Football Season Guide

According to an old saying, a winning team should never be changed: this is certainly not the way they see it like at Udinese. In fact, after reaching their second historical qualification to the play-offs of the Champions League, they decided to let go some of their stars, one for each line of the pitch, that is defender Zapata, play-maker Inler and, mostly, the wonder-kid Alexis Sanchez, in order to cash in several millions and invest them on a bunch of unheard-of-before youngsters from every corner of the world. Not even the opportunity of improving the sensational results obtained in the past season made President Pozzo change his mind and attitude. If confirmed coach Guidolin disapproves this policy, he did not mention. Actually, he seems quite confident about obtaining some positive results even with the, apparently non so appealing, new-comers. The Brazilians Neuton and Danilo are expected to find a place as regulars in the starting eleven: the former as a left-back while the latter as a centre-back. Ferronetti and Basta, who have recovered from their long-lasting injuries, should rotate as right-backs together with Eckstrand, with Benatia confirmed at the centre, in front of penalty-kick-wizard Handanovic. In the midfield, Pinzi, Armenteros, Asamoah and Isla will still be the regulars while Badu, Doubai and Sissoko should have more and more to say with the passing of time. Abdi is also expected to take more responsibilities as an attacking midfielder, when the system of play adopted by the coach will allow him. The big doubt is represented by captain Di Natale's partner in the attack. With Denis on his way to Atalanta, Floro Flores, Barreto, and Fabbrini could be the favourite ones for that role. As evident from the first round of the play-offs of the Champions League, against Arsenal, Udinese are still a work in progress. A forward is expected to arrive before the end of the transfer campaign.