Latest news with #DelPiero
Sydney Morning Herald
26-07-2025
- Business
- Sydney Morning Herald
It's a long shot. But Sydney FC should be applauded for having a crack at Thomas Müller
Domestically, the Australian football economy continues to shrink. Club distributions are down from over $3 million per season to an all-time low of $530,000, and so most clubs don't even bother trying to sign big names. It's beyond them, and there is little appetite from club owners to dig their hands even further into their pockets. And when they do, they have to settle for the likes of Douglas Costa, who had already had his run through MLS by the time he washed up at the Sky Blues last season, but has proved to be a worthy signing, or Juan Mata, who was many years past his peak when Western Sydney Wanderers had the chance to grab him - as evidenced by his on-field output. Mata might yet return next season, but if he does, he'll be a luxury add-on for the Wanderers, rather than a key starting player. A-League clubs have largely pivoted towards bringing through academy players - and so they should. They've finally learned how to turn young, homegrown talent into sizeable transfer fees, and flipping kids for cash is the only way they can be sustainable in the long term. It's good for the game, too. It's a shift that is already benefiting the Socceroos and, in turn, will reinforce the A-League's legitimacy as a breeding ground and relevance for the many fans in Australia who follow European football but not the local product. The more that A-League alumni players can reach the top levels, the more it says to the unconverted that our competition is worth keeping a close eye on. But that can't be all that the A-League is, or will be. For one thing, those youngsters need to have hardened pros next to them in the dressing room to learn from. If the A-League was too reliant on experienced players in the past, it now runs the risk of going too far the other way. A careful balance has to be struck. Star power has always been the thing that moves the needle in this country, but it's never been more true than today. As mass culture continues to splinter into a million micro-niches, the need to have something - or someone - with cut-through power is critical. Müller is that sort of someone. And for every player who opts for the megabucks, there might be one per cent of them who are happy to forego those earnings for the glorious Australian lifestyle, of which the appeal to foreigners we sometimes underestimate because we're so lucky to experience it 24/7. Del Piero, don't forget, turned down more money elsewhere - and even a contract offer from Liverpool - because he was so attracted by the wonders of Sydney. Loading To ask the question of Müller is to send a message to the rest of the football world - and to sceptical local fans - that the A-League still has ambition. There's no risk in trying. In fact, the risk is not trying, and never knowing if he might have been the next Del Piero. At worst, you get a polite rejection. At best, you spark the sort of rare moment that can reignite interest in the domestic game, especially at a time when eyeballs are hard to win.
The Age
26-07-2025
- Business
- The Age
It's a long shot. But Sydney FC should be applauded for having a crack at Thomas Müller
Domestically, the Australian football economy continues to shrink. Club distributions are down from over $3 million per season to an all-time low of $530,000, and so most clubs don't even bother trying to sign big names. It's beyond them, and there is little appetite from club owners to dig their hands even further into their pockets. And when they do, they have to settle for the likes of Douglas Costa, who had already had his run through MLS by the time he washed up at the Sky Blues last season, but has proved to be a worthy signing, or Juan Mata, who was many years past his peak when Western Sydney Wanderers had the chance to grab him - as evidenced by his on-field output. Mata might yet return next season, but if he does, he'll be a luxury add-on for the Wanderers, rather than a key starting player. A-League clubs have largely pivoted towards bringing through academy players - and so they should. They've finally learned how to turn young, homegrown talent into sizeable transfer fees, and flipping kids for cash is the only way they can be sustainable in the long term. It's good for the game, too. It's a shift that is already benefiting the Socceroos and, in turn, will reinforce the A-League's legitimacy as a breeding ground and relevance for the many fans in Australia who follow European football but not the local product. The more that A-League alumni players can reach the top levels, the more it says to the unconverted that our competition is worth keeping a close eye on. But that can't be all that the A-League is, or will be. For one thing, those youngsters need to have hardened pros next to them in the dressing room to learn from. If the A-League was too reliant on experienced players in the past, it now runs the risk of going too far the other way. A careful balance has to be struck. Star power has always been the thing that moves the needle in this country, but it's never been more true than today. As mass culture continues to splinter into a million micro-niches, the need to have something - or someone - with cut-through power is critical. Müller is that sort of someone. And for every player who opts for the megabucks, there might be one per cent of them who are happy to forego those earnings for the glorious Australian lifestyle, of which the appeal to foreigners we sometimes underestimate because we're so lucky to experience it 24/7. Del Piero, don't forget, turned down more money elsewhere - and even a contract offer from Liverpool - because he was so attracted by the wonders of Sydney. Loading To ask the question of Müller is to send a message to the rest of the football world - and to sceptical local fans - that the A-League still has ambition. There's no risk in trying. In fact, the risk is not trying, and never knowing if he might have been the next Del Piero. At worst, you get a polite rejection. At best, you spark the sort of rare moment that can reignite interest in the domestic game, especially at a time when eyeballs are hard to win.
Sydney Morning Herald
26-07-2025
- Business
- Sydney Morning Herald
It's a long shot. But Sydney FC should be applauded for taking a shot at Thomas Müller
Domestically, the Australian football economy continues to shrink. Club distributions are down from over $3 million per season to an all-time low of $530,000, and so most clubs don't even bother trying to sign big names. It's beyond them, and there is little appetite from club owners to dig their hands even further into their pockets. And when they do, they have to settle for the likes of Douglas Costa, who had already had his run through MLS by the time he washed up at the Sky Blues last season, but has proved to be a worthy signing, or Juan Mata, who was many years past his peak when Western Sydney Wanderers had the chance to grab him - as evidenced by his on-field output. Mata might yet return next season, but if he does, he'll be a luxury add-on for the Wanderers, rather than a key starting player. A-League clubs have largely pivoted towards bringing through academy players - and so they should. They've finally learned how to turn young, homegrown talent into sizeable transfer fees, and flipping kids for cash is the only way they can be sustainable in the long term. It's good for the game, too. It's a shift that is already benefiting the Socceroos and, in turn, will reinforce the A-League's legitimacy as a breeding ground and relevance for the many fans in Australia who follow European football but not the local product. The more that A-League alumni players can reach the top levels, the more it says to the unconverted that our competition is worth keeping a close eye on. But that can't be all that the A-League is, or will be. For one thing, those youngsters need to have hardened pros next to them in the dressing room to learn from. If the A-League was too reliant on experienced players in the past, it now runs the risk of going too far the other way. A careful balance has to be struck. Star power has always been the thing that moves the needle in this country, but it's never been more true than today. As mass culture continues to splinter into a million micro-niches, the need to have something - or someone - with cut-through power is critical. Müller is that sort of someone. And for every player who opts for the megabucks, there might be one per cent of them who are happy to forego those earnings for the glorious Australian lifestyle, of which the appeal to foreigners we sometimes underestimate because we're so lucky to experience it 24/7. Del Piero, don't forget, turned down more money elsewhere - and even a contract offer from Liverpool - because he was so attracted by the wonders of Sydney. Loading To ask the question of Müller is to send a message to the rest of the football world - and to sceptical local fans - that the A-League still has ambition. There's no risk in trying. In fact, the risk is not trying, and never knowing if he might have been the next Del Piero. At worst, you get a polite rejection. At best, you spark the sort of rare moment that can reignite interest in the domestic game, especially at a time when eyeballs are hard to win.
Yahoo
26-06-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Today's Papers – Yildiz's Juventus dreams, Allegri calls Leao
La Gazzetta dello Sport Inter move for a super attack Hojlund, I take you A new coup in attack after Bonny. A new injury in the USA for Calha Yildiz says it all My life like Del Piero 'Being the Juventus leader gives me confidence. I dream of winning everything like Ale.' Club World Cup: at 21:00 against Man City for the leadership Advertisement Hello, Leao? It's Max Allegri calls and Rafa already prepares for the pre-season Morata is back. Yes to Fabregas' Como Il Corriere dello Sport 'Yildiz is great' From the compliments from Exor's chief to the City exam Juve wait for Sancho and David and challenge Haaland Comolli speaks with the Canadian and pushes United for the winter. Tudor: First spot at stake in the game against Guardiola. A draw is enough for the Bianconeri. Milan raise Ricci's offer 25m ready to close the deal with Torino. Allegri relies on Loftus-Cheek Bernebé is the idea of Viola Roma: auction for Angelino Nunez, new look for Napoli Manna negotiates with the Reds: he's valued at 58m. Darwin is ready to say yes from Uruguay. Tuttosport Yildiz: 'Juve for life' I dream of staying here forever. They signed me as a kid, I've become a man here Advertisement Renewal? Money, no, sorry. I don't think about it. I am focused on the Club World Cup. Del Piero is a friend: we often talk and he's always kind. But no comparisons I've made many progresses in the last year, also physically. The biggest in mentality. Tudor gives me more freedom. Elkann texted me to congratulate me Meeting Haaland without fear The regista will join Allegri for 25m Ricci to Milan, Toro consider Zaniolo Talks involving Colombo with the Rossoneri. Vagnati considers a loan deal for the attacking midfielder who returned to Galatasaray and insists on Anjorin. Como: Morata close. Pioli released for Florence.
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Official: Del Piero becomes coach after completing courses
Italy and Juventus legend Alessandro Del Piero has officially completed his coaching courses, so, as he says, you can already call him 'Mister'… Former Juventus and Italy striker Alessandro Del Piero has completed coaching courses to become a qualified UEFA coach. Advertisement The ex-striker announced his new career achievement on Instagram. 'From today, you can also call me Mister,' Del Piero wrote. 'Mister' is a typical Italian expression used to address football coaches. 'Thanks to the FIGC and all the instructors who guided me through this course. I'm grateful to everyone who collaborated and shared this crucial educational journey with me,' Del Piero continued. MIAMI, FLORIDA – DECEMBER 05: Alessandro Del Piero looks on alongside The FIFA Club World Cup Trophy during the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Draw at Telemundo Studios on December 05, 2024 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by) 'A special thank you to my children and my wife for the support they gave me during these years of study and the beautiful surprises they gave me today in Florence by showing up for the presentation of my thesis, which encapsulates an integral part of my professional and personal experiences as well as may vision of football and the role of the coach.' Advertisement Del Piero is currently working as a Serie A and Champions League pundit for Sky Sport Italia and CBS Sports. He's the Juventus player with the most goals and appearances in a Bianconeri shirt and won the 2006 World Cup with the Italy national team. His personal trophy cabinet also includes six Serie A titles, one Coppa Italia, four Supercoppa Italiana and one Champions League. Del Piero practically spent his entire playing career at Juventus, except for two seasons in Serie B at Padova from 1991 to 1993, two at Sydney FC (2012 to 2014), and one at Delhi Dynamos. He's the fourth-best scorer for the Italy national team with 27 goals in 91 games.
