Mexico veteran Guillermo Ochoa explained why he signed for Salernitana and noted his admiration of Gianluigi Buffon.
The 37-year-old goalkeeper, who is somewhat of a modern World Cup staple, signed a six-month deal with an option for a further two years with Salernitana earlier this month, giving him his first taste of football in Italy.
Ochoa, who has taken part in five separate World Cups, has instantly made a strong impression in Campania and seems likely to stay beyond this season.
Speaking to Sportweek, Ochoa first explained why he decided to join Salernitana this month.
“Because they were one of the first to look for me and I didn’t want to let too much time pass before playing again.
“And then because I grew up watching the Juve of Buffon and Del Piero, the Milan of Pirlo and Schevchenko… I’m a fan of Serie A.
“Already at Liege, between 2018 and 2019, I wanted to go there. Napoli wanted me, but my coach at Standard said no and Napoli signed Ospina.”
The 37-year-old veteran touched on some of his biggest goalkeeping inspirations.
“Obvious: Buffon. Other goalkeepers I admired in my youth were Casillas, Van der Sar, Taffarel, Schmeichel, Dida, Pagliuca, Toldo.”
Finally, Ochoa discussed his condition at the age of 37 and if he’d like to beat Buffon’s longevity record.
“I feel strong, young and lucky not to have had any major injuries. I played ten years in Europe without a dual passport, it doesn’t seem little to me.
“So, I don’t think about time passing. My dream is to play until I am Gigi’s age.”
The 37-year-old Ochoa has made three appearances for Salernitana since his arrival, impressing despite the team’s difficulties on the pitch. The veteran is hoping to take part in the next World Cup in 2026, hosted in Canada, the United States and his native Mexico.