Gianluigi Buffon

[Socrates 8435]

Salihamidzic shows Buffon support

May 4, 2012

Hasan Salihamidzic sent former Juventus teammate Gigi Buffon a message of encouragement after his error against Lecce.

“All of the world are now talking about that mistake,” the Bosnian told Sky Port Italia. “I’ve already sent Gigi a text message about it.

“It is true that he made an error, but how many times as he saved Juventus?”

Buffon was responsible for Lecce’s equaliser in midweek which has allowed Milan to close to within one point of leaders Juve with two games to play.

“It’s great to see my old mates in first place while playing football so well,” added the man who spent four years in Turin before his 2011 move to Wolfsburg.

“I speak with people like Giorgio Chiellini, Buffon and Alex Del Piero quite often. It’ll be lovely to see them win the League.”

Brazzo also paid tribute to Del Piero, the club captain who will leave the Old Lady this summer after almost 20 years in Turin.

“He’s a great guy, a friend, a champion. You can’t say everything with words though. Everyone knows what Alex has done for Italian football and the world game.

“He’s a great guy, a great player and I don’t think he’ll retire. He’ll play on for a few more years.”

[Socrates 8435]

Abbiati hands it to Buffon

May 6, 2012

Christian Abbiati has an eye on Juventus and another on tonight’s opponents Inter, but also reassures Gigi Buffon.

The Scudetto race was blown wide open midweek when Buffon’s howler allowed Lecce a 1-1 draw in Turin, closing the gap to just one point.

“I made 100 more mistakes like that,” smiled Abbiati. “I show honest solidarity to a friend and a great person. He’ll be distraught at letting down his teammates, but I’m sure Gigi will make up for it in the next game.

“It’s only normal that Milan should believe in the Scudetto and fight to the end. There are only two games to go and we have to approach them as best we can. All we can do is win and hope Juventus slip up.”

The Rossoneri have a tougher fixture list, as tonight they face local rivals Inter in the Derby della Madonnina.

“I see a united Inter group with a new Coach who helped them climb back up the table. I fear their desire to prove a point, because they’ve struggled this season and want to target a Champions League spot.”

[Socrates 8435]

Buffon: AC Milan players 'laughed in my face'

when I told them Juventus would win the title

The Italy captain has explained that he knew that the Bianconeri's new stadium,

which officially opened last September, would propel them towards the Scudetto.

May 7, 2012

Gianluigi Buffon has revealed that some AC Milan players laughed in his face when he told them earlier this season that Juventus would win the Serie A title.

The Bianconeri claimed the Scudetto on Sunday with a 2-0 victory over Cagliari, a result which, coupled with the Rossoneri's 4-2 derby defeat to Inter, moved Antonio Conte's men four points clear at the top of the table with just one round remaining.

Juve's success has taken many by surprise, given they had finished seventh in each of the past two seasons, but Buffon has claimed that he knew from the moment he first set foot in the club's new stadium that the title would be returning to Turin.

“I can reveal something now," he told reporters. "The day after the presentation of the Juventus Stadium I went to see some people and told them, 'We’re winning the Scudetto.'

"I said the same to some of the Milan lads when we were on international duty and they laughed in my face. I didn’t take that well!

“The truth is that in August I was really struck by the new stadium, as it gave me huge motivation and refreshed me.

"I realised that day I belonged to a club that had made history, so we could not afford to stay on the level of the previous two years.

“I said in August I rediscovered the dream and when that happens, it’s trouble for everyone else!”

Meanwhile, Buffon refused to be drawn into the argument over whether Sunday's victory over Cagliari had secured Juve their 30th title, or their 28th, with the club having been stripped of two Scudetti because of the Calciopoli scandal.

“The issue of how many titles we have has been going for a long time and will probably never end," the goalkeeper mused.

“I won five titles on the field, then they put three on my CV, but there’s not much I can do about it. I can only say what I experienced and celebrated at the time.”

[Socrates 8435]

Buffon: I’ll retire when…

May 8, 2012

Juventus’ Gigi Buffon says he won’t consider retirement until his Italian international career comes to an end.

“I’m 34 and that’s a lot for a footballer, but for my characteristics and my role, that’s not too many,” the goalkeeper stated.

“I’ll only think about retirement when I’m no longer called up to the national side.”

Buffon, winner of 113 caps, is still the Azzurri’s undisputed No 1 and he’s set to soon extend his contract in Turin.

“I’m been in Turin for 11 years, a third of my life,” said the man whose current deal expires in 2013. “I have to thank the club for making me the player I am today.”

Buffon joined Juve in 2001 for a massive £33m after some impressive campaigns at Parma. On Sunday, he won his latest Scudetto in Turin.

“I’ve been waiting for this moment for the last six years,” he added. “This Scudetto is payback for the decisions which I made in the past.

“It was hard to go and play in Serie B [after Calciopoli demotion], but at the end of the day it has proved to be the right decision.

[Socrates 8435]

Gianluigi Buffon is new AIC vice-president

Following his Scudetto triumph the 34-year-old goalkeeper has been selected to represent

the union of Italian football players despite continuing to play professionally.

May 8, 2012

Juventus icon Gianlugi Buffon has been elected to the prestigious position of vice-president of the Italian Players' Union (AIC).

He will join current president and former Roma midfielder Damiano Tommasi, with the pair aiming to change the image of players in Italy.

"The players know they are role models for many people, but often lack the tools to become ambassadors of a positive message," Tommasi told Ansa.

Buffon, who has enjoyed a superb season for the Bianconeri and helped guide his side to a 28th official league tittle, added his own sentiments.

"I think there are foundations to relaunch the image of football altogether."

Over 2,000 professionals are linked to the union that will now be represented by the World Cup and three-time Scudetto winner.

[Socrates 8435]

Buffon and Barzagli to renew

May 9, 2012

Gianluigi Buffon and Andrea Barzagli will become the latest members of Juventus’ title winning squad to be handed new deals.

Reports today suggest that boss Antonio Conte will extend until 2016 later this month, but he won’t be alone.

Goalkeeper Buffon and Barzagli will be rewarded with new agreements seeing as their present ones expire in June 2013.

Buffon, it is claimed, will put pen to paper on a contract until 2016. The 34-year-old joined the club in the summer of 2001.

Barzagli, meanwhile, will be offered new terms until 2014, with an option for an extra 12 months on top of that.

Alessandro Matri, Paolo De Ceglie, Fabio Quagliarella and Leonardo Bonucci have already had their deals renewed this season.

[Socrates 8435]

Buffon: Champions League is Juventus' next objective

The goalkeeper is already looking forward to the 2012-13 campaign, but realises

that it will not be easy to emerge triumphant in Europe so soon after domestic success.

May 11, 2012

Gianluigi Buffon believes Juventus must now start focussing on becoming a Champions League contender after securing the Serie A title in 2011-12.

The Bianconeri have not won European club football's elite competition since 1996, and Buffon is desperate to help Juventus claim the prestigious title for the third time in their history. However, he acknowledged that it will be impossible for the team to lift the trophy next year.

"I want us to be competitive in the Champions League next season. That has to be our goal," Buffon stated to Tuttosport.

"We haven't won it in 16 years, but I don't think that the current team have what it takes to win it yet. That would be too much to ask from a team that have just accomplished a miracle.

"The team needs two or three editions in order to become great again in Europe. At this point, I would be happy just to win back Europe's respect.

"After all, a team like Real Madrid have spent some €800 million or so, and haven't won the Champions League yet either."

[Socrates 8435]

Buffon: 'Juventus butterfly'

May 11, 2012

Gigi Buffon describes how he felt when giving away that Lecce goal and how Juventus “transformed from caterpillar to butterfly” for the Scudetto.

The title was thrown back into doubt in a 1-1 draw with 10-man Lecce when the goalkeeper’s howler handed Andrea Bertolacci an open goal.

“From the ground I could see Bertolacci running towards the goal and I said to myself… relax, it’s just a film, now something will happen. He might faint before he gets there,” Buffon told Tuttosport.

“It’s not a good sensation, even if with Antonio Conte and my teammates at the start of the season we had taken into account something horrible could happen.

“I remember the silence straight after that idiotic thing I did. It kills you. At that point you have to ask yourself: will they massacre me or hold me up by the shoulders?”

He and Juve recovered to celebrate the Scudetto six years after going into Serie B due to the Calciopoli scandal.

“It was worth it. In many moments over the past six years I reached some conclusions, working things over in my mind. Not always, but some certainties did waver. It can happen. But then I meditated on my successes. The fans helped me in many moments.

“We had realised from the start of the season that we’d be able to put together something extraordinary. Talking about it in August or September would’ve been madness… It was a victory of the squad, just as for Italy in the 2006 World Cup. During this journey we transformed from caterpillar to butterfly.”

There was also controversy, most notably with Milan’s complaints about the Sulley Ali Muntari shot that Buffon batted away after it had crossed the line.

“Unfortunately, in Italy winning and being applauded by your opponents is unlikely. It’s a concept that sits uneasily with most people here,” sighed the goalkeeper.

“Objectively, I see no other solution for myself, at least as long as I remain an important player. When I am not crucial any more, it’s legitimate for me to take that into consideration. In any case, I am ready to sign a contract extension.

“Alessandro Del Piero won’t be here next year, but I am sure our rapport and his relationship with Juventus will continue. I advise him to stay relaxed and be proud: he’ll be number one for eternity.

“I want to be competitive and that must be our objective in the Champions League. Our last success in this tournament was 16 years ago and even the stellar Juventus I was part of could not repeat that. After all, Real Madrid have spent €800m and still can’t lift that trophy again.

“With two or three careful signings, our team can be solid and important. If we faced Barcelona? I don’t know how that would end, as it’d still be a game of football…”

[Socrates 8435]

Buffon: My future is with Juventus

The experienced goalkeeper has insisted that he has no intention to leave the Bianconeri,

and feels the 2011-12 campaign was one of his best-ever performances.

May 14, 2012

Gianluigi Buffon has stressed that he will not leave Juventus, and added that he expects to sign a contract extension in the near future.

The 34-year-old's current deal is due to expire in the summer of 2013, but Buffon does not expect any problems during negotiations for a new contract.

"My future? There won't be any problems with my contract renewal. Everybody knows that I want to stay here. Black and white are my colours," Buffon was quoted as saying on the club's official website.

The Italy international then reflected on his individual performances this term, and stated that the 2011-12 season was one of his best campaigns ever, although he could not help but highlight one glaring error.

"Unfortunately, I made that mistake against Lecce. Without that error, this would have been my best season ever. I can compare it to the 2002-03 championship, when we got through to the Champions League final."

Buffon kept 21 clean sheets in 35 Serie A appearances this season.

[Socrates 8435]

Buffon a leader, says Pagliuca

May 16, 2012

Gianluigi Buffon is back to his best after helping Juventus to Scudetto glory, says Gianluca Pagliuca.

Talking to Calcio News 24, the former Sampdoria, Inter and Italian national ‘keeper praised the Bianconeri No 1 for his efforts this term.

“Buffon has had a great season and we’re certainly not discovering his talent now,” Pagliuca commented.

“He risked compromising the title with his mistake against Lecce, but you can accept one error over the course of a campaign.

“He conceded very few goals and he’s one of the greatest leaders in a Juventus side who have returned to title glory.

“He really felt the importance of this triumph, a victory which came after a few difficult years in which his quality was also placed into doubt.”

Buffon made 35 appearances in Serie A this term, conceding only 16 goals in the process.

[Socrates 8435]

Buffon: 'Scudetto not like others'

May 16, 2012

Gigi Buffon points out the 2011-12 Juventus Scudetto “will never be the same as the others, not in the past or the future.”

The Bianconeri made history by becoming the first side to end a 20-team Serie A unbeaten, while it was also the first post-Calciopoli trophy for the club.

“I will hopefully be playing for a long time yet and hope the Juventus Museum can be further filled with new silverware,” said Buffon at the inauguration.

“Already today seeing a little space dedicated to me was wonderful. Celebrating the Scudetto was fantastic, as there was so much repressed joy waiting to burst out.

“This success will never be the same as the others, not in the past or the future.”

Alessandro Del Piero naturally has a place in the Juventus Museum, although his contract was not renewed this summer.

“As he ends his Juve career like this, having beaten every record, he will be seen as the image of this club for the next 150-200 years,” continued Buffon.

“I don’t think he could’ve asked for anything more and I’d have loved to be in his place after everything he has achieved.

“Alex’s gesture in not wanting the number 10 jersey to be retired only confirmed what a great man he is. In future those who have the honour of wearing it will know whose shoulders it graced.”

[Socrates 8435]

Buffon reveals poker passion

May 17, 2012

Gigi Buffon was the first pick on Cesare Prandelli’s list for his Euro 2012 squad. No surprise there. A Serie A regular with Parma and Juventus since making his debut as a 17-year-old back in 1995, he’s been Italy’s No 1 goalkeeper for over a decade and has passed the 100 caps mark with many more to come.

He’s vital to the Azzurri’s chances of success in Poland and Ukraine this summer after helping Juve to Lo Sucdetto this season. But he could continue his sporting career long after his football life is over – swopping the green turf for the baize of the poker tables.

Italy’s World Cup winner was introduced to poker a couple of years ago when he participated in a charity poker event. Gigi says that his love of competition is one of the reasons that he took up the game. Since then, he continued to work on his poker game and he eventually caught the eye of online poker giant, PokerStars.com.

In 2010, Gigi joined the ranks of Daniel Negreanu and Chris Moneymaker when he signed an agreement with Team PokerStars. As part of their deal, Gigi has become the brand ambassador of PokerStars' Italian market and plays in a number of online and live events particularly on the European Poker Tour.

PokerStars are delighted with the partnership. Spokesperson Barbara Beltrami says: “It’s a union that combines the qualities often found in both sport and poker – those of skill, hard work and mental concentration. It also highlights that the very best players relish the challenge, whether it’s on the football pitch or at the poker table – a passionate pursuit of victory,”

While few can beat Gigi on the football field, players will have an equal chance when they play with him online under his nickname "gigibuffon". Gigi's competitiveness is known by many football fans and that his competitive spirit will become a huge factor in his success at poker.

Italy, who leave for Poland on June 5, have two friendlies lined up against Luxembourg on May 29 and June 1 against Russia. Buffon then will head the Azzurri challenge against Spain (June 10), Croatia (June 14) and Republic of Ireland (June 18). Football fans will be hoping he won’t have time to concentrate on his poker until after the Final in Kiev on July 1.

[Socrates 8435]

Buffon: There will never be another title like this Scudetto

The Italian goalkeeper is overjoyed to see his side return to the top of

Italian football, while saying that he still has plenty of years left in his career.

May 17, 2012

Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has admtted that the club's latest Scudetto win was a unique achievement.

The Bianconeri finished four points clear at the top of the Serie A table to win their first league crown since 2003, after the 2004-05 and 2005-06 titles were revoked in the Calciopoli trial.

As Juventus opened their new club museum on Wednesday, complete with its own section dedicated to the iconic keeper, Buffon shared his emotions about winning the Scudetto and guaranteed that he has no plans to retire just yet.

"I am lucky enough to be able to play much longer, I hope that this museum will be filled even more," the 34-year-old told Sky Sport Italia.

"The fact that there is a small space here dedicated to me is very good.

"Celebrating this Scudetto was great. There was so much joy repressed in us. This title does not resemble any other we have won, and there will never be any other like this."

Buffon, who joined Juventus from Parma in 2001 in a €54 million deal, has a contract with the Bianconeri until 2014.

[Socrates 8435]

Buffon: My future will always be with Juventus

The veteran shot-stopper insisted that he still has lots to accomplish with the Turin-based

outfit and hopes to add the Coppa Italia to the Bianconeri's trophy cabinet this season.

May 19, 2012

Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has said that his future will always be with the Old Lady.

The 34-year-old custodian has been a vital part of Juve's set-up since joining the club from Parma in 2001 in a deal worth €54 million.

The Italy international has been linked with a new challenge as his contract expires in 2013, but the keeper does not see his future away from Turin.

"My future will always be painted in black and white," he told Radio Deejay. "We still have important goals to fight for after all the Scudetti we have won over the years.

"I have celebrated the league title five times, but to keep talking about the '30' Scudetti gets boring."

Buffon went on to say that he is expecting an enthralling encounter when Juve face Napoli in the Coppa Italia final on Sunday.

"It is great to participate when you are part of a group like ours, even if you do not play," he added.

"I hope that it will be a great spectacle, on and off the field, between two great sides from two intense cities."

[Socrates 8435]

Buffon tells all!

May 26, 2012

Gigi Buffon gave an extensive interview on Antonio Conte’s contribution to Juventus, Calciopoli, Alex Del Piero, Robin van Persie, Mario Balotelli and Euro 2012.

The goalkeeper sat down with Sky Sport Italia and naturally had to start from the record-breaking unbeaten run to clinch the title.

“The Coach has been put at the centre of the project with his beliefs and his knowledge of Juve. In general you can never tell quite how much a Coach affects a team, but I can say with certainty that our tactician has made a huge impact, more than anyone else, on this campaign. It was possible because the team and club wanted to follow him.”

Conte has been mentioned in the betting scandal investigation from his time at Siena last season, leading some papers to speculate he could be suspended.

“I am not afraid,” assured Buffon. “That’s because I know him and I know football, plus I heard from many Siena players who gave completely different versions to the one put forward by the accuser. Also, those who belong in football already have a good idea on what happened in these situations.

“It’s nothing to do with organised crime or something like that. In some cases you do think to yourselves it’s better to have two injured teams than a dead one, which is why occasionally you get draws. Working out the probabilities in your head and realising a point each suits everyone is not a crime.”

Another investigation in 2006 saw Juventus demoted and stripped of two Scudetti, though the club continues to celebrate this as their 30th rather than 28th title.

“I always say one thing happened on the pitch, another in different arenas. If someone asks how many Scudetti I’ve won with Juve, I’d say five, but they assigned three. That’s the truth.”

Buffon went down to Serie B in 2006 along with Del Piero, but the captain has left Juventus after he was not offered a contract renewal.

“We lose a lot withour Ale. First of all I am losing a friend and a companion. We were together 11-12 years and they were full of incident, good and less good. There is enormous disappointment to be saying goodbye, as more than ever this year he has shown how he helps the Juve cause.

“There was never a moment in which we heard him complain, as he always trained hard and set an example to the squad. In fact, he scored three or four goals that proved to be decisive.

“Would Balotelli fit in at Juve? I’d see him do well here, as he’d fit in with all the strongest teams in the world. He has potential and now we can say a little more than that, because he also proved in many occasions that he can decide a game.

“If Mario came to Juventus he’d certainly become an idol for the fans. He is one of those characters who are in certain ways denigrated – even hated – by opposition fans, but is idolised by his own supporters.

“I was amazed by van Persie, because I didn’t think he’d become such a good hitman when he was out wide. Instead he has shown intelligence to change position and become so important. At the end of the day I don’t know where he could be used at Juve, but that’s up to the Coach.

“Luis Suarez is also a great striker who has been impressive on the international stage for the last four or five years, is very quick, can often skip past his man and find the winning finish. He’s a real hitman.”

Buffon is currently on international duty with Italy preparing for Euro 2012 in Ukraine and Poland next month.

“I said I’d be happy if Italy had a good Euros, which in my book means at least the semi-final. From there on in, nobody wants to lose and that’s normal. I think the group phase and especially the opening game has always been our Achilles tendon.

“In the tournaments I played in, I don’t remember a winning start or one that brought enthusiasm. In this case we’re facing Spain in our first match, so it’ll certainly be tough and just reaching the next round will be a good result.”

[Socrates 8435]

Buffon: Balotelli would fit in at Juventus

The Bianconeri goalkeeper has admitted the controversial former Inter forward

would be a success if he signed for the newly-crowned Italian champions.

May 26, 2012

Gianluigi Buffon has admitted that temperamental Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli would fit in at Juventus.

The Etihad Stadium forward has been linked with a move back to his homeland this summer, and his international team-mate feels he would be a success in Turin.

“Would Balotelli fit in at Juve? I’d see him do well here, as he’d fit in with all the strongest teams in the world,” Buffon told Sky Sport Italia.

“He has potential and now we can say a little more than that, because he also proved in many occasions that he can decide a game.

“If Mario came to Juventus he’d certainly become an idol for the fans. He is one of those characters who are in certain ways denigrated – even hated – by opposition fans, but is idolised by his own supporters.”

The Bianconeri lifted the Serie A title with an unbeaten campaign in 2011-12, and Buffon has been quick to herald the impact of coach Antonio Conte.

“The coach has been put at the centre of the project with his beliefs and his knowledge of Juve. In general you can never tell quite how much a coach affects a team, but I can say with certainty that our tactician has made a huge impact, more than anyone else, on this campaign.

“It was possible because the team and club wanted to follow him.”

Finally, Buffon praised outgoing attacker Alessandro Del Piero, who will leave the Turin side this summer.

“We lose a lot without Alex. First of all I am losing a friend and a companion. We were together for 11-12 years and they were full of incidents, good and less good. There is enormous disappointment to be saying goodbye, as more than ever this year he has shown how he helps the Juve cause.

“There was never a moment in which we heard him complain, as he always trained hard and set an example to the squad. In fact, he scored three or four goals that proved to be decisive,” Buffon concluded.

[Socrates 8435]

Buffon defends right to free speech

after controversial Scommessopoli comments

The Azzurri goalkeeper suggested earlier this week that it is only natural

that teams sometimes agree to play out a draw if such a result benefits both parties.

May 30, 2012

Italy captain Gianluigi Buffon has defended his right to free speech after causing controversy with his comments on Scommessopoli.

The Juventus goalkeeper intimated earlier this week that it is only natural that teams will sometimes agree on a draw if a point suits both sides, a view which was not well received in light of the ongoing investigation into match-fixing within the Italian game.

Buffon, though, declined the opportunity to hit back during a press conference at Coverciano on Wednesday, but did declare that he was standing by his comments.

"I will not tell you what I'm thinking about the controversies that have arisen after my statement," he explained.

"I can only say that it has been the umpteenth confirmation that those who have a clear conscience are not free to express their thoughts.

"Criticism is also normal, but the right to express one's thoughts should always be preserved. Anyway, like I always have done, I take responsibility for my comments."

Buffon also responded to Italian Prime Minster Mario Monti's suggestion that football should be suspended for two to three years in light of the latest corruption scandal.

"I think that a suspension would mean penalising the majority of players who are without blame," the World Cup winner argued.

"The important thing is to make the right distinction between abnormal behaviour and criminal behaviour."

Buffon insisted that the controversy, which has drawn comparisons with the Calciopoli scandal which overshadowed Italy's 2006 World Cup success, will not have an adverse effect on the Azzurri's preparations for Euro 2012.

"The national team, like me, is arriving at Euro 2012 with great desire to win and hoping that if we do well all this controversy will go away," he admitted.

"The atmosphere in the dressing room is good, I see Balotelli and Cassano doing very well."

Italy have been drawn in the same group as defending champions Spain, Giovanni Trapattoni's Republic of Ireland and Croatia.

[Socrates 8435]

Buffon positive about Euro 2012

May 30, 2012

Gigi Buffon insists that Italy are in good shape ahead of Euro 2012 despite the latest scandal to hit the country.

“Things are going well and we’ll enter the competition with the desire to win it,” the goalkeeper stated at Coverciano on Wednesday. “That is the reason why we are all here…

“The climate within the squad is very good and I’m not just saying that. There is the right amount of joy and abandonment here to work in the best way possible.

“There is nobody in the squad today that has been directly touched by what has occurred during these past few days.”

Italy will start the competition with a game against champions Spain on June 10, before ties against Croatia and the Republic of Ireland.

“I think Croatia could be a bit of a surprise,” the Juventus hero continued. “They have some top class players. And I fear Ivica Olic as he scored against me in World Cup 2002.”

Today’s Press conference wasn’t just about football though, given the numerous arrests of the last few days with regard to the betting match fixing probe on the peninsula.

And Buffon has been criticised over the last 72 hours for expressing his views at the weekend on why some games towards the end of seasons finish in draws.

“I can’t honestly tell you what is in my heart and what are in my thoughts,” he stated today. “I have had yet more confirmation that those people with a clear conscience can not express their opinions.

“Democracy and freedom, including that of thought, are the first things that should be preserved in life. Then one must accept any subsequent criticism.”

Buffon also criticised the way that the media have been reporting developments in the betting match fixing enquiry.

“You know about legal proceedings three or four months before they happen. People give evidence and you know what has been said 10 minutes later – it’s embarrassing.

“I have faith that those investigating will serve justice, but there is nothing worse than playing or speculating on the lives of people.”

Juventus boss Antonio Conte is also under investigation in reference to his time on the Siena bench last season.

“I have no fear of losing Conte to a ban. I haven’t even considered that after taking into consideration what he has said himself.”

[Socrates 8435]

Questions raised over Buffon payments to bookmaker

The Juventus goalkeeper is said to have handed over 14 cheques worth

a total value of €1.5 million to a Parma-based tobacconist and betting shop.

May 31, 2012

The Guardia di Finanza has revealed that it has raised questions over payments made by Italy captain Gianluigi Buffon to a bookmaker.

According to a document released by Italy's financial law enforcement agency, the Juventus goalkeeper made out 14 cheques to a Parma-based tobacconist, which also serves as a betting shop, over a nine-month spell. The report claimed that Buffon handed over approximately €1.5 million to the owner.

While gambling on sporting events is legal, Buffon, as a member of the Italian Football Federation, is forbidden from placing wagers on any games sanctioned by the FIGC, Fifa or Uefa.

However, it is not yet known whether any of the money was for gambling purposes, or if indeed the former Parma player's alleged bets were placed upon other sports, which he is entitled to do.

The Azzurri star's lawyer has stated that the cheques were merely "transfers designed to protect Buffon's personal assets."

The Guardia di Finanza checks, which are being carried out by the Turin Prosecutor, are not related to the Cremona-led enquiry into match-fixing that earlier this week resulted in Italy left-back Domenico Criscito having his room searched by police.

The news, though, comes in the wake of Buffon's criticism of the Italian press for what he believed was sensationalist coverage of the Scommessopoli scandal.

[Socrates 8435]

Buffon was the victim of an ambush, says lawyer

The goalkeeper's attorney lamented the timing of the reports and declared

that there is no evidence that his client engaged in any illegal betting activities.

June 1, 2012

Gianluigi Buffon's lawyer has taken a swipe at Italian media, saying that his client has been the victim of an "ambush".

Italian reports claimed on Thursday that the Juventus goalkeeper had made over €1.5 million in payments to a Parma-based tobacconist, which also serves as a betting shop.

The purpose of the transaction is still unknown, but he would be breaking the rules of the Italian Football Federation if it was proven that that he had bet on matches sanctioned by the FIGC, Fifa or Uefa.

However, Buffon's lawyer has questioned the timing of the report after the shot-stopper had slammed the local media at a press conference, and insisted that the Italy captain did not engage in any illegal activity.

"The hypothesis of betting and abnormal movement of money was not picked up by any investigation by the Financial Police in 2010," Marco Valerio Corini told Radio Mana Mana.

"This is a strange timing: Gigi is bitter about the ambush against him after his press conference at Coverciano.

"Who says that those payments were made for betting purposes? Because these two people, a goalkeeper and the owner of a betting shop, operated together, then the purpose of their transaction had to be to make illegal bets?

"That argument is very poor, because they have known each other since Gianluigi was in Parma's youth team, and their friendship can be linked to commercial transactions, such as real estate.

"These are false news that trigger a media bomb that has no criminal value, as confirmed by investigators in Turin. The prosecutor also has denied involvement.

"I would be very surprised if Buffon was interrogated. The prosecutor cannot pay attention to every suspicion when there is no evidence.

"If there is evidence that there were bank transfers between two subjects, that does not necessarily mean that there was a crime."

Buffon had criticised the Italian press for sensationalising the coverage of the ongoing Scommessopoli scandal.

[Socrates 8435]

Buffon's injury in not serious, says Italy doctor

The Azzurri were sweating over the fitness of the 34-year-old, but the knock

that he picked up will not keep him out of the Euro opener against Spain.

June 1, 2012

Gianluigi Buffon's shoulder injury sustained in Italy's pre-Euro 2012 friendly against Russia is not serious, doctor Enrico Castellacci has said.

The Juventus goalkeeper was placed between the sticks during the first half of the contest, but was replaced by Morgan De Sanctis at the interval because of the ailment.

It was feared that the injury could rule Buffon out of the Euros, but it has been revealed that the 34-year-old was only taken off as a precautionary measure.

"It is nothing serious," Castellacci told Rai. "He had a small strain on the tendons of the right shoulder, but there are no concerns with regards to the match against Spain.

"Before he returns to training he must do some recovery work, but there is not a problem."

Buffon helped keep the scoreline goalless during the first half, denying Russia's players the opener with a number of great saves. However, Cesare Prandelli's side went on to lose the match 3-0 following second-half goals from Aleksandr Kerzhakov and a double from Roman Shirokov.

Italy will take on Spain on June 10 in their first Euro 2012 group match before meeting Croatia and Republic of Ireland.

[Socrates 8435]

Buffon's bank transfer was for 20 Rolex watches

and not sports betting, reveals lawyer

The World Cup winner is said to have handed over €1.5 million to a bookmaker

but his legal counsel has claimed that there is no evidence that his client placed a single wager.

June 1, 2012

The lawyer of Gianluigi Buffon has dismissed the suggestion that the Italy captain is guilty of illegal gambling, revealing that one of the payments he made to a Parma betting shop was for 20 Rolex watches.

According to a document produced by the country's financial law enforcement agency on Thursday, the Juventus goalkeeper made out 14 cheques, worth approximately €1.5 million, to the owner of the tobacconist over a nine-month period.

As a member of the Italian Football Federation, Buffon is forbidden from gambling on any games sanctioned by the FIGC, Fifa or Uefa, but his lawyer has stated that there is absolutely no evidence that his client placed bets of any variety.

"The most significant bank transfer, dating back to September 13, 2010, concerns the purchase of 20 Rolex watches, which have been in Gianluigi's safe for months," Marco Valerio Corini told Radio Radio TV.

"A purchase that is compatible with his income and one that is written in the random bank transfer. What else should he do? We can show that every payment was not related to sports betting."

Indeed, Corini is dismayed that Buffon is even under suspicion, claiming that there is no evidence of wrongdoing on the part of the World Cup winner.

"If we want to get to the facts, it is not a criminal process or a sporting law interest," the lawyer argued on Sky Sport24.

"There is nothing that can be shown that Buffon has bet. These are economic transactions between two people who have known each other for years, one of whom also runs a betting shop.

"From there, there is no doubt that they could not be real estate transactions or otherwise; one thinks that they must necessarily be bets and what's more, illegal. But there is not even any proof that it is a bet.

"Buffon has been and is always available in a frank, loyal and cooperative manner."

The news that Buffon's transactions were under investigation came just days after the veteran launched a stinging attack on the nation's media for their coverage of the Scommessopoli scandal.

[Socrates 8435]

Buffon lawyer slams betting stories

June 1, 2012

Gianluigi Buffon’s lawyer has blasted talk of his involvement in the betting scandal as “supposition, gossip and malice.”

The Italy and Juventus goalkeeper was rumoured to have spent €1.5m on various bets at a Parma tobacconist who also has a betting booth at his business.

This is not per se illegal, as players are only barred from betting on football, but can place bets on other sports.

“It is supposition, gossip and malice,” declared lawyer Marco Valerio Corini on RadioCalciomercato.it.

“The thing that really amazes is seeing this information hit the newspapers with such violence after a particularly bitter press conference Gianluigi had given at Coverciano. There is a strange synergy between the two things.

“In legal terms there is absolutely nothing that caught the interest of the magistrates, who already knew of this reserved information for the last six months.

“Buffon is not remotely of interest to the investigation, not even as a witness. The beneficiary of the cheques Gianluigi wrote has among his businesses a Lottomatica betting booth. Anything else is bar talk level of speculation.

“Something similar happened in 2006 and I hope that can bring Italy luck, just as it did in that World Cup. At the time Gianluigi was also interviewed by police, but the investigation regarding him was shelved both in a sporting and civil justice system.

“Unlike in 2006, here we are giving credence to thin air, as there isn’t even an investigation involving him. We are monitoring everything that is published and after the Euros we will return to analyse calmly who and above all why certain stories were spread.”

[Socrates 8435]

Buffon: 'I did nothing wrong'

June 2, 2012

Gigi Buffon gave an update on his injury, but above all hit back at reports trying to drag him into the betting scandal. “I’ve done nothing wrong.”

The goalkeeper went off at half-time in yesterday night’s 3-0 friendly defeat to Russia – when it was still goalless – due to a shoulder strain.

“I had a little knock on my shoulder when I went down to save, but I’m ok and I think my half was played with the right determination.”

Naturally, the conversation with RAI Sport drifted to the betting scandal, as police staged a dawn raid on the Coverciano training ground on Monday and most recently newspapers tried to drag Buffon into the affair with details of €1.5m he gave to a Parma tobacconist.

The tobacconist also has a betting booth, but Buffon insists most of the payments were for 20 Rolex watches.

“It has been a very tough week for everyone. That’s the truth, there’s no point lying about it. But in these moments you can tell who the real men are.

“We have zero fear, a lot of determination and are ready to step up when called upon to battle.

“I don’t have to clarify anything, as it is all clear. My expenditures, whether a collection of watches or helping a friend to buy a house, is private and of no interest to anyone.

“Someone decided to spread this to the media. Next time I’ll just tell everyone when I spend money, that way we can save the effort.

“All week the squad, including the Coach, realised something is amiss. Around five or six of us were dragged into it.

“Of course last night I was very upset, but at the end of the day I’ve done nothing wrong and didn’t kill anyone. It’s all so perfectly clear in my accounts that I have nothing to fear. It’s just a terrible shame to see speculation and people playing with human beings as if it was a game.

“I hope the media do something about this too, as everyone has to do their job well and work with conscience.”

It is illegal for players to bet on football matches, but the goalkeeper has said in the past he used to bet on other sports.

“I have broken absolutely no rules, not sporting or legal. I have a collection of watches and helped a friend to buy some land. It’s my business and there was already an investigation 18 months ago with nobody finding anything wrong.

“Clearly when you take the responsibility to vehemently express opinions then you have to be ready to accept the blow-back.

“The scandal is disappointing and does not honour football, but it’s also true we are talking about a minority. Therefore the majority needs to be protected.”

[Socrates 8435]

Buffon 'not in betting investigation'

June 3, 2012

Gianluigi Buffon’s lawyer has reiterated “he is not involved in the investigation” into a betting scandal after his tobacconist in Parma was raided by police.

The Juventus and Italy goalkeeper was dragged into the scandal by the media, who pointed out he had paid large sums to a tobacconist who also has a betting booth.

However, he assured the payments were for a collection of watches and helping his friend buy some land, while there were no irregular betting patterns flagged here, nor did the investigators suggest he was in any way part of the investigation.

“The tobacconist being inspected in Parma had nothing to do with Buffon and there are absolutely no elements that would suggest Gigi is involved in the investigation,” said lawyer Marco Valerio Corini.

“We have not been notified of anything, we have not received any notice and I don’t see why it should arrive.

“All the news that has leaked out has no relevance to illegal activity on a civil or sporting justice level. If Buffon is called to explain any of it, then he will.

“The only regret is that Gigi is forced to explain things that are irrelevant and publicise matters that are private.”