Italy Legend: I turned down Barcelona in 2001

Juventus’ Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has revealed that he passed up the opportunity to join Barcelona in 2001, choosing instead to move to Turin.

Buffon turned down the opportunity to move to Spain, and instead made the switch from Parma to Juventus in a massive deal. He is adamant that he holds no regrets over his decision.

“I could have joined Barcelona in 2001,” the Italian told MediaSet. “However, I decided to join Juventus, after discussing it with my father, and I’m still grateful for it. Being at Juventus is a unique experience and has brought me a lot of satisfaction.”

Italy’s record caps holder has enjoyed success as well as satisfaction in Turin, and was quick to remind readers that such success was not a foregone conclusion at Barcelona in 2001.

“Let’s not forget that Barcelona back then were nothing like the team they are now,” he added.

The 35-year-old continued the interview by speaking of his desire to stay at Juventus for years to come. Fresh from signing a new two-year contract in January, Buffon is already looking beyond the end of that deal.

“My contract renewal was another milestone for me. I could have gone to Eastern Europe for a lot of money, but I opted to stay at Juventus,” he continued.

“I want to keep on playing for many more years and I want to keep on surprising people.”