Gianluigi Buffon has decided to stay on working with the Italy squad as team manager, confirmed a statement. ‘I am happy to continue.’
There had been strong reports over the last 24 hours that Buffon was considering walking away from the role, which sees him effectively accompany the Azzurri during training retreats and tournaments.
He was ready to quit following the disastrous showing at EURO 2024, where Italy were knocked out by Switzerland in the Round of 16.
However, following today’s crisis meeting with FIGC President Gabriele Gravina, the 2006 World Cup winner came to a conclusion.
Buffon statement on Italy future
“The Azzurri shirt is my second skin and I am happy to be able to continue the journey as a director that I started just under a year ago with the Nazionale,” said Buffon in the statement.
“I thank President Gravina for his respect, and as always in my career, I will give my all for the Nazionale. In recent months, I was able to learn things that I hope can help develop the Club Italia project and strengthen all the Azzurri teams.”
Federation President Gravina also commented on Buffon’s decision to continue as team manager of the Nazionale.
“Gigi is an extraordinary resource for the FIGC and the Nazionale. He settled into this new role with great professionalism, I think him for wanting so strongly to continue giving his contribution to the Azzurri cause.
“As I already said the day of his presentation, it is my intention to involve him in an even more operative role within the structure.
“His confirmation was my first objective in relaunching the Nazionale and represents great news for all Italian football.”
Some are calling on Gravina and coach Luciano Spalletti to resign following the debacle in Germany, where Italy won only one of their four games, losing to Spain and Switzerland along with a last-gasp Croatia draw.
interesting. must have been some optimistic news. i think he was given a bit of leverage in picking squad.
He looked in a state of shock during the games. Not sure he has faith in the set up. It would have looked really bad if he walked away.