The legendary Gianluigi Buffon, an icon of Juventus and Italy, is set to be hanging up his gloves for good at the age of 45. The custodian spent 19 years for Juventus during two different stints. After spending two years at Parma, he intends to conclude his playing career.
With Italy, he won the World Cup in 2006. As he rose to become one of the finest goalkeepers of the modern age, he even helped Juventus win several titles. He has also gained notoriety for his longevity, continuing to perform at a very high level well into his forties.
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By mutual agreement, Buffon will end his contract with Parma and declare his retirement. He began his professional career at the Parma youth programme, and in 2021, as a free agent, he completed the circle.
In addition, he played for Paris Saint-Germain in the 2018–19 season and twice for Juventus during a 19-year span. The goalkeeper amassed 657 Serie A games, 124 Champions League games, and a record 176 senior Italy caps.
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Buffon, who is highly revered by both players and fans, was chosen as the best custodian in football history in a 2016 survey. Together with Andrea Barzagli, Giorgio Chiellini, and Leonardo Bonucci, the key defensive trio for Juventus, he developed an almost unbreakable alliance. The quartet won eight Scudettos in a row.
Buffon wanted to stay on through the June 2024 expiration of his present contract. But injuries have been more frequent recently, and Parma’s inability to earn promotion was disappointing. This summer, the Saudi Pro League had also made several profitable ideas. Gianluca Di Marzio, a transfer expert with Sky Sport Italia, asserts that a choice has been made.
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