One of the most respected players in today’s game, Juventus and Italian captain, Gianluigi Buffon believes that his current side is one of the most unique in Juventus history, and said that when he retires, he will be satisfied with his career.
Besides being the most capped player for the Italian national side, the Bianconeri keeper has won nearly every title since beginning his illustrious career over 20 years ago, including six Serie A and the 2006 World Cup.
“The best moment of my career was when we won the Scudetto after returning to Serie A with Antonio Conte,” he shared during a long interview with ABC.
“To me, it was a reward for sticking with my team.”
Buffon also discussed his decision to remain with the Turin giants following their demotion to Serie B.
“I was proud of the investment Juventus made in me, and I wanted to show my gratitude,” he continued.
“I had many offers from other big clubs, but never regretted playing with Juventus in Serie B.”
“Of course my career also had low points, and I’d say our 2003 defeat in the Champions League final against AC Milan was the worst.
“We lost a key player during the semi-final [Pavel Nedved] to an absurd call, and we also played poorly.”
Buffon still believes he can win the Champions League, but said that their upcoming match against Bayern Munich would be difficult.
“Our current squad has the most personality of any of the teams I’ve played with,” he said.
“We have to be realistic, Bayern are the clear favorites.
“But then again, Real Madrid were the favorites against us last year, so there is always hope.”
While the Champions League remains one of the few titles Buffon has yet to conquer, the keeper said regardless, he plans to retire in two more seasons following the 2018 World Cup.
“Last year’s Champions League defeat was different from 2003; we played against the best teams, and we came very close to winning,” Buffon stated.
“We left Berlin with our heads high, because we were proud of what we accomplished together.”
