Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has decided to leave the Old Lady at the end of the 2020-2021 season, marking the second time he will depart the club. The Italian legend briefly played for PSG before returning to Turin.
Buffon has been a capable goalkeeper this season despite being 43 years old, so he could conceivably start for another team in Serie A. And there should be a handful of teams interested in Buffon, both for his leadership and for his remaining quality. The MLS or even another shot at the Champions League are other possibilities.
Then, of course, there is the possibility of retirement.
Buffon told Sky Sport, via Fabrizio Romano, that he has “some interesting offers” to contemplate over the next month. He said that in the next 20 days before the month ends, he will gauge his enthusiasm levels and make a decision on whether or not he wants to keep playing or retire.
Gianluigi Buffon could have a send-off in the Coppa Italia Final
That is a decision Buffon and Buffon alone will make, and nobody has any idea of what the 43-year-old will choose to do. There are still vital games left in the 2020-2021 season in Serie A, as Juve must beat both Derby d’Italia rivals Inter Milan and Bologna to qualify for the Champions League next season.
Juve already took care of business on Wednesday night against Sassuolo, defeating the home side 3-1. Buffon was fantastic, showing why he has still has plenty left to give to the interested clubs. He made some big stops in the first half when Sassuolo were creating great chances, and one of those saves was from the penalty spot.
In addition to the remaining two Serie A matches, Juventus will face Atalanta next week in the Coppa Italia Final on Wednesday at the same venue they defeated Sassuolo. Considering Juve have not beaten Atalanta this season or even in the second half of the last season, they will be out for revenge. And that could be quite the farewell match for Buffon if Juve hoist the Coppa Italia.