Buffon Stands Firm Behind Gattuso and Reflects on Italy Exit
Gianluigi Buffon has openly stood by his choice to back Gennaro Gattuso as head coach of the Italy national team despite recent disappointing results. In an interview with Corriere dello Sport editor Ivan Zazzaroni on the Tutto in piazza podcast, Buffon also spoke about taking responsibility for stepping down from international duty after Italy’s elimination by Bosnia.
Taking Responsibility and Moving On
The legendary goalkeeper explained that leaving the team was a necessary step to allow a fresh cycle to start for the Azzurri. Buffon expressed confidence in Gattuso’s leadership, saying that the missed penalty or individual match outcomes wouldn’t shake his belief in the coach’s qualities.
"After the elimination against Bosnia I chose to leave and I came out of it very well," Buffon said. "I pushed for Gattuso as coach and I would do it again now; he was the right man for the moment we were going through. A missed penalty won’t change my mind."
Thoughts on Managers and Juventus Past
Buffon shared candid opinions on other notable figures like Antonio Conte, Massimiliano Allegri, Roberto Mancini, Cesc Fabregas, and Gian Piero Gasperini. He reflected on past disagreements with the Juventus board around 2010 and commented on ongoing challenges at the club. The goalkeeper also praised former teammates Carlos Tevez and Dani Alves for their successful times in Turin.
Assessing Italian Football's Challenges
Buffon finished by addressing the structural and performance issues facing both Juventus and the Italy national team. His openness offers insight into what lies ahead as these teams aim to return to top form. Despite stepping away from playing, Buffon remains a key voice influencing Italian football’s future direction.
- UEFA Nations League A
- Italy (ITA)
- Date: 25 Sept 2026
- Time: 21:45
- Opponent: Belgium (BEL)
