Buffon gives advice to Dybala, compares Vlahovic to Mbappé and Haaland

Juventus legend Gigi Buffon believes Dusan Vlahovic is the ‘best young player in the world’ with Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland and explains why Paulo Dybala should not leave Turin.

The 2006 Italy World Cup winner turns 44 today and spoke to La Gazzetta dello Sport about several issues, including Juventus transfer strategies, the 2022 World Cup and his future.

Bianconeri fans are waiting for Dusan Vlahovic’s arrival at the J Medical this morning. How does Buffon rate his signing?

“It’s huge and surprising,” said Buffon. “Vlahovic is the best young player in the world with Haaland and Mbappé. He has something different. He is the evolution of No.9, physically strong and dynamic.”

Vlahovic will partner Paulo Dybala in the Juventus attack, but the Argentinean could leave at the end of his contract in June.

His contract runs out in the summer and the two parties seem to be nowhere near to reaching an agreement over a new deal.

What would Buffon do if he were Dybala?

“I would stay at Juventus even for less money, but only If he feels appreciated,” said Buffon.

“And if I were Juventus, I would be excited by an attacking duo with Vlahovic and Dybala.”

Does Gigi still hope to play the World Cup in Qatar?

“No, not anymore,” he admitted.

“I’ve always used the World Cup as an excuse for those who were wondering why I was continuing. The truth is, I continue because I am doing things that others don’t do.

“However, the dynamics make me understand that Qatar is impossible. It’s fine like this, I must respect the choices of a smart man such as Roberto Mancini.

“We only spoke three years ago, but he must pick the most suitable, also to protect the group. We have strong goalkeepers.”

And what about Mario Balotelli? How does Buffon see his return?

“It’s tricky, let’s say we must trust Mancini. It has a logic, I don’t know if it’s right or wrong, but it has a logic.

“As for Joao Pedro, it depends on how integrated he is. Mauro Camoranesi perfectly fit into the group.”

There were rumours he could leave Parma in January, but Buffon seems willing to stay at the Stadio Tardini until June and still doesn’t consider retiring.

“Let’s see how Parma and I end the season. I feel the responsibility to represent people from Parma who give me unconditional love.

“If Italy don’t qualify for the World Cup, I may play the next ones. I would not be surprised to be still fit at 48. Michael Jordan didn’t rule out playing until 50 and I understand him. At the end of the day, we do the talking on the pitch.”