2023-09-04 16:16:34
by Alessandro Bocci, sent to Florence
The adventure of Spalletti’s new national team begins, which is also Buffon’s as the new head of the blue delegation: «I don’t want to propose Vialli again, I wouldn’t be up to it. I’ll have to talk to Bonucci: this last challenge of his is beautiful, with all the inconveniences of the case”
FLORENCE Blue for Gigi Buffon is not just any colour. No one has worn the Italy shirt as much as him: 176 appearances, 80 as captain, five World Cups, 15,000 minutes played. The beginning with the Under 15 in 1993, thirty years ago. And now the story continues. «History does not stop», says the president Gravina introducing the new head of delegation and team manager.
«It’s another beautiful day for Italy. Gigi, one of the greatest monuments, returns home. I am proud to pass the baton to Buffon. I had contacted him for the first time when I thought he would stop, but he stubbornly wanted to continue playing. When he decided to close we went back to the charge. Gigi is immortal as a footballer and will become immortal as a manager. We had, through no fault of our own, quite a turbulent summer. I’m happy to know that this team is in firm hands with Spalletti and Buffon. If everyone has to do their utmost to honor the blue shirt, as president I think I have succeeded with these choices».
Buffon thanks «because trust wasn’t taken for granted. The fact that they have thought of me as a figure to improve the national team makes me proud, stimulates me and makes me happy. I am returning to an environment that I know well. I hope to be able to put a brick and make a small contribution».
Vialli’s legacy is heavy.
«I have a beautiful, immense memory of Gianluca. We had an extraordinary relationship even off the pitch, we swapped shirts. A total sharing. To assume that you can reach his level would be wrong. I don’t want to propose Vialli again, I wouldn’t be up to it. I will be who I have always been and for which I was appreciated.
The national team is his home.
«I was born and raised with the myth of Rossi and Zoff and the Azzurri of ’82. The first time I saw Gigi Riva he seemed like a monument to me. I’ve always felt almost in awe here in Coverciano, as if it was too much for me because I’ve never lost my size. I worry about not having played in the sixth World Cup, but up to a certain point because life has been kind to me. And then I’m an altruist: I would have been the only player with 6 World Cups. And I, on the other hand, like to be in company and share joys and sorrows with my companions…».
Inevitable with an ex to talk about goalkeepers.
«The tank has grown a lot, there are 5-6 of very high level without touching Donnarumma, who is now consecrated and is playing with the best in his class. The others are giving important answers, starting with the Vicar, who was right to go abroad. Provedel, the best in the last championship, has grown. Meret helped Napoli win the Scudetto. But Falcone and Di Gregorio are also super reliable and Carnesecchi has a future».
How did the decision to quit come about?
“It wasn’t difficult. I hurt myself in Cagliari, during the playoffs and already in the locker room I had decided that I would stop».
Zoff says he’s better than her…
“I’m the last one who can answer that question. He remains the goalkeeper of reference in history, I’m happy with what I did».
Spalletti said that we need to avoid the risk of falling into minor football?
“I don’t think that will happen. I do not feel this risk. Despite ups and downs, which we historically offer, we come from a victory at the European Championship. The truth lies in the middle and reassures us. I’ve been close to the president and the coach these days and I’ve heard of concepts and values that are essential if you want to achieve a goal. I have the feeling that Italy has found the right man».
Why did we fail the second consecutive World Cup?
«The European Championship was a magic supported by three or four lucky situations. The failure to qualify for Qatar came due to a series of unfortunate circumstances. Let’s say that we paid the duty».
Buffon, did you speak with Bonucci?
«We spoke two or three times, now I have to send him a message after he has chosen to go to Berlin, showing that he still has the will to fight and get involved. It is the beautiful aspect of a champion who wants to face this last challenge with all the necessary inconveniences».
Which Italy would like to find Buffon again?
«I would like a generous Italy like the 2006 world champion, but also that of 2012 with Prandelli and 2016 with Conte. National able to excite. The goal, in addition to winning, is to give an emotion».
A question about Mancini is inevitable. Buffon glosses over: «His choice was unexpected. But the FIGC has given quick and concrete answers. And that’s what matters.”
September 4, 2023 (change September 4, 2023 | 16:28)
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