45-year-old's retirement announcement on social media platform X, formerly Twitter, read, "That’s all folks! You gave me everything. I gave you everything. We did it together." Have a look at the tweet here: That's all folks! You gave me everything. I gave you everything. We did it together. pic.twitter.com/bGvIDsoFsG — Gianluigi Buffon (@gianluigibuffon) August 2, 2023 × The 2006 FIFA World Cup winner had a sensational career which saw him winning 10 Serie A titles, one Ligue 1 trophy, five Coppa Italia and six Italia Supercoppa titles as well. The Italian legend had made his professional debut with Serie B club Parma at the age of 17. Buffon's last two years of professional football also came with Parma. He won Coppa Italia, UEFA Cup and Italian Supercoppa with the club (Parma) four years after joining it in 1995. The goalie then moved to Juventus in 2001 for the then-world-record transfer fee of $57 million. Also Read: FIFA Women's WC: France beat Panama 6-3 after Diani's hat-trick to reach knockout stage While at Juventus, he had best time of his playing career, winning 10 Serie A titles and a Serie B as well during 2006-07 relegation of the club to the second tier. He moved to Ligue 1 club Paris Saint-Germain in 2018 as a free agent and won his only Ligue 1 title. He, however, returned to Juventus next season. With Juve, Buffon reached the Champions League final thrice but failed to win the elusive trophy even once. As an international player, Buffon holds the record of most caps for Italy with 176 appearances. In 2006, the year Italy won the FIFA World Cup, Buffon was also named as a contender for the prestigious Balllon d'Or. The goalkeeper, however, finished as runner-up behind his Italy teammate Fabio Cannavaro. He hung boots from national duty in 2017 after playing for nearly 20 years since his debut in 1997. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Football: Italy, Juventus great Gianluigi Buffon announces retirement after 28-year long career

Juventus will not play in Europe next season after being banned over breaches of UEFA's Club Licensing and Financial Fair Play rules, while Premier League side Chelsea will pay 10 million euros for submitting incomplete financial information, Europe's soccer governing body said on Friday.

The UEFA Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) opened a formal investigation into Juventus in December, months after the Italian side was among eight clubs that reached a settlement with UEFA for failing to comply with break-even requirements.

In a statement on Friday, European soccer's governing body said it would "impose an additional financial contribution of 20 million euros on the club.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-england-beat-denmark-to-stand-on-verge-of-fifa-world-cup-last-16-620272">Football: England beat Denmark to stand on verge of FIFA World Cup last 16</a>

"Of this amount, 10 million euros is conditional and will only be enforced if the club's annual financial statements for the financial years 2023, 2024 and 2025 do not comply with the accounting requirements," UEFA added.

Juventus, who qualified for the Conference League playoff round after finishing seventh in Serie A last term, said they had waived the right to appeal that decision but maintained their innocence.

"We do not share the interpretation that has been given of our defense, and we remain firmly convinced of the legitimacy of our actions and the validity of our arguments.

However, we have decided not to appeal this judgment," Juventus Chairman Gianluca Ferrero said.

Ferrero added that Juventus' decision not to appeal was in line with the policy they employed during a settlement with Italy's soccer federation (FIGC) in May, where they opted to pay a fine of 718,000 euros and not challenge a 10-point penalty.

"As in that case, we prefer to put an end to the period of uncertainty and ensure full visibility and certainty to our internal and external stakeholders about the club's participation in future international competitions," Ferrero said.

"Lodging an appeal, possibly to other levels of judgement, with uncertain outcomes and timing, would increase the uncertainty with respect to our eventual participation in the 2024-25 UEFA Champions League."

The Conference League qualifying rounds for the 2023-24 season started earlier this month.

<h2>CHELSEA SETTLEMENT</h2>

UEFA also reached a settlement with Chelsea over the submission of incomplete financial information, related to "historical transactions" between 2012-19 - prior to the London club's acquisition by the Boehly-Clearlake consortium in 2022.

"Following the club's sale in May 2022, the new ownership identified, and proactively reported to UEFA, instances of potentially incomplete financial reporting under the club’s previous ownership," UEFA said.

"Following its assessment, including the applicable statute of limitations, the CFCB First Chamber entered into a settlement agreement with the club which has agreed to pay a financial contribution of 10 million euros to fully resolve the reported matters."

Chelsea, who finished 12th in the Premier League following a chaotic campaign, will not be competing in Europe in 2023-24.

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Juventus will not play in Europe next season after being banned over breaches of UEFA's Club Licensing and Financial Fair Play rules, while Premier League side Chelsea will pay 10 million euros for submitting incomplete financial information, Europe's soccer governing body said on Friday.

Juventus will not play in Europe next season after being banned over breaches of UEFA's Club Licensing and Financial Fair Play rules, while Premier League side Chelsea will pay 10 million euros for submitting incomplete financial information, Europe's soccer governing body said on Friday. The UEFA Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) opened a formal investigation into Juventus in December, months after the Italian side was among eight clubs that reached a settlement with UEFA for failing to comply with break-even requirements. In a statement on Friday, European soccer's governing body said it would "impose an additional financial contribution of 20 million euros on the club. ALSO READ: Football: England beat Denmark to stand on verge of FIFA World Cup last 16 "Of this amount, 10 million euros is conditional and will only be enforced if the club's annual financial statements for the financial years 2023, 2024 and 2025 do not comply with the accounting requirements," UEFA added. Juventus, who qualified for the Conference League playoff round after finishing seventh in Serie A last term, said they had waived the right to appeal that decision but maintained their innocence. "We do not share the interpretation that has been given of our defense, and we remain firmly convinced of the legitimacy of our actions and the validity of our arguments. However, we have decided not to appeal this judgment," Juventus Chairman Gianluca Ferrero said. Ferrero added that Juventus' decision not to appeal was in line with the policy they employed during a settlement with Italy's soccer federation (FIGC) in May, where they opted to pay a fine of 718,000 euros and not challenge a 10-point penalty. "As in that case, we prefer to put an end to the period of uncertainty and ensure full visibility and certainty to our internal and external stakeholders about the club's participation in future international competitions," Ferrero said. "Lodging an appeal, possibly to other levels of judgement, with uncertain outcomes and timing, would increase the uncertainty with respect to our eventual participation in the 2024-25 UEFA Champions League." The Conference League qualifying rounds for the 2023-24 season started earlier this month. CHELSEA SETTLEMENT UEFA also reached a settlement with Chelsea over the submission of incomplete financial information, related to "historical transactions" between 2012-19 - prior to the London club's acquisition by the Boehly-Clearlake consortium in 2022. "Following the club's sale in May 2022, the new ownership identified, and proactively reported to UEFA, instances of potentially incomplete financial reporting under the club’s previous ownership," UEFA said. "Following its assessment, including the applicable statute of limitations, the CFCB First Chamber entered into a settlement agreement with the club which has agreed to pay a financial contribution of 10 million euros to fully resolve the reported matters." Chelsea, who finished 12th in the Premier League following a chaotic campaign, will not be competing in Europe in 2023-24. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Juventus excluded from European competition next season over FFP breach - UEFA

IN PICS| Leonardo Bonnuci-Juventus' love story and an imminent break up

Chelsea have intensified their search for a new striker this summer. The club officials have already had discussions with Juventus regarding a potential transfer deal for Dusan Vlahovic. Juventus failed to qualify for next season’s Champions League. As a result, many players are understood to have started finding other clubs in order to get in on the Champions League action. A report published by Gazzetta dello Sport has claimed that Chelsea held talks with Juventus director Giovanni Manna regarding Vlahovic’s possible signing. It is being learnt that the Serie A side has been told that they can choose from a list of Chelsea players, plus cash, for Vlahovic as a part of a swap deal. The report also mentions that the Old Lady will be asking for at least €80 million to sell Vlahovic.

<h2>Who are the five players?</h2>

Christian Pulisic, Romelu Lukaku, &nbsp;Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Trevoh Chalobah, and Kalidou Koulibaly are believed to have been offered by Chelsea to Juventus. Lukaku's presence on this list is certainly surprising especially given the fact that the Blues had paid a club-record fee of £97.5 million to sign the Belgian striker from Inter Milan in 2021.

As for Vlahovic, the forward has made 63 appearances so far. The Serbian has till now found the back of the net on 23 occasions. In the latest Serie A season, Vlahovic recorded 10 goals and two assists. German giants Bayern Munich are also reportedly willing to rope in the 23-year-old this summer. In international football, Vlahovic has netted 13 goals in 21 appearances.

<h2>Kai Havertz transfer update</h2>

Apart from the five above-mentioned players, Kai Havertz and Mason Mount are reportedly on the verge of departing Chelsea this summer. According to The Guardian, Arsenal are interested in signing Havertz. The report suggests that the Gunners have emerged as strong contenders to land the German international this summer. Manchester United, on the other hand, tabled an offer worth £40million to acquire the services of Mount. According to The Telegraph, Chelsea rejected Manchester United’s opening offer. Erik ten Hag's side remain confident that the English international will not be signing a new contract with Chelsea. Mount’s contract is set to expire in June 2024.

After suffering a dismal Premier League outing last season, Chelsea will aim to kick off their next campaign with renewed vigour under Mauricio Pochettino. In their last Premier League campaign, Chelsea could manage to secure a 12th-placed finish.

Chelsea have intensified their search for a new striker this summer. The club officials have already had discussions with Juventus regarding a potential transfer deal for Dusan Vlahovic.

Chelsea have intensified their search for a new striker this summer. The club officials have already had discussions with Juventus regarding a potential transfer deal for Dusan Vlahovic. Juventus failed to qualify for next season’s Champions League. As a result, many players are understood to have started finding other clubs in order to get in on the Champions League action. A report published by Gazzetta dello Sport has claimed that Chelsea held talks with Juventus director Giovanni Manna regarding Vlahovic’s possible signing. It is being learnt that the Serie A side has been told that they can choose from a list of Chelsea players, plus cash, for Vlahovic as a part of a swap deal. The report also mentions that the Old Lady will be asking for at least €80 million to sell Vlahovic. Who are the five players? Christian Pulisic, Romelu Lukaku, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Trevoh Chalobah, and Kalidou Koulibaly are believed to have been offered by Chelsea to Juventus. Lukaku's presence on this list is certainly surprising especially given the fact that the Blues had paid a club-record fee of £97.5 million to sign the Belgian striker from Inter Milan in 2021. As for Vlahovic, the forward has made 63 appearances so far. The Serbian has till now found the back of the net on 23 occasions. In the latest Serie A season, Vlahovic recorded 10 goals and two assists. German giants Bayern Munich are also reportedly willing to rope in the 23-year-old this summer. In international football, Vlahovic has netted 13 goals in 21 appearances. Kai Havertz transfer update Apart from the five above-mentioned players, Kai Havertz and Mason Mount are reportedly on the verge of departing Chelsea this summer. According to The Guardian, Arsenal are interested in signing Havertz. The report suggests that the Gunners have emerged as strong contenders to land the German international this summer. Manchester United, on the other hand, tabled an offer worth £40million to acquire the services of Mount. According to The Telegraph, Chelsea rejected Manchester United’s opening offer. Erik ten Hag's side remain confident that the English international will not be signing a new contract with Chelsea. Mount’s contract is set to expire in June 2024. After suffering a dismal Premier League outing last season, Chelsea will aim to kick off their next campaign with renewed vigour under Mauricio Pochettino. In their last Premier League campaign, Chelsea could manage to secure a 12th-placed finish.

Chelsea prepare swap deal to sign Juventus forward Dusan Vlahovic: Report

Argentine World Cup winner player Angel Di Maria has left Italian giants Juventus after one year, bringing to an end his short stint at the helm of the record Serie A champions on Wednesday (June 7). Juventus, who finished seventh in the Serie A after a point deduction, signed Di Maria on a free transfer in 2022 after his contract with Paris Saint-Germain came to an end. He is now anticipated to move to the Saudi Pro League, where his former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema now resides after a big-money move to Al-Ittihad.

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<h2>Di Maria bids Farewell</h2>

“I have come to the end of a difficult and complicated period,” wrote Di Maria on Instagram.

“I leave safe in the knowledge I gave my all for the club to continue winning titles, but it was not possible. I leave with a bitter taste at not having succeeded, but with the joy of bringing with me many friends in this marvellous locker room that I was part of.

“Thank you to all my teammates for the affection they showed me from the first day, I always felt at home. I salute all the Juventini for their daily affection.

“A big hug. I will carry you in my heart.”

<h2>Di Maria’s time at Juve</h2>

The decision was largely influenced by Juventus’ inability to qualify for the Champions League next campaign. The club had a decent season in Serie A before a point deduction saw them finish seventh in the league. They will play in the UEFA Conference League next season and could face further sanctions if they are found guilty of different charges for which an investigation is underway.

Di Maria’s Juventus also faced a poor season in the Champions League where they faced elimination in the group stage. Their demotion in the Europa League was the silver lining as they made it to the semifinals before eventual champions Sevilla got the better of them.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-virat-kohli-hopes-for-another-rohit-sharma-century-at-the-oval-601649">WTC Final: Virat Kohli hopes for another Rohit Sharma century at the Oval</a>

It is now expected that Di Maria could follow in the footsteps of Karim Benzema in the Saudi Pro League. There are also talks of N’Golo Kante’s departure from Chelsea to Saudi Arabia as reports have suggested he could join the league after a delegation of the Al-Ittihad arrived in London.

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Argentine World Cup winner player Angel Di Maria has left Italian giants Juventus after one year, bringing to an end his short stint at the helm of the record Serie A champions on Wednesday (June 7).

Argentine World Cup winner player Angel Di Maria has left Italian giants Juventus after one year, bringing to an end his short stint at the helm of the record Serie A champions on Wednesday (June 7). Juventus, who finished seventh in the Serie A after a point deduction, signed Di Maria on a free transfer in 2022 after his contract with Paris Saint-Germain came to an end. He is now anticipated to move to the Saudi Pro League, where his former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema now resides after a big-money move to Al-Ittihad. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ángel Di María (@angeldimariajm) Di Maria bids Farewell “I have come to the end of a difficult and complicated period,” wrote Di Maria on Instagram. “I leave safe in the knowledge I gave my all for the club to continue winning titles, but it was not possible. I leave with a bitter taste at not having succeeded, but with the joy of bringing with me many friends in this marvellous locker room that I was part of. “Thank you to all my teammates for the affection they showed me from the first day, I always felt at home. I salute all the Juventini for their daily affection. “A big hug. I will carry you in my heart.” Di Maria’s time at Juve The decision was largely influenced by Juventus’ inability to qualify for the Champions League next campaign. The club had a decent season in Serie A before a point deduction saw them finish seventh in the league. They will play in the UEFA Conference League next season and could face further sanctions if they are found guilty of different charges for which an investigation is underway. Di Maria’s Juventus also faced a poor season in the Champions League where they faced elimination in the group stage. Their demotion in the Europa League was the silver lining as they made it to the semifinals before eventual champions Sevilla got the better of them. ALSO READ | WTC Final: Virat Kohli hopes for another Rohit Sharma century at the Oval It is now expected that Di Maria could follow in the footsteps of Karim Benzema in the Saudi Pro League. There are also talks of N’Golo Kante’s departure from Chelsea to Saudi Arabia as reports have suggested he could join the league after a delegation of the Al-Ittihad arrived in London. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Serie A: Angel Di Maria leaves Juventus after one season, likely to follow Karim Benzema in Saudi Pro League

Juventus escaped an additional Serie A points deduction but agreed to pay a fine of more than 700,000 euros ($751,000) for lying about players foregoing wages during the Covid-19 pandemic after a plea bargain approved Tuesday by the Italian Football Federation tribunal. The plea deal, which Juventus had requested, brings to an end a series of cases in Italy's sporting courts involving the Turin club.

<h2>Juventus avoid point deduction</h2>

Last week they were given a 10-point deduction in Serie A after a revision of their initial 15-point penalty inflicted on the club over illicit transfer activity. Juventus have agreed not to appeal that penalty as part of Tuesday's deal. The disciplinary tribunal of the Italian federation (FIGC) said in a published decision that it had fined the troubled club 718,240 euros, while seven of its management figures were ordered to pay fines ranging from 47,000 euros to 10,000 euros.&nbsp;

Excluded from the plea agreement, however, is former chairman Andrea Agnelli, who jointly requested along with prosecutors that his hearing be postponed to June 15, given what the tribunal called "advanced talks" on potential sanctions.

The federation had been tasked with considering the deferred payment of certain players' wages by the club and its key figures, as part of a wide-ranging scandal involving false accounting and transfer trickery that has rocked Italian football.

Newspaper La Stampa, which, like Juventus, is owned by the Agnelli family, wrote on Tuesday that the club had accepted the deal to avoid another points deduction, which could have pushed it further away from the European places in Serie A.

Juventus are seventh in Serie A with one game of the season remaining, after the imposition of the 10-point deduction.

If they hold that position on the final day, they will qualify for next season's Europa Conference League, but they still have a chance of finishing as high as fifth and going into the Europa League.

Juve faces separate criminal proceedings in the affair, with 12 current and former key club figures including former chairman Agnelli potentially facing trial.&nbsp;

<h2>Losses artificially reduced</h2>

The plea bargain agreed Tuesday relates to the Turin club having communicated that players were giving up salary payments during the pandemic in 2020, while privately assuring those players they would only miss out on a portion of what was publicly announced.&nbsp;

In doing so, Juve was able to artificially reduce losses in the club's annual balance sheets during the pandemic, when matches were cancelled and revenue plummeted.

Agnelli, his ex-deputy chairman Pavel Nedved, and the rest of the club's board resigned in November following the probe by Italian authorities into the accounting irregularities.

In its decision, the tribunal said that the individual "F.P." would be fined 47,000 euros, and "P.N." 35,250 euros -- referring to Juve's former sporting director Fabio Paratici, and Nedved, respectively.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-to-dedicate-this-win-to-one-of-the-special-members-of-the-team-ms-dhoni-jadeja-after-csks-5th-ipl-title-598217">Want to dedicate this win to one of the special members of the team MS Dhoni: Jadeja after CSK's 5th IPL title</a>

A 15-point penalty inflicted by the FIGC's appeals court in January against Juve for overstating capital gains on player sales was revoked in April by Italy's highest sporting court, the Sports Guarantee Board.&nbsp;

It was then revised to 10 points by the federation's appeals court on May 22.

In January, the federation hit both Agnelli and ex-CEO Maurizio Arrivabene with two-year bans, handing sporting director Federico Cherubini a ban of 16 months.

Former sporting director Paratici, who had left Juve for Tottenham Hotspur, was banned for two-and-a-half years, a decision that was extended worldwide by FIFA in March.&nbsp;

Juve icon Nedved, originally banned for eight months, was acquitted by the appeals court in May.&nbsp;

On the criminal front, Italian news agencies have reported that a court hearing on October 26 will determine whether any possible trial will be held in Turin, where the investigation has been based, or Milan or Rome.&nbsp;

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Juventus escaped an additional Serie A points deduction but agreed to pay a fine of more than 700,000 euros ($751,000) for lying about players foregoing wages during the Covid-19 pandemic after a plea bargain approved Tuesday by the Italian Football Federation tribunal.

Juventus escaped an additional Serie A points deduction but agreed to pay a fine of more than 700,000 euros ($751,000) for lying about players foregoing wages during the Covid-19 pandemic after a plea bargain approved Tuesday by the Italian Football Federation tribunal. The plea deal, which Juventus had requested, brings to an end a series of cases in Italy's sporting courts involving the Turin club. Juventus avoid point deduction Last week they were given a 10-point deduction in Serie A after a revision of their initial 15-point penalty inflicted on the club over illicit transfer activity. Juventus have agreed not to appeal that penalty as part of Tuesday's deal. The disciplinary tribunal of the Italian federation (FIGC) said in a published decision that it had fined the troubled club 718,240 euros, while seven of its management figures were ordered to pay fines ranging from 47,000 euros to 10,000 euros. Excluded from the plea agreement, however, is former chairman Andrea Agnelli, who jointly requested along with prosecutors that his hearing be postponed to June 15, given what the tribunal called "advanced talks" on potential sanctions. The federation had been tasked with considering the deferred payment of certain players' wages by the club and its key figures, as part of a wide-ranging scandal involving false accounting and transfer trickery that has rocked Italian football. Newspaper La Stampa, which, like Juventus, is owned by the Agnelli family, wrote on Tuesday that the club had accepted the deal to avoid another points deduction, which could have pushed it further away from the European places in Serie A. Juventus are seventh in Serie A with one game of the season remaining, after the imposition of the 10-point deduction. If they hold that position on the final day, they will qualify for next season's Europa Conference League, but they still have a chance of finishing as high as fifth and going into the Europa League. Juve faces separate criminal proceedings in the affair, with 12 current and former key club figures including former chairman Agnelli potentially facing trial. Losses artificially reduced The plea bargain agreed Tuesday relates to the Turin club having communicated that players were giving up salary payments during the pandemic in 2020, while privately assuring those players they would only miss out on a portion of what was publicly announced. In doing so, Juve was able to artificially reduce losses in the club's annual balance sheets during the pandemic, when matches were cancelled and revenue plummeted. Agnelli, his ex-deputy chairman Pavel Nedved, and the rest of the club's board resigned in November following the probe by Italian authorities into the accounting irregularities. In its decision, the tribunal said that the individual "F.P." would be fined 47,000 euros, and "P.N." 35,250 euros -- referring to Juve's former sporting director Fabio Paratici, and Nedved, respectively. ALSO READ | Want to dedicate this win to one of the special members of the team MS Dhoni: Jadeja after CSK's 5th IPL title A 15-point penalty inflicted by the FIGC's appeals court in January against Juve for overstating capital gains on player sales was revoked in April by Italy's highest sporting court, the Sports Guarantee Board. It was then revised to 10 points by the federation's appeals court on May 22. In January, the federation hit both Agnelli and ex-CEO Maurizio Arrivabene with two-year bans, handing sporting director Federico Cherubini a ban of 16 months. Former sporting director Paratici, who had left Juve for Tottenham Hotspur, was banned for two-and-a-half years, a decision that was extended worldwide by FIFA in March. Juve icon Nedved, originally banned for eight months, was acquitted by the appeals court in May. On the criminal front, Italian news agencies have reported that a court hearing on October 26 will determine whether any possible trial will be held in Turin, where the investigation has been based, or Milan or Rome. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Serie A: Juventus fined, avoid points deduction in false accounting trial

Juventus are seeking a plea deal to avoid further points deduction in Serie A having been found guilty of alleged irregularities in its payment of players' salaries. Juventus docked 10 points in the current Serie A campaign are facing a Champions League exile as a result of the points deduction. As things stand, Juventus are trying to avoid further sanctions which could see them miss out on European football altogether next season.

<h2>Juve's points deduction plea</h2>

According to a source from Reuters, a hearing with a court at the Italian Soccer Federation (FIGC) has been brought forward to Tuesday, the source added. It had initially been scheduled to be heard on June 15. Currently, the club is trying to avoid further sanctions and would like to pay a hefty fine and get penalised for the current Serie A campaign. According to several news outlets in Italy, the most successful domestic club is determined to get its slate cleared for all the sanctions and enter the 2023-24 campaign with no backlogs.

The report also adds that UEFA could also forfeit Juve's place in next season's Conference League if they face probe in a separate investigation from the European governing body. As things stand, Juve would prefer all the sanctions take place this season, which will see them serve all the penalties.

The club has been docked off 10 points already in the season for a probe regarding account issues while their 15-point points reduction was recently overturned and saw them return to Champions League place before facing another axe.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-to-dedicate-this-win-to-one-of-the-special-members-of-the-team-ms-dhoni-jadeja-after-csks-5th-ipl-title-598217">Want to dedicate this win to one of the special members of the team MS Dhoni: Jadeja after CSK's 5th IPL title</a>

The club has previously denied wrongdoing and said its accounts are in line with the football industry practices.

Inquiries by sports authorities were triggered by investigations from criminal prosecutors in Turin, where the club is based, in a case regarding alleged false accounting.

As part of this case, former Chairman Andrea Agnelli, 11 other people, and the club itself risk standing trial.

Currently, Juventus are seventh and could still finish fifth if results go their way on the final day of the season. They lost to Sevilla in the Europa League semifinal and missed the backdoor to make the Champions League next season.&nbsp;

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Juventus are seeking a plea deal to avoid further points deduction in Serie A having been found guilty of alleged irregularities in its payment of players' salaries.

Juventus are seeking a plea deal to avoid further points deduction in Serie A having been found guilty of alleged irregularities in its payment of players' salaries. Juventus docked 10 points in the current Serie A campaign are facing a Champions League exile as a result of the points deduction. As things stand, Juventus are trying to avoid further sanctions which could see them miss out on European football altogether next season. Juve's points deduction plea According to a source from Reuters, a hearing with a court at the Italian Soccer Federation (FIGC) has been brought forward to Tuesday, the source added. It had initially been scheduled to be heard on June 15. Currently, the club is trying to avoid further sanctions and would like to pay a hefty fine and get penalised for the current Serie A campaign. According to several news outlets in Italy, the most successful domestic club is determined to get its slate cleared for all the sanctions and enter the 2023-24 campaign with no backlogs. The report also adds that UEFA could also forfeit Juve's place in next season's Conference League if they face probe in a separate investigation from the European governing body. As things stand, Juve would prefer all the sanctions take place this season, which will see them serve all the penalties. The club has been docked off 10 points already in the season for a probe regarding account issues while their 15-point points reduction was recently overturned and saw them return to Champions League place before facing another axe. ALSO READ | Want to dedicate this win to one of the special members of the team MS Dhoni: Jadeja after CSK's 5th IPL title The club has previously denied wrongdoing and said its accounts are in line with the football industry practices. Inquiries by sports authorities were triggered by investigations from criminal prosecutors in Turin, where the club is based, in a case regarding alleged false accounting. As part of this case, former Chairman Andrea Agnelli, 11 other people, and the club itself risk standing trial. Currently, Juventus are seventh and could still finish fifth if results go their way on the final day of the season. They lost to Sevilla in the Europa League semifinal and missed the backdoor to make the Champions League next season. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Juventus seek plea deal to avoid further points deduction in alleged irregularities over player salaries

Olivier Giroud secured Champions League qualification for AC Milan with the only goal in Sunday's 1-0 win at troubled Juventus.

Giroud guided home a brilliant header from Davide Calabria's cross in the 40th minute to guarantee Milan at least fourth place and complete Italy's line-up in Europe's top club competition next season.

It was the one moment of quality in an otherwise drab match in Turin&nbsp;in which little of consequence happened apart from Giroud's 12th league goal of the season.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-max-verstappen-extends-lead-with-dominant-victory-in-monaco-rain-597585">Formula One: Max Verstappen extends lead with dominant victory in Monaco rain</a>

Stefano Pioli's side, who were knocked out of this year's Champions League in the semi-finals by Inter Milan, join their local rivals, Lazio and champions Napoli on the continent's big stage.

They are six points ahead of fifth-placed Atalanta with one match left in what has been a long season&nbsp;and one in which their title defence collapsed after the World Cup.

"This was the first time we truly tried to be competitive in two tournaments and we were lacking something," said Pioli.&nbsp;

"We can enjoy the win and qualification, but it was a strange season for many reasons."

Juve meanwhile stay seventh and in the Europa Conference League spot after being deducted 10 points for illicit transfer activity by the Italian Football Federation on Monday.

Massimiliano Allegri's side can still reach the Europa League spots as they are one point behind Roma in sixth, although the spectre of more punishment for financial irregularities hangs over the Turin giants.

<h2>Lecce safe</h2>

Lecce ensured Serie A survival after late penalty drama gave them a 1-0 win over Monza, while a crushing late draw with Empoli took Verona's survival battle to the final day.

Lorenzo Colombo rammed home the spot-kick which maintained Lecce's Serie A status in the 11th minute of stoppage time after Christian Gytkjaer was penalised for handball following a VAR check.

Former Denmark forward Gytkjaer had a penalty of his own saved by Wladimiro&nbsp;Falcone with six minutes of regular time remaining.

That allowed Colombo to fire Lecce five points clear of the drop zone and cause coach Marco Baroni to sink to his knees in joy and grief for his recently deceased father.

"I thought about my father because I lost him recently... I felt him by my side in that moment," Baroni told DAZN.

Verona sit in the final relegation spot after a gut-wrenching Giangiacomo Magnani own goal in the sixth minute of injury time which snatched a 1-1 draw for safe Empoli.

They are level on 31 points with 17th-placed Spezia, whom they might have to face in a play-off devised this season to decide who ends up in 18th place between teams who finish on the same points.

<h2>Osimhen not enough</h2>

Victor Osimhen's brace wasn't enough for Napoli as the newly-crowned Italian champions threw away a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Bologna.

Nigeria forward Osimhen took his season's tally to 30 in all competitions with finishes in the 14th and 54th minutes.

However Lewis Ferguson pulled one back in the 63rd minute and Lorenzo De Silvestri headed the hosts level in his final home match as a Bologna player.&nbsp;

Napoli won their first league title since 1990 this season but owner Aurelio De Laurentiis said that coach Luciano Spalletti will leave to take a year's sabbatical.

"He's a free man, he's given us something and I thank him, it's right that he does what he wants," said De Laurentiis to state broadcaster Rai.

Sergej Milinkovic-Savic's 89th-minute winner in a 3-2 success over relegated Cremonese reclaimed second spot for Lazio.

Serbia midfielder Milinkovic-Savic&nbsp;had put Lazio two goals ahead at half-time but Pablo Galdames and a Manuel Lazzari own goal had the away side level within four second-half minutes just before the hour mark.

His late winner puts Lazio two points ahead of Inter with the two teams travelling to Empoli and Torino respectively on the final day.

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Olivier Giroud secured Champions League qualification for AC Milan with the only goal in Sunday's 1-0 win at troubled Juventus. Giroud guided home a brilliant header from Davide Calabria's cross in the 40th minute to guarantee Milan at least fourth place and complete Italy's line-up in Europe's top club competition next season.

Olivier Giroud secured Champions League qualification for AC Milan with the only goal in Sunday's 1-0 win at troubled Juventus. Giroud guided home a brilliant header from Davide Calabria's cross in the 40th minute to guarantee Milan at least fourth place and complete Italy's line-up in Europe's top club competition next season. It was the one moment of quality in an otherwise drab match in Turin in which little of consequence happened apart from Giroud's 12th league goal of the season. Also Read: Formula One: Max Verstappen extends lead with dominant victory in Monaco rain Stefano Pioli's side, who were knocked out of this year's Champions League in the semi-finals by Inter Milan, join their local rivals, Lazio and champions Napoli on the continent's big stage. They are six points ahead of fifth-placed Atalanta with one match left in what has been a long season and one in which their title defence collapsed after the World Cup. "This was the first time we truly tried to be competitive in two tournaments and we were lacking something," said Pioli. "We can enjoy the win and qualification, but it was a strange season for many reasons." Juve meanwhile stay seventh and in the Europa Conference League spot after being deducted 10 points for illicit transfer activity by the Italian Football Federation on Monday. Massimiliano Allegri's side can still reach the Europa League spots as they are one point behind Roma in sixth, although the spectre of more punishment for financial irregularities hangs over the Turin giants. Lecce safe Lecce ensured Serie A survival after late penalty drama gave them a 1-0 win over Monza, while a crushing late draw with Empoli took Verona's survival battle to the final day. Lorenzo Colombo rammed home the spot-kick which maintained Lecce's Serie A status in the 11th minute of stoppage time after Christian Gytkjaer was penalised for handball following a VAR check. Former Denmark forward Gytkjaer had a penalty of his own saved by Wladimiro Falcone with six minutes of regular time remaining. That allowed Colombo to fire Lecce five points clear of the drop zone and cause coach Marco Baroni to sink to his knees in joy and grief for his recently deceased father. "I thought about my father because I lost him recently... I felt him by my side in that moment," Baroni told DAZN. Verona sit in the final relegation spot after a gut-wrenching Giangiacomo Magnani own goal in the sixth minute of injury time which snatched a 1-1 draw for safe Empoli. They are level on 31 points with 17th-placed Spezia, whom they might have to face in a play-off devised this season to decide who ends up in 18th place between teams who finish on the same points. Osimhen not enough Victor Osimhen's brace wasn't enough for Napoli as the newly-crowned Italian champions threw away a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Bologna. Nigeria forward Osimhen took his season's tally to 30 in all competitions with finishes in the 14th and 54th minutes. However Lewis Ferguson pulled one back in the 63rd minute and Lorenzo De Silvestri headed the hosts level in his final home match as a Bologna player. Napoli won their first league title since 1990 this season but owner Aurelio De Laurentiis said that coach Luciano Spalletti will leave to take a year's sabbatical. "He's a free man, he's given us something and I thank him, it's right that he does what he wants," said De Laurentiis to state broadcaster Rai. Sergej Milinkovic-Savic's 89th-minute winner in a 3-2 success over relegated Cremonese reclaimed second spot for Lazio. Serbia midfielder Milinkovic-Savic had put Lazio two goals ahead at half-time but Pablo Galdames and a Manuel Lazzari own goal had the away side level within four second-half minutes just before the hour mark. His late winner puts Lazio two points ahead of Inter with the two teams travelling to Empoli and Torino respectively on the final day. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Serie A: Giroud's goal against Juventus puts AC Milan in Champions League

Europa League thoroughbreds Sevilla recovered to reach another final as substitute Erik Lamela's fabulous header five minutes into extra time earned a gritty 2-1 win in a pulsating affair against Juventus on Thursday, securing a 3-2 aggregate victory.

The Spaniards will bid for a record-extending seventh Europa League title when they face AS Roma in the final in Budapest on May 31, after Jose Mourinho’s side drew 0-0 at Bayer Leverkusen to secure a 1-0 aggregate victory in their semi-final.

Juventus, who were held to a 1-1 draw by Sevilla in the first leg in Turin, looked on course to reach the final when substitute Dusan Vlahovic scored with a tidy finish in the 65th minute at the Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium. But midfielder Suso levelled six minutes later with a stunning long-range strike to take the game into extra time.

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Argentine Lamela then wrapped up the win when he leapt in a crowded area and sent a towering header into the net to delight the fans who refused to leave the stadium for ages after the match ended, celebrating with their jubilant players.

It was a cathartic night at Seville as the Europa League kings worked their magic yet again in their favourite competition after a difficult season.

Languishing in the bottom half of LaLiga for a large part of a season in which two managers were fired, Sevilla rediscovered their mojo after exiting the Champions League and beat PSV Eindhoven, Fenerbahce and Manchester United before downing Juve.

"This is madness, incredible, it's time to enjoy this amazing moment," Sevilla captain Jesus Navas told Movistar Plus. "The fans have been incredible and they deserve everything. We have shown the courage we have inside of us to recover after going through some rough months. 
"The courage of the fans has carried us and we are here again in another European final. It's been my team since I was a kid, living every game with so much passion. It's our turn to enjoy."

DOMINANT SEVILLA

Like in the first leg in Turin, when Sevilla were in control but allowed their rivals to equalise in added time, they dominated possession again on Thursday roared on by a raucous atmosphere at a sold-out Sanchez Pizjuan stadium.

Juve goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny was arguably the best player on the field in the first half, making several critical saves including a one-handed stop to keep out Navas' diving header from close range.

But just as the hosts were in full control and missing chances, Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic scored the opener three minutes after coming off the bench.

He ran at defenders Nemanja Gudelj and Loic Bade, who hesitated for a second and allowed the Serbia international to win the challenge and beat flailing goalkeeper Bono with a cool dinked finish.

But Sevilla hit back soon after through Suso's strike that whistled into the top corner to light up the fans, who roared their team on as they put relentless pressure on Juve until Lamela scored the winner in extra time.

The only downside for Sevilla was that left back Marcos Acuna was sent off extra time for time wasting after a second yellow card and will miss the Budapest final.

Europa League thoroughbreds Sevilla recovered to reach another final as substitute Erik Lamela's fabulous header five minutes into extra time earned a gritty 2-1 win in a pulsating affair against Juventus on Thursday, securing a 3-2 aggregate victory.

Europa League thoroughbreds Sevilla recovered to reach another final as substitute Erik Lamela's fabulous header five minutes into extra time earned a gritty 2-1 win in a pulsating affair against Juventus on Thursday, securing a 3-2 aggregate victory. The Spaniards will bid for a record-extending seventh Europa League title when they face AS Roma in the final in Budapest on May 31, after Jose Mourinho’s side drew 0-0 at Bayer Leverkusen to secure a 1-0 aggregate victory in their semi-final. Juventus, who were held to a 1-1 draw by Sevilla in the first leg in Turin, looked on course to reach the final when substitute Dusan Vlahovic scored with a tidy finish in the 65th minute at the Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium. But midfielder Suso levelled six minutes later with a stunning long-range strike to take the game into extra time. ALSO READ: Premier League: Jurgen Klopp given two-match touchline ban for referee rant Argentine Lamela then wrapped up the win when he leapt in a crowded area and sent a towering header into the net to delight the fans who refused to leave the stadium for ages after the match ended, celebrating with their jubilant players. It was a cathartic night at Seville as the Europa League kings worked their magic yet again in their favourite competition after a difficult season. Languishing in the bottom half of LaLiga for a large part of a season in which two managers were fired, Sevilla rediscovered their mojo after exiting the Champions League and beat PSV Eindhoven, Fenerbahce and Manchester United before downing Juve. "This is madness, incredible, it's time to enjoy this amazing moment," Sevilla captain Jesus Navas told Movistar Plus. "The fans have been incredible and they deserve everything. We have shown the courage we have inside of us to recover after going through some rough months. "The courage of the fans has carried us and we are here again in another European final. It's been my team since I was a kid, living every game with so much passion. It's our turn to enjoy." DOMINANT SEVILLA Like in the first leg in Turin, when Sevilla were in control but allowed their rivals to equalise in added time, they dominated possession again on Thursday roared on by a raucous atmosphere at a sold-out Sanchez Pizjuan stadium. Juve goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny was arguably the best player on the field in the first half, making several critical saves including a one-handed stop to keep out Navas' diving header from close range. But just as the hosts were in full control and missing chances, Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic scored the opener three minutes after coming off the bench. He ran at defenders Nemanja Gudelj and Loic Bade, who hesitated for a second and allowed the Serbia international to win the challenge and beat flailing goalkeeper Bono with a cool dinked finish. But Sevilla hit back soon after through Suso's strike that whistled into the top corner to light up the fans, who roared their team on as they put relentless pressure on Juve until Lamela scored the winner in extra time. The only downside for Sevilla was that left back Marcos Acuna was sent off extra time for time wasting after a second yellow card and will miss the Budapest final.

Europa League semis: Sevilla beat Italian giants Juventus to setup summit clash with AS Roma

Juventus&nbsp;on Monday were given a 10-point deduction in Serie A after a revision of their initial 15-point penalty inflicted on the club over illicit transfer activity.

The new sanction, announced by the Italian Football Federation's (FIGC) appeals court, dents&nbsp;Juventus' hopes of qualifying for next season's Champions League, pushing them out of the top four with three matches remaining this season.

In April, Italy's highest sporting court, the Sports Guarantee Board, revoked Juve's 15-point penalty inflicted by the FIGC's appeals court and sent the case for a new judgement.

It asked the appeals court to revise punishments handed down to the club and some key figures, including former vice-chairman Pavel Nedved.

Juventus&nbsp;said they "reserve the right" to appeal the latest decision to the Sports Guarantee Board.

"While not ignoring the need for urgency, which&nbsp;Juventus&nbsp;has never shied away from during the proceedings, it is emphasised that these are facts that still have to be evaluated by a judge," the Turin giants said on Twitter.

Long bans given to former chairman Andrea Agnelli, ex-CEO Maurizio Arrivabene and sporting directors Federico Cherubini and Fabio Paratici were upheld in April.

But&nbsp;Juventus' hopes that the points deduction would be completely cancelled were quashed on Monday.

Massimiliano Allegri's men, who were second in the top flight, drop to seventh in the table.

Juve are now five points behind fourth-placed AC Milan ahead of their game in hand later Monday at Empoli.

The 'Old Lady' host Champions League losing semi-finalists Milan in their penultimate match of the campaign this weekend.

Juve then visit Udinese in their final match of the season on June 4.

The decision by the FIGC also means that Lazio, who have replaced Juve in second place, will qualify for the Champions League group stage for the first time since 2020 and only the second time since 2007 if&nbsp;Juventus&nbsp;fail to beat Empoli.

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Official: Juventus incurred a deduction of 10 Serie A points following the verdict by Federal Court of Appeal pertaining to the capital gains scandal. ⚪️⚫️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SerieA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SerieA</a> <a href="https://t.co/foZZqZqH5H">pic.twitter.com/foZZqZqH5H</a>
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Inter Milan, who moved into third, Atlanta and Roma have all also jumped one place in the Serie A standings.

Juventus&nbsp;are also embroiled in criminal proceedings over their accounting practices with 12 current and former key club figures including Agnelli potentially facing trial.

According to Italian news agencies a high court hearing on October 26 will decide whether any eventual trial will be held in Turin, where the investigation has taken place, or in either Milan or Rome.

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Juventus on Monday were given a 10-point deduction in Serie A after a revision of their initial 15-point penalty inflicted on the club over illicit transfer activity.

Juventus on Monday were given a 10-point deduction in Serie A after a revision of their initial 15-point penalty inflicted on the club over illicit transfer activity. The new sanction, announced by the Italian Football Federation's (FIGC) appeals court, dents Juventus' hopes of qualifying for next season's Champions League, pushing them out of the top four with three matches remaining this season. In April, Italy's highest sporting court, the Sports Guarantee Board, revoked Juve's 15-point penalty inflicted by the FIGC's appeals court and sent the case for a new judgement. It asked the appeals court to revise punishments handed down to the club and some key figures, including former vice-chairman Pavel Nedved. Juventus said they "reserve the right" to appeal the latest decision to the Sports Guarantee Board. "While not ignoring the need for urgency, which Juventus has never shied away from during the proceedings, it is emphasised that these are facts that still have to be evaluated by a judge," the Turin giants said on Twitter. Long bans given to former chairman Andrea Agnelli, ex-CEO Maurizio Arrivabene and sporting directors Federico Cherubini and Fabio Paratici were upheld in April. But Juventus' hopes that the points deduction would be completely cancelled were quashed on Monday. Massimiliano Allegri's men, who were second in the top flight, drop to seventh in the table. Juve are now five points behind fourth-placed AC Milan ahead of their game in hand later Monday at Empoli. The 'Old Lady' host Champions League losing semi-finalists Milan in their penultimate match of the campaign this weekend. Juve then visit Udinese in their final match of the season on June 4. The decision by the FIGC also means that Lazio, who have replaced Juve in second place, will qualify for the Champions League group stage for the first time since 2020 and only the second time since 2007 if Juventus fail to beat Empoli. Official: Juventus incurred a deduction of 10 Serie A points following the verdict by Federal Court of Appeal pertaining to the capital gains scandal. ⚪️⚫️ #SerieA pic.twitter.com/foZZqZqH5H — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 22, 2023 × Inter Milan, who moved into third, Atlanta and Roma have all also jumped one place in the Serie A standings. Juventus are also embroiled in criminal proceedings over their accounting practices with 12 current and former key club figures including Agnelli potentially facing trial. According to Italian news agencies a high court hearing on October 26 will decide whether any eventual trial will be held in Turin, where the investigation has taken place, or in either Milan or Rome. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Juventus deducted 10 points after initial penalty revised

Juventus and Sevilla will go head-to-head in the second leg of the Europa League on Thursday, May 18 evening as they meet at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan Stadium. With the affairs at 1-1, both teams will stand an equal chance of making it to the final at the Puskás Aréna in Budapest on 31st May. On the other hand, current Europa Conference League holders AS Roma will take on German powerhouse Bayer Leverkusen where the Italian side will come with a 1-0 advantage.

<h2>Sevilla eye another glory</h2>

If Sevilla can win the competition this year it will be their seventh title in the competition since the turn of the millennium. The incentive added for them will be the fact that they will have to win the competition to reach the Champions League next term. José Luis Mendilibar’s side has endured a poor campaign in the league but could yet make the campaign successful if they land the European glory which remains the back door to European football for them next season.

On the flip side, Juventus ‘possible 15-point suspended point dedication can yet prompt them from missing out on Europe altogether and will target the Europa League glory to reach the elites. As things stand Massimiliano Allegri’s side is third in the league and were lucky to have come up with a draw in the first leg.

<h2>Team News</h2>

Sevilla will miss the services of Suso, Joan Jordan and Marcao, who all are out due to various injury issues while they will bring back cup goalkeeper Yassine Bounou. Argentine, Lucas Ocampos is also expected to be back in the fold having faced a muscle issue in the first leg. Youssef En-Nesyri should also come back in the team having had a stellar 2023 for the side.

Paul Pogba who recently returned to action last week will once again be on the casualty list after going off injured in the 24th minute over the weekend. Mattia De Sciglio and captain Leonardo Bonucci are also out of commission.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-faf-du-plessis-praises-passionate-kohli-says-playing-with-him-is-better-than-playing-against-him-593606">IPL 2023: Faf du Plessis praises passionate Kohli, says playing with him is better than being in opposite team</a>

In the other semifinal, Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen will take on Jose Mourinho’s AS Roma with both teams’ European qualification for hanging in balance in the league. Roma will carry a 1-0 lead from the first leg where Edoardo Bove scored the only goal of the contest.

<h2>Sevilla possible starting lineup:</h2>

Bounou; Navas, Gudelj, Bade, Acuna; Fernando, Rakitic; Ocampos, Lamela, Gil; En-Nesyri

<h2>Juventus possible starting lineup:</h2>

Szczesny; Danilo, Gatti, Sandro; Cuadrado, Fagioli, Locatelli, Rabiot, Kostic; Di Maria; Vlahovic

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Juventus and Sevilla will go head-to-head in the second leg of the Europa League on Thursday, May 18 evening as they meet at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan Stadium. With the affairs at 1-1, both teams will stand an equal chance of making it to the final at the Puskás Aréna in Budapest on 31st May.

Juventus and Sevilla will go head-to-head in the second leg of the Europa League on Thursday, May 18 evening as they meet at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan Stadium. With the affairs at 1-1, both teams will stand an equal chance of making it to the final at the Puskás Aréna in Budapest on 31st May. On the other hand, current Europa Conference League holders AS Roma will take on German powerhouse Bayer Leverkusen where the Italian side will come with a 1-0 advantage. Sevilla eye another glory If Sevilla can win the competition this year it will be their seventh title in the competition since the turn of the millennium. The incentive added for them will be the fact that they will have to win the competition to reach the Champions League next term. José Luis Mendilibar’s side has endured a poor campaign in the league but could yet make the campaign successful if they land the European glory which remains the back door to European football for them next season. On the flip side, Juventus ‘possible 15-point suspended point dedication can yet prompt them from missing out on Europe altogether and will target the Europa League glory to reach the elites. As things stand Massimiliano Allegri’s side is third in the league and were lucky to have come up with a draw in the first leg. Team News Sevilla will miss the services of Suso, Joan Jordan and Marcao, who all are out due to various injury issues while they will bring back cup goalkeeper Yassine Bounou. Argentine, Lucas Ocampos is also expected to be back in the fold having faced a muscle issue in the first leg. Youssef En-Nesyri should also come back in the team having had a stellar 2023 for the side. Paul Pogba who recently returned to action last week will once again be on the casualty list after going off injured in the 24th minute over the weekend. Mattia De Sciglio and captain Leonardo Bonucci are also out of commission. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: Faf du Plessis praises passionate Kohli, says playing with him is better than being in opposite team In the other semifinal, Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen will take on Jose Mourinho’s AS Roma with both teams’ European qualification for hanging in balance in the league. Roma will carry a 1-0 lead from the first leg where Edoardo Bove scored the only goal of the contest. Sevilla possible starting lineup: Bounou; Navas, Gudelj, Bade, Acuna; Fernando, Rakitic; Ocampos, Lamela, Gil; En-Nesyri Juventus possible starting lineup: Szczesny; Danilo, Gatti, Sandro; Cuadrado, Fagioli, Locatelli, Rabiot, Kostic; Di Maria; Vlahovic WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Europa League: Sevilla eye final berth as Juventus stand in way; Leverkusen host Roma in other SF

Juventus moved up to second in Serie A on Sunday after a 2-0 win at fellow Champions League chasers Atalanta, whose fans racially abused Juve goalscorer Dusan Vlahovic. England youth international, Samuel Iling-Junior netted 55 minutes into his first start in Italy's top flight before Vlahovic finished the job deep in stoppage time with his 10th league goal of a difficult season.

The Serbia forward then goaded a section of the home supporters after having previously being insulted as a "gypsy", abuse which had led to the match being briefly stopped by referee Daniele Doveri.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/luka-modric-to-extend-real-madrid-stay-set-to-sign-new-deal-until-2024-589990">Luka Modric to extend Real Madrid stay, set to sign new deal until 2024</a>

The Italian word for gypsy is often used by sections of football supporters as a slur for players from the Balkans and eastern Europe, regardless of their ethnicity.

"Unfortunately, these chants keep happening, they need to be fought against," said Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri to DAZN. "I think we need to ignore them when they happen and let those in charge take action."

Juve are two points ahead of Lazio who lost at AC Milan on Saturday and, as things stand, have a good chance of making the Champions League next season.

Massimiliano Allegri's side are five points in front of fifth-placed Milan but their hopes of qualifying for Europe's top club competition through league placing depend on an Italian Football Federation (FIGC) ruling on alleged illicit transfer activity.

Last month Italy's highest sporting court revoked a 15-point penalty inflicted on Juve in January by the FIGC's appeals tribunal, who have to come to a new judgement.

Juve can also qualify for the Champions League via the Europa League, with the first leg of their semi-final against Sevilla coming up in Turin on Thursday.

Atalanta's chances of making the top four were hit by their defeat, as Gian Piero Gasperini's side five points behind fourth-placed Inter and in the Europa Conference League spot.

Gasperini tried to play down the abuse Vlahovic received from Atalanta fans, saying that there needed to be "a distinction between insults aimed at an individual and a general racist one".

Later on Sunday, Napoli make their first appearance in front of their home fans since becoming Italian champions for the first time since 1990 when they host Fiorentina.

Juventus moved up to second in Serie A on Sunday after a 2-0 win at fellow Champions League chasers Atalanta, whose fans racially abused Juve goalscorer Dusan Vlahovic.

Juventus moved up to second in Serie A on Sunday after a 2-0 win at fellow Champions League chasers Atalanta, whose fans racially abused Juve goalscorer Dusan Vlahovic. England youth international, Samuel Iling-Junior netted 55 minutes into his first start in Italy's top flight before Vlahovic finished the job deep in stoppage time with his 10th league goal of a difficult season. The Serbia forward then goaded a section of the home supporters after having previously being insulted as a "gypsy", abuse which had led to the match being briefly stopped by referee Daniele Doveri. ALSO READ: Luka Modric to extend Real Madrid stay, set to sign new deal until 2024 The Italian word for gypsy is often used by sections of football supporters as a slur for players from the Balkans and eastern Europe, regardless of their ethnicity. "Unfortunately, these chants keep happening, they need to be fought against," said Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri to DAZN. "I think we need to ignore them when they happen and let those in charge take action." Juve are two points ahead of Lazio who lost at AC Milan on Saturday and, as things stand, have a good chance of making the Champions League next season. Massimiliano Allegri's side are five points in front of fifth-placed Milan but their hopes of qualifying for Europe's top club competition through league placing depend on an Italian Football Federation (FIGC) ruling on alleged illicit transfer activity. Last month Italy's highest sporting court revoked a 15-point penalty inflicted on Juve in January by the FIGC's appeals tribunal, who have to come to a new judgement. Juve can also qualify for the Champions League via the Europa League, with the first leg of their semi-final against Sevilla coming up in Turin on Thursday. Atalanta's chances of making the top four were hit by their defeat, as Gian Piero Gasperini's side five points behind fourth-placed Inter and in the Europa Conference League spot. Gasperini tried to play down the abuse Vlahovic received from Atalanta fans, saying that there needed to be "a distinction between insults aimed at an individual and a general racist one". Later on Sunday, Napoli make their first appearance in front of their home fans since becoming Italian champions for the first time since 1990 when they host Fiorentina.

Serie A: Forward Dusan Vlahovic racially abused as Juventus climb to second spot after 2-0 win over Atalanta

The Italian authorities will impose stadium bans on 171 Juventus fans found to have chanted racist abuse at Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku during a Coppa Italia semi-final earlier this month, police said on Monday (April 24).

Lukaku was subjected to abuse during the first leg at Juventus "before, during, and after the penalty" he scored to earn Inter a 1-1 draw, the player's representatives said.

The police did not specify the length of the bans that the fans would face for the offence. They were identified using video footage from the stadium.

Inter fans also taunted their Juventus rivals during the game with chants referring to the 1985 Heysel stadium disaster, police added.

The police findings will be passed on to the soccer authorities for possible further action.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-csk-skipper-ms-dhoni-makes-big-farewell-statement-after-win-vs-kkr-585540">IPL 2023: CSK skipper MS Dhoni makes big FAREWELL statement after win vs KKR</a>

Lukaku will play in the return leg on Wednesday after his one-match ban was overturned by the president of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) as a measure to fight racism.

Lukaku was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for his goal celebration during which he held his finger up to his mouth to silence Juventus fans.

Romelu Lukaku was seen in great touch over the weekend as his Inter Milan side beat Empoli 3-0 away from home as they try to keep their hopes of a top four finish alive. They currently along with city rivals Ac Milan sit out of the top four, but the two teams will go ahead over two legs in the Champions League semifinals next month.

If either side fails to finish in the top four, they could yet secure a place in the Champions League next season if they win the competition. The tie will be the second time AC Milan will have an all-Italian affair having faced Napoli in the quarterfinal that saw them win 2-1 on aggregate, while Inter got the better of Benfica in the other quarterfinal.

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The Italian authorities will impose stadium bans on 171 Juventus fans found to have chanted racist abuse at Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku during a Coppa Italia semi-final earlier this month, police said on Monday (April 24).

The Italian authorities will impose stadium bans on 171 Juventus fans found to have chanted racist abuse at Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku during a Coppa Italia semi-final earlier this month, police said on Monday (April 24). Lukaku was subjected to abuse during the first leg at Juventus "before, during, and after the penalty" he scored to earn Inter a 1-1 draw, the player's representatives said. The police did not specify the length of the bans that the fans would face for the offence. They were identified using video footage from the stadium. Inter fans also taunted their Juventus rivals during the game with chants referring to the 1985 Heysel stadium disaster, police added. The police findings will be passed on to the soccer authorities for possible further action. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: CSK skipper MS Dhoni makes big FAREWELL statement after win vs KKR Lukaku will play in the return leg on Wednesday after his one-match ban was overturned by the president of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) as a measure to fight racism. Lukaku was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for his goal celebration during which he held his finger up to his mouth to silence Juventus fans. Romelu Lukaku was seen in great touch over the weekend as his Inter Milan side beat Empoli 3-0 away from home as they try to keep their hopes of a top four finish alive. They currently along with city rivals Ac Milan sit out of the top four, but the two teams will go ahead over two legs in the Champions League semifinals next month. If either side fails to finish in the top four, they could yet secure a place in the Champions League next season if they win the competition. The tie will be the second time AC Milan will have an all-Italian affair having faced Napoli in the quarterfinal that saw them win 2-1 on aggregate, while Inter got the better of Benfica in the other quarterfinal. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Serie A: 171 Juventus fans to be barred for racist abuse of Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku

Tottenham's managing director of football Fabio Paratici resigned on Friday after losing an appeal against a 30-month worldwide ban. Paratici was handed the suspension by the Italian football federation (FIGC) in January after his former club Juventus were found guilty of false accounting.&nbsp;

Initially the ban only applied to his homeland, meaning he was free to continue working at Spurs, who he joined in June 2021. However, FIFA last month extended the scope of the ban to having worldwide effect, following a request from the Italian federation.

On Thursday, Paritici's appeal was dismissed by Italy's highest sports court.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-sevilla-beat-sloppy-manchester-united-on-aggregate-to-advance-to-semis-584632">Europa League: Sevilla beat 'sloppy' Manchester United on aggregate to advance to semis</a>

"Whilst there continues to be a dispute as to the scope and extent of the ban, the current worldwide ban prevents Fabio from fulfilling his duties as our managing director of football," Tottenham said in a statement.

"Fabio has consequently taken the decision to resign from his position at the club with immediate effect to focus on his legal position in respect of the FIGC and FIFA rulings."

Paratici had already stepped back from his role pending the appeal with Scott Munn appointed as Tottenham's new chief football officer earlier this month.

Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy said: "This has been a stressful time for Fabio and his family. We wanted to ensure that we allowed for due process to be followed. Fabio is a man who lives and breathes football - we wish him well.

"As outlined in our year end results, we started several months ago to restructure our football operations and last week announced the appointment of Scott Munn as chief football officer to head up all the departments."

The Paratici affair, though, has put more pressure on Levy with fans disgruntled by Tottenham's 15-year trophy drought.

Paratici played a major role in bringing former manager Antonio Conte to the club after the pair worked together at Juventus. Conte left Spurs in March after a highly-critical rant towards his players following a 3-3 draw at Southampton.

Levy attracted further criticism for then appointing Conte's former assistant Cristian Stellini as interim manager until the end of the season.

A 3-2 home defeat to relegation-threatened Bournemouth last weekend has severely dented Spurs' hopes of qualifying for next season's Champions League.

Tottenham are fifth in the Premier League, three points adrift of Newcastle, who they face on Sunday, but have played a game more than the Magpies.

Tottenham's managing director of football Fabio Paratici resigned on Friday after losing an appeal against a 30-month worldwide ban. Paratici was handed the suspension by the Italian football federation (FIGC) in January after his former club Juventus were found guilty of false accounting.

Tottenham's managing director of football Fabio Paratici resigned on Friday after losing an appeal against a 30-month worldwide ban. Paratici was handed the suspension by the Italian football federation (FIGC) in January after his former club Juventus were found guilty of false accounting. Initially the ban only applied to his homeland, meaning he was free to continue working at Spurs, who he joined in June 2021. However, FIFA last month extended the scope of the ban to having worldwide effect, following a request from the Italian federation. On Thursday, Paritici's appeal was dismissed by Italy's highest sports court. ALSO READ: Europa League: Sevilla beat 'sloppy' Manchester United on aggregate to advance to semis "Whilst there continues to be a dispute as to the scope and extent of the ban, the current worldwide ban prevents Fabio from fulfilling his duties as our managing director of football," Tottenham said in a statement. "Fabio has consequently taken the decision to resign from his position at the club with immediate effect to focus on his legal position in respect of the FIGC and FIFA rulings." Paratici had already stepped back from his role pending the appeal with Scott Munn appointed as Tottenham's new chief football officer earlier this month. Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy said: "This has been a stressful time for Fabio and his family. We wanted to ensure that we allowed for due process to be followed. Fabio is a man who lives and breathes football - we wish him well. "As outlined in our year end results, we started several months ago to restructure our football operations and last week announced the appointment of Scott Munn as chief football officer to head up all the departments." The Paratici affair, though, has put more pressure on Levy with fans disgruntled by Tottenham's 15-year trophy drought. Paratici played a major role in bringing former manager Antonio Conte to the club after the pair worked together at Juventus. Conte left Spurs in March after a highly-critical rant towards his players following a 3-3 draw at Southampton. Levy attracted further criticism for then appointing Conte's former assistant Cristian Stellini as interim manager until the end of the season. A 3-2 home defeat to relegation-threatened Bournemouth last weekend has severely dented Spurs' hopes of qualifying for next season's Champions League. Tottenham are fifth in the Premier League, three points adrift of Newcastle, who they face on Sunday, but have played a game more than the Magpies.

Spurs managing director Fabio Paratici resigns after losing appeal against 30-month worldwide ban

Juventus' 15-point penalty for illicit transfer activity was revoked on Thursday after Italy's highest sporting court ruled that the case should be re-examined.

The decision bumped the Turin giants up to third in Serie A on 59 points, but they will have to wait for a new ruling from the Italian Football Federation's (FIGC) appeals court, which inflicted the original punishment.

In a statement The Sports Guarantee Board asked the FIGC court to revise the punishments handed down to the club and some of its key figures, including former deputy chairman Pavel Nedved, who had been handed bans by the original ruling.

However the long bans given to former chairman Andrea Agnelli, ex-CEO Maurizio Arrivabene and sporting directors Federico Cherubini and Fabio Paratici were upheld.

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In January, Juve had been found guilty by the FIGC appeals court of having "systematically altered accounting documents... from at least the quarter ending March 31, 2019 to the quarter ending March 31, 2021".

The offences related to around 60 million euros ($65.7 million) of "phony capital gains" from transfers "aimed at making financial results look better than they were in reality", according to the appeals court.

Juve are 16 points behind league leaders Napoli, who they host in Turin on Sunday, while both AC Milan and Inter Milan have been knocked out of Serie A's Champions League places as a result of Thursday's ruling.

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Juventus' 15-point penalty for illicit transfer activity was revoked on Thursday after Italy's highest sporting court ruled that the case should be re-examined. The decision bumped the Turin giants up to third in Serie A on 59 points, but they will have to wait for a new ruling from the Italian Football Federation's (FIGC) appeals court, which inflicted the original punishment.

Juventus' 15-point penalty for illicit transfer activity was revoked on Thursday after Italy's highest sporting court ruled that the case should be re-examined. The decision bumped the Turin giants up to third in Serie A on 59 points, but they will have to wait for a new ruling from the Italian Football Federation's (FIGC) appeals court, which inflicted the original punishment. In a statement The Sports Guarantee Board asked the FIGC court to revise the punishments handed down to the club and some of its key figures, including former deputy chairman Pavel Nedved, who had been handed bans by the original ruling. However the long bans given to former chairman Andrea Agnelli, ex-CEO Maurizio Arrivabene and sporting directors Federico Cherubini and Fabio Paratici were upheld. ALSO READ | Explained – Why India should look beyond Jasprit Bumrah for 2023 World Cup? In January, Juve had been found guilty by the FIGC appeals court of having "systematically altered accounting documents... from at least the quarter ending March 31, 2019 to the quarter ending March 31, 2021". The offences related to around 60 million euros ($65.7 million) of "phony capital gains" from transfers "aimed at making financial results look better than they were in reality", according to the appeals court. Juve are 16 points behind league leaders Napoli, who they host in Turin on Sunday, while both AC Milan and Inter Milan have been knocked out of Serie A's Champions League places as a result of Thursday's ruling. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Football: Juventus' 15-point penalty revoked on appeal; jump to third spot in Serie A standings

Juventus have won their appeal against a one-match stand closure for their fans racially abusing Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) said on Wednesday.

Fans will be allowed in the lower tier of the Allianz Stadium's South Stand for Sunday night's clash with Serie A leaders Napoli after the decision by the FIGC's appeals court.

The FIGC did not say why Juve had won their appeal.

The section had been ordered shut for one match following racist chanting from what was described as "the majority of fans" stood there before and while Lukaku netted his stoppage time penalty.

It gave Inter a 1-1 draw in the first leg of the two sides' Italian Cup semi-final.

An incredulous Lukaku was then shown his second yellow card of the match and sent off for his celebrations in front of the home supporters, which were considered provocative despite the abuse he received.

Samir Handanovic and Juan Cuadrado were also dismissed following a blazing post-match row.

Juve's goalscorer on the night, Cuadrado was given a three-match ban for grabbing Handanovic by the neck and punching him, while the Inter goalkeeper was banned for one game for his role in the fight.

Juve are also awaiting on a decision on whether their appeal against a 15-point penalty for illicit transfer activity will be upheld.

Italy's highest sporting court is examining the ruling handed down by the FIGC's appeals court in January.

Juventus have won their appeal against a one-match stand closure for their fans racially abusing Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) said on Wednesday.

Juventus have won their appeal against a one-match stand closure for their fans racially abusing Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) said on Wednesday. Fans will be allowed in the lower tier of the Allianz Stadium's South Stand for Sunday night's clash with Serie A leaders Napoli after the decision by the FIGC's appeals court. The FIGC did not say why Juve had won their appeal. The section had been ordered shut for one match following racist chanting from what was described as "the majority of fans" stood there before and while Lukaku netted his stoppage time penalty. It gave Inter a 1-1 draw in the first leg of the two sides' Italian Cup semi-final. An incredulous Lukaku was then shown his second yellow card of the match and sent off for his celebrations in front of the home supporters, which were considered provocative despite the abuse he received. Samir Handanovic and Juan Cuadrado were also dismissed following a blazing post-match row. Juve's goalscorer on the night, Cuadrado was given a three-match ban for grabbing Handanovic by the neck and punching him, while the Inter goalkeeper was banned for one game for his role in the fight. Juve are also awaiting on a decision on whether their appeal against a 15-point penalty for illicit transfer activity will be upheld. Italy's highest sporting court is examining the ruling handed down by the FIGC's appeals court in January.

Football: Italian Federation lifts stadium ban on Juventus for Romelu Lukaku racial abuse

Manchester United's Europa League quarter-final tie against Sevilla is finely poised after two late own goals allowed the Spanish side to leave Old Trafford with a 2-2 draw in Thursday's first leg.

Elsewhere there were narrow home wins for Juventus and Feyenoord while Xabi Alonso's Bayer Leverkusen were held to a 1-1 draw by Belgian visitors Union Saint-Gilloise.

Erik ten Hag's United are the favourites to win this season's competition and they looked to be cruising towards the semi-finals as they seized a two-goal first-half lead at Old Trafford thanks to a brace by Marcel Sabitzer.

They could have been out of sight after the break but Antony hit the post at the end of a counterattack and United also saw central defensive duo Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez both come off injured.

Sevilla produced a remarkable late comeback, reducing the deficit in the 84th minute when Tyrell Malacia let a ball go past him in the box and then deflected a Jesus Navas cross into his own net.

They then equalised in the second minute of added time when a Youssef En-Nesyri header went in via a big touch off Harry Maguire, who had come on for Varane.

A Sevilla side who have won the Europa League or its predecessor the UEFA Cup a record six times may now fancy their chances of winning the tie in next week's return in Spain.

"We conceded two own goals, bad luck, and we have to deal with it," said Ten Hag. "We have to learn to kill the game, but still everything is open."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-r-ashwin-fined-25-percent-of-match-fees-after-rrs-narrow-win-over-csk-heres-why-582153">IPL 2023: R Ashwin fined 25% of match fees after RR's narrow win over CSK! Here's why</a>

<h2>Scare for Szczesny</h2>

The winners of that tie will face either Juventus or Sporting of Portugal in the last four and the Turin giants claimed a 1-0 victory in the first leg of their quarter-final.

Federico Gatti scored the only goal of the game in the 73rd minute after Juve suffered a scare when goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny came off just before half-time when he complained of chest pains.

The Poland international was replaced by Mattia Perin who then made a brilliant double save in stoppage time at the end of the game to secure Juve's win.

"It was fear, it was something that had never happened to me before. I was struggling to breathe so I was worried and scared," said Szczesny after the game.

The Italian club said early tests showed no serious health problems for the former Arsenal goalkeeper.

Mats Wieffer scored the only goal of the game early in the second half as Dutch league leaders Feyenoord beat Jose Mourinho's Roma 1-0 in the first leg of a tie that is a repeat of last season's Europa Conference League final, won by the Italian side.

<h2>West Ham draw at Gent</h2>

Union Saint-Gilloise took the lead away to Leverkusen through a strike by Nigerian striker Victor Boniface early in the second half, only for Florian Wirtz to score a late equaliser.

In the Conference League quarter-finals, Premier League strugglers West Ham United had to settle for a 1-1 draw away to Gent in Belgium despite taking the lead in first-half stoppage time when Danny Ings tapped in a Jarrod Bowen centre.

Hugo Cuypers equalised just before the hour mark for Gent, before Nigerian starlet Gift Orban hit the bar from an overhead kick for the side who are fourth in the Belgian top flight.

Fiorentina won 4-1 away to Lech Poznan in Poland to make it 10 victories in their last 11 games in all competitions.

Nigeria's Terem Moffi scored twice, including from a stunning overhead kick, for Nice in their 2-2 draw away to Basel in Switzerland.

Michael Murillo and Majeed Ashimeru were on target as Anderlecht defeated AZ Alkmaar 2-0.

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Manchester United's Europa League quarter-final tie against Sevilla is finely poised after two late own goals allowed the Spanish side to leave Old Trafford with a 2-2 draw in Thursday's first leg.

Manchester United's Europa League quarter-final tie against Sevilla is finely poised after two late own goals allowed the Spanish side to leave Old Trafford with a 2-2 draw in Thursday's first leg. Elsewhere there were narrow home wins for Juventus and Feyenoord while Xabi Alonso's Bayer Leverkusen were held to a 1-1 draw by Belgian visitors Union Saint-Gilloise. Erik ten Hag's United are the favourites to win this season's competition and they looked to be cruising towards the semi-finals as they seized a two-goal first-half lead at Old Trafford thanks to a brace by Marcel Sabitzer. They could have been out of sight after the break but Antony hit the post at the end of a counterattack and United also saw central defensive duo Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez both come off injured. Sevilla produced a remarkable late comeback, reducing the deficit in the 84th minute when Tyrell Malacia let a ball go past him in the box and then deflected a Jesus Navas cross into his own net. They then equalised in the second minute of added time when a Youssef En-Nesyri header went in via a big touch off Harry Maguire, who had come on for Varane. A Sevilla side who have won the Europa League or its predecessor the UEFA Cup a record six times may now fancy their chances of winning the tie in next week's return in Spain. "We conceded two own goals, bad luck, and we have to deal with it," said Ten Hag. "We have to learn to kill the game, but still everything is open." ALSO READ | IPL 2023: R Ashwin fined 25% of match fees after RR's narrow win over CSK! Here's why Scare for Szczesny The winners of that tie will face either Juventus or Sporting of Portugal in the last four and the Turin giants claimed a 1-0 victory in the first leg of their quarter-final. Federico Gatti scored the only goal of the game in the 73rd minute after Juve suffered a scare when goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny came off just before half-time when he complained of chest pains. The Poland international was replaced by Mattia Perin who then made a brilliant double save in stoppage time at the end of the game to secure Juve's win. "It was fear, it was something that had never happened to me before. I was struggling to breathe so I was worried and scared," said Szczesny after the game. The Italian club said early tests showed no serious health problems for the former Arsenal goalkeeper. Mats Wieffer scored the only goal of the game early in the second half as Dutch league leaders Feyenoord beat Jose Mourinho's Roma 1-0 in the first leg of a tie that is a repeat of last season's Europa Conference League final, won by the Italian side. West Ham draw at Gent Union Saint-Gilloise took the lead away to Leverkusen through a strike by Nigerian striker Victor Boniface early in the second half, only for Florian Wirtz to score a late equaliser. In the Conference League quarter-finals, Premier League strugglers West Ham United had to settle for a 1-1 draw away to Gent in Belgium despite taking the lead in first-half stoppage time when Danny Ings tapped in a Jarrod Bowen centre. Hugo Cuypers equalised just before the hour mark for Gent, before Nigerian starlet Gift Orban hit the bar from an overhead kick for the side who are fourth in the Belgian top flight. Fiorentina won 4-1 away to Lech Poznan in Poland to make it 10 victories in their last 11 games in all competitions. Nigeria's Terem Moffi scored twice, including from a stunning overhead kick, for Nice in their 2-2 draw away to Basel in Switzerland. Michael Murillo and Majeed Ashimeru were on target as Anderlecht defeated AZ Alkmaar 2-0. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Europa League: Sevilla secure entertaining draw against Manchester United; Juventus, Feyenoord win at home

Manchester United face record six-time winners Sevilla in the quarter-finals of the Europa League while Juventus will play Arsenal's conquerors Sporting for a place in the last four. Roma take on Feyenoord in a repeat of last season's Europa Conference League final won by the Italians, with Bayer Leverkusen drawn against Union Saint-Gilloise of Belgium.

United, who won the competition in 2017 and lost the final two years, could potentially take on Juventus -- and former midfielder Paul Pogba -- in the semi-finals. The English side host Sevilla in the first leg of their tie on April 13, with the return a week later in Spain. United beat Sevilla's city rivals Real Betis 5-1 on aggregate in the last 16.

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<h3>Europa League Draw in full</h3>

Manchester United v Sevilla

Juventus v Sporting Lisbon

Bayer Leverkusen v Union Saint-Gilloise

Feyenoord v Roma

Sevilla defeated United 2-1 in a single-leg semi-final in the 2019-20 competition en route to their most recent Europa League title.

Arsenal’s conquerors Sorting Lisbon will travel to Turin to face Juventus as they target the competition to reach next season’s Champions League. Juve currently are seventh in the Serie A and have been docked off 15 points due to transfer allegations which could prevent them from playing in Europe’s elite through their domestic route.

Earlier in the day, the draws for the Champions League quarterfinals were made as defending champions Real Madrid will once again meet English giants Chelsea while Pep Guardiola will return to Bayern Munich after Manchester City were drawn against the German powerhouse. While all four teams have been placed on the same side of the draw in the semifinal, meaning only one of the above-mentioned teams will make it to the final in Istanbul in June.

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<h3>Champions League Draw in full</h3>

Real Madrid or Chelsea v Man City or Bayern Munich

Milan or Napoli v Inter or Benfica

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Manchester United face record six-time winners Sevilla in the quarter-finals of the Europa League while Juventus will play Arsenal's conquerors Sporting for a place in the last four.

Manchester United face record six-time winners Sevilla in the quarter-finals of the Europa League while Juventus will play Arsenal's conquerors Sporting for a place in the last four. Roma take on Feyenoord in a repeat of last season's Europa Conference League final won by the Italians, with Bayer Leverkusen drawn against Union Saint-Gilloise of Belgium. United, who won the competition in 2017 and lost the final two years, could potentially take on Juventus -- and former midfielder Paul Pogba -- in the semi-finals. The English side host Sevilla in the first leg of their tie on April 13, with the return a week later in Spain. United beat Sevilla's city rivals Real Betis 5-1 on aggregate in the last 16. The quarter-finals are set! 👊 😍 Most exciting tie here? #UELdraw pic.twitter.com/jslA1pafqW — UEFA Europa League (@EuropaLeague) March 17, 2023 × Europa League Draw in full Manchester United v Sevilla Juventus v Sporting Lisbon Bayer Leverkusen v Union Saint-Gilloise Feyenoord v Roma Sevilla defeated United 2-1 in a single-leg semi-final in the 2019-20 competition en route to their most recent Europa League title. Arsenal’s conquerors Sorting Lisbon will travel to Turin to face Juventus as they target the competition to reach next season’s Champions League. Juve currently are seventh in the Serie A and have been docked off 15 points due to transfer allegations which could prevent them from playing in Europe’s elite through their domestic route. Earlier in the day, the draws for the Champions League quarterfinals were made as defending champions Real Madrid will once again meet English giants Chelsea while Pep Guardiola will return to Bayern Munich after Manchester City were drawn against the German powerhouse. While all four teams have been placed on the same side of the draw in the semifinal, meaning only one of the above-mentioned teams will make it to the final in Istanbul in June. ALSO READ | Sachin Tendulkar underlines the reason why ODIs are getting monotonous and boring, comes up with a solution Champions League Draw in full Real Madrid or Chelsea v Man City or Bayern Munich Milan or Napoli v Inter or Benfica WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Europa League: Manchester United face stern Sevilla challenge in QF; Juventus handed giant-killers Sporting

A future European Super League could include as many as 80 teams, Bernd Reichart, the chief executive of A22 Sports Management, a company formed to sponsor and assist in the creation of a breakaway soccer league, said on Thursday.

A future European Super League could include as many as 80 teams, Bernd Reichart, the chief executive of A22 Sports Management, a company formed to sponsor and assist in the creation of a breakaway soccer league, said on Thursday. In a statement outlining the preliminary results of talks that A22 had with what it said was 50 European clubs and stakeholders of football, the company said the change was necessary. "The vast majority of them share the assessment that the very foundation of European football is under threat, and it is time for change," A22 said. "Feedback suggests a European football league that is open, based solely on sporting merit, multidivisional with 60 to 80 clubs and a minimum of 14 guaranteed European matches per club." Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus were among 12 clubs to announce a breakaway Super League in April 2021. But the move collapsed within 48 hours after an outcry from fans, governments and players forced Manchester United, Liverpool, Manchester City, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal, AC Milan, Inter Milan and Atletico Madrid to pull out. Read more: European Super League explained: What is the format and purpose behind it? - All you need to know That left only Real, Barcelona and Juventus as holdouts. The ESL took its case to a Spanish court which subsequently sought guidance from the Luxembourg-based Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU). "Our objective is to present a sustainable sporting project for European club competitions available to, at a minimum, all 27 EU Member States as soon as possible after receipt of the judgment," Reichart said. "The issues are clear, and action must be taken for the benefit of fans, players, and clubs." Strong headwind Spain's La Liga President Javier Tebas, a staunch opponent of the ESL, said the plan would only favour big clubs. "The Super League is the wolf, who today disguises himself as a granny to try to fool European football, but his nose and his teeth are very big," Tebas wrote on Twitter on Thursday. "Four divisions in Europe? Of course the first for them, as in the 2019 reform. Government of the clubs? Of course only the big ones." European soccer body UEFA, the biggest opponent to the ESL plan which it sees as threatening its own Champions League club competition, did not immediately respond to a request for a comment. WATCH | Big blow for European Super League; EU legal advisor backs UEFA in battle × The European Club Association (ECA) said A22's "rehashed idea" had already been "proposed, discussed and comprehensively rejected by all stakeholders in 2019. "As the sole organisation recognised by FIFA and UEFA representing clubs at European and international level, and the only body through which clubs have genuine representation in their decision-making, ECA reiterates its long-standing opposition to the European Super League and any breakaway project," the ECA added. "From 2024 more clubs from more countries will participate in European men's club competitions every season." The Champions League is set to expand from 32 teams to 36 from the 2024-25 season after UEFA approved the new format last year. 'Walking corpse' The Football Supporters' Association, which represents fans in England and Wales and is a co-founder of Europe's equivalent fan body, said the ESL plan did not have any backing from the continent's fans. "The walking corpse that is the European Super League twitches again with all the self-awareness one associates with a zombie," said FSA chief executive Kevin Miles in a statement. "Their newest idea is to have an 'open competition' rather than the closed shop they originally proposed that led to huge fan protests. Of course an open competition for Europe's top clubs already exists - it's called the Champions League." A22 said 10 principles emerged from the discussions, including improving competitiveness, financial sustainability and fan experience. At issue in the ongoing court case is whether European body UEFA and global governing body FIFA statutes allowing them to block rival events and bar clubs and players from taking part conform with EU competition rules. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Shelved European Super League could make a comeback and in THIS format

Juventus' troubled start to the new year slipped into disaster on Friday after the Italian Football Federation docked the Serie A giants 15 points for using transfers to artificially boost their balance sheet. The FIGC said in a statement that the points sanction was to be inflicted this season, a huge blow to Juventus whose chances of qualifying for next season's Champions League are now greatly compromised. Juventus drop down from third to 10th place on just 22 points, 15 from the top four positions in Italy's top flight. Missing out on Europe's top -- and richest -- club competition would be a further blow to the club's accounts which last season were nearly 239 million euros in the red.

Juventus’ current sporting director Federico Cherubini was also banned for 16 months, another serious punishment which the club said in a statement they would appeal at the Italian Olympic Committee. The club's former leadership were also handed long bans by the FIGC including two years to ex-chairman Andrea Agnelli and former CEO Maurizio Arrivabene and 30 months to former sporting director Fabio Paratici, now at Tottenham Hotspur.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spanish-court-orders-dani-alves-to-be-held-in-custody-following-physical-assault-allegations-554673">Spanish court orders Dani Alves to be held in custody following physical assault allegations</a>

The FIGC also said that it had asked that the bans -- which also included eight months for former vice-president and playing icon Pavel Nedved -- be extended beyond Italy to the jurisdictions of international governing bodies UEFA and FIFA.

- 'Injustice' -

All eight other clubs facing potential FIGC sanctions, including Serie A teams Sampdoria and Empoli, were acquitted, something Juventus' legal team called "a clear injustice".

They were accused of using capital gains -- the positive difference between purchase and sale values net of amortisation and write-downs -- from a series of player exchanges in which little or no money passed between clubs.

One widely-cited deal was between Juventus and Barcelona in 2020 which saw Miralem Pjanic move to Catalonia and Arthur Melo go the other way. Arthur was valued at 72 million euros and Pjanic 60 million euros, sums both clubs could immediately book on their balance sheets while the cost of purchases can be spread over the length of a player's contract.

Juventus recorded a capital gain of 43 million euros on Pjanic, the second highest in the club's history.

The decision to dock points came as the FIGC reopened a trial which had ended last year with Juventus and a host of other clubs including Serie A leaders Napoli being acquitted. It follows new evidence from a separate criminal probe into Juventus' finances conducted by prosecutors in Turin.

Juventus will know after a preliminary hearing in March if they and the former members of the club's board will stand criminal trial over alleged false accounting. Agnelli and the rest of the board stepped down in November under pressure from the criminal investigation, with a new board led by Gianluca Ferrero being appointed earlier this week.

The new board will remain in office until the shareholders' meeting for the approval of Juventus' accounts as of 30 June 2025.

Agnelli's departure ended a 12-year reign which brought a host of trophies and for a period re-established Juventus as one of Europe's best teams but ended in turmoil.

Last month UEFA said it had opened a formal investigation into whether Juventus had misled them and broken rules regarding their finances.

Juventus' troubled start to the new year slipped into disaster on Friday after the Italian Football Federation docked the Serie A giants 15 points for using transfers to artificially boost their balance sheet.

Juventus' troubled start to the new year slipped into disaster on Friday after the Italian Football Federation docked the Serie A giants 15 points for using transfers to artificially boost their balance sheet. The FIGC said in a statement that the points sanction was to be inflicted this season, a huge blow to Juventus whose chances of qualifying for next season's Champions League are now greatly compromised. Juventus drop down from third to 10th place on just 22 points, 15 from the top four positions in Italy's top flight. Missing out on Europe's top -- and richest -- club competition would be a further blow to the club's accounts which last season were nearly 239 million euros in the red. Juventus’ current sporting director Federico Cherubini was also banned for 16 months, another serious punishment which the club said in a statement they would appeal at the Italian Olympic Committee. The club's former leadership were also handed long bans by the FIGC including two years to ex-chairman Andrea Agnelli and former CEO Maurizio Arrivabene and 30 months to former sporting director Fabio Paratici, now at Tottenham Hotspur. ALSO READ: Spanish court orders Dani Alves to be held in custody following physical assault allegations The FIGC also said that it had asked that the bans -- which also included eight months for former vice-president and playing icon Pavel Nedved -- be extended beyond Italy to the jurisdictions of international governing bodies UEFA and FIFA. - 'Injustice' - All eight other clubs facing potential FIGC sanctions, including Serie A teams Sampdoria and Empoli, were acquitted, something Juventus' legal team called "a clear injustice". They were accused of using capital gains -- the positive difference between purchase and sale values net of amortisation and write-downs -- from a series of player exchanges in which little or no money passed between clubs. One widely-cited deal was between Juventus and Barcelona in 2020 which saw Miralem Pjanic move to Catalonia and Arthur Melo go the other way. Arthur was valued at 72 million euros and Pjanic 60 million euros, sums both clubs could immediately book on their balance sheets while the cost of purchases can be spread over the length of a player's contract. Juventus recorded a capital gain of 43 million euros on Pjanic, the second highest in the club's history. The decision to dock points came as the FIGC reopened a trial which had ended last year with Juventus and a host of other clubs including Serie A leaders Napoli being acquitted. It follows new evidence from a separate criminal probe into Juventus' finances conducted by prosecutors in Turin. Juventus will know after a preliminary hearing in March if they and the former members of the club's board will stand criminal trial over alleged false accounting. Agnelli and the rest of the board stepped down in November under pressure from the criminal investigation, with a new board led by Gianluca Ferrero being appointed earlier this week. The new board will remain in office until the shareholders' meeting for the approval of Juventus' accounts as of 30 June 2025. Agnelli's departure ended a 12-year reign which brought a host of trophies and for a period re-established Juventus as one of Europe's best teams but ended in turmoil. Last month UEFA said it had opened a formal investigation into whether Juventus had misled them and broken rules regarding their finances.

Serie A: Italian giants Juventus slipped to 10th spot after points deduction amid latest controversy

The board of Juventus, chaired by Andrea Agnelli, has resigned "in the best interest of the company," the Italian Serie A soccer team said on Monday.

The collective resignation comes after Juventus' financial statements received scrutiny from prosecutors and Italian market regulator Consob in recent months for alleged false accounting and market manipulation. The company had denied any wrongdoing.

Juventus said its directors had discussed the issue at a meeting on Monday and concluded it would be best addressed by a new board, given "the relevance of the pending legal and technical/accounting matters."

It added it would have to restate its financial statements for the fiscal year ending in June 2022.

The company, which is controlled by the Agnelli family's holding company Exor, said it had asked CEO Maurizio Arrivabene to maintain his position and had appointed Maurizio Scanavino as general manager.

Juventus said it had called a shareholder meeting on Jan. 18 to appoint a new board.

Andrea Agnelli, who has chaired Juventus since 2010, will not seek a reappointment, a source with knowledge of the matter told Reuters.

In a letter to Juventus staff seen by Reuters, Andrea Agnelli described the company situation as "delicate."

"When the team is not cohesive it becomes vulnerable and that can be fatal," he wrote.

"This is when you need to keep calm and contain damages: the company is going through a delicate phase and we're no longer cohesive. Better to quit all together, giving the chance to a new team to turn the game around."

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The board of Juventus, chaired by Andrea Agnelli, has resigned "in the best interest of the company," the Italian Serie A soccer team said on Monday. The collective resignation comes after Juventus' financial statements received scrutiny from prosecutors and Italian market regulator Consob in recent months for alleged false accounting and market manipulation.

The board of Juventus, chaired by Andrea Agnelli, has resigned "in the best interest of the company," the Italian Serie A soccer team said on Monday. The collective resignation comes after Juventus' financial statements received scrutiny from prosecutors and Italian market regulator Consob in recent months for alleged false accounting and market manipulation. The company had denied any wrongdoing. Juventus said its directors had discussed the issue at a meeting on Monday and concluded it would be best addressed by a new board, given "the relevance of the pending legal and technical/accounting matters." It added it would have to restate its financial statements for the fiscal year ending in June 2022. The company, which is controlled by the Agnelli family's holding company Exor, said it had asked CEO Maurizio Arrivabene to maintain his position and had appointed Maurizio Scanavino as general manager. Juventus said it had called a shareholder meeting on Jan. 18 to appoint a new board. Andrea Agnelli, who has chaired Juventus since 2010, will not seek a reappointment, a source with knowledge of the matter told Reuters. In a letter to Juventus staff seen by Reuters, Andrea Agnelli described the company situation as "delicate." "When the team is not cohesive it becomes vulnerable and that can be fatal," he wrote. "This is when you need to keep calm and contain damages: the company is going through a delicate phase and we're no longer cohesive. Better to quit all together, giving the chance to a new team to turn the game around." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Best interest of the company': Juventus Chairman Andrea Agnelli resigns with entire board

The owner of Juventus put forward its candidate to be the new chairman Tuesday, after the entire board at the Italian Serie A club resigned over a probe into allegations of false accounting.&nbsp;

"Exor communicates that it will indicate Gianluca Ferrero for the role of chairman of Juventus," after former chairman Andrea Agnelli and the rest of the board stepped down en masse Monday, the company said in a statement.

The board had sought independent legal advice over an ongoing investigation by prosecutors in Turin into allegations of false accounting and irregularities in the transfer and loans of players.

Ferrero, a corporate adviser, auditor and board member of a number of companies, would take over at a tricky time for the Turin giants.

Exor, which owns 63.8 per cent of the capital of Juventus, said Ferrero has "significant experience and the required technical competencies".

With a "genuine passion for the bianconero club", he was "the person most qualified to fulfil this role," it said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/best-interest-of-the-company-juventus-chairman-andrea-agnelli-resigns-with-entire-board-538343">Read more:&nbsp;'Best interest of the company': Juventus Chairman Andrea Agnelli resigns with entire board</a>

Prosecutors are investigating the possibility that Juve, who are listed on the Italian stock exchange, presented false accounting information to investors and produced invoices for non-existent transactions over that period.

The club said Monday the outgoing board felt it was "in the best social interest to recommend that Juventus equip itself with a new board of directors to address these issues".

Shares in the club fell almost five per cent on the Milan Stock Exchange on Tuesday morning and were worth 0.265 euros at around 09:40 am (0840 GMT).

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The owner of Juventus put forward its candidate to be the new chairman Tuesday, after the entire board at the Italian Serie A club resigned over a probe into allegations of false accounting.

The owner of Juventus put forward its candidate to be the new chairman Tuesday, after the entire board at the Italian Serie A club resigned over a probe into allegations of false accounting. "Exor communicates that it will indicate Gianluca Ferrero for the role of chairman of Juventus," after former chairman Andrea Agnelli and the rest of the board stepped down en masse Monday, the company said in a statement. The board had sought independent legal advice over an ongoing investigation by prosecutors in Turin into allegations of false accounting and irregularities in the transfer and loans of players. Ferrero, a corporate adviser, auditor and board member of a number of companies, would take over at a tricky time for the Turin giants. Exor, which owns 63.8 per cent of the capital of Juventus, said Ferrero has "significant experience and the required technical competencies". With a "genuine passion for the bianconero club", he was "the person most qualified to fulfil this role," it said. Read more: 'Best interest of the company': Juventus Chairman Andrea Agnelli resigns with entire board Prosecutors are investigating the possibility that Juve, who are listed on the Italian stock exchange, presented false accounting information to investors and produced invoices for non-existent transactions over that period. The club said Monday the outgoing board felt it was "in the best social interest to recommend that Juventus equip itself with a new board of directors to address these issues". Shares in the club fell almost five per cent on the Milan Stock Exchange on Tuesday morning and were worth 0.265 euros at around 09:40 am (0840 GMT). WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Gianluca Ferrero proposed as new Juventus chairman after board resigns en masse

Barcelona and Manchester United will meet in the Europa League play-offs for a place in the competition's last 16. Spanish side Barcelona met the 2017 Europa League winners twice in the 2009 and 2011 Champions League finals, winning on both occasions, while United lost both legs of the 2018-19 European Cup quarter-final meeting between the pair.

"The draw has given us the most difficult rival again, like in the Champions League group stage. Luck was not on our side. Manchester United are a great rival, a historic club - the worst that we could wish for," Barca manager Xavi Hernandez said after the draw.

United finished second in their Europa League group this season behind another Spanish team -- Real Sociedad -- and meet a Barca side that missed out on the Champions League last 16 after finishing third in their group behind Bayern Munich and Inter Milan.

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The eight group runners-up from the Europa League face eight third-placed sides from the Champions League group stages, with the winners of the two-legged play-offs progressing to the last 16.

The pick of the other ties sees six-time winners Sevilla facing Dutch side PSV Eindhoven, Serie A giants Juventus take on Ligue 1 team Nantes, while Jose Mourinho's AS Roma face RB Salzburg.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-last-16-complete-fixtures-liverpool-to-face-real-madrid-psgt-up-against-bayern-munich-531897">Champions League last 16 complete fixtures: Liverpool to face Real Madrid, PSG up against Bayern Munich</a>

The first legs of the ties will take place on Feb. 16, with the return match a week later on Feb. 23.

Draw in full:

Barcelona v Manchester United

Juventus v Nantes

Sporting Lisbon v Midtjylland

Shakhtar Donetsk v Stade Rennais

Ajax Amsterdam v Union Berlin

Bayer Leverkusen v AS Monaco

Sevilla v PSV Eindhoven

Salzburg v AS Roma

Barcelona and Manchester United will meet in the Europa League play-offs for a place in the competition's last 16. Spanish side Barcelona met the 2017 Europa League winners twice in the 2009 and 2011 Champions League finals, winning on both occasions, while United lost both legs of the 2018-19 European Cup quarter-final meeting between the pair.

Barcelona and Manchester United will meet in the Europa League play-offs for a place in the competition's last 16. Spanish side Barcelona met the 2017 Europa League winners twice in the 2009 and 2011 Champions League finals, winning on both occasions, while United lost both legs of the 2018-19 European Cup quarter-final meeting between the pair. "The draw has given us the most difficult rival again, like in the Champions League group stage. Luck was not on our side. Manchester United are a great rival, a historic club - the worst that we could wish for," Barca manager Xavi Hernandez said after the draw. United finished second in their Europa League group this season behind another Spanish team -- Real Sociedad -- and meet a Barca side that missed out on the Champions League last 16 after finishing third in their group behind Bayern Munich and Inter Milan. Also Read: Premier League club Liverpool put up for sale by Fenway Sports Group The eight group runners-up from the Europa League face eight third-placed sides from the Champions League group stages, with the winners of the two-legged play-offs progressing to the last 16. The pick of the other ties sees six-time winners Sevilla facing Dutch side PSV Eindhoven, Serie A giants Juventus take on Ligue 1 team Nantes, while Jose Mourinho's AS Roma face RB Salzburg. Also Read: Champions League last 16 complete fixtures: Liverpool to face Real Madrid, PSG up against Bayern Munich The first legs of the ties will take place on Feb. 16, with the return match a week later on Feb. 23. Draw in full: Barcelona v Manchester United Juventus v Nantes Sporting Lisbon v Midtjylland Shakhtar Donetsk v Stade Rennais Ajax Amsterdam v Union Berlin Bayer Leverkusen v AS Monaco Sevilla v PSV Eindhoven Salzburg v AS Roma

Europa League complete draw: Manchester United to take on FC Barcelona in playoffs for a spot in last 16

A month after reporting their biggest-ever financial loss, Juventus are braced for yet more economic pain as they near elimination from the Champions League.

Tuesday's humiliating 2-0 defeat by Maccabi Haifa left chief executive Andrea Agnelli "ashamed" and "angry" as his club sank five points behind second-placed Benfica in Group H with two games left to play.

They face the prospect of not making it out of the group stage for the first time since 2013.

Coach Massimiliano Allegri, who is enduring a torrid second spell in charge of Juventus after a trophy-laden first tenure, responded by obliging the team to stay at their base for three days before Saturday's derby in the league against Torino.

Juve's European struggles come at a particularly acute time for the club, who last month posted a loss of 254 million euros ($247.07 million) for the last financial year.

Not making the Champions League knockout round would deprive Juventus of 9.6 million euros of prize money for reaching the last 16 plus a potential 38.6 million euros in the event they reached the final.

A bigger concern long-term would be a failure to finish in the top-four of Serie A and make it into next season's competition, a very real threat with the team currently eighth in the Serie A standings.

The team's poor results mark another low for Agnelli, one of the architects of the doomed European Super League.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-manchester-united-arsenal-scrape-wins-as-real-sociedad-claim-top-two-spot-525383">Europa League: Manchester United, Arsenal scrape wins as Real Sociedad claim top-two spot</a>

The proposed league, which collapsed two days after its launch in April 2021, sought to guarantee entry and increase prize money for the continent's biggest sides and guard against the impact of one poor campaign.

Juventus are one of three clubs of the 12 founders to still back the Super League, along with Barcelona, who are also on the brink of Champions League elimination, and Real Madrid. Their hopes of resurrecting the project rest on a case being considered by the European Union’s top court.

This is Juventus' most difficult period since the 2010-11 season, when they finished seventh in Serie A, although their struggles then could be explained by the devastating effects of the 2006 Calciopoli corruption scandal.

Their current travails are harder to excuse. Juve won a record nine consecutive Serie A titles between 2012 and 2020, a period in which they also reached two Champions League finals.

Allegri returned as coach in 2021 in the hope he would restore them to their past glories after the unsuccessful appointments of Maurizio Sarri and novice Andrea Pirlo.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/before-man-uniteds-chelsea-visit-red-devils-fans-threaten-legal-action-over-reduced-ticket-allocation-525407">Before Man United's Chelsea visit, Red Devils' fans threaten legal action over reduced ticket allocation</a>

But the coach has been accused of failing to move with the times, sticking rigidly to outdated tactics.

Despite the dire results, Agnelli has insisted he will not sack Allegri mid-season.

"A situation like this isn't dependent on one person. It comes down to the collective and we must start thinking like one again," he said on Tuesday.

The problem for Agnelli is Juventus have been on the decline for several years under his watch, both on and off the pitch.

A month after reporting their biggest-ever financial loss, Juventus are braced for yet more economic pain as they near elimination from the Champions League. Tuesday's humiliating 2-0 defeat by Maccabi Haifa left chief executive Andrea Agnelli "ashamed" and "angry" as his club sank five points behind second-placed Benfica in Group H with two games left to play.

A month after reporting their biggest-ever financial loss, Juventus are braced for yet more economic pain as they near elimination from the Champions League. Tuesday's humiliating 2-0 defeat by Maccabi Haifa left chief executive Andrea Agnelli "ashamed" and "angry" as his club sank five points behind second-placed Benfica in Group H with two games left to play. They face the prospect of not making it out of the group stage for the first time since 2013. Coach Massimiliano Allegri, who is enduring a torrid second spell in charge of Juventus after a trophy-laden first tenure, responded by obliging the team to stay at their base for three days before Saturday's derby in the league against Torino. Juve's European struggles come at a particularly acute time for the club, who last month posted a loss of 254 million euros ($247.07 million) for the last financial year. Not making the Champions League knockout round would deprive Juventus of 9.6 million euros of prize money for reaching the last 16 plus a potential 38.6 million euros in the event they reached the final. A bigger concern long-term would be a failure to finish in the top-four of Serie A and make it into next season's competition, a very real threat with the team currently eighth in the Serie A standings. The team's poor results mark another low for Agnelli, one of the architects of the doomed European Super League. Also Read: Europa League: Manchester United, Arsenal scrape wins as Real Sociedad claim top-two spot The proposed league, which collapsed two days after its launch in April 2021, sought to guarantee entry and increase prize money for the continent's biggest sides and guard against the impact of one poor campaign. Juventus are one of three clubs of the 12 founders to still back the Super League, along with Barcelona, who are also on the brink of Champions League elimination, and Real Madrid. Their hopes of resurrecting the project rest on a case being considered by the European Union’s top court. This is Juventus' most difficult period since the 2010-11 season, when they finished seventh in Serie A, although their struggles then could be explained by the devastating effects of the 2006 Calciopoli corruption scandal. Their current travails are harder to excuse. Juve won a record nine consecutive Serie A titles between 2012 and 2020, a period in which they also reached two Champions League finals. Allegri returned as coach in 2021 in the hope he would restore them to their past glories after the unsuccessful appointments of Maurizio Sarri and novice Andrea Pirlo. Also Read: Before Man United's Chelsea visit, Red Devils' fans threaten legal action over reduced ticket allocation But the coach has been accused of failing to move with the times, sticking rigidly to outdated tactics. Despite the dire results, Agnelli has insisted he will not sack Allegri mid-season. "A situation like this isn't dependent on one person. It comes down to the collective and we must start thinking like one again," he said on Tuesday. The problem for Agnelli is Juventus have been on the decline for several years under his watch, both on and off the pitch.

Juventus sinking to new lows as Champions League exit looms

Omer Atzili scored twice as Maccabi Haifa beat struggling Juventus 2-0 on Tuesday in Champions League Group H, pushing the Italian giants to the brink of elimination. Juve are third in their group after four matches, equal on three points with Maccabi, who remain bottom despite their first win, and four behind Benfica and Paris Saint-Germain, who play later in the evening.

Juventus had suggested their form was improving as they beat the Israeli team in Turin last week, but lost to AC Milan on Saturday to slide to eighth in Serie A. After the game Juventus president Andrea Agnelli expressed his dismay but repeated his support for coach Massimiliano Allegri. "I'm ashamed of what's happening right now," said Agnelli to Sky Sport Italia. "There is no one person culpable, it's not the coach's fault if we can't win a tackle. Allegri is going to remain coach of Juventus."

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The hosts dominated the first half at the Sammy Ofer stadium and took the lead after seven minutes. Atzili outjumped the visiting defence to meet a cross from Pierre Cornud, and although he turned his head away just before making contact, the ball struck his back. Wojciech Szczesny reached the ball but it crawled through his outstretched fingers and in off the post. Maccabi poured forward. Tjaronn Chery hit the bar. Szczesny saved from Atzili. The home team continued to dominate after Juventus midfielder Angel di Maria limped off with a thigh problem in the 24th minute. 
Three minutes before half time, Atzili shaped to curl a left-footy shot inside the far post, but instead clipped it inside the near post with Szczesny rooted to his line.

Juventus managed their first strike on goal seconds before half time but Joshua Cohen saved low from Dusan Vlahovic's header. 
Juventus pressed from the start of the second half and Cohen saved high from a Daniele Rugani header flying toward the top corner. 
He later saved from wingers Juan Cuadrado and Arkadiusz Milik but Maccabi created late chances as they held on comfortably. 
In their third appearance in the Champions League group stage, Maccabi claimed their second big scalp 20 years after their first. 
In their debut campaign they beat Manchester United 3-0 at home in October 2002. They failed to progress then or on their second appearance in 2009-10.

Omer Atzili scored twice as Maccabi Haifa beat struggling Juventus 2-0 on Tuesday in Champions League Group H, pushing the Italian giants to the brink of elimination.

Omer Atzili scored twice as Maccabi Haifa beat struggling Juventus 2-0 on Tuesday in Champions League Group H, pushing the Italian giants to the brink of elimination. Juve are third in their group after four matches, equal on three points with Maccabi, who remain bottom despite their first win, and four behind Benfica and Paris Saint-Germain, who play later in the evening. Juventus had suggested their form was improving as they beat the Israeli team in Turin last week, but lost to AC Milan on Saturday to slide to eighth in Serie A. After the game Juventus president Andrea Agnelli expressed his dismay but repeated his support for coach Massimiliano Allegri. "I'm ashamed of what's happening right now," said Agnelli to Sky Sport Italia. "There is no one person culpable, it's not the coach's fault if we can't win a tackle. Allegri is going to remain coach of Juventus." ALSO READ | High-flying USA hammer hosts India 8-0 in their FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup opener The hosts dominated the first half at the Sammy Ofer stadium and took the lead after seven minutes. Atzili outjumped the visiting defence to meet a cross from Pierre Cornud, and although he turned his head away just before making contact, the ball struck his back. Wojciech Szczesny reached the ball but it crawled through his outstretched fingers and in off the post. Maccabi poured forward. Tjaronn Chery hit the bar. Szczesny saved from Atzili. The home team continued to dominate after Juventus midfielder Angel di Maria limped off with a thigh problem in the 24th minute. Three minutes before half time, Atzili shaped to curl a left-footy shot inside the far post, but instead clipped it inside the near post with Szczesny rooted to his line. Juventus managed their first strike on goal seconds before half time but Joshua Cohen saved low from Dusan Vlahovic's header. Juventus pressed from the start of the second half and Cohen saved high from a Daniele Rugani header flying toward the top corner. He later saved from wingers Juan Cuadrado and Arkadiusz Milik but Maccabi created late chances as they held on comfortably. In their third appearance in the Champions League group stage, Maccabi claimed their second big scalp 20 years after their first. In their debut campaign they beat Manchester United 3-0 at home in October 2002. They failed to progress then or on their second appearance in 2009-10.

Maccabi Haifa register first UCL victory since 2002, push Juventus closer to elimination with 2-0 win

Monza took a surprising but deserved 1-0 home win over Juventus on Sunday, their first Serie A victory of the season, as the visitors struggled after being reduced to 10 men.

Juve key player Angel Di Maria's return from injury was cut short when he was sent off five minutes before the break after elbowing Armando Izzo in the chest.

"We need to do better, certainly. The red card affected the game; Angel was a bit harassed by Izzo, a player who is known for using these tactics, and he fell for it. I didn’t see the replay but was told it was the right decision to send him off," Juve's assistant manager Marco Landucci told DAZN.

Juventus had half-chances in the first half but were struggling to create momentum, while Monza were effective in breaking down the play in midfield.

Dusan Vlahovic had several attempts on goal but none of them were difficult for Monza goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio to stop.

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Newly-promoted Monza smelled blood in the second half and pressured the opposition defence to make mistakes, while Juve tried to look for counter-attacking chances.

Substitute Christian Gytkjaer became the hero when he slid in the winner from Patrick Ciurria's cross in the 74th minute.

Moise Kean came close to equalising for Juventus in the 81st minute when his header was on target, but Di Gregorio was alert and held it firmly in his grip.

Manager Massimiliano Allegri was not allowed on the bench for Juve's first Serie A loss of the season, after being sent off last Sunday in the 2-2 home draw against Salernitana for protesting about a disallowed VAR goal.

"Obviously, nobody is happy right now, but in order to emerge from this situation we can only work hard and do better," Landucci said.

"We started well and then stopped playing, so the only method is to work and everyone raises their game to work in the same direction."

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Juve fielded a depleted team as Arkadiusz Milik and Juan Cuadrado were suspended for the game, while Federico Chiesa, Kaio Jorge, Paul Pogba, Manuel Locatelli and Alex Sandro were all injured.

Monza next travel to Sampdoria on Oct. 2, after the international break, while Juventus host Bologna on the same day.

Juventus remain eighth in the standings but are now six points behind leaders Udinese after seven matches, while Monza moved up to 18th place with four points.

Monza took a surprising but deserved 1-0 home win over Juventus on Sunday, their first Serie A victory of the season, as the visitors struggled after being reduced to 10 men.

Monza took a surprising but deserved 1-0 home win over Juventus on Sunday, their first Serie A victory of the season, as the visitors struggled after being reduced to 10 men. Juve key player Angel Di Maria's return from injury was cut short when he was sent off five minutes before the break after elbowing Armando Izzo in the chest. "We need to do better, certainly. The red card affected the game; Angel was a bit harassed by Izzo, a player who is known for using these tactics, and he fell for it. I didn’t see the replay but was told it was the right decision to send him off," Juve's assistant manager Marco Landucci told DAZN. Juventus had half-chances in the first half but were struggling to create momentum, while Monza were effective in breaking down the play in midfield. Dusan Vlahovic had several attempts on goal but none of them were difficult for Monza goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio to stop. Also Read: Rodrygo and Valverde score as clinical Real Madrid beat Atletico 2-1 to continue perfect start in La Liga Newly-promoted Monza smelled blood in the second half and pressured the opposition defence to make mistakes, while Juve tried to look for counter-attacking chances. Substitute Christian Gytkjaer became the hero when he slid in the winner from Patrick Ciurria's cross in the 74th minute. Moise Kean came close to equalising for Juventus in the 81st minute when his header was on target, but Di Gregorio was alert and held it firmly in his grip. Manager Massimiliano Allegri was not allowed on the bench for Juve's first Serie A loss of the season, after being sent off last Sunday in the 2-2 home draw against Salernitana for protesting about a disallowed VAR goal. "Obviously, nobody is happy right now, but in order to emerge from this situation we can only work hard and do better," Landucci said. "We started well and then stopped playing, so the only method is to work and everyone raises their game to work in the same direction." Also Read: Arsenal schoolboy Ethan Nwaneri becomes youngest to play in the Premier League at 15 Juve fielded a depleted team as Arkadiusz Milik and Juan Cuadrado were suspended for the game, while Federico Chiesa, Kaio Jorge, Paul Pogba, Manuel Locatelli and Alex Sandro were all injured. Monza next travel to Sampdoria on Oct. 2, after the international break, while Juventus host Bologna on the same day. Juventus remain eighth in the standings but are now six points behind leaders Udinese after seven matches, while Monza moved up to 18th place with four points.

Serie A: Monza pull off stunning 1-0 win against struggling Juventus to bag first win of the season

Paul Pogba's elder brother Mathias Pogbas has been detained and placed under formal investigation in an alleged extortion case against the Juventus star. Mathias&nbsp;had earlier made some shocking comments about his brother Pogba on social media and accused him of using witchcraft on his France teammate Kylian Mbappe.

A professional footballer himself, Mathias has played for clubs like Wrexham and Sparta Rotterdam in his career so far. He had promised to make explosive revelations against Pogba on social media before making some shocking allegations against the Juventus midfielder.&nbsp;

Pogba had denied Mathias' claims while alleging that his elder brother was part of the gang which tried to extort&nbsp;13 million euros out of him. The French star filed a police complaint against the blackmailers and Mathias was also named among the suspects.

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Along with Mathias, four others have also been detained by the French officials for a formal investigation in relation to the extortion case, sources confirmed to new agency Agence France-Presse. All five have been placed under formal investigation and are being interrogated.

Mathias' lawyer, Yassine Bouzrou has said his client is innocent and that they will challenge the decision.

As per AFP, sources have claimed that large sums of money have been demanded from Pogba to avoid the circulation of allegedly compromising videos. A number of his family members have been interviewed by the French police. The other four people detained are all reportedly close to Mathias.

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Pogba left his former club Manchester United earlier this summer to rejoin Italian club Juventus as a free agent. He is currently out of action due to a knee injury which has put his future at the FIFA World Cup 2022 in doubt. Pogba is expected to return to action for Juventus later this month but there has been no confirmation on when he will be making his comeback.

Paul Pogba's elder brother Mathias Pogbas has been detained and placed under formal investigation in an alleged extortion case against the Juventus star. Mathias had earlier made some shocking comments about his brother Pogba on social media and accused him of using witchcraft on his France teammate Kylian Mbappe.

Paul Pogba's elder brother Mathias Pogbas has been detained and placed under formal investigation in an alleged extortion case against the Juventus star. Mathias had earlier made some shocking comments about his brother Pogba on social media and accused him of using witchcraft on his France teammate Kylian Mbappe. A professional footballer himself, Mathias has played for clubs like Wrexham and Sparta Rotterdam in his career so far. He had promised to make explosive revelations against Pogba on social media before making some shocking allegations against the Juventus midfielder. Pogba had denied Mathias' claims while alleging that his elder brother was part of the gang which tried to extort 13 million euros out of him. The French star filed a police complaint against the blackmailers and Mathias was also named among the suspects. Also Read: 'Why are they wearing shorts?': Pakistan journalist asks women's football team coach, slammed online Along with Mathias, four others have also been detained by the French officials for a formal investigation in relation to the extortion case, sources confirmed to new agency Agence France-Presse. All five have been placed under formal investigation and are being interrogated. Mathias' lawyer, Yassine Bouzrou has said his client is innocent and that they will challenge the decision. As per AFP, sources have claimed that large sums of money have been demanded from Pogba to avoid the circulation of allegedly compromising videos. A number of his family members have been interviewed by the French police. The other four people detained are all reportedly close to Mathias. Also Read: 'Europe is full of racists'- Dani Alves makes shocking admission regarding the European football circuit Pogba left his former club Manchester United earlier this summer to rejoin Italian club Juventus as a free agent. He is currently out of action due to a knee injury which has put his future at the FIFA World Cup 2022 in doubt. Pogba is expected to return to action for Juventus later this month but there has been no confirmation on when he will be making his comeback.

Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba's brother Mathias detained in alleged extortion case

The elder brother of&nbsp;Paul&nbsp;Pogba&nbsp;and four others are "likely to be charged" on Saturday in an extortion case targeting the French football star, judicial sources said.

They are due to appear before a judge later in the day, the sources said. Mathias&nbsp;Pogba, 32, has admitted to being behind a bizarre video published online on August 27 promising "great revelations" about the Juventus player and French national team member.&nbsp;

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The four others are all close to the&nbsp;Pogba&nbsp;brothers and are aged between 27 and 36.&nbsp;The five have been held in custody since Tuesday and Wednesday.

Paul&nbsp;Pogba&nbsp;had filed a complaint with Turin prosecutors on July 16, saying he was the target of a 13-million-euro blackmail plot.

According to sources close to the&nbsp;Pogba&nbsp;family contacted by AFP, large sums of money are being demanded from&nbsp;Paul&nbsp;Pogba&nbsp;if he wants to avoid the dissemination of allegedly compromising videos.

Paul&nbsp;Pogba&nbsp;told investigators that his blackmailers wanted to discredit him by claiming he had asked a marabout (holy man) to cast a spell on Paris Saint-Germain and France star Kylian Mbappe, which&nbsp;Pogba&nbsp;denies.

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French prosecutors launched an investigation on September 2. It is being handled jointly by the French police's anti-gang and central crime units. Several people, including&nbsp;Pogba's mother, have already been interviewed by police, a judiciary source told AFP.

On the field,&nbsp;Pogba's hopes of playing for France at the World Cup in Qatar later this year hang in the balance after a knee injury. He has undergone a&nbsp;surgery that was described as "successful" earlier this month.

The elder brother of Paul Pogba and four others are "likely to be charged" on Saturday in an extortion case targeting the French football star, judicial sources said.

The elder brother of Paul Pogba and four others are "likely to be charged" on Saturday in an extortion case targeting the French football star, judicial sources said. They are due to appear before a judge later in the day, the sources said. Mathias Pogba, 32, has admitted to being behind a bizarre video published online on August 27 promising "great revelations" about the Juventus player and French national team member. ALSO READ: 'A good performance'- Pep Guardiola hails Jack Grealish for latest outing amid complaints from the fans The four others are all close to the Pogba brothers and are aged between 27 and 36. The five have been held in custody since Tuesday and Wednesday. Paul Pogba had filed a complaint with Turin prosecutors on July 16, saying he was the target of a 13-million-euro blackmail plot. According to sources close to the Pogba family contacted by AFP, large sums of money are being demanded from Paul Pogba if he wants to avoid the dissemination of allegedly compromising videos. Paul Pogba told investigators that his blackmailers wanted to discredit him by claiming he had asked a marabout (holy man) to cast a spell on Paris Saint-Germain and France star Kylian Mbappe, which Pogba denies. ALSO READ: 'Europe is full of racists'- Dani Alves makes shocking admission regarding the European football circuit French prosecutors launched an investigation on September 2. It is being handled jointly by the French police's anti-gang and central crime units. Several people, including Pogba's mother, have already been interviewed by police, a judiciary source told AFP. On the field, Pogba's hopes of playing for France at the World Cup in Qatar later this year hang in the balance after a knee injury. He has undergone a surgery that was described as "successful" earlier this month.

Paul Pogba's brother Mathias likely to be charged in extortion case against the Juventus star

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