Gianluigi Buffon considers what Juventus lack in order to win the Champions League, and Ballon d’Or criteria.
The Bianconeri are into the Last 16 of the European competition this season after finishing second behind Atletico Madrid in the group stages.
It was put to their veteran goalkeeper and captain this week to consider what they may be missing to have greater ambitions of winning the Champions League.
Gianluigi Buffon considers what Juventus lack in order to win the Champions League, and Ballon d’Or criteria.
The Bianconeri are into the Last 16 of the European competition this season after finishing second behind Atletico Madrid in the group stages.
It was put to their veteran goalkeeper and captain this week to consider what they may be missing to have greater ambitions of winning the Champions League.
“Juventus are lacking the same thing as all the teams that don't win the Champions League, that is to say, Cristiano Ronaldo or [Lionel] Messi,” commented Buffon in conversation with AS.
“They mean a lot because with the certainty of having two players that, even when things come to the worst, score at least one goal, you are starting games off from a 1-0 score. It's a good advantage.”
The Italian talisman was also asked what he thought about the Ballon d'Or, and his response was rather sceptical.
“The criteria with which the prize is assigned are not very clear. I don't understand if they keep giving it to the strongest player or to the one who won the most.
“If you're giving it to the strongest player then you know that in these last few years, and for the next 10, you must assign it to Cristiano or Messi.”
Buffon was also doubtful that the prize could be picked up by a goalkeeper.
“It could happen under exceptional circumstances, for example if you win a World Cup or a Champions League and you're the protagonist in the quarter-finals, in the semi-finals and in the final because you blocked two or three penalties in each game.
“In any case it doesn't bother me.
“I never like those who say ‘I could have done this’ or ‘could not do that’. I did not win it and that’s it, no need to say any more. Anyone can see what I have done and who I am, and that is enough to make a judgement.”
Real Madrid President Florentino Perez reportedly showed some interest in Buffon at earlier stages of the player's career, but the ‘keeper nicknamed Superman doubts he could have flown to the Spanish capital.
“I don't think there was ever any real interest, because Madrid didn't need me.
“They always had some great goalkeepers.”
On that subject, Buffon also revealed his take on Madrid’s treatment of Iker Casillas during the last two years.