NEWS

1.) Del Piero is now getting into a trouble!!! AS Roma manager Zdenek Zeman pointed a finger at him for his ability to develop his muscles. Zeman said that Del Piero has used those banned drug. Now, the police is following this case and Del Piero is going to seek damages in a civil court for the slur on his reputation.(August,98)

2.) Del Piero took three questions after testifying before the anti-doping panel of the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI). When a reporter asked if he knew the content of everything he ingested, he said "yes, certainly". When a reporter asked if he felt "doped", he walked out the room without saying a word. (News taken from South China Morning Post in H.K.)(22/8/98)

3.) Del Piero was expelled in a friendly match against RCD Espanyol Barcelona on 21stAugust in Spain. He was represented Juventus and he "slapped" the other player to take revenge. (I think that player who made Alex angry is wrong!--of course I think so)

4.) Juventus defeated AC Milan in Luigi Berlusconi Cup (Opel Cup) before the season 98-99 by 2:1.Del Piero shot a free kick and Inzaghi scored the first goal for Juventus!!!

5.) After the two weeks investigation from the CONI, there is no evidence to show that Del Piero has doped. The CONI shows that the players in Italy have used the non-prescription muscle-builder creatine, an amino acid powder given by their club doctors and it's not a banned drug. (what's a great news!!!)(August 98)

6.) In the latest list for the European Cup qualifier, Del Piero is again in that list. ^o^ (wow, that's so GREAT!!!)(30th August 98)

7.) In the first game of the European Cup qualifier, Italy defeated Wales by 2:0 and Del Piero was in the starting lineup. He had no score in that match.

8.) Juventus is discussing a new contract with Del Piero. The new contract will last for three year starting from 2000.(Since his remaining contract will be ended at 2000)The new contract costs about US$15,000,000.(9thSeptember)

9.) Del Piero is voted to be the best Italian player by the Italian Footballer's Union for the season 97-98. (23rd September,98)

10.)Del Piero is chosen to be the captain of Juventus by his team-mates. (That means he's good to everyone or he is talented? Who knows? But that should be true right? ha ha ^o^) (September,98)

11.)Del Piero is on the list of Team Italian in the match against Switzerland. (6thOctober,98)

12.)Del Piero will be in the starting lineup in the game against Switzerland in the European Cup qualifier. (Inzaghi will be another striker in the starting lineup) (10th October,98)

13.)Thanks for Zoff in trusting Del Piero so that he could bring Italy to the victory in the game against Switzerland! Del Piero scored 2 beautiful (extremely beautiful) goals for Italy so that Italy defeated Switzerland by 2:0. Del Piero escaped from the terrible nightmare of no goals for nearly half year now!!! He scored at 19 and 48 minutes!!! Happy ^o^ (11th October,98)

14.)RUMOR!!! Arsenal and Barcelona are now willing to pay US $35,000,000 to invite Del Piero to play in their teams. Barcelona is willing to pay US $35,000,000 for signing a 8 years contract. Extract all the taxes, he can earn US $4,250,000 a year!!!(13th October,1998)

15.)Del Piero returns to his best state now! Despite those negative doping rumor and the unhappy moment during the World Cup, Alex is now back to his peak! He scored the first goal for this season!!! Although Juve had to lose mark finally, it's still a good news for me since he is capable to show all the people that he can not only pass the ball but to score! Just wish him to score more and more so that he can be the top scorer in Italy! (19th October,98)

16.)Del Piero's agent will discuss a new contract with the Juve's top and most probably it will be signed at the end of November. Although there are a lot of clubs show interests in this gifted player, Alex still hopes to stay in Juventus for the following years. Juve knows that Alex cannot be paid less than Vieri and so they may pay 6-7 millions liras per year. The new contract will be extended to 2003.(23rd October,98)

17.)Del Piero scored again!!! He scored the only and the most valuable goal for Juventus in order to defeat Inter-Milan! What's a great news for us! This is the second successive series A goal and I hope he'll score more and more goals in the near future! Best Wishes! >.< (26th October,98)

18.)Del Piero will appear on a MTV Awards to present the awards on 12th November in Milano. To see who is the luck person to receive the awards from his hands...^o^ (28th October,98)

18.)Oh no!!! Alex was seriously hurt in the game against Udinese! How can it be like this? Let me check who guy hurt him!!! Angry!!! (9thNovember,98)

19.)Woo woo ~>.<~ Alex got a serious injury in his left knee in the match against Undiese. He has to stay out of the field for at least 5 months! After the swelling in his knee eliminated, he has to seek for a further investigation in order to determine whether he has to undergo operation or not. However, Alex is still being optimistic. He thought that he felt relieved after he knew that his injury was not at the worst stage. He said that the operation will not shorten his recovery period since he has to expect the happening of such unlucky things. Best Wishes Alex! We wait for your return!!! ^o^(11th November,98)

20.)Alex was present in the 5th MTV awards in Fila Forum, Milano in 12th November,98. He took a picture with Donatella Versace!(no picture for now cos I have no scannar at the moment, wait!)

21.)Alex went to the clinic in Lyon, France with his parents on the 13th November. Hope he'll get well soon.(14th November,98)

22.)Alex has to undergo an operation within 2 weeks because of his injury. His left knee ligament is torn and so he has to undergo an operation. Hope he'll get well soon!(15th November)

23.)First of all, thanks for the searching from Anita. The guy who hurt Alex in the game of Juve VS Udinese is most probably Marco Zanchi. Anyway, it's just an extra information and don't get angry with anybody cos I think Alex doesn't want his fans to get angry with the others.

24.)Alex went to United Stated to cure his injury yesterday. He will undergo an operation at the Hawkins Clinic in Denver, Colorado which has already conducted operations on two other Italian players, Maurizio Ganz (AC Milan) and Nicola Berti (Inter Milan). His agent and the doctor of the team accompanied him to go to US.(22/11/98)

25.)Alex has undergone the operation and it is expected to have a good recovery. The operation was performed at the Steadman Hawkins clinic in Vail. Alex has to remain in the hospital for 2 to 3 days and stay in Vail for 10 days to 2 weeks. Alex said he was prepared to face a long rehabilitation and "be back to action, stronger than before in the next season". Best wishes to him. ^o^ (29/11/98)

26.)Alex is back to Italy from Washington. The plane left Washington at 18:30(Italian hour).(09/12/98)

27.)Zidane is the 1998 European footballer of the year while Alex is rated as number 16. There are 3 Juve players are in the first 20th players in this award. Besides Zidane and Alex, Davis is the other one.(23/12/98)

28.)Del Piero was questioned by the investors about the doping again on the 27th of January!!! It's the second times to be questioned by the investors within 5 months. After the 2 hours investigation, Del Piero told the reporters that he only worried about his injury at the moment.(29/01/99)

29.)Del Piero is shocked about the leaving of Lippi--the previous coach for Juventus.
"I was surprised! But it's his decision and you have to accept it."
"I'd like to stress we always backed him, never let him down and always played flat out for him."(18/02/99)

30.)It's 4 months after the injury of Del Piero. He's now under recovery with a satisfactory rate. He's now training himself with his physiotherapist Aldo Esposito checking the progress. Alex works out in the gym inside Stadio Comunale in the morning and goes to Ronchi Verdi Country Club in the afternoon for sessions of swimming, conveyor belt, exercise bicycle, and bicycle. Around Easter, Alex will exercise with the ball and light running. Doctor expects him to be fully fit in July. (Although Alex want to play in Barcelona on 26th May for the Europena Champion League, if Juve can enter the final)(16/03/99)(thanks to Anita)

31.)Alessandro Del Piero will be visited by Dr. Richard Steadman this week somewhere in Europe. This will be the decisive visit that will determine when Del Piero will resume training. (28/03/99)

32.)According to La Repubblica, Del Piero and Juve are almost done in their contract negotiation. Alex will make as much as Ronaldo and Vieri (7 billion liras ~ 4million US$ per year) and will remain in Juve till 2005.(good news to Juve fans!!!) In addition, he will get part of the profits generated by the use of his image in advertisement. (02/04/99)

33.)Del Piero is now ready to start training!!! Alex was visited by Dr. Steadman in Paris, who operated him in Vail, and the response was totally positive. After the Easter break, it seems, Alex will start to train with the rest of the team and there is even a small chance that he may be fit for May 26th (Champions League Final in Barcelona). Such a good news for both Alex and his fans!!!(02/04/99)

34.)There is something about what Del Piero's thought about the world cup. He admitted that he still has regrets about France 98, where his below-par performances contributed to Italy's quarterfinal exit.
The Juventus striker's troubles started in last season's final, when a year of prolific goal scoring ended in defeat to Real Madrid and an injury which also helped to ruin his World Cup in France.
"I do think about it from time to time," he said. "I'd hoped it would finish very differently to the way it did." (02/04/99)

35.) Out of football since damaging knee ligaments last November, he is now praying for a semifinal victory for Juventus over Manchester United that could yet see him return for the final in Barcelona on May 26.
"It would be great to be able to say in a few months' time that my troubles started in one European Champions League final and finished in another," he told Guerin Sportivo magazine. "It would be marvelous."
"And I want to believe it could happen, even though that won't shorten my recovery time." And he admitted: "The conditions would have to be right even for me to be on the substitutes' bench."
As for the battle with Alex Ferguson's men, which starts next week, he said: "We know that it's going to be tough against Manchester United. But if Juventus play like they can, that will be enough."(02/04/99)

36.)How's Alex's life now? "I'm living it in a positive, optimistic way," he said. "In times like this, you develop as a person, you reach for the strength and the motivation you have inside you, and it makes you realize how important, and how unimportant, certain things are."
"One thing is for certain, I'll be different when I come back," he said. "Probably with a stronger personality." (02/04/99)

37.)"The hope is to join the rest of the squad for the start of pre-season training in July," he said. "The dream, though, is something else. But do I have to repeat it?" (No you don't have to repeat it cos we all know that you want to play in the final in Barcelona. We hope you will be on the field as soon as possible!!!)(02/04/99)

38.)This is another news about the contract of Alex with Juve. Juve provides a 5 year contract with him which costs $US 22,000,000. Club Atletico Madrid in Spain is attracting the entry of Alex by giving him a lot of good criteria. Because of this "temptation", Juve gives $US 4,400,000 per year to Alex. Alex only has 2 weeks to consider whether he will sign that contract or not. But it seems that there is a great chance for the stay of him. (By Apple Daily in Hong Kong)(12/04/99)

39.)Thanks for Anita again! Juventus said to the press that Del Piero will NOT be on sale or be sold to Atletico Madrid!!! However, his contract is indeed going to an end. Juve would never let the risk to the possibility for the leaving of Alex. Luckily, it seems that Alex will sign the contact in the near future... (14/04/99)

40.)I'm not so sure about this news but I just put it in this page. There is rumour that Alex has rejected the new contract with Juve. It seems that Inter has interest at him... Anyway, I don't believe this news at all cos Alex has never claimed that he wants to leave Juve. Everything is good to him in Juve and I can't think of any reason for him to leave. I'll tell you the latest news of his contract and just keep your eyes on my page. (29/04/99)

41.)This news was from a Spanish newspaper(Marca). Alex's agent, Claudio Pasqualin, was asked whether Alex would like to play in Real Madrid. He replied that Real Madrid is only one of the teams who is interested at him. Lazio, Inter, Milan and Barcelona also want to invite Alex. However, there is still a gap between Juve and Alex on the economic side. Real Madrid has made an offer to Alex... Hope Juve can make him stay...(14/05/99)

42.)"Alex is going to stay in Juve for at least another season." said by the club director general Luciano Moggi.
"Del Piero is staying with Juve," said Moggi. "I know that he is widely sought after by many prestigious clubs, but I'm convinced that he will stay at Juve." Oh... cool!!!(14/05/99)

43.)The Bianconeri number 10 is offering financial backing to a new hospital in the Albanian capital Tirana.
"We are proud of this because a footballer should not solely be judged by what he does on the field, but by how he conducts himself off it," the paper says. "Alex's (Del Piero) feet may be among the most precious in the world, but we can still say his real value is elsewhere." ...Of course!(14/05/99)

44.)Alex played in a training match for 15 minutes and scored one goal! "It's an important day for both Alex and Juve!" said by Carlo Ancelotti(the coach). (14/05/99)

45.)There is a news of Alex as follow. Del Piero can play the practice game with his teammates now and he's able to run. Although he was injured seriously, he will be able to get normal practice with his teammates in July. (17/05/99)

46.)There was a meeting on Alex's contract with Juve(dunno the exact day... sorry... but it's around 21/5). The meeting lasted for about 3 hours. Although no compromise was made, there was indeed a progress. Up until now the two parties have reached agreement on one thing only - the length of the contract - five years This would mean the attacker staying with Juventus until 30 June 2004. (21/05/99)

47.)Alex spoke in front of millions of people on a quiet spring evening on a programme chaired by Piccinini on Italia1.
"If Juventus had been successful, it was my greatest dream to play in the final of the Champions League, even though I don't think we could have risked such a hurried comeback". said by Alex.
"I am worried by the rumors going round: many think that the big teams win because of powerful backing. Well, Juventus and I have lost two Champions League finals: one because of an offside goal; the other because two penalties were not granted. Anyway we have turned over a new leaf and will not dwell on the past". Good thinking!
So what is the hardest time of his injury? "The worst was during the matches especially during the home games. You can see your fans in the stadium, your friends are there and you can't play - it's very painful".
If he feels responsible for the bad performance of Juve? "If I have been missed by my team, I should be flattered. Although I know that the team did their very best up until the end". said by Alex sharply.
Giampiero Mughini, famous writer and permanent guest on the programme viewed by most in Italy, questioned the player on his future and his contract. "A thousand lire or eight hundred for Juve? I have grown up wearing these colors and it is a great honor wearing Number 10. This obviously has great influence on my decision as well as the money. It is also very important to be able to rely on a company like mine with whom I share great aspect. The saying "grabbing the bull by the horns" is very clear and answers any doubts that have filled the newspapers recently."
"I will definitely win more with Juventus than with Atletico Madrid, so it is more sensible for me to stay where I am".
What is his opinion to Lippi, the former coach? "We all respected his decision to leave. In the end he gave us all he had and his experience ended with us. I can understand the fans' view that see him transferring to Inter after all that has been said lately, but this is football...."
"Which is the player I feel most comfortable with? Definitely Di Livio. I played with him in Padova, I have had to bear him for eight years... Which player would I give an Oscar to? I have always liked Weah, without a doubt...."

48.)There is rumor that Alex finally says "yes" to the contract with Juve! Though a lot of image problems in these months, the 2 parties have finally dealt with the matters. Del Piero would earn Lit 9.5 billion [?4.9 million; $5.7 million] per season for 5 years, he would keep his current personal contracts (Adidas, Pepsi, etc.), and will earn a small percentage for each new contract that Juve will offer him through its sponsors. (19/06/99)

49.)Here is the latest news about the contract of Juve and Alex. Del Piero and his agent will go to the headquarters in Piazza Crimea to sign the contract. His salary will be around 9.5 billion liras per season for 5 years and he will share the money of sponsor by half with Juve.

50.)Hey Del Piero has signed a new contract with Juve for 5 years on the 29th June 1999!!! This contract makes Alex become one of the highest paid players in the world! He will earn US$ 5,000,000 per year. (start from next season) There is an increase in his wages each year and he approximately will earn US$ 5,900,000 in 2004. oh... cool news!!!(01/07/99)

51.)Something about Alex after he has signed the contract. He gave a press conference after he had signed his contract. He, together with his 2 agents Pasqualinand D'Amico, as well as his brother Stefano, told the press the good news of Juve fans.
"I'm very, very happy. The club and I are going to work together, not just from the competitive point of view but also in terms of the image. I know I have signed something very important for my life: five years mean everything and includes the period of my maturity and yet the desire to stay at Juve has always been stronger than the problems that I have had to solve to bring this difficult negotiation to an end."
"Additional responsibilities? The responsibilities are the same as ever, the difference being that now I've been changed and molded by the experience of eight months off the pitch".
It seems that Alex is happy with his salary. "The prices for a footballer now follow the market laws but for me the money wasn't the main point. Obviously the money will enable me to have an easy life but it isn't everything."
"An NBA-type contract? I'd like to meet some of them. I? After the win in Tokyo I said I wanted to reach the top and, if I said that, it was thanks to the drawing force of the love for this sport. A sport which I miss incredibly, that I can't wait to get back to playing." And now you're back!
How is his injury now? It seems it's no longer a big problem to him... "I've started to train now and hope to be almost up there with the others by 10 July. It's just a matter of getting a new ligament used to certain stresses and movements."
Del Piero says he never doubted the successful outcome of this deal: "I didn't ever think that it wouldn't come off. At the beginning it may be a struggle but I hope that the club will continue to believe in me." I think they will!
"The same goes for the fans, I don't think I'll have to win them over again. It's just a pity that certain team-mates and friends have gone. I'll have to find another room-mate now that Di Livio's gone. It'll be my second goal after getting back on the pitch?"
"I still believe in loyalty even if many players no longer do. I don't think I'm old-fashioned just because I'm tying myself to Juventus for a total of eleven years, on the contrary. I'm certain that wearing this shirt is my one great wish and I wouldn't do it if I didn't know that the club wants it too - they've shown they want to invest in me." (06/07/99)

52.)Inside the Turin daily we find Del Piero's reaction. "I only ever wanted to play for Juve," he says. "I never thought about the money but about my life: my heart was beating when I signed. Now the only thing which really interests me is getting back to playing football. I miss it terribly. It's my greatest wish. I hope to make it for the beginning of the championship, I think that's a realistic forecast. In any case I won't be rushed, nor will Ancelotti." (06/07/99)

53.)Here is a news of Pippo (ha ha... you may wonder why...) According to Apple Daily, Inzaghi anticipates that he, together with Alex, will have 60+ scores in the next season. Hey you're great!(17/07/99)

54.)This is the latest news of Alex. Do you know where is him recently? He is now in a high mountain in Italy where he has to take a camp of training.(17/07/99)

55.)Alex will play in the first of a series of friendlies that Ancelotti has organized especially for him on Monday. It will be in the Stadio Perucca in Saint-Vincent, against a Valle D'Aosta XI.(17/07/99)

56.)Alex's work schedule is reviewed on a daily basis and he cannot say whether he will only be playing in friendlies over the summer or, later on, in the Intertoto Cup.
"In terms of technical and tactical training, I'm following the same programme as the rest of the squad," he explains. "I've obviously got a personalized programme in the gym, as everyone has, that takes into account the need to strengthen my left leg." (17/07/99)

57.)Del Piero speaks about how he first felt when crashing into a team-mate on the field: "I acted normally but immediately afterwards I had amoment's hesitation - I looked at my left leg and realized everything was OK. It was an important moment."
Positive, indeed excellent, signs. Alex feels sure of himself but knows his return will not be a bed of roses. However, he does not think it will take him a whole season to get back to his best.
"I don't think it'll be a year of transition for me, twelve months is going a bit far."
8 November last year is a long way away now but Del Piero quips: "Perhaps I'll ask not to play on that date!" (17/07/99)

58.)As I've mentioned before, Del Piero is now on the Italian Alps for training before the next season. He scored the second goal for Juventus in a match against V. D'Aosta. (The result was 2:0) (21/07/99)

59.)Del Piero will take the field at 5.30pm in the Perucca stadium in Saint-Vincent!!! This is the first game of a series of friendlies that the coach, Ancelotti, assigned especially for him. This provides him a chance to run in the field and access his progress.
Alex understands that he has still to play carefully. "Getting back to full athletic training will not be all a bed of roses, but I am prepared for that. I am now training alongside my team-mates from a technical point of view and on tactics. I have a personalized programme in the gym as everyone does." He will be back to the A-series on 29th August.(21/07/99)

60.)Hey welcome back Alex!!! Alex has scored one in the game against Russians Rostselmash Rostov in the Intertoto Cup semi-final second leg on Wednesday. The final result is 5:1 (Pippo scored 3...wow!)
It was the first competition game after his almost 300 days injury (and also a mild flu). He was substituted in 55 minutes. In 65th minutes, he set up Pippo's second goal. In 76th minutes, Pippo returned a nice chance to Alex and that's the goal!!! (06/08/99)

61.)Del Piero said that this was the return he was dreaming of and that he had a lot of fun. (and also the fantastic goal!)
Here are Alessandro Del Piero's numbers from yesterday's game:
Minutes played: 37
Shots on goal: 1
Shots wide: 3
Goals: 1
Assists: 1
Balls touched: 19
Successful passes: 7
Wrong passes: 2
Fouls made: 2
Fouls against: 3 (06/08/99)

62.)How's Alex think of his amazing performance?
"I am very satisfied" said Del Piero as he left the dressing rooms after a performance which exceeded expectations: "I dreamt of a night like this, but in reality it went better than I could have imagined."
Alex went on: "From the point of view of fitness it went perfectly, but there is still room for improvement. I wasn't at all worried. When Bessertnyl fouled me I was only angry because you shouldn't go in like that." (06/08/99)

63.)Here is an interview of Alex. I read it from the local newspaper Apple Daily(HK). Now I'm trying to translate it into English.
Q: What is more important -- money or success in football?
A: It's no doubt that money is very important but it's not invincible. It can't buy the honor in the field.
Q: Have you returned to your highest state?
A: I hope I can be back to the field in the beginning of the season, although it's just an anticipation. I won't urge Ancelotti, our coach, to put me on the stating lineup. Now my feeling is good. I can do a lot of exercises like tennis, basketball, beach volley ball ect. It's unbelievable that I can do this when compare to 9 months before, I could only play the gambling cards.
Q: What is the most unforgettable moment in the last 9 months?
A: I won't forget all the caring for my fans. I received a lot of caring letters. Some are even willing to give me their knees and I can't believe it! Thanks for all your caring! (06/08/99)

64.)Del Piero scored one and this fantastic goal leaded to the glory of Juventus for being the winner of the Berlusconi Trophy. He scored the only goal of the game in the first half (19minutes).
A satisfied Alex said: "It's always a good feeling to win at the San Siro and I was very happy with the applause I received when I went off."
Juventus defeated AC Milan for 1:0 in this game. (21/08/99)

65.)ROME, Aug 31 (Reuters) - Italy coach Dino Zoff resisted the temptation to bring Juventus striker Alessandro Del Piero back into his squad on Tuesday and gave Parma midfielder Paolo Vanoli a call-up instead. Hey how come??? Alex is reaching to his highest state and hope he will be back to Italian nation team in the near future. (This is rather an old news but just add it to be a reference in future) (Received at 31/08/99 updated at 02/10/99)

66.)What did Juve coach think about the exclusion of Alex in the team Italia? Carlo Ancelotti said: "Looking at it from aselfish point of view, I am happy that he is staying behind in Turin. He can get on with some work on his fitness and be around his team-mates. There will be less pressure on him. I also think it is the right thing to happen because he has only just come back and it is too important a game. The in-form players should get their chance. Del Piero is a key player and, as such, he is worth waiting for." (Received at 31/08/99 updated at 02/10/99)

67.)According to the Gazzetta dello Sport, Del Piero feels ready to rejoin the Italian squad. He tells the Milan-based daily that he is pleased with all the compliments about his form, but that Dino Zoff, coach of the national side, has made the right decision. "For the next match," he added, "I'll be there too..." Juventus club doctor, Agricola and athletic coach Ventrone are both interviewed for their opinion, and reveal all about Del Piero's exercise programme which will bring the Bianconeri's number 10 back to the peak of his condition. (I received this news at 02/09/99 updated at 02/10/99)

68.)An article on La Stampa explains exactly what Alessandro Del Piero's role in the CEPU commercial is. Del Piero, who has been a testimonial for over a year, has only taken a course in English. He plans to attend the university, but he hasn't signed up yet. According to his agent, Andrea D'Amico, Del Piero will choose something between business, communication science, or sports management. D'Amico also said that Del Piero won't necessarily sign up at the local university and that he won't attend classes. He will be followed by tutor and might give his exams on-line, just as Oliver Bierhoff did while obtaining his degree from a German university. (he he... a good news good news...) (I received this news at 08/09/99)

69.)ALEX, 25 years old, Cepu student. Student of what? "Sociology. But I've just signed up, I am registered and I've made this choice with no publicitary obligation. I've made it because I felt like it and because I have interest in the subject". To his glorious number ten, Alessandro Del Piero is about to add that number of the university books. A commercial discovery or a new road for the footballer, tired of videogames and thriller novels? "But notice that the soccer player has already changed many years ago. We represent an example for many youngsters and it's our duty to give positive messages". Image strategy with a background of sincerity, because that boy is a business which in voices more than 30 billions a year but also a guy who doesn't use his head just to hit the ball. His unfocused face in the billboards all over Italy would've been a stain, without that registration to sociology. But, does Del Piero truly believes it? "Sure", answers Andrea D'Amico, one of his procurators. "We haven't forced him, Alex has signed up in Turin and in the Spring he will prepare the tests. It's not just a matter of money". (I received this news at 22/09/99) (updated at 02/10/99)

70.)There is a rumor that Alex and Pippo, they are the forward partner in Juve, have conflict towards one another. Aim on this ridiculous rumor, they held a press conference to clarify.
"People like discussing the problem of Juve. Sometimes they said that we have weak attack while sometimes they said that me and Pippo fight against each other." said by Alex.
"It's impossible for the forward partner to have conflict." Pippo continued.
I lost the original English version of this news and so I just translate the Chinese version. The meaning is the same but the wording may be different.(20/04/00)

71.)Alex is injured again!!! But luckily it's just a minor muscle injury.
Because of the injury, Alex will miss the friendly game of Italy against Portugal. He was injured in the game against Fiorentina which Juve won 1:0. He was substituted in the 72nd minutes after he has scored his 8th penalty. "The Azzurri shirt means a lot to me, but I'll have to see what the medic says," he said.
Hope Alex will recover soon.

72.)As all we know that Juve is going to play a hard game this Sunday. Alex, at the Comunale on Thursday, talked to the gathering TV crews and reporters about Sunday big match against Parma at the Delle Alpi.
"I am very excited. This game is like a cup final and if you look at our success rate in crucial matches over the last few years, it clear wee done pretty well. Sure, we came out second best in two Champions League finals but virtually every year we have attained at least one of our main objectives. This in itself is some achievement given the level of competition. To win everything is nigh on impossible these days."(06/05/00)

73.)The match on this Sunday is decisive to Juve. How does Alex think of the match and the championship?
"Juventus-Parma will be much more than a Championship play-off. It will be like a European cup final. No moment is more beautiful than this one - having the right cards in your hands and knowing you'll soon have a chance to play and win. It's really great."
"It would be terrible but still if we think about it our goal this year was to reach a Champions' League spot and that has been accomplished. Let's not think about the points we used to have last week, we only have to think about today. Also because at the beginning of the Championship when nobody had us among the favorites we would have given anything to be at the point we are today."
"After all, should we loose, Lazio would have the title in their hands."
The player is very optimistic though, because Juve is known for being a team that hardly ever miss out in the important matches.
He added: "In the past five years we've won at least 50% of the competitions we played in, which is quite good statistically talking. We must try to approach this match with a positive mentality and just a little bit of apprehension. Anyway I'm sure that everybody will be focused solely on the title hunt and personal problems will be left out of the way. Inzaghi and I for example won't think of the fact that we're both experiencing problems in scoring this season, even tough his problem is much more recent than mine, because now it really doesn't matter who'll net as long as the team wins. And we must also trust our defense that is statistically the best of the tournament." (06/05/00)

74.)If you have watched the game of Juve VS Parma, you must know that Alex scored the first non-penalty goal! Here is what Alex said after the match.
"I am pleased about the goal but I am more pleased for the team because we have taken another step towards the title."
"At least I won't be reminded all the time about how long it has been," said Del Piero, adding that he never felt under pressure to score. "It irritated me a little that people didn't ask 'how has Del Piero played?' but always 'did Del Piero score?'," he said. "But it is a good feeling, of course, and it frees up my enthusiasm."
Parma goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon also made some comment after the first goal of Del Piero, "Naturally we were all waiting for Alex to score but did he really have to choose this game?"(08/05/00)

75.)Alex is included in the 26 members of team Italy for the coming friendly game. (22/05/00)

76.)How does Del Piero think about his last season?
"I have not had a great season and it upset me to lose out on the title on the last day," the 25-year-old revealed. "But I have great belief in myself. The games cannot come quickly enough now. For me and the other lads in the squad the wait is not much fun, with the press watching our every move."(25/05/00)

77.)After so many international matches, have Del Piero leant something from them?
"Personally I am looking for a better tournament than at the last Europeans, but I can only do my talking on the pitch," admitted the forward. "I remember the build-up to France 98 when everyone was saying that I was going to be the man... well I wasn't. I learnt a lot from that experience."
"I have learnt to accept the bad times and to ignore the critics," confessed by Alex. "There's no point looking back in anger, and it's probably best to be here with the national squad as we can get the disappointments of last season out of our system. What matters is how you react to difficult situations." (25/05/00)

78.)According to Raisport, we will know more about what Alex thinks about his best position. Del Piero doesn't feel like a striker: "I've already played behind the attackers at Juve, and I'm ready to do it for Italy, too. But Zoff knows I feel like a second attacker". (06/06/00)

79.)You can download the interview of Alex in this web-site. The interview, I think, is in Italian. ha ha... cos I don't understand what Alex is talking about... (06/06/00)

80.)How's the summer of Alex? Here is the schedule of Juventus.
14 July: Players will reconvene in Turin for medical assessment and for an official engagement with the Ronchi Verdi club. This will be followed by departure for Aosta and the Puchoz training ground where the players will take part in various physical trials before making their way to Chatillon where they will be staying.
22 July: Practice match against the local Valle D'Aosta outfit.
29 July: Practice match against the local Valle D'Aosta outfit.
3 August: Take part in the Birra Moretti Trophy with Inter and Bari.
9 August: Take part in the Republic of San Marino Trophy.
12 August: The end of the Chatillon training camp.
13 August: Bologna-Juventus friendly.
17 August: Juventus A will play Juventus B at Villar Perosa.
Berlsuconi Trophy: The date has yet to be set. (06/06/00)

81.)Euro 2000 has started and so far Italy has played 2 games. In both games (against Turkey and Belgium), Alex could only be the substitue. (In Turkey, substitued Fiore while in Belgium, substitued Totti)
"I'm flattered by all the attention," he said. "It's perhaps a tribute to the things I've done in the past. "I don't ask myself why I'm not in the first team. If it happens that I play a quarter of an hour as I did against Turkey then I'll play as well as I can."
"I hope to play as much as possible, I hope to make myself useful, I hope to do well. That's it in a nutshell."(15/06/00)

82.)Congratulation Alex!!! Del Piero scored the decisive goal in Euro 2000 (the game against Sweden). In the previous games (against Turkey and Belgium), Alex could only substitute his team-mates. This time, Alex had his first appearance as the first team in Euro 2000 and he scored at 88th minutes! Who says he can't score apart from penalty? Who says he's not in the best state? His goal makes people shut up. He's still the boy wonder for Italy. (20/06/00)

83.)Alex played for 120 minutes in the match against Holland(29/6) . He concentrated more in defense in this match. Although he didn't score, he still played pretty well. And finally, Italy wins during the penalty shoot. 3:1 (De Biagio, Pessotto, Totti and Kluveit) (01/07/00)

84.)Del Piero lost 2 goals in the euro 2000 final. "I'm destroyed. Destroyed because incredibly we've lost and destroyed because I had chances to score and I didn't manage to take them." Alex said desperately after the match.
"Both misses were as bad as each other. I wouldn't have minded hitting the second one badly if I had taken the first well, but these are all phrases that don't mean much at the moment. Our bitterness is too great."
One fears for the reaction of the Italian press to their favorite subject - the Juventus star Del Piero.
Italian forward Francesco Totti, who helped set up the opening goal and one of Del Piero's fine chances, wished Italy had played as they did against Holland.
"Everyone said we played badly (in the semifinal) and we were lucky to win. Today we played well and we've lost. Maybe it's better to play badly." (really???)(05/07/00)

85.)Here is what Alex thought after the euro 2000 final. "Yes, I blame myself and I feel a lot of guilt. I had two great chances and I missed both of them, obviously I feel the most guilty member of the team for this defeat," Del Piero said. (Alex you no need to blame on yourself)
"I feel devastated. We could have won the game and now be telling all of you how great it feels to be the strongest team in Europe."
In trying to relive the emotions of a night he would like to forget the Italian commented: "When Ambrosini passed to me the second time I was sure I was going to score. I tried to keep the ball on the ground as Barthez was coming towards me, but the keeper did well keeping the ball out with his feet." (I hate you Barthez)
"It's very difficult to think clearly now, losing a final in this way darkens my mind. The only thing I know is that we lost the European Championship final, other matters are not important."
Finally, Del Piero comments: "I want to forget this as soon as possible, but it will not be easy. I wonder how long it will take to heal what I'm feeling inside. We were just seconds away from the end of the game and winning the title, but then the unexpected happened. The thing that hurts me most is the fact that I had those two chances. The ball came right to my feet twice and I messed up both times. Forgive me." (we will forgive cos it's not your fault!) (11/07/00)

86.)Thanks you Anita for giving me this news again. Honorary president Umberto Agnelli visited Juve and told the press "We were very prudent with Del Piero last season. We protected him quite a bit, but this season he will be treated just like the others: if he doesn't play well, he won't get picked." Hey guy, how come??? (10/08/00)

87.)The president of Juve has warned Alex before. Here is the reply of Alex. "Our president said what is true for everybody and I agree with him. Only the best ones deserve to play. Last year I was given all the chances to recuperate gradually and now I want and I have to do more. I would never want the coach to have me playing only because I'm one of the oldest Juve players or because they like me. If I play it has to be because I deserve it." (23/08/00)

88.)Agnelli, who met all the players on Monday, warned: "If Del Piero does not play well, he will go out of the line-up."
"Last year we cuddled him, this year he will be judged along with everyone else. In the striker line we also have Filippo Inzaghi and David Trezeguet and the French player is a very good player."
Agnelli said about the struggle to win back the Scudetto: "I think that seven or eight teams have the same possibilities at the beginning of the tournament. Then luck and determination will be very important." (how come everybody points the finger towards Alex? I don't think he played bad last season!) (23/08/00)

89.)Something about Del Piero at the present. "Every department has been strengthened," declares the player in the Corriere dello Sport. "Juve have never dropped off the pace and we have made sufficient changes. The youth policy is invaluable if we are to unearth other Del Piero's in the future. One thing for sure is that Roma, Lazio and Milan have made some excellent signings. On my part it won't be easy to save face both on and off the field. If I end up making 20 assists and scoring one goal then so be it."
"The fans always want more from Del Piero," continues the number 10. "For me it's like a stimulus. I am aware of the fact that they respect me and expect a lot in return. I want to do well and hope to do so. How well it goes will depend on circumstances."(23/08/00)

90.)Here are how Alex thinks of different issues.
Alex on last season :
"Particular attention was paid to my situation due to the severity of my injury. The same will happen to Ronaldo when he comes back, as is the case with any player out for a long period of time. I am happy that it is like this as it shows that the club was hoping to rely on me."
Alex on the critics :
"It angered me to hear, as happened also at the European Championships, that I am only playing to keep the sponsors happy. I only started one match, against Holland, as you can't really count the Sweden match (qualification was already assured). Let's use Juve as an example: I was left out of the Final in Munich for another player (1997 European Cup). It's true that last year I played in the League but Carlo Ancelotti always said that I got what I deserved."
Alex on making excuses :
"I've never looked for them, not even last year. I started playing well in October, which was also the case in previous seasons. It is not unusual for a player to find his feet in winter."
Alex on goals :
"It was the only thing missing last year. I played well and not so well, as happens to everyone. A striker is always expected to score goals but a player should be able to offer more than that. Scoring more is obviously important, even though I believe the fans, the club, my team-mates and the coach were happy with my contribution last season."
Alex on luck :
"I have had time to think things over and have come to the conclusion that I am still owed a bit of luck. It's true that in five years I have won everything but let's not forget that Champions League Final in Amsterdam, the 1998 World Cup and the drug taking accusations, which was the worse thing. Then came the injury and the European Championship and the baggage that I am carrying from that. This is why the comments of Doctor Agnelli don't really bother me too much, as I have been through a lot worse..."
Alex on Euro 2000 :
"In the end I spoke about what happened as objectively as possible and, yes, you could say that I have become one of the "if only" brigade ("if only I had put away those chances..."). But I think that bad luck had a part to play in me becoming a member of the "if only" club as the goal we conceded was done so with only 30 seconds left to play. But let's not forget that we lost to the world champions. It was an important experience, but it's a shame that the finger of blame has been pointed only at me." (Alex, I totally agree!!!)
Alex on Zoff and Berlusconi :
"I think it was all a bit exaggerated: there was excessive criticism from one side and a case of over-reaction from the other (with his resignation)."
Alex on Juventus :
"The team has been strengthened in every department, which is only right if we are to challenge teams of a higher caliber than last year (in Europe). The others have also been strengthened. This happened in previous years, but we have always remained among the challengers. Juve must play their new signings and I have to do even better, whether that's through goals or assists. The important thing for me is not just to try and save face but to do the best I can for the team."(23/08/00)

91.)Alex scored and made a wonderful assist in a friendly match. "The fact that we were playing a foreign opponent in front of such a warm crowd meant that it felt like a proper game. I'm glad we won - it was a good psychological test for us, and we proved we were able to step things up when we needed to," explained Alex, who played in a spot normally reserved for Zinedine Zidane.
There is, of course, one major problem with fielding Del Piero behind the front two: he loves scoring goals. "For an attacking midfielder, it's considered a bonus, but for a striker it's obligatory." Del Piero's delight at scoring in Catania was obvious. In his own words, "I can't explain how I feel after scoring. In this case it seemed like a bit of a dream. I was happy to get my name on the score sheet because I had worked very hard on the pitch, and also because I haven't been in that situation too often in the last two years." (23/08/00)

92.)After months of speculation about his form and fitness, Alessandro Del Piero can take no more. "I've been hammered by everyone. Only Juve and the fans have stood by me," moans the player. This after reported 'deliver or else' ultimatums from club president Gianni Agnelli and Azzurri coach Giovanni Trapattoni.
"I have to fight against all the bad things said about me. Such as when people say I was the reason Italy lost at Euro 2000." According to the Milan-based daily, Del Piero is ready to prove everybody wrong.(05/09/00)

93.)Something said by Alex. "Some people say I am finished," Del Piero said. "We will see if it's true. I reckon once I score my first goal next season everything will change. Once I score, I'll be back on track."
Del Piero said: "Being called the betrayer of Italy hurts, but I am not afraid of the critics. I think I played sufficiently well in Budapest, especially in the first half.
"It is strange that a few months ago Filippo Inzaghi (his Juventus and Italy strike partner) was on the grill. I scored with my left foot against Sweden and people said I had revived my career, but now I'm back in the firing line.
"But my situation is not drastic. Real dramas are for others. This is a negative patch in my career, but after my injuries I must regard myself as lucky that I have the chance to prove the critics wrong." (19/09/00)

94.)Lippi, the previous coach of Juve, has some commend on Alex.
"Del Piero? He is a real champion! But not just like player. He is also a champion as person!" Lippi said.
"Last three seasons were very difficult for Alex : first he has been charged to use doping, false charges obviously but which leave a track in a player; then he get injured, a serious problem with the knee, which kept him far from the pitch for long time. Well in my opinion at least one year is needed to recover fully from a such injury"
"So I'm sure when I say Del Piero isn't a problem at all for Juventus, and he will play a great season coming back on his top standards" (02/10/00)

95.)Alex scored a wonderful goal in the first match of the season!!!!! People kept blaming him not to score enough but now he showed his talent in field again.
That was a wonderful goal. Alex was in the left side of the court and he stopped with the ball. He kicked the ball and made it turns an amazing parabola. The ball passed an opposite player and the goalkeeper, went straight to the corner!!!
CONGRATULATION TO ALEX!!!!! (02/10/00)

96.)This news is rather old but it's still deserved to be posted. Alex scored 2 penalties in the game against Georgian which was the World Cup European group eight qualifier for Italy. Though some people is still blaming his fault in Euro 2000, Italy coach Giovanni Trapattoni put the trust on him. "Georgia really made us suffer in the first half and twice Toldo had to save us. But we started to improve in midfield and in the end I think it was a fair result. But I think that Georgia showed tonight that they can be our most dangerous rivals in this group," said Trapattoni.
"It went well for Del Piero tonight but above all this was a victory that showed the need for collective hard work and determination even when things are not going so well," said Trapattoni.(06/11/00)

97.)Alex scored 2 important goals which brought the victory of Italy. Though they were from penalty, it's better than drew or lost the game. And how did Alex think about his performance?
"I hadn't to prove anything to anyone tonight, my only target was that to help the team to take the win. Obviously I'm very happy for the two goals I scored, to net is always very important, even if it comes from penalties. They give me trust and joy, so I could say I found what I was looking for" (06/11/00)

98.)I have watched the game of Milan VS Juve and saw that Alex was the captain in field again. Wow~ hope everything will be going fine to him~(03/11/00)

99.)Here is the news from the official Juve site and I don't know how to shorten it. So I copied the whole paragraph.
After a time spent away from the cameras and journalists, working in silence and concentration, Alex Del Piero decided it was once again time to speak about Juve and his own form, especially after his impressive performance in the San Siro against Internazionale in Sunday evening's clash.
It has been a difficult time what with elimination from the Champions League and having to get used to the inevitable moments spent on the bench which a large squad and rotation policies dictate. "Not only on the bench, in the stands too, let's not forget!" pointed out Alex. "The media always speak of just four strikers fighting over two starting places, but one shouldn't forget other areas of the pitch. There are players of great quality such as [Fabian] O'Neill and young promising players like [Marco] Zanchi who are currently often in the stands."
It's not an easy situation to manage, given that it's never enjoyable for a player to have to sit out a match. But Juve are a very close-knit group of players and there are no problems amongst them. "We all accept the situation, although when you're left out you still remain unhappy about it. That's normal, but let's not forget that we put ourselves in this situation. Had we been competing in more than one competition there would have been more space for others," he explained.
"Unfortunately things didn't go our way and so we must concentrate on our one objective. If we keep our minds fixed on this objective then all Carlo Ancelotti's decisions will be acceptable, because what counts is the good of the team."
On a more personal note, Alex is quite happy with his current contribution. "Let's say that my form fluctuates with that of the team. I played a good match at the San Siro, but we can't allow ourselves to drop a two goal lead, to allow the opposition to catch us like that. When you can win, you must. At the moment our main rival is Roma, but the one thing I'm missing is the odd goal." (31/12/00)

100.)The club doctor Riccardo Agricola scanned for Alex and checked that he suffered a muscle injury to his right thigh and would be out for 30 to 40 days... In fact, this news should be a month ago but I was having the final exam and so I didn't put it in my page. Sorry about that~ (31/12/00)

111.)Alex scored a wonderful goal in the match against Bari last Sunday(18/02/01). Alex was not in a talkative mood after the match and passed on a message to the press officer Alessio Secco: Im happy for the team and for myself. It was a very important victory which has taken place in a very difficult week for me. Thats all I have to say at the moment.
His team mates, who have stayed by his side during this difficult period, talked above all else about him: "The true Del Piero came back some time ago confirms Ferrara its just that the critics will only take note of the goal, and none of the other important things he did for the team. The Bianconero defender then gave his opinion on their performance: "It was one of the less impressive games weve played, especially in the first half, when we gave away too much space to Bari - Then we pulled ourselves together and ended up with three vital points. (19/02/01)

112.)The coach's comment for Del Piero:
Del Piero lived up to his name today, he scored an important goal, both for the team and for himself, especially considering the terrible weight he must be under at less than a week from his fathers death. From a physical point of view he is in good shape. His leg play is not unknown, he often does this, just that it does not always work."(19/02/01)

113.)After having not played since the 10th of December, due to a strained muscle, Alex Del Piero has decided to buckle down and recover completely from the terrible injury he suffered on the 8th of November 1998. He is sure that he will be able to regain the form he had before, I am sure that I will be able to be my former self and I want to do it here at Juve, underlined Alex, who was anxious to clear up any doubt about his future with the club. Just for the record I would like to state that I have always been happy at Juventus and that this has been a relationship in which both sides have given a lot. When I make an important decision I always consult Juventus. Even though other voices may be going around, only myself and Juventus are authorized to make statements about my future.(19/02/01)

114.)Alex scored the only goal in yesterday's match, Lazio Vs Juventus. In spite of this wonderful goal, Juve still lost the game (4:1). Anyway, I think the past Alex has been back and let's wish him all the best for his career. (19/03/01)

115.)How did Alex think after the loss toward Lazio?
We players have to make sure that the fans watch games with less exasperation. We have to help to de-stress this world of football. Unfortunately, in todays football there is too much frenzy which tends to result in situations which are unmanageable.
On Collinas refereeing, Alex pleads reason: I think that by the end of the season, refereeing mistakes are evened out. Not everyone shares this exasperation. On Sunday, Collina made mistakes, but its part of the game even if the fans dont see it like that. I dont think there was anything premeditated in it.(23/03/01)

116.)Against the South American side, it was Vieri who made up the striking partnership, but this time the ex-Juve player is back home, injured. Now Del Pieros outstanding form, on show on Sunday night against Lazio, could tip the scales towards Pinturicchio. The idea to reproduce Juves striking force only pleases SuperPippo: Alex? Yes, I can see it too. He and I know each other very well. Trapattoni knows what we can do. On the field we always provide guaranteed skill."(23/03/01)

117.)After the injury picked up against Parma, Del Piero has come back in great form: I admit that this is without doubt absolutely my best period since the injury at Udine. Youve said that, other than the goals, I am also making assists? I made them last year too, but people were looking more at the goals that didnt arrive. That's undoubtly a great news to all the fans.
A thought to the national team: Totti hasnt taken my place away, because in the national team he plays in a different position from me, I play as second striker. Up until now Ive played very little, its true, but its up to the coach to make judgments.(23/03/01)