The lament of the Italian Buffon: the millionaire reason why he regrets leaving the French PSG

Gianluigi Buffonworld champion with Italy in 2006 and one of the best archers in history, revealed what was the biggest blunder of his career. Or rather, of his vast career, given that, at 45, he continues to save and he does so by defending goal for Parma, the team in which he made his debut in 1995.

The Italian participated, this week, in a live chat through social networks together with Christian Vieri, former teammate in the national team and personal friend of Buffon, and they recounted the most remembered moments of their career and there was space for them to tell anecdotes. The former Juventus goalkeeper left a confession that has given much to discuss.

Specifically, the story is linked to Buffon’s stay at Paris Saint-Germain during the 2018/2019 season.. Even if the step was short, the memories are good. “It was the best experience of my life. I felt like a free man. I quickly learned French, talked to people on the street, visited museums. I had the feeling that I was playing in a very good team,” he explained.

In keeping with recent years, the Parisian team had figures of the highest level: Neymar, Kylian Mbappe, Ángel Di María, Edinson Cavani, among others. And the goal was the same as today: the UEFA Champions League. However, after winning against Manchester United 2-0 at Old Trafford and losing 3-1 at the Parc des Princes, the round of 16 was the starting point.

“I was convinced, we were superior. We went to Manchester to play the first leg of the round of 16 with United and dominated, but they eliminated us in the second leg. This was the biggest disappointment of my careerBuffon commented.

After that elimination, Gigi decided to return to Juventus for a much lower salary than the one he received at PSG. The main reason for his departure was that Thomas Tuchel, the club’s manager at the time, did not guarantee him title in the Champions League, since he had opted for Alphonse Areola for that competition. Given this provision, the expert goalkeeper left the institute and returned to the Old Lady.

Recalling this episode, he stressed that his departure from the French team was a big mistake and gave a particular reason. “Leaving was the biggest mistake of my life, I gave up 10 million euros. They told me Areola would play in the Champions League and I didn’t accept it. For me, play who deserves it. This is why I returned to Juve. Then I regretted it, because Areola got injured and they hired Keylor Navas in his place”, he detailed.

Retirement, getting closer

He also put an expiration date on his career. With 28 years in the business and knowing he still has the level to continue tackling, he made it clear that 2024 would be an appropriate time to hang up his gloves. “I would like to retire after next season, no more. I’m competitive and I don’t want to be considered even for a second“, ended.