Gianluigi Buffon

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

‘Buffon should’ve retired at Juve’

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/124211/buffon-shouldve-retired-juve

 

 

Jul 9, 2018

 

Former Juventus and Italy boss Marcello Lippi believes Gianluigi Buffon should have retired with the Bianconeri.

 

Buffon had been tipped to retire with Juve at the end of last season but instead signed a two-year contract with Paris Saint-Germain.

 

“I’ve talked to Buffon so many times over the last 3-4 months,” Lippi told Radio Anch’io Sport.

 

“I’ve always told him ‘you decide, don’t accept any advice, do it your way’, and he wants to keep playing.

 

“I’d have liked him to end his career at Juventus, but that’s a personal thing. If he feels like he can keep playing, he must do so.

 

“He’ll keep playing for as long as feels like a No 1. Buffon and the National team? I think it’s finished.

 

“Of course, he’s a person of great loyalty and he loves the national team. I’m sure he’d make himself available to help the goalkeepers coming through, but he’s made this choice and he’ll respect it.”

 

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

Unfortunate Buffon PSG debut

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/124523/unfortunate-buffon-psg-debut

 

 

Jul 15, 2018

 

Gigi Buffon did not have the ideal Paris Saint-Germain debut, giving away a penalty and conceding two goals in a defeat to Chambly.

 

The 40-year-old goalkeeper started the friendly match and within five minutes had brought down a player to give away a penalty, which was then converted.

 

He conceded again before making way at half-time and PSG eventually lost 4-2.

 

It was their second pre-season friendly of the summer and Coach Thomas Tuchel used a 3-5-2 formation, but was missing several top names.

 

PSG: Buffon; Mbe Soh, Rimane, Nsoki; Georgen, Toufiqui, Rabiot, Bernede, Weah; Jesé, Postolachi

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

Buffon thanks Juventus

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/125748/buffon-thanks-juventus

 

 

Aug 4, 2018

 

Gianluigi Buffon thanks Juventus, after winning the French Super Cup with Paris Saint-Germain.

 

The Ligue 1 winners triumphed 4-0 over Monaco in the Trophée des Champions this afternoon, and the veteran took to Instagram after the match to reflect on the triumph.

 

“Even at the age of 40 you can still be happy to win a Super Cup,” Buffon wrote.

 

“Thanks again to Juventus who, with their culture of work, allowed me to reach this age in optimal condition to keep performing.

 

“Thanks to PSG, who found the necessary arguments to push me even further. Thanks to my new teammates who allowed me to win another trophy and welcomed me with enthusiasm, courtesy and respect.

 

“And thanks to Kevin Trapp who, despite what I offered a few days ago, wanted me to find the number 1 shirt in my place [in the dressing room].

 

“Thank you Kevin, from my heart, and thanks to all those who allowed me to feel these emotions again.”

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

‘Buffon knew CR7 would join Juve’

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/125809/buffon-knew-cr7-would-join-juve

 

 

Aug 7, 2018

 

Gianluigi Buffon’s agent says the Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper ‘was sure’ Cristiano Ronaldo would join Juventus.

 

Buffon left Juve before he had a chance of playing alongside Ronaldo, but Silvano Martina revealed that did not stop the 40-year-old from backing his former club to sign the superstar.

 

“He didn’t see it coming in April, but as soon as the news came out he was sure Juve would sign him,” he continued to RMC Sport.

 

“He loved the shirt he represented, he lives life with emotions and I hope he doesn’t face he Bianconeri: it would be painful for him.

 

“Could he go back to Juventus? I don’t know, but I don’t think PSG would ever let go of him.

 

“Still, that’s only my personal opinion. It’s never been talked about.” 

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

Buffon in talks for Parma return?

 

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/139120/buffon-talks-parma-return

 

 

Jun 9, 2019

 

Gianluigi Buffon is in negotiations for a return to his first club, Parma, claims La Gazzetta dello Sport.

 

The 41-year-old goalkeeper is a free agent after turning down a new contract with Paris Saint-Germain.

 

He made 25 competitive appearances for the French champions, keeping nine clean sheets.

 

The shot-stopper hinted at a return to Italy and that does seem to be on the cards, with reported negotiations going on with Parma.

 

It’d be coming full circle, as Buffon started his career in the Parma youth academy and stepped up to the senior squad in 1994.

 

He made 220 competitive appearances for the Stadio Tardini side, including his Serie A debut in a 0-0 draw with Milan on November 19, 1995, aged just 17 years and nine months.

 

Buffon eventually moved to Juventus for what was then a world record transfer fee for a goalkeeper, €53m, in the summer of 2001.

 

Parma have been through a lot since then, as they went bankrupt in 2015 and had to start again from Serie D, working their way back up to the top flight this season thanks to three consecutive promotions.

[Luigi Daniele 68]

Gigi. A legend. Retire as one

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

Sky: Buffon back at Juventus!

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/139917/sky-buffon-back-juventus

 

 

Jun 25, 2019

 

Gianluigi Buffon is in advanced negotiations for a return to Juventus on a one-year contract, with a future as a director, claim Sky Sport Italia.

 

The shot-stopper is already 41 years old and will be 42 in January 2020, but left the Bianconeri at the end of his contract in July 2018.

 

Although Paris Saint-Germain offered him an extension on the one-year deal, he decided against another stay in Ligue 1.

 

According to Sky Sport Italia transfer guru Gianluca Di Marzio, Buffon is in regular and advanced talks for a stunning return to Juventus.

 

He’d accept the role of second choice goalkeeper to Wojciech Szczesny, as Mattia Perin is moving away to seek more regular playing time.

 

It’d also allow Buffon to make a smooth transition into the role of director or part of Maurizio Sarri’s coaching staff in 2020.

 

SuperGigi spent 17 years at Juventus, playing 656 matches in all competition.

 

He had been linked with a number of potential clubs this summer, including Parma, Brescia, Atalanta, FC Porto and even Leeds United.

 

In light of this news, looking back at Buffon’s latest tweet gives it a reading that makes a great deal of sense.

 

“Travel only has one rule don't come back the same as you left. Come back different.”

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

Buffon's Juve clause revealed?

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/140024/buffons-juve-clause-revealed

 

 

Jun 28, 2019

 

Gianluigi Buffon will reportedly sign a contract with Juventus that stipulates he must make at least 10 appearances.

 

Buffon has all-but-agreed a one-year deal with Juve worth €1.5m, prior to taking up a coaching or directorial role at the club.

 

However, La Repubblica claims it will include a clause that forces Coach Maurizio Sarri to play him in at least eight League games.

 

Indeed, the 41-year-old is exactly eight matches away from surpassing the Serie A record of 674 appearances, held by Paolo Maldini.

 

The clause would also entitle the goalkeeper to featuring in at least two Champions League fixtures.

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

Buffon ready for Juve

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/140206/de-ligt-buffon-ready-juve

 

 

Jul 2, 2019

 

Sky Sport Italia journalists Gianluca Di Marzio agree there is a ‘total agreement’ for the goalkeeper to return on a one-year playing contract, with only his signature missing.

 

The veteran’s homecoming in Turin would open the door to an exit for Mattia Perin, who is being courted by Portuguese rivals Benfica and Porto.

 

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

Buffon's Juve medical tomorrow

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/140270/buffons-juve-medical-tomorrow

 

 

Jul 3, 2019

 

Gianluigi Buffon is expected to have his Juventus medical on Thursday ahead of returning to the club.

 

Gianluca Di Marzio, Fabrizio Romano and Romeo Agresti all agree Buffon will undergo medical tests with Juve tomorrow.

 

Romano also confirms the goalkeeper will sign a one-year playing contract with the Bianconeri once he has proved his fitness.

 

The 41-year-old spent last season at Paris Saint-Germain but will instead end his career with the Old Lady, where he made 656 appearances between 2001 and 2018, winning nine Scudetti.

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

Buffon arrives for Juve

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/140307/buffon-arrives-juve

 

 

Jul 4, 2019

 

Gianluigi Buffon has arrived in Turin to complete his remarkable return to Juventus.

 

Juve tweeted on Thursday morning that Buffon had checked into the club’s J Medical facility for tests.

 

Once he has passed his medical, the goalkeeper will sign a one-year playing contract, with a view to staying on in a coaching or directorial capacity.

 

The 41-year-old spent last season at Paris Saint-Germain but will instead end his career with the Old Lady, where he made 656 appearances between 2001 and 2018, winning nine Scudetti.

 

 

JuventusFC

 

✔@juventusfcen

 

 

"You are my love" 

 

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[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

Buffon: My number, Sarri, CR7...

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/140336/buffon-my-number-sarri-cr7

 

 

Jul 4, 2019

 

Gianluigi Buffon confirms he will wear No 77 for Juventus, Maurizio Sarri has made ‘an excellent impression’ and is excited to link up with Cristiano Ronaldo.

 

Buffon’s unveiling as a Juve player for the second time came in conjunction with the opening of the club’s new Flagship Store in Milan.

 

“I’ve thought about No 77, it represents my history,” the goalkeeper told Sky Sport Italia.

 

“I had this number at Parma and it brought me luck: I really like it. It’s a great satisfaction, this club gives you nothing on a plate and I want to thank everyone for this opportunity, which allows me to experience new, incredible emotions first hand.

 

“I thank Szczesny and Chiellini for offering me, respectively, the No 1 jersey and the captain’s armband, but I didn’t come back to take something from someone or take it back.

 

“I just want to do my bit for the team. It’s only right that the starting goalkeeper, Szczesny, has the No 1 jersey. And for the captaincy we have a great player like Giorgio Chiellini.

 

“I’d like to draw satisfaction, like in recent years, and being able to share it with people I know and with whom I have a relationship of brotherhood.

 

“I’m not here just to get a few minutes under my belt, Juve have very clear hierarchies: I’m and I’ll have to make sure I’m ready to lend a hand whenever the opportunity arises.”

 

The 41-year-old was then asked about working under new boss Sarri and playing alongside Ronaldo.

 

“It’s great to be able to play with Cristiano Ronaldo. I had the chance to play with champions like Neymar and Mbappe at PSG last season and now, thanks to Juve, I’ll play with Ronaldo. It’s a great gift.

 

“I’ve already met Sarri and he’s made an excellent impression on me, the same one he gave to everyone on the day of his Press conference.

 

“You can’t start a season just thinking about winning the Champions League because that would constitute the beginning of a failure.

 

“Of course it’s the most coveted and prestigious trophy, but the Final is not until the end of May, sometimes even at the start of June, and in between there are 10 important months.

 

Finally, the former Paris Saint-Germain shot-stopper spoke of his ‘disappointment’ at seeing Francesco Totti and Daniele De Rossi part with Roma.

 

“It’s disappointing. When you think of Rome and Roma, you see them represented by symbols and, in football terms, no-one can represent them more than Francesco and Daniele.

 

“It’s clear that there are also things, which none of us know, and on the basis of them, certain decisions are taken.

 

“But I believe the umbilical cord, as it was also for me with Juve, will never break.”

 

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

'Buffon rejected England for Juve'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/140330/buffon-rejected-england-juve

 

 

Jul 4, 2019

 

Gianluigi Buffon’s agent claims the goalkeeper rejected the Premier League for Juventus as he ‘has always made choices with his heart and never for his wallet.’

 

Buffon had been linked with the likes of Leeds United and Porto, as well as several Serie A sides, after he chose to leave Paris Saint-Germain.

 

However, he will instead end his career back at Juve, where he previously spent 17 years, winning nine Scudetti.

 

“He had many offers, especially from the Premier League and from other large teams,” Silvano Martina told The Daily Mail.

 

“I don’t name names, it’s not in my style but I think you won’t have problems understanding.

 

“Buffon has always made choices with his heart and never for his wallet. You can compare his return home to that of a husband who after an escapade can’t wait to hug his wife again.

 

“Buffon’s love for Juventus is very strong. Turin is his home, it is a very important thing even for his family.

 

“Everyone lives in Turin and at the age 41, having the family always present is essential.’

 

“I don’t think it was a betrayal to go to PSG. He didn’t stay in Italy. It was a quick, immediate offer. 

 

“As his agent I advised him to accept considering all this as a nice thing and also to consider that it would provide a comfortable lifestyle for his large family.”

 

Martina then commented Adrien Rabiot’s decision to follow the 41-year-old to Turin from PSG, as well as fellow new boy Aaron Ramsey and shot-stopper Wojciech Szczesny.

 

“I think that Rabiot listened to Gigi with respect and sympathy. I consider Rabiot making the best choice.

 

“Ramsey is a great player, I can tell you he is happy, playing the best job in the world with the champions.

 

“The Welsh[man] can only be filled with pride. Gigi loves technical players like Aaron.

 

“Gigi turns 42 in January and staying at this level at this age is not easy. Szczesny is a great goalkeeper like Gigi.”

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

Buffon: Couldn't turn the Lady down...

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/140325/buffon-couldnt-turn-lady-down

 

 

Jul 4, 2019

 

Gianluigi Buffon claims his Juventus return ‘is confirmation that life is incredible’, while he ‘couldn’t turn down an invitation from a Lady.’

 

Buffon is back at Juve only a year after he left for Paris Saint-Germain, and the veteran goalkeeper expressed his delight at re-joining the Old Lady.

 

“Hi everyone, I wanted to greet you once again,” he said in a video.

 

“I’m happy to have returned home and have the opportunity again to reembrace you all and to be reembraced by all of you.

 

“Today I received the confirmation that life is incredible, and it’s always worth dreaming.”

 

He added on Instagram: “I’ve decided to come back.

 

“When family calls, the only possible answer is ‘I’m here’. It’s the beginning of a new stage of my long journey.

 

“I’m getting back to the place I’m proud to call ‘home’, and I’m doing it with unchanged spirit, endless love and absolute determination.

 

“This is a fresh start. Somehow different from the past, and yet filled with the same emotions and joy.

 

“I come back to Turin because I know I can play my part. I come back because you can't turn down an invitation from a Lady.

 

“I come back because this is my home!”

 

 

JuventusFC

 

✔@juventusfcen

 

 

OFFICIAL| @gianluigibuffon is back in Bianconero!

Welcome home, Gigi!

http://juve.it/GX9k30p3UVr  #WelcomeBackGigi #LiveAhead

 

11.2K

4:01 PM - Jul 4, 2019

 

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[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

Buffon sets club games record

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/144676/buffon-sets-club-games-record

 

 

Sep 28, 2019

 

Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon makes history today with his 903rd club football appearance, beating the all-time record of 902 set by Paolo Maldini.

 

He has been in the starting XI for Juve against SPAL in Turin today.

 

The 41-year-old achieved this milestone playing for Parma, Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain.

 

This will be Buffon’s 658^th competitive appearance in a Juve jersey, adding to 220 for Parma and 25 at PSG.

 

Buffon made his Serie A debut for Parma in a 0-0 draw with Milan at the Stadio Tardini on November 19, 1995.

 

He also played for the 2006-07 campaign in Serie B, sticking with Juventus following the Calciopoli scandal just months after winning the World Cup for Italy.

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

Buffon: 'Inter-Juve for the Scudetto'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/144702/buffon-inter-juve-scudetto

 

 

Sep 29, 2019

 

Gianluigi Buffon is “happy and proud” to have beaten Paolo Maldini’s record, while preparing Juventus for the “Scudetto battle” with Antonio Conte’s Inter.

 

The goalkeeper started Saturday’s 2-0 win over SPAL, which represented his 903^rd game at club level, more than any other Italian and surpassing Milan legend Maldini’s 902.

 

“It is certainly satisfying. I am happy and proud to have reached this record, but even more so because I did it at the age of almost 42 and in surprisingly good condition. I never thought six or seven years ago that I’d still be in such strong shape,” Buffon told TMW.

 

“It makes me happy to realise life has been truly benevolent with me in some ways, while I also know that I put a lot of hard work into it.”

 

Juve and Inter are the top two with two points separating them and they go head-to-head at San Siro next weekend.

 

While some try to be cagey about the meaning of this fixture in Week 7, Buffon is not hiding behind pat phrases.

 

“Of course it’s a Scudetto battle. We are challenging for the title, that goes without saying, but as is only right, Inter also aim to win the Scudetto.

 

“I know perfectly well the credo of Conte and Beppe Marotta, so I know full well that hope is in their hearts. It’s only right that they should believe in their title chances, because it’s a quality squad, they know their football, have this great energy to transmit to the team and can challenge to the end for the trophy.

 

“I’ve seen Juventus constantly growing this season, building brick by brick, game after game. I believe the way forward is to continue raising the bar, trying if possible to enjoy our football and do something new, seeing as that’s why the changes were made.

 

“I think there were also positive signs from the Champions League. We drew 2-2 with Atletico Madrid, but we played the game, created five or six chances and really scared Atleti on their own turf. That’s no guarantee of success, but it’s a comforting sign.”

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

Buffon named UN Ambassador

'No plans to retire yet'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/145074/buffon-named-un-ambassador

https://www.football-italia.net/145077/buffon-no-plans-retire-yet

 

 

Oct 9, 2019

 

Gianluigi Buffon has been named UN Goodwill Ambassador for the World Food Programme, but assured he is “still a football player and a competitive one at that.”

 

The Juventus goalkeeper announced the new title in a Press conference this evening.

 

“I was very proud to receive the call and accepted quickly, as I love a challenge,” said Buffon.

 

“I don’t kid myself that I can change the world, but can give my small contribution by setting an example. We need to create a contagious system of virtue that can do good and, bit by bit, we can feed all those who need it.

 

“Unfortunately, we have become almost numb to the stories of people dying of hunger. I want to roll my sleeves up, get my hands in the earth and sweat for the cause. It’ll be an extraordinary adventure and I accepted because I saw this as an opportunity for personal growth.

 

“I want to be clear that my job is still to be a football player, and a competitive one at that, as I remain in good shape. There will be the time to be on the field and to experience certain situations face-to-face. I don’t want to just be a figurine standing there in front of a banner, as I wouldn’t have agreed to that.

 

“I’d like to spread this message to everyone within and beyond the football world. The primary objective is to make people aware of the problem, to realise ‘in my own way, I too can help.’ When there are many, we can achieve great things together.”

 

 

Gigi Buffon admits he would “only accept being second choice for Juventus” and will take an Italy swansong when he eventually decides to retire.

 

The 41-year-old shows no signs of slowing down and was today named UN Goodwill Ambassador for the World Food Programme.

 

After the event, he also spoke to reporters about his current career path and the return to Juve after one season with Paris Saint-Germain.

 

“Quite rightly, a few people at the start were confused by accepting this new role, but I realised the only club where I could accept being second choice was Juventus. I waited and I was proved right.

 

“I am glad to be back in the dressing room with my teammates, embracing the fans and directors again, lads who I experienced so much with both on and off the field. That was why I made this choice.”

 

However, when Roberto Mancini suggested possibly giving him one final Italy cap as a swansong, Buffon had other ideas.

 

“I thank Mancini, who has always been kind to me. If the Federation and Mancini did have this idea, I’d accept it the moment I decided to end my playing career.”

 

There is no rush for that right now, as he is targeting another Scudetto with Juve and their new Coach Maurizio Sarri.

 

“Sarri has very clear ideas and that is because he’s been working in football for 30 years, so in that time he experienced and learned so much, from success and failure. He’s certain of what he’s saying and that passes on to the players.

 

“The group is also ready to learn something new after this philosophy Juve have had for 10 years. Everyone talks about Max Allegri, but don’t forget we had Antonio Conte there first.

 

“This new philosophy is something we’ve never dealt with before. We like it. Great players need great motivation and the performances will arrive.”

 

Juve are back on top of the table following their 2-1 victory away to Conte’s Inter.

 

“Inter are without doubt our biggest title rivals. I know the Coach, his way of teaching football and thinking, of transmitting his belief to the players. I also know the director (Beppe Marotta) and many of the players.”

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

Buffon: 'Juve can only respect Conte'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/145205/buffon-juve-can-only-respect-conte

 

 

Oct 13, 2019

 

Gianluigi Buffon discussed the Coaches he worked with, making saves in his sleep and why Juventus fans should “respect” Inter boss Antonio Conte.

 

The World Cup winner sat down with wife and TV presenter Ilaria D’Amico at the Festival dello Sport in Trento today, who revealed SuperGigi never quite switches off.

 

“Apparently I make saves in my sleep… Maybe they were the ones I wasn’t able to make during my career,” he laughed.

 

“I am very competitive and if I’m still playing, that’s the reason why. I like rivalry, but hate is humiliating to all mankind.”

 

Some of those emotions were on show when Conte moved to Inter, infuriating many Juve supporters who asked for his star to be removed from the Walk of Fame.

 

“I love Conte, he was my teammate first, my captain, my Coach at Juve and the Nazionale. I know the man and the professional, so I could never blame him for anything. He has this incredible professionalism and fairness when dealing with the squad, and is capable of really teaching football.

 

“Conte genuinely does not sleep at night if his team doesn’t play the way he wants. I understand the Bianconeri fans who are upset, but they must start from the idea that someone like Antonio has to be respected, because he gave all of himself for Juve and achieved great results.

 

“His choices can be debated, but what he gave to and received from Juve is very special.”

 

Buffon was asked about some of the Coaches he has worked with over the years.

 

“The toughest was certainly Conte. The most fun was Renzo Ulivieri, but also Max Allegri. Maurizio Sarri is the pickiest Coach I’ve ever dealt with.

 

“Carlo Ancelotti is the Coach I owe the most to. If Nevio Scala had the crazy idea of giving me my debut for Parma, Carlo was even crazier – he made me first choice ahead of Luca Bucci, my friend and an Italy international, after five or six games.

 

“It was a huge weight on my shoulders, but that’s where my career really started. I remember the goalkeeping coach William Vecchi told me: ‘Don’t be optimistic, because you’d be a loser. I’m sure you won’t let us down.’”

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

Juve considering double renewal for Chiellini

and Buffon: the details of the offers

 

https://www.calciomercato.com/en/news/juve-considering-double-renewal-for-chiellini-and-buffon-the-det-30903

 

 

Oct 13, 2019

 

One year. One more year. Juventus are thinking of renewing the contracts of Gianluigi Buffon and Giorgio Chiellini, the symbols of the Bianconeri rebirth. Buffon returned from Paris after a year, while the latter has always remained faithful to the Bianconeri and has become the undisputed captain and leader of the team.

Both players have a contract with the club until 2020 and both are likely not going to stop there. As reported by Tuttosport (via ilbianconero.com), there is the possibility that Juve will have a chat with them Barzagli style: another year of playing and then a directorial role in the Bianconeri management (or coaching staff).

Agnelli, who has a long-standing friendship with Buffon, and who chose Chiellini as the leader of the club for these seasons, would not want to deprive himself of influential elements and great charisma and would like them to continue at the club, as players and later on as directors or coaches.

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon opens up on dealing with depression

The 41-year-old has spoken about his battle with depression shortly after establishing himself as Juventus and Italy No.1

 

 

https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/international/gianluigi-buffon-

juventus-news-parma-italy-mental-health-depression-a9155111.html

 

 

 

Oct 14, 2019

 

Juventus and former Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has said that he had "a hard time finding joy in life" at a certain stage during his career as he delved further into the mental health problems that he endured during his career.

The 41-year-old admitted his struggles with depression for the first time in January, which included detailing how he missed a game with Juventus due to a panic attack.

 

Now Buffon has elaborated on the issue of mental health in the form of a letter written to his younger self for The Players Tribune, and stated that his routine during a seven-month period when he was 26 became like 'a prison'.

 

"If you live your life in a nihilistic way, thinking only about football, your soul will start to wither," he wrote. 

 

"Eventually, you will become so depressed that you won’t even want to leave your bed. 

 

"It will happen at the height of your career, when you have everything a man could ever want in life. You will have money and respect. People will even call you Superman.

 

"But you’re no superhero. You’re just a man like anyone else. And the truth is that the pressure of this profession can turn you into a robot. Your routine can become a prison.

 

"One morning, when you get out of bed to go to training, your legs will start shaking uncontrollably. You will be so weak that you won’t be able to drive your car.

 

 

"Initially, you will think it’s just fatigue, or a virus. But then it will get worse. All you’ll want to do is sleep.

 

"At training, every save will feel like a titanic effort. For seven months, you will have a hard time finding joy in life."

 

Buffon has won a record nine Serie A titles, four Coppa Italias and five Supercoppa Italiana wins during his club days in Italy to go alongside winning the 2006 World Cup with his country.

However, he admitted that not appreciating the simpler things in life and not remembering he was "the same as everyone else" despite all the accolades and plaudits during the early part of his career is something he regrets.

 

"You must remember this: money and fame isn’t the purpose. If you are not taking care of your soul, if you are not looking for inspiration in things outside of football, you will deteriorate.

 

"This is what will get you out of your depression. Not remembering that you are special, but remembering that you are the same as everyone else.

"You cannot comprehend this now, at 17 years old, but I promise you that real courage is showing weakness and not being ashamed. 

 

"You deserve the gift of life, Gigi. Just as everyone does. Remember this."

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

Buffon: Letter to little Gigi…

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/145233/buffon-letter-little-gigi…

 

 

Oct 14, 2019

 

Gianluigi Buffon has written a heartfelt letter to his younger self, revealing his battle with depression and far-right regrets.

 

Buffon will go down in history as one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time, but the Juventus veteran detailed the struggles he encountered during his career in a long read on The Players’ Tribune.

 

“Dear 17-year-old Gianluigi,” it began.

 

“I write this letter to you tonight as a 41-year-old man who has experienced many, many things in life, and has made some mistakes. I have some good news and some bad news for you. The truth is that I am really here to speak to you about your soul.

 

“Yes, your soul. You do have one, believe it or not.  Let’s begin with the bad news. You’re 17 years old. You’re about to become a real footballer, like in your dreams. You think that you know everything. But the truth is, my friend, you don’t know s***. 

 

“In just a few days, you will get the chance to start your first Serie A match for Parma, and you don’t know enough to be scared. You should be in bed, drinking warm milk. But what are you going to do? You’re going to go to the nightclub with your good friend from the Primavera. 

 

“You’re just going to have one beer, right?  But then you exaggerate a bit. You play the movie character. The strongman. This is how you usually cope with this pressure that you don’t even know that you feel. Soon, you’ll be outside the club, arguing with some police officers at one in the morning. 

 

“Just go home. Go to bed.  And please, I beg you, don’t p*** on the wheel of the police car. The officers will not find it amusing, the club will not find it amusing, and you will risk everything that you’ve worked for. 

 

“This is the kind of chaos that you bring upon yourself, for no reason. There is a burning inside you that will lead you to make mistakes. Of course, you think that you are showing your teammates that you’re strong and free, but in reality, this is a mask that you wear.

 

“In just a few days, you will be gifted with three things that are very, very intoxicating, but also very, very dangerous. Money, fame and the job of your dreams. Now, you’re surely thinking, what could possibly be dangerous about this? 

 

“Well, this is a paradox. On one hand, it’s true that a keeper needs confidence. He needs to be fearless. If you give a manager the choice between the greatest technical keeper in the world, and the most fearless keeper in the world, I guarantee you that he will choose the fearless b*****d every single time. 

 

“On the other hand, a person who is fearless can easily forget that they have a mind. If you live your life in a nihilistic way, thinking only about football, your soul will start to wither. Eventually, you will become so depressed that you won’t even want to leave your bed. 

 

“You can laugh if you want, but this will happen to you. It will happen at the height of your career, when you have everything a man could ever want in life. You will be 26 years old. The keeper of Juventus and the Italian national team. You will have money and respect. People will even call you Superman.

 

“But you’re no superhero. You’re just a man like anyone else. And the truth is that the pressure of this profession can turn you into a robot. Your routine can become a prison. You go to training. You come home and watch TV. You go to sleep. You do the same the next day. You win. You lose. It repeats and repeats. 

 

“One morning, when you get out of bed to go to training, your legs will start shaking uncontrollably. You will be so weak that you won’t be able to drive your car. Initially, you will think it’s just fatigue, or a virus. But then it will get worse. All you’ll want to do is sleep. At training, every save will feel like a titanic effort. For seven months, you will have a hard time finding joy in life.

 

“At this moment, we must pause. Because I know what you’re thinking reading this, at 17 years old. You are saying, ”How is this possible? I am a happy person. I am a born leader. If I will be the keeper for Juventus, making millions, then I must be happy. It is impossible to be depressed.’ 

 

“Well, I must ask you an important question. Why did you decide to devote your life to football, Gigi? Do you remember?  And, please, do not just say that it was because of Thomas N’Kono. You must go deeper than that. You have to remember every detail. 

 

“You were 12, yes. The 1990 World Cup was in Italy, yes. The first match was Argentina vs. Cameroon at the San Siro, yes. But where were you during the first match? Close your eyes. You were in your living room, all alone. Why weren’t your friends there, like usual?

 

“You can’t recall. Your grandmother was in the kitchen, making lunch. And it was so hot that day that she shut all the windows to make the room more fresh. It was completely dark, except for the yellow glow of the television. 

 

“What do you see? You see this strange name. CAMEROON.  You don’t know where Cameroon is. You didn’t even know such a place existed before this moment. Of course, you know Argentina and Maradona, but there is something magical about the players from Cameroon.

 

“It’s so hot under the summer sun, but their keeper is still wearing a full suit. Long black pants. Long green shirt with the pink collar. The way he moves, the way he stands tall, the fantastic mustache. He captivates your heart in a way that is unexplainable.

 

“He is the coolest man you have ever seen. The commentator says his name is Thomas N’Kono. Then, magic. There’s a corner for Argentina, and Thomas runs out into the crowd and punches the ball 30 yards in the air. This is the moment that you know what you want to do with your life.

 

“You do not want to be simply a goalkeeper. You want to be this kind of goalkeeper. You want to be wild, courageous, free. Minute after minute, watching this match, you become who you are. Your life is being written.

 

“Cameroon scores, and you become so nervous for them to hang on that you cannot physically take it anymore. You leap off the couch. You spend the entire second half pacing around the television stand. When Cameroon has a second man sent off, you cannot even bear to listen. 

 

“For the final five minutes, you crouch behind the television with the sound off. You peek out every once in a while to see what’s happening, then retreat.  Finally, you peek out, and the Cameroon players are celebrating. You run straight out into the street. Two other kids from your neighborhood do the same thing. Everyone is yelling, ‘Did you see Cameroon? Did you see Cameroon?’

 

“That day, a fire is born inside of you. Cameroon is a place that exists. Thomas N’Kono is a man who exists. You will show the world that Buffon exists. This is why you became a footballer. Not because of money or fame. Because of the artistry and style of this man Thomas N’Kono. Because of his soul.

 

“You must remember this: money and fame isn’t the purpose. If you are not taking care of your soul, if you are not looking for inspiration in things outside of football, you will deteriorate. If I could give you one piece of advice, it is to be much more curious about the world around you when you are still young. You will save yourself, and especially your family, a lot of heartache. 

 

“To be a keeper is to be courageous, it is true. But to be courageous is not to be ignorant, Gigi. At the depths of your depression, something strange and beautiful will happen. One morning, you will decide to break your routine and go to a different restaurant in Torino for breakfast. So you’ll take a new route through the city, and you’ll walk past an art museum. 

 

“The poster outside will say CHAGALL. You have heard this name before. But you don’t know about art.  You have things to do. You must be on your way. You are Buffon. But who is Buffon? Who are you, really? Do you know?

 

“This is the most important part of this letter. You have to walk into that museum, on that specific day. It will be the most important decision of your life. If you do not walk into that museum, and you carry on with your life as a footballer, as Superman, then you will continue to lock all of your feelings away in the cellar, and your soul will deteriorate. 

 

“But if you go inside, you will see hundreds of paintings by Chagall. Most of them will do nothing to stir you. Some good, some interesting, some that say nothing to you at all. But then you will see one specific painting that will hit you like a lightning bolt. It is called The Walk.

 

“It’s an almost childlike image. A man and a woman are in a park, having a picnic, but everything is magical. The woman is flying away into the sky, like an angel, and the man is standing on the ground, holding her hand, smiling. 

 

“It is like the dream of a child. This image will transmit something from another world. It will give you the feeling of a child. The feeling of happiness in simplicity. The feeling of Thomas N’Kono punching the ball 30 yards. The feeling of your grandmother calling to you from the kitchen. The feeling of sitting behind the television in the dark, praying. 

 

“As we get older, we can easily forget these feelings. You must go back to the museum the very next day. It is essential. The woman at the ticket booth will look at you in a funny way. She’ll say, ‘Weren’t you just here yesterday?’

 

“It doesn’t matter. Go back inside. This art will be the best cure for you. When you open up your mind, the inner heaviness that you feel will be lifted, like the woman being lifted into the air in Chagall’s painting.

 

“There is an incredible irony in this moment. Sometimes I think that life must be written for us. So many unexplainable and beautiful things that will happen to you that seem to be connected. This is one of them. 

 

“Because when you are a young player for Parma, you will do something out of ignorance that will mark you. Before a big match, you’ll want to make a big gesture to show your teammates and the fans that you are a leader, you are courageous, you are a big character. 

 

“So you will write a message on your shirt that you once saw carved on a desk when you were at school.  You’ll write, ‘Death to Cowards.’ You think it’s just a motivational cry. You don’t know that it is a slogan of the far-right fascists. 

 

“This is one of the mistakes that will cause your family a lot of pain. But these mistakes are important, because they remind you that you’re human. They will remind you, again and again, that you don’t know shit, my friend.

 

“This is good, because football will do an excellent job of trying to convince you that you are special. But you must remember that you are no different from the bartender or the electrician, who you will be friends with for life. 

 

“This is what will get you out of your depression. Not remembering that you are special, but remembering that you are the same as everyone else. You cannot comprehend this now, at 17 years old, but I promise you that real courage is showing weakness and not being ashamed. 

 

“You deserve the gift of life, Gigi. Just as everyone does. Remember this. Things are connected in ways that you are too young and naive to see now. My only regret is that you did not open your mind to the world sooner. Perhaps this is just who you are.

 

“At 41 years old, you will still feel this burning inside. You will still not be satisfied, I am sorry to say. Even holding the World Cup trophy in your arms will not soothe this feeling. Until you have a season where you don’t let in any goals, you will not be content. 

 

“Yes, perhaps it is true that you have always been this way. Do you remember the first winter you went to visit your uncle in Udine, up in the mountains? Or is this a memory that only an older man can recall? 

 

“You were four years old. It had snowed overnight. You had never seen snow before. You woke up and looked out the window, and you saw a dream. This whole country turned white. 

 

“You ran outside in your pajamas, and you didn’t even understand what snow was. But there was no hesitation. You looked at the white snowbank, and what did you do? Did you think? Did you wonder? Did you run inside for your coat? 

 

“No, you jumped right in. Fearless. Your grandmother was screaming, ‘Gianluigi!!!!!!!!!! No! No! No!’ You were soaking wet, grinning. You ended up having a fever for a whole week. But you didn’t give a damn. No hesitation. Right into the snow. This is who you are. 

 

“You are Buffon. You will show the world that you exist.“

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

Buffon: 'Real pleasure'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/147595/buffon-real-pleasure

 

 

Dec 13, 2019

 

Gianluigi Buffon claimed “it’s always a pleasure” to play against Real Madrid, as Juventus could draw the Spanish giants in the last 16 of the Champions League.

 

After the infamous sending off against Los Blancos during the second leg of Juventus’ quarter final tie in the tournament two seasons ago.

 

Buffon is presented with a possible opportunity to play Real Madrid already in the first round of the knockout stages this campaign but claimed it would only represent a game between “two fantastic” sides.

 

“It’s always a pleasure meeting Real Madrid,” he told Tuttosport. “The respect I have for their history and their players is huge.

 

“Despite how it ended last time in Madrid, I look back at that game with a positive mindset. It was an example of determination and strength.

 

“So, in that case, two fantastic teams would meet again.”

 

Buffon was back in goal during the 2-0 win over Bayer Leverkusen, representing his first Champions League game for Juventus since the last match against Real Madrid.

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

Buffon set to match Maldini

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/147775/buffon-set-match-maldini

 

 

Dec 17, 2019

 

Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon could play his 647th match in Serie A tomorrow as Wojciech Szczesny is struggling to recover in time.

 

Sky Sport Italia reports Szczesny, who missed the win against Udinese with a muscular problem, could also be out of the rescheduled game at Samp tomorrow.

 

With that in mind, Buffon seems all-but-certain to start in goal and - if so - will write history tomorrow night.

 

Milan legend Paolo Maldini currently holds Serie A’s appearance record with 647, but his former Italy teammate is only one game behind.

 

The Pole, meanwhile, should be back in contention when Juve face Lazio in the Supercoppa on December 22 in the Saudi capital of Riyadh.

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

Buffon matches Maldini record

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/147825/buffon-matches-maldini-record

 

 

Dec 18, 2019

Gianluigi Buffon makes history twice today, as he matches Paolo Maldini’s all-time record of 647 Serie A appearances and becomes the sole most present Juventus player in the top flight.

 

The match against Sampdoria kicks off at 17.55 GMT.

 

Buffon is in the starting XI at Marassi, as Wojciech Szczesny has a muscle issue in his chest.

 

It is his 647^th official match in Serie A, allowing him to equal the all-time league record set by Milan legend Paolo Maldini.

 

Buffon made his Serie A debut in Parma’s 0-0 draw against Milan on November 19, 1995, aged 17 years, nine months and 22 days.

He has kept 296 clean sheets and conceded 523 goals.

 

That’s not the only record, because Buffon also today makes his 479^th Serie A appearance in a Juventus jersey, surpassing Alessandro Del Piero on 478 as the most present Bianconeri player in the history of the top flight.

 

Buffon has played 908 competitive games at club level for Parma, Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain with 407 clean sheets, conceding 759 goals, and was sent off five times.

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

Buffon: 'Wrong to quit now'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/147845/buffon-wrong-quit-now

 

 

Dec 19, 2019

 

Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has affirmed that he would be doing himself “a disservice if I stopped playing.”

 

Last night, the veteran matched Paolo Maldini’s record of 647 matches in Serie A during the 2-1 win against Sampdoria.

 

Although he played down the importance of equalling the former Milan captain, he felt there were still “many beautiful moments” ahead for him in football.

 

“It’s exciting and it’s also the reason why I keep playing,” Buffon told Sky Sport Italia.

 

“I know that I can still give myself many beautiful emotions, together with my teammates.

 

“There are still many moments to live, as long as I am able to give the answers on the pitch.

 

“The main thing today was to win and to finish the year at the top of the League.

 

“Everything else just makes it even sweeter. It’s not a very important goal to play my 648th match in Serie A right now, but if I was to do it, I would like to do it with Juventus at the top of the table.”

 

About his own future in the game, Buffon said retiring would be wrong if he continued to “feel good physically”.

 

“I honestly see it very far away,” added the 41-year-old.

 

“Two years ago, I stopped playing, then my life gave me other sensational and beautiful possibilities.

 

“I rely on my own honesty, letting life fulfil itself and show me the way. For how I am physically right now, I’d be doing myself a disservice if I stopped playing.

 

“I feel like a point of reference in the dressing room, with great responsibilities, despite no playing too often.

 

“I must respect the child I have been and that still lives within me. For now, it’s right to continue.

 

“For how long it will go on? At least until June…”