Juventus goalkeeper, Gianluigi Buffon, plans to keep playing ‘until I’m at least 43’ and reveals winning the Champions League is still ‘buzzing around in my head’.
Buffon became Serie A’s record appearance holder yesterday during Juve’s 4-1 victory over Torino, turning out in his 648th top-flight game.
“I had to wait a long time for this record, but it wasn’t a problem,” the 41-year-old told Sky Sport Italia.
“Right now we’re playing a lot of games. It’s a delicate time in the season and the pressure I felt was only on the game.
“Now I’m very happy, but the thought of the record didn’t touch me before. At the start of my career, I was more carefree and easy-going.
“I had many dreams and, driven by my approach of never being satisfied with myself, I came here.
“Breaking Del Piero’s attendance record for Juve isn’t one of my objectives. I’m not playing for these things because I practically retired two years ago.
“Then came PSG and, subsequently, so did the opportunity to come back here and feel good.
“I realise that if I have the right motivation, I can play some games without any problems, while giving excellent answers on the pitch.
“I’ll be here until I’m at least 43, but since turning 40 I’ve been taking things month by month.
“I need to monitor the situation and always be ready to step back when the main element is missing, that is, the ability to play at the top.
“Once I feel I’ve reached that point, I’ll step aside. As long as I’m motivated and in the right shape, it’s only right that I keep playing because there’s nothing that makes me happier than playing football matches.”
read also:Serie A: Buffon breaks appearances record as Juve go seven points clear
Buffon returned to the Bianconeri last summer after he failed to win the Champions League with Paris Saint-Germain, so can he finally lift the jug-eared trophy this season?
“It’s something that’s always buzzing around in my head, it’s inevitable. I got so close to it so many times that not grabbing the trophy by its jugged ears has become a regret of mine.
“However, I’ve found the strength not to give up from these regrets.”
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