Maicon ‘surprised’ by Juventus sale of new Nottingham Forest man; picks Napoli to lift Scudetto – Football Italia

Former Inter, Roma and Brazil star Maicon has revealed he was “really surprised” by Juventus’ decision to sell Nicolo Savona to Nottingham Forest this summer.

Maicon spent nine years in Italy across his spells in Nerazzurri and Giallorossi colours and was present at a charity event last night where he spoke to Tuttosport about the current state of affairs in Serie A.

With quotes via Alfredo Pedulla’s website, the Brazilian was asked about Savona’s transfer, to which he replied that “I really liked Savona last season. I thought he could become a key player for Juve so his sale really surprised me.”

Maicon’s old club Inter face Juventus in the Derby d’Italia after the resumption of club football after the international break and he argued the match “already matters a lot. The Bianconeri have started well and it is always tough against them. After the great match against Torino, Inter slowed down against Udinese and must immediately send a strong signal to the league.”

Maicon: ‘Chivu an exceptional person, Napoli scudetto favourites’

The Brazilian was also asked to comment on the arrival of Cristian Chivu as Inter’s new head coach; the duo having played together for the Nerazzurri.

“Cristian was already a sort of coach on the pitch when he was playing,” Maicon said, “He and Cambiasso led us during matches, dictating our movements and they were always very attentive to every tactical aspect during training.”

His praise continued, “I was sure he would have a career on the bench and I’m convinced he can do really well with Inter. He’s very well-prepared. Chivu is a gentleman and an exceptional person from a human perspective but knows how to command respect when needed.”

Finally, the former Inter and Roma man picked Napoli as his favourites to win Serie A this year, “Whoever starts with the tricolour on their chest is always the team to beat, even if Inter remains the strongest squad.”