Gianluigi Buffon disputes World Cup 2022 speculation and claims he has not set a retirement date

Gianluigi Buffon has shot down suggestions that he could make a spectacular comeback to the Italy national team, but the Parma goalkeeper also claims he has no plans to retire.

The experienced goalkeeper had a long international career but retired from the highest level ahead of the Azzurri’s Euro 2020 success last year.

However, with Italy’s place in the 2022 World Cup still up in the air, rumors have surfaced that the man largely regarded as his generation’s best goalkeeper could be allowed back into the fold.

When asked if he may make a sensational return to Roberto Mancini’s side, Buffon – who was in goal for Italy’s 2006 World Cup success in Germany – dismissed the idea, citing his extended layoff as the main reason for his decision.

“Is there a location in Qatar? Certainly not, “He told GOAL Italy about it. “I’m not applying since it’s been four years since I’ve been a member of the national team.

“Mancini, in my opinion, has made sound judgments and should be recognized. He, as well as the work he has done for us, must be honored. [I am] quite pleased.”

Goalkeeper dismisses rumors of his retirement

Gianluigi Buffon, 44, is now in his fourth decade as a professional goalkeeper, and he’s still going strong in Serie B – but even at his advanced age, he claims he hasn’t contemplated retiring yet.

“I have no idea,” he remarked, “it’s not like I have a deadline or a certain date.” “I’ll play as long as I keep performing like this, as long as I’m fine and have enthusiasm and ambitions.”Then, if one of these components is absent, I’ll be free to leave.”

On Saturday, Buffon made history by maintaining a clean sheet in a 0-0 draw with Benevento, becoming the first goalie in history to keep 500 clean sheets in his career.

Ninety-two have been for his present club, 322 for Juventus, 9 for PSG, and 77 for his country.

Since his professional debut in 1995, the famous goalkeeper has had an outstanding career. He has 11 league crowns, six Italian Cups, the World Cup, and numerous more honors to his name.