2013 Year in Review: Top 5 Captains of 2013

2. Gianluigi Buffon – Juventus

He has been by far one of the best goalkeepers over the past decade and is an inspirational leader. He is the most expensive goalkeeper of the decade and has been at Juventus for over 12 years. This man is a World Class goalie and is quick between the sticks. He has propelled his team to unbelievable heights and has helped keep numerous clean sheets. He helped Juve to a comprehensive title win in the previous season and has been an integral part of the team’s lead at the top of the Serie A.

Loyalty is his middle name and he showed just why, when he stayed with the Vecchia Signora despite the fact that they were relegated to the Serie B. He made 25 saves, including 10 in a 3rd place match in the Confederations Cup this year and helped Italy beat Uruguay in the 3rd place play-off vs Uruguay in a penalty shootout where his side won 3-2. On November 24, Buffon made his 500th appearance in Serie A and kept a clean sheet at Livorno.

He is a brave shot stopper who has no fears in putting his body on the line for his team. This season he hadn’t conceded a goal in 745 minutes before he conceded against Atalanta. He was nominated for the FifPro XI of the year due to his exemplary performances. He has saved the most long shots as compared to any other keeper playing in the top division this calendar year. He has saved many a penalty in his career and is a highly respected person in the footballing circles.

His performance against Napoli was inspirational as he held a clean sheet which helped his team extend their lead at the top of the table. Despite his age, Juve haven’t required a replacement and that pretty much sums up his class. This season has required him to hold his nerve and he has done exactly that and thereby taking Juventus to the top of the Serie A.