Gianluigi Buffon

[Socrates 8422]

Buffon: 'Juve there when it counts'

Aug 18, 2013

Gigi Buffon celebrated the Italian Super Cup triumph over Lazio and noted Juventus “make our mark when it counts.”

The Bianconeri had not won a single pre-season friendly, but came out fighting at the Olimpico with a 4-0 victory.

“It was my fifth Italian Super Cup. I’m a pentacampeon!” he smiled on Rai Sport.

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“Tonight Juventus showed themselves and that’s usually the way for big teams and big players – we aren’t seen when they are friendlies in America or China. We make our mark when it counts.”

Despite the huge 4-0 scoreline, Coach Antonio Conte continued shouting angrily at his players throughout the game.

“Conte’s attitude on the touchline is crucial for us and a large amount of the credit for these triumphs goes to him, but also a bit to us.

“This is the first game we’ve been able to celebrate with our fans in a one-off match. The Coppa Italia went badly and the Super Cup was in China, so it was great to be in Italy at last.”

[Socrates 8422]

Prandelli: Buffon still No 1

Aug 19, 2013

Italy boss Cesare Prandelli is happy with the competition Juventus goalkeeper Gigi Buffon is facing within the Giro Azzurro.

“Buffon, with me in charge of the side, has always been and will continue to be the No 1,” the tactician told Sky Sport Italia.

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“However, at the same time, he has to keep a look out over his shoulder because Lazio’s Federico Marchetti and Salvatore Sirigu of Paris Saint-Germain are growing a lot.

“The first has re-found his consistency and security, while the second is maturing thanks to some important experiences in Paris.”

Buffon, captain for club and country, is now 35 and just two caps short of equalling Fabio Cannavaro’s 136 games for his country.

Turning to the other end of the pitch, Prandelli insisted that his national doors were still open for some heroes of the past.

“In March and April we will have a look at the condition of certain players like Francesco Totti, Antonio Di Natale and even Alex Del Piero,” added the man who replaced Marcello Lippi in 2010.

[Socrates 8422]

Buffon: Juventus perform when it matters

The goalkeeper praised the Bianconeri's performance versus Lazio,
which Stephan Lichtsteiner says was made sweeter by being at the Stadio Olimpico.

Aug 19, 2013

Gianluigi Buffon says it is typical of Juventus to perform when they need to most following their 4-0 demolition of Lazio on Sunday in the Supercoppa Italiana.

Antonio Conte's men had failed to win once in pre-season but the Scudetto winners rocketed to top form against last season's Coppa Italia champions, which left the Italy shot-stopper praising his team-mates and his coach.

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"It was my fifth Supercoppa Italiana. I’m a pentacampeon!" the 35-year-old told Rai Sport.

"Juventus showed themselves and that’s usually the way for big teams and big players - we aren’t seen in friendlies in America or China. We make our mark when it counts.

"Conte’s attitude on the touchline is crucial for us and a large amount of the credit for these triumphs go to him, but also a bit to us.

"This is the first game this team have been able to celebrate with our fans in a one-off match. The Coppa Italia went badly and the [previous] Supercoppa game was in China, so it was great to be in Italy at last."

Stephan Lichtsteiner, a former Biancocolesti star, was equally delighted with Juve's victory ahead of the start of the Serie A season, which he says was made even better by winning at the Stadio Olimpico.

"It’s a great night for Juventus, as to win 4-0 in their home is remarkable," the wing-back said. "I had three splendid years at Lazio, we won two trophies but now I am a Juventino.

"Antonio Conte has always shouted at me! I need a coach who shouts and always demands more, as it brings the best out of me."

[Socrates 8422]

Buffon: 'I'd give years for trophy!'

Aug 24, 2013

Gianluigi Buffon admits he’d “give three or four years of my career to win the Champions League” with Juventus.

The goalkeeper has won the World Cup, UEFA Cup, European Under-21 Championship, numerous Scudetti, Italian Super Cups and the Coppa Italia, but one trophy still haunts him.

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“Let’s start from the fact you never get tired of winning the Scudetto, as it’s always a pleasure, but it’s also true that the Champions League is not something you win easily,” he told TG1.

“What would I give to reach the Final? I already got there in 2003 and really did not enjoy losing,” Buffon said of the defeat on penalties to Milan.

“If I have another six or seven years of my career left, then I’d give three or four years to win the Champions League.”

[Socrates 8422]

Buffon desperate for Champions League glory

The experienced goalkeeper has yet to add the European Cup to his trophy cabinet
and is eager for European success before hanging up his gloves.

Aug 24, 2013

Gianluigi Buffon is desperate to win the Champions League with Juventus before the end of his career, after missing out on the trophy in 2002-03.

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The Serie A champions made it to the quarter-finals of European club football's elite competition last season, where eventual winners Bayern Munich proved to be too strong, and the Bianconeri skipper is eager to go all the way this campaign.

"Winning the Scudetto is obviously something that never stops satisfying you, but there's no denying that the Champions League is something else. It is not a competition you win easily," Buffon told TG1.

"I already got to the Champions League final in 2003 and I really did not enjoy the experience of losing.

"What would I give to win the Champions League? Let's say I have six or seven years left to play, I'd happily give three or four years of my career to win it."

The draw for the Champions League group stages takes place in Monaco on August 29.

[Socrates 8422]

Buffon: 'Tevez is misrepresented'

Aug 25, 2013

Gigi Buffon insists Carlos Tevez has been “misrepresented” and the thought of Antonio Conte leaving Juventus terrifies him.

The goalkeeper was taking part in a charity event at Massa Carrara today and spoke about last night’s 1-0 win over Sampdoria, which was sealed by a Tevez goal.

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“Everyone seems to take it for granted that Juventus will win a third consecutive Scudetto, but Conte warned us that a treble is extremely difficult. You risk falling apart at the first sign of trouble, because you don’t have that hunger and determination that helped you to the first title,” he told Sky Sport Italia.

Many also expected Tevez to struggle in Turin after personality clashes at Manchester City.

“Tevez has been misrepresented. He puts the good of the squad above his own ego and has incredible quality. He’s a genuine champion.

“As for Conte, when there was talk of his potential exit I felt a shiver go up my spine. He is the added value of this team and an absolutely crucial element.

“Would I have given up three years of my career for him to stay? Not three years, but maybe three weeks,” joked Buffon.

The focus for this season is likely to be the Champions League, having gone out in the quarter-finals last term against eventual winners Bayern Munich.

“In Europe we are competitive, but that’s very different from saying we can win it. You need luck, above all in the draw. Maybe last year if we had faced Bayern Munich in the Final rather than the quarters, it could’ve gone differently.

“There are three or four teams currently better equipped to lift the trophy, that is objectively true. I think at times facing a side you know is stronger on paper can help bring something out of you, though.”

[Socrates 8422]

Buffon considered leaving Juventus two years ago

The World Cup winner explained that he was struggling with injuries at the time
and that his "head was somewhere else" before a crucial phone-call from Antonio Conte.

Aug 26, 2013

Gianluigi Buffon has revealed that he was ready to quit Juventus two years ago only to be talked into staying in Turin by coach Antonio Conte.

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The veteran goalkeeper, who has subsequently won back-to-back Scudetti with the Bianconeri, explained he had felt that it was maybe time to end a decade-long relationship with the Old Lady as he struggled for fitness and focus.

"But Conte called me, telling me beautiful and important things," Buffon told Sky Sport Italia. "Since then, I am more Juventino than ever before.

"In the previous season [2010-11], the first of Andrea Agnelli's presidency, I had not played during the first half of the championship through injury and in the second half of the season I was not there; my head was somewhere else.

"I felt that it was maybe time for a change; to leave Juventus. I have always had a great sense of responsibility; [but] I had lost it.

"Then, I got to know the new directors well and they changed their opinions of me.

"Having the maturity to mend relations after some disagreements brings you together even more."

Buffon has made 359 Serie A appearances for Juventus since joining from Parma 13 years ago for a reported fee of €51 million.

[Socrates 8422]

Buffon considered Juventus exit

Aug 26, 2013

Gigi Buffon says a phone call from new boss Antonio Conte in the summer of 2011 stopped him from leaving Juventus.

After a problematic 2010-11 campaign, the goalkeeper was considering bringing his career in Turin to an end.

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“I was expecting a call from Conte,” the now 35-year-old stated to the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport on Monday. “He told me some beautiful and important things.

“In the previous season, which was the first under the Presidency of Andrea Agnelli, I hardly played in the first half of the campaign because of injury and I wasn’t myself in the second.

“My head was elsewhere,” the club captain, who needed back surgery after the 2010 World Cup, added. “I thought the time had come for me to change, to leave Juventus.

“However then the new directors and I got to know each other better and their opinion of me changed. To have the maturity to fix relationships after some disagreements bonds you even more.

“That telephone call from Conte was important and, from that moment, I was even more of a Juventino than I was before.”

The Italian international, presently tied to the outfit until June 2015, was netted by the Old Lady in 2001 from Parma for £33m.

Buffon had previously admitted that he would probably have left Juventus in 2006 had they not been demoted to Serie B as part of the Calciopoli probe.

[Socrates 8422]

Buffon targets Cannavaro record

The 35-year-old will equal the former centre-back's appearance tally
for Italy if he plays in his nation's upcoming World Cup 2014 qualifiers.

Sep 4, 2013

Gianluigi Buffon has set his sights on equalling Fabio Cannavaro's 136-cap record for Italy this week.

The 35-year-old will draw level with the former centre-back if he plays against Bulgaria and the Czech Republic in the Azzurri's upcoming World Cup qualifiers and admits the feat would bring great satisfaction.

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"If all goes well, it would be a great achievement,” The Juventus goalkeeper told reporters.

“However, it was predictable in a way given that I started with the national team at such a young age.

“It will certainly be nice though, satisfying, because I have been in the national side for 16 beautiful years – in the squad since 1997 and a first choice since 1998.

“There is a sense of honour when you represent your country. You understand that with time, with maturity. Every appearance with the national side is not just a game, but something more.”

Buffon also says that, if the time comes when he loses his place in side, he will accept that the decision is for the good of the side.

“There would be no problem if I wasn’t called up or if I was benched. The most important aspect is the team," he continued.

“I personally would not turn down a call up. It would be like spitting in the face of good fortune, something that so many people want but only a few have the chance to experience.”

Finally, the world's most expensive goalkeeper gave his thoughts on rumours suggesting Italy head coach Cesare Prandelli will leave his job after the 2014 World Cup, with current Juve boss Antonio Conte replacing him.

“It’s not a problem because, like at a club, professional relationships can come to an end. It seems that we are all being gripped by an untimely anxiety,” he added.

“With all due respect, we have a World Cup to think about. Our attention needs to be towards that.

“Could Antonio Conte take over? Conte hasn’t said that he is leaving Juventus.

“I didn’t think there could be candidates for the job already, even if it is normal that a coach at a certain level would aspire to such a job.

“A lot of people would make themselves available for the job and I think a new coach could be found as quickly as four or five days after the World Cup is over.”

[Socrates 8422]

Buffon on prospect of cap record

Sep 4, 2013

Gigi Buffon is looking beyond the 136-cap record that he could equal with the Italian national side next week.

The Juventus custodian will draw level with the tally of Fabio Cannavaro if he features against Bulgaria on Friday and the Czech Republic, at the Juventus Stadium, on Tuesday.

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“If all goes well, it would be a great achievement,” he stated. “However, it was predictable in a way given that I started with the national team at such a young age.

“It will certainly be nice though, satisfying, because I have been in the national side for 16 beautiful years – in the squad since 1997 and a first choice since 1998.

“Saying that, I’ve also had my injuries which raised doubts which I have been able to overcome.”

World Cup winner Buffon, born in January 1978, made his debut in October 1997 during a World Cup qualifier in Russia.

“There is a sense of honour when you represent your country,” said the custodian who has conceded 109 goals while wearing the Azzurri gloves.

“You understand that with time, with maturity. Every appearance with the national side is not just a game, but something more.”

Buffon obviously can’t stop the sands of time and, after a few errors over recent months, there are question marks over how much longer he can perform for his country.

“There would be no problem if I wasn’t called up or if I was benched. The most important aspect is the team.

“I personally would not turn down a call up. It would be like spitting in the face of good fortune, something that so many people want but only a few have the chance to experience.”

The captain was also inevitably asked for his opinion on speculation that boss Cesare Prandelli will leave the Italy bench after World Cup 2014.

“It’s not a problem because, like at a club, professional relationships can come to an end. It seems that we are all being gripped by an untimely anxiety,” he added.

“With all due respect, we have a World Cup to think about. Our attention needs to be towards that.

“Could Antonio Conte take over? Conte hasn’t said that he is leaving Juventus.

“I didn’t think there could be candidates for the job already, even if it is normal that a Coach at a certain level would aspire to such a job.

“A lot of people would make themselves available for the job and I think a new Coach could be found as quickly as four or five days after the World Cup is over.”

[Socrates 8422]

Buffon 'quite worried' about Bulgaria qualifier

The veteran keeper admits his side will need to be fully focused as they look
to move clear at the top of Group B in the race to reach the World Cup.

Sep 5, 2013

Italy captain Gianluigi Buffon is "quite worried" about his side's crucial World Cup qualifier against Bulgaria on Friday.

Cesare Prandelli's men can take a huge step towards automatic qualification from Group B for Brazil 2014 with a win at Stadio Renzo Barbera in Palermo.

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Buffon and his side sit four points clear of Bulgaria with four matches to play but the 35-year-old Juventus goalkeeper is concerned about his team's chances against Lyuboslav Penev's men.

"I'm quite worried for the match against Bulgaria, as always before matches that become decisive for qualification," Buffon said on Wednesday.

"We deserve the qualification for what we've done up to now but we haven't gained it yet. We will have to prepare and face the match with great attention to take another important step forward."

In PSV's Stanislav Manolev and Aston Villa signing Aleksandar Tonev, Bulgaria have two of the group's top scorers with three goals each.

Buffon is wary of the individuals in Bulgaria's side and warned his team-mates the visitors would try and punish them on the counter-attack.

"Bulgaria are a team with two or three important single players but they're also a very close group that knows very well how to face these kinds of games, trying to defend well and counter-attack," said the veteran goalkeeper, who is in line to equal the record number of performances for the Azzurri in the upcoming qualifiers.

"They have three or four good runners and they're in good condition. We need to be good at limiting them."

Buffon was also full of praise for Prandelli, who may step down after the 2014 tournament according to reports in Italy.

"Prandelli's touch was and is very important because he made us believe that we can try and reach aims and win also having fun, playing well and improving the technical aspects of a game," Buffon added.

"It's been a turning point compared to our past."

[Socrates 8422]

'Extraordinary' Buffon saved Italy - Prandelli

The veteran keeper pulled off a number of stunning saves to preserve the Azzurri's
1-0 win over Bulgaria, leaving them just three points away from the World Cup.

Sep 7, 2013

Cesare Prandelli admits Italy were indebted to an "extraordinary" peformance from Gianluigi Buffon after the keeper's heroics enabled the Azzurri to beat Bulgaria 1-0 on Friday.

Alberto Gilardino’s first-half goal gave Italy the lead in the World Cup qualifier in Palermo, but they had captain Buffon to thank for earning a vital three points as he pulled off several top-class saves as the visitors pressed hard for the equaliser after half-time.

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Italy are now all but assured of reaching Brazil 2014 as the result leaves them seven points clear of Bulgaria at the summit of Group B, but coach Prandelli knows his side rode their luck at times on Friday.

"Gigi saved the result with an extraordinary performance, so it’s nice to suffer and still win," he told RAI Sport.

"Bulgaria poured forward towards the end, they gambled it all, so it was predictable we would suffer."

The former Fiorentina boss was forced into making several changes for the game, with Mario Balotelli, Pablo Daniel Osvaldo and Riccardo Montolivio all unavailable.

And Prandelli felt these alterations were partially responsible for his side’s stuttering performance.

"Unfortunately tonight we had to make three changes due to injuries so it became complicated," he added.

"Our fitness levels are not optimal and that makes it all much more difficult."

Italy now need only one win from their remaining three games to secure their place at next year's finals, and they have an opportunity to do so when they entertain the Czech Republic - who succumbed to a home defeat to Armenia - in Turin on Tuesday.

"We’ll try to get as many players as possible back to fitness," Prandelli added.

"The Czechs are also gambling their last chips, so I warn you it is not going to be a walk in the park, but we’ll give it our all too. We’re fired up."

[Socrates 8422]

Buffon: I'll finish my career at Juventus

The veteran shot-stopper says he has no plans to quit the club and is looking forward
to the prospect of equalling Fabio Cannavaro's Italy appearance record in Turin.

Sep 7, 2013

Gianluigi Buffon insists he wants to finish his illustrious playing career at Juventus.

The 35-year-old has played more than 430 games for the Bianconeri since joining from Parma for €51 million in 2001, and the veteran has stressed he has no desire to represent another club prior to hanging up his gloves.

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Speaking after Italy's 1-0 World Cup qualifying win over Bulgaria, he told reporters: "I'll finish my career at Juventus. As long as they don't get tired of me I don't think I'll leave Juve."

Italy boss Cesare Prandelli said his side were indebted to Buffon following Friday's win after the World Cup winner pulled off a string of sensational saves to maintain his side's lead in Palermo.

But, Buffon feels his exertions were par for the course in a long and successful international career.

"I don't know which [save] was the most difficult. As a degree of difficulty they were similar stops. I'm happy, but I don't think this is the first time in 135 games I've done something good," he said.

Buffon will equal Fabio Cannavaro's record of 136 Italy caps should he continue in goal for Tuesday's meeting with Czech Republic, and the ex-Parma shot-stopper admits he will be proud to achieve the personal feat at Juventus Stadium - but only if his side can secure three points.

"I hope it will be a celebration for everyone. The situation may be about personal satisfaction, but it will only matter if we are able to qualify for the World Cup," Buffon added.

[Socrates 8422]

Buffon: 'I earn my Italy place'

Sep 7, 2013

Gianluigi Buffon was decisive against Bulgaria and can set an Italy record on Tuesday. “I have to earn my place.”

The 1-0 win over Bulgaria was his 135th cap and the goalkeeper will match Fabio Cannavaro’s all-time record of 136 games. To make it even more special, on Tuesday the Azzurri face the Czech Republic at the Juventus Stadium and a victory would secure their World Cup qualification.

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“I hope it can be a celebration in Turin for the squad. As for personal matters and records, it can be satisfying, but only if we book our ticket for the World Cup in Brazil,” he told Rai Sport.

Buffon performed at least three stunning saves from point-blank range to beat Bulgaria 1-0 at the Stadio Barbera in Palermo.

“I am there to save chances, so when your work goes well and helps the team you’re even happier. The toughest saves were in the second half and there were two or three tricky situations that I responded to in a fairly convincing way, let’s say.

“I am happy, but I don’t think it was my first! I did some good things in other matches too. While I am in the Nazionale, I have to earn my place.”

It’s a wonderful return to form for Buffon, who after 16 years in the Italy shirt is still the undisputed Number 1.

“The back surgery in 2010 was a very tough moment in which you have to dig deep for resources and motivation to see if you can go back to being what you were. The objective initially was to be healthy, then slowly to find the conviction – above all psychologically – that I still wanted to amaze people.

“At the age of 35, some things can still affect you. I didn’t want to just sit back and passively wait for my career to end in such a disappointing way.

“As long as Italy feel I am able to give my contribution to the team, both on and off the pitch, I will always happily accept any call for my country. If they don’t feel I am needed, then I will accept that with great calm, as I always have done.”

He recently extended his Juventus contract too and has been in Turin for 12 years, including a spell in Serie B.

“Antonio Conte made me feel confident and like someone who even off the field could continue to bring his charisma, character and experience to the side. That’s gratifying. The whole club, from President Andrea Agnelli to Beppe Marotta and Fabio Paratici were very close to me and I thank them for that. I hope I repaid them on the field and they didn’t regret my staying.

“Will I end my career at Juventus? I think so! Unless they get sick of me…”

[Socrates 8422]

Gianluigi Buffon performs miracles in Italy's win over Bulgaria

Because God performs miracles. Duh.

Sep 7, 2013

When you want to preserve a 1-0 lead in the second half, it's always nice to have somebody of the upmost of quality manning your team's goal. That's why the best of the best are so valuable and are so in-demand no matter how old they may be.

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Well, here's another thing to think about: It's even better to have Gianluigi Buffon as your No. 1 in goal.

Luckily for Italy, that's been the case for the better part of the last 15 or so years. On Friday night at the Stadio Renzo Barbera in Palermo, Buffon was up to his Buffon best yet again. What exactly does that include? Well, saves — lots and lots of saves. And of the highest of difficulty, too. Saves that make us put our hands to our heads and wonder how exactly he did what we just saw in front of us.

That talk of Buffon maybe being past it after a mistake against Lazio last weekend? Nah, forget that.

Three world-class saves in the second half allowed Italy to maintain their 1-0 lead against Bulgaria, showing once again that just because he's in his mid-30s means he's on the downside of his career. Ah, far from it.


Rai: Our Goalkeeper is a good one eh...

Chiellini "He's not bad."

Rai: Can he go on?

Chiellini "This young man can go on for a while."


Exactly, Giorgione. Exactly.

And why not watch Buffon do his usual awesome thing in goal with an Arabic announcer screaming at the same time? Sounds wonderful.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=yRFHlA8Q1tE

[Socrates 8422]

Buffon: Italy can win World Cup

The goalkeeper is confident the Azzurri can be crowned world champions again,
while revealing his pride as he prepares to match Fabio Cannavaro's appearance record.

Sep 8, 2013

Gianluigi Buffon believes Italy have what it takes to lift a second World Cup inside eight years.

The Azzurri lifted the trophy back in 2006 and also reached the final of Euro 2012, with the Juventus goalkeeper hungry for a second taste of World Cup glory.

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"It would be nice to win another World Cup," he told Sky Sport Italia. "We do have the potential to do it, although clearly other nations have an even better chance.

"I would never give up on the Nazionale. I don't see why I should, unless it is a decision by the coach that I would accept without problems. I haven't the courage to give up and it'd be a shame to do so if I was still competitive."

The Juventus man is just one cap behind current record holder Fabio Cannavaro and will go level with him when Italy meet Czech Republic in Turin on Tuesday.

And Buffon, 35, admitted that emulating the achievement of his former team-mate would be a high point in his career.

He added: "Catching Cannavaro’s record means a lot of time has passed, as I've been in the national team for 16 years, or 20 if you count the youth levels.

"I always tried to raise our tricolore flag as high as possible and I still want to win something."

Victory on Tuesday would secure Italy's place in Brazil next year.

[Socrates 8422]

Buffon: 'My loves, Juve and Italy'

Sep 8, 2013

Gianluigi Buffon will earn a record 136th cap in Turin on Tuesday, combining “my two great loves: Italy and Juventus.”

When the Czech Republic visit the Juventus Stadium, the goalkeeper has the chance to match Fabio Cannavaro as the player with most senior Azzurri caps.

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“My rapport with the Nazionale runs very deep. Every time I pulled on the Azzurri jersey, I have felt a more mature person,” Buffon told Sky Sport Italia.

“Catching Cannavaro’s record means a lot of time has passed, as I’ve been in the Nazionale for 16 years, or 20 if you count the youth levels. I always tried to raise our tricolore flag as high as possible and I still want to win something.”

That included winning the 2006 World Cup and only a couple of months later dropping down into Serie B to stay with Juventus.

“I have had the fortune as a professional football player of staying in the same locker room for many years, 13 with Juventus and 16 with the Nazionale.

“They are both stories of great love, passion and affection that mapped out my life, where I met many wonderful people, experienced victories and defeats.

“It would be nice to win another World Cup. We do have the potential to do it, although clearly other nations have an even better chance.

“I would never give up on the Nazionale. I don’t see why I should, unless it is a decision by the Coach that I would accept without problems. I haven’t the courage to give up and it’d be a shame to do so if I was still competitive.”

Buffon was asked if he would trade Italy winning another World Cup if it meant he wasn’t the captain.

“That would be absolutely fine with me. Lifting the Cup or being captain is irrelevant. In fact, I sometimes feel a little embarrassed to be the one who picks it up.”

[Socrates 8422]

Berlin veterans save Italy

Italy moved a step closer to the 2014 World Cup thanks
to two stars of the 2006 tournament, says Susy Campanale.

Sep 8, 2013

The Azzurri have the chance to make history on Tuesday against the Czech Republic. A win would mean Italy book their ticket to the World Cup in Brazil, securing qualification with two rounds to spare – something the Nazionale has never previously achieved. It wasn’t always pretty, but September fixtures rarely are, especially when players like Mario Balotelli, Dani Osvaldo and Riccardo Montolivo are suspended. The credit goes to two men: Alberto Gilardino and Gigi Buffon.

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It was a night for the Old Guard in Palermo, as 31-year-old Gila silenced his critics with a well-taken header and 35-year-old Buffon put in one of the best goalkeeping performances of his glittering career. Is it a coincidence these two players also won the World Cup in 2006? Cesare Prandelli doesn’t think so. “When Gila runs out of energy, he keeps going, as that is what a World Cup winner and a Nazionale player has to do. He knows how to suffer and feels no fear.”

Nobody ever said Gilardino should be first choice for Italy, but as a valid alternative to the fiery Balotelli and Osvaldo he’s just the ticket. We’ve already seen this term that veterans like Luca Toni still have much to give, while nobody is more consistent in front of goal over the last few years than Antonio Di Natale.

It was really Buffon’s night in Palermo and boy did he deserve that. For months we’ve listened to armchair pundits complain Gigi has ‘lost it’ and ‘can’t get down quick enough’ to block shots. A sprightly kitten couldn’t have reacted quicker to those Bulgaria efforts from point-blank range. He was simply magnificent and his post-match comments only reiterated his position as a true captain, both on and off the field. We’ve recently seen Manuel Neuer and Joe Hart commit howlers, so I say Buffon is still up there as the best goalkeeper in the world.

All of Italy now waits for Tuesday night, when Buffon can match Fabio Cannavaro’s all-time record of 136 Italy caps, secure World Cup qualification historically early and soak up the praise from his very own Juventus Stadium crowd. There’s plenty of life in the old dogs yet.

[Socrates 8422]

Buffon to equal Italy cap record

Sep 10, 2013

Gianluigi Buffon is set to match the appearance record of Fabio Cannavaro when Italy face the Czech Republic this evening.

The Juventus man is just one cap short of the 136 which were won by his former club and international teammate.

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The goalkeeper, who has conceded 109 goals while guarding the Azzurri net, made his debut in a World Cup play-off tie against Russia in October 1997.

The now 35-year-old, who will be playing in his club stadium this evening, was a key part of the 2006 World Cup winning side.

Buffon was also instrumental in Friday’s 1-0 win over Bulgaria when he made a string of fine saves. “They have a monument in goal,” reflected Bulgaria boss Luboslav Penev after the Palermo tie.

Brazil 2014 would be the legend’s fifth World Cup if he is named in Cesare Prandelli’s squad.

[Socrates 8422]

Del Piero marks Buffon record

Sep 10, 2013

Alessandro Del Piero wrote an open letter to Gigi Buffon congratulating him on his record 136th Italy cap tonight.

http://markting10.nl/

The goalkeeper will mark the occasion – matching Fabio Cannavaro’s tally – at the Juventus Stadium in Turin against the Czech Republic.

“Dear Gigi, just a couple of words (unusually in public…) to celebrate a great target that you'll reach tonight: 136 caps for Italy, you have tied the record of our friend - Fabio Cannavaro, the captain of ‘our’ World Cup,” wrote Del Piero on his blog.

“We shared a lot of these presences, sometimes suffering, but mostly getting crazy of joy. Just think of all the unforgettable memories both in Juventus and in the National team.

“I am happy that you can represent the Italian National Team with the captain's armband, achieving this prestigious goal. Good luck to you and the rest of the team for your qualification for Brazil 2014!

“Alessandro”

[Socrates 8422]

Buffon: 'Now we celebrate'

Sep 11, 2013

Gigi Buffon admits he was “terrorised” of the party atmosphere in Turin, but after victory can celebrate his record 136 caps.

http://markting10.nl/

The World Cup qualifier with the Czech Republic had been painted as a huge festival of football, as Buffon matched Fabio Cannavaro’s total Italy caps at the Juventus Stadium and a win would book their spot at Brazil 2014.

“I am terrorised of the lead-ups to games that are proclaimed as parties,” laughed the goalkeeper on RAI Sport.

The Azzurri were trailing 1-0 at the break, but fought back for a 2-1 win.

“Once that first half was over, we can now say that we can celebrate everything – my little personal record, but above all the qualification for the World Cup.

“I thank all the lads, as thanks to them I can celebrate 360 degrees tonight. We have created so much together over these years and I thank the fans for cheering us on today, as it felt like a new atmosphere to have so much support for the Nazionale. That wasn’t always the case.

“We also dedicate this victory to those two lads who were coming to see us in Sicily and sadly never got there.”

Buffon was referring to the two Sicilian fans who died in a car crash on their way to Friday’s World Cup qualifier against Bulgaria in Palermo.

Mario Balotelli missed several sitters in the first half, but Buffon assured there was no need to calm him down at the break.

“There was nothing for us to say. The Coach focused on that and we just helped him feel within a sense of calm and confidence. He never takes penalties in training, as he knows we might face him one day and doesn't want to give us any advantages...”

Buffon is now the joint all-time top Italy player with 136 caps and at the age of 35 revealed the secret to his longevity.

“There were times in my life when I wanted to have fun and I did, particularly as my body allowed me to. After reaching a certain age you realise that in order to last you have to become a man and behave in a certain way.”

Italy and Holland are the only European teams to have already qualified for the World Cup, but Buffon sees the Azzurri outside the favourites.

“In my view we are on the third row of the grid, but ready for a quick start and potential late surge.”

[Socrates 8422]

Juventus expect Gianluigi Buffon to remain at the club

Sep 11, 2013

Juventus expect Gianluigi Buffon to remain at the club for the rest of his playing days.

http://markting10.nl/

The Italy goalkeeper received a standing ovation in the 2-1 triumph over the Czech Republic in Turin after he equalled the record of 136 international appearances set by former Azzurri captain Fabio Cannavaro.

Buffon has proved crucial in helping Italy book a place in next year's World Cup having conceded just five goals in eight games in qualifying.

"Buffon is a true champion," Juventus club administrator Giuseppe Marotta said to giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. "He is a superlative professional.

"He deserves this recognition.

"My hope and wish is that he can defend Italy and Juve's goal for many years to come.

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"I believe and I hope that he will finish his career with Juve and this is the basis for him to remain at Juve for a long time."

Buffon joined Juve in 2001 from Parma and signed a two-year extension to his contract in January which will keep him at the Serie A champions until 2015.

The 35-year-old, who won the World Cup with Italy in 2006, recently stated he has no plans to retire from international duty and has one eye on the European Championship in 2016.

[Socrates 8422]

Buffon a true champion, says Marotta

The Juventus director has praised the veteran keeper's professionalism
and says he would like to see him retire with the Turin giants.

Sep 11, 2013

Juventus director Beppe Marotta has lauded Gianluigi Buffon as a true champion and voiced his hope that the goalkeeper will retire at the club.

http://markting10.nl/

The Bianconeri skipper has spent the last 12 years in Turin, winning four Serie A titles with the club and becoming captain in 2012.

Marotta believes the 35-year-old is an excellent professional and would like to see the former Parma man continue to represent the club for years to come.

"Buffon is a true champion," he told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport.

"He is a superlative professional.

http://markting10.nl/

"My hope and wish is that he can defend Italy and Juve's goal for many years to come.

"I believe and I hope that he will finish his career with Juve and this is the basis for him to remain at Juve for a long time."

[Socrates 8422]

'My dream? Winning the CL'

Sep 16, 2013

Gianluigi Buffon has conceded that winning the Champions League is ‘the dream’ of everyone at Juventus this season.

http://markting10.nl/

The Bianconeri kick their European campaign off tomorrow night away to Copenhagen, and the goalkeeper has insisted that the entire squad will endeavour to get off to a winning start.

“I am curious to see if we are able to continue to improve from last year,” he told a Press conference.

“Winning the Champions League is a dream that I share with all the members of the Juventus – the playing staff, management and fans.

“The leadership strengthened the team over the summer, but now it’s up to us players to prove that we’re better on the pitch.”

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Buffon then commented on a reunion with former teammate Olof Mellberg.

“He is a nice guy who I have fond memories of. He is a true professional and I’m sure he’s very important to this team.”

[Socrates 8422]

Buffon: Pirlo exit would destroy Juventus

The experienced goalkeeper has urged the Bianconeri management to offer
the playmaker a new deal with his current contract set to expire next summer.

Sep 28, 2013

Gianluigi Buffon feels it would be disastrous for Juventus if Andrea Pirlo were to leave the club at the end of the season.

http://markting10.nl/

The influential midfielder's current contract with the Serie A champions is due to expire in the summer of 2014 and general director Giuseppe Marotta stated earlier this week that Juve are in no immediate rush to offer Pirlo a renewal.

Nevertheless, Buffon has urged the Turin giants to act and offer the 34-year-old a new deal as soon as possible, or else risk destroying the foundations of the team.

"Not holding on to Pirlo should not even be an option," Buffon told Sky Sport Italia.

"If Pirlo were to leave, we might as well dismantle the stadium bit by bit and stop playing football altogether.

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"I hope that we will never deprive ourselves of a great player like him."

Pirlo joined Juventus from AC Milan in the summer of 2011 and has since helped the Bianconeri to back-to-back Serie A titles.