Gigi Buffon thanked Ivan Rakitic offering to give up his spot at the 2018 World Cup, but the Italy goalkeeper warns “it might not be a great idea!”
Croatia booked their spot at the tournament in Russia next summer, but Buffon misses the chance to become the first man ever to play in six World Cup finals.
“I feel like telling Buffon to go in my place, as what he’s done for football is incredible, simply unique,” said Barcelona midfielder Rakitic in today’s Press conference.
Gigi Buffon thanked Ivan Rakitic offering to give up his spot at the 2018 World Cup, but the Italy goalkeeper warns “it might not be a great idea!”
Croatia booked their spot at the tournament in Russia next summer, but Buffon misses the chance to become the first man ever to play in six World Cup finals.
“I feel like telling Buffon to go in my place, as what he’s done for football is incredible, simply unique,” said Barcelona midfielder Rakitic in today’s Press conference.
“When a child writes out his ideal line-up, Buffon will be in there. I can’t explain what it’s like to see him at the end of a game in that shape and to stand next to him.
“It’s really a shame he isn’t able to finish his career with participation in a sixth World Cup and I’d honestly love to give him that chance.”
Buffon responded via Twitter ahead of tomorrow night’s Champions League game between Juventus and Barcelona.
“As a goalkeeper I might still play, but playing for Croatia as a midfielder in your place might not be a great idea: I am saying it for your good sake!
“Joking apart, your words have been a great gift. Thanks to you and Jordi Alba: my jersey is waiting for you.”
Dear @ivanrakitic , as a goalkeeper I might still play but playing for Croatia as a midfielder in your place might not be a great idea: I am saying it for your good sake. Joking apart, your words have been a great gift. Thanks to you and @JordiAlba: my jersey is waiting for you
— Gianluigi Buffon (@gianluigibuffon) November 21, 2017