Capello on Juve, Calciopoli and tactics

Fabio Capello has discussed Juventus, Calciopoli and Italian football’s current fascination with three-man defences.

Speaking in an interview on the Undici TV show, the Russia boss was questioned on a variety of subjects – including Juve’s Champions League tie against Chelsea this evening.

“They have to play with intelligence because Chelsea’s three attacking midfielders are very dangerous,” he said. “I think it’s the kind of game where you have to play in a strict tactical way.”

Coach Antonio Conte has clear ideas about who are his best players in defence and midfield, but he continues to alternate his forwards.

“Mirko Vucinic is a player who can make the difference, he’s the best attacker that Juventus have,” Capello added.

“Sebastian Giovinco? He was part of the Primavera squad when I was at Juventus. He’s a very interesting player, a youngster who needs time.

“He has great qualities, as well as the physical characteristics of Gianfranco Zola.”

Capello left Juve in the summer of 2006 after the club were demoted to Serie B and stripped of two Scudetti for their part in Calciopoli.

“I still have those two medals. We were the best side by some way and the only regret is that we didn’t do more in the Champions League. We had a team of quality, without which you don’t get results.”

Turning to present day Serie A, Capello is adamant that the Old Lady will retain their title – but he’s not a fan of their 3-5-2 system.

“There isn’t a race. Juventus will win. In the past there was Cragnotti’s Lazio, Tanzi’s Parma, as well as Milan and Inter. Today, in Italy, Juve can do what they want.

“The three-man defence is the worst thing about football today. We’ve gone back 20 years. In reality, it is a five-man defence.”

I agree and disagree with Capello. First, he should realize that 3 man defenses are innovative and necessary. Capello believes too strongly in the old 4-4-2. I do agree with him that Juve's 3-5-2 is really a strong defensive and possession style formation instead of being more attack oriented. However, I think Capello doesn't give credit to the ability of the formation to change and flex with what is needed in the game. When we need to defend, the wing backs can play deeper on defense. If we need to score, the players on the wing can push up into attack.

It's a great formation if you have the right players. I'm not even fully convinced that Juve has the right players on the wings right now, but we have been very successful with the group that we currently have. I think that says a lot about our tactics.