Capello sbotta: “I titoli di Calciopoli appartengono alla Juve! Guardiola ha distrutto il calcio!”

Fabio Capello, the renowned former coach, firmly stated that Juventus' revoked Serie A titles were unjust, claiming they were rightfully earned. He recalled that nine players from Juventus represented Italy in the World Cup final in 2006, emphasizing the team's superiority during that period. These remarks were made as Capello prepared for his role as an ambassador at the Laureus World Sports Awards scheduled for April 21 at the Palacio de Cibele in Madrid. In an interview with the Spanish newspaper El Mundo, Capello reflected on his career and expressed that even after retiring in 2018, his passion for football remains unwavering. He noted, “Football comes naturally to me, though I try to engage in other activities like traveling and history.” He contrasted his current leisurely pursuits to his previous summers, admitting he still finds little deviation from the sport. “Ultimately, I am what I am, a footballer and a coach. I cannot escape that.” Capello also recounted his two stints with Real Madrid in the seasons 1996/97 and 2006/07, each culminating in championship victories. He explained his reasons for leaving the first time to return to AC Milan after a call from Silvio Berlusconi. Capello explained, “I owed it to him for the trust he placed in me early in my managerial career.” His return to Madrid saw him winning another title despite facing challenges, including a tumultuous relationship with President Ramón Calderón. He emphasized respect as the cornerstone of his coaching philosophy, stating, “Respect comes first. We all have our issues, but respect for everyone in the club is fundamental.” Addressing incidents during his tenure, Capello recalled a conflict with players Predrag Mijatović and Davor Šuker. He had prohibited wine during team meals initially, which led to disagreements, but a compromise was formed permitting small beers. Concerns arose when he discovered players had been out late during a critical season stretch. He gathered the team to confront the issue, expressing his disappointment and announcing that some players could not remain with the club under such circumstances. Capello further discussed Raul’s grievances about not receiving the ball from his teammates, initially dismissing it as trivial until he examined match footage. Upon confirming Raul's claims, he threatened the offending players with bench time, which resolved the situation. Reflecting on his acquisition of Roberto Carlos from Inter, Capello shared his disbelief at the transfer, stating, “I couldn’t comprehend that anyone would be so foolish as to part with such a player.” He quickly arranged the transfer, understanding its significance at a bargain price, which he viewed as a pivotal moment that could alter a career. He also touched upon the dynamics of his squad during the Tamarazo comeback, arguing that the team was no longer the Galacticos of the past, with key players like Zinedine Zidane and Luis Figo absent. Instead, the squad leaned on newer players like David Beckham, whom he ultimately decided to include in matches despite initial reservations from club officials. Capello surprised many by dismissing Ronaldo, despite considering him one of the greatest talents he'd coached. He explained that Ronaldo’s unwillingness to maintain fitness and lifestyle considerations ultimately led to his exit from the club. Capello acknowledged that were it not for injuries and personal choices, Ronaldo could have rivaled the likes of Messi and Maradona. Through these insights, Capello not only highlights his rich experience in football but also elucidates on the lessons he learned while managing some of the game's greatest talents.