Italy have one of their goalkeeping greats with them at Euro 2024 in Germany this summer.
Gianluigi Buffon officially retired from football in August 2023 and very quickly moved into a new career with the national team.
His new position means he will be seen regularly at this summer’s showpiece tournament despite playing no part in the games, of course.
And talkSPORT.com has taken a look at what exactly Buffon’s role is for his country…
What is Buffon’s role with Italy?
Buffon is the National Team Delegation Head for Italy.
It is a role that he took up almost straight after his retirement, replacing the late Gianluca Vialli in the position.
Vialli was spotted regularly on the touchline alongside former manager Roberto Mancini during the Azzurri’s successful campaign four years ago.
That means Buffon is likely to be visible in the dugout during Euro 2024 as he works with boss Luciano Spalletti.
Explaining what his role includes, Buffon told TMW: “I’m head of the delegation, I don’t even control my own house, imagine what role I could fill! But I like the role, and it’s very fun.
“I act as a bit of a filter between the boys, the coach and the environment, and then I should act in place of the president when he’s not there.
“A role where when they speak their mind, you have to listen.”
Buffon also spoke of his pride at taking a role that used to belong to the late Italian icons Vialli and Gigi Riva.
He continued: “[It’s] a great joy given that he [Vialli] was in this position even before with Gigi Riva.
“I’m very happy because I had a close relationship with both of them.
“The idea of taking over from them was a source of pride, they were two iconic and mythical examples and characters for how they were as footballers and for how they were in life.
“Not wanting them to regret something makes me feel very responsible.”
News Summary:
- What is Gianluigi Buffon’s role with Italy? Legendary goalkeeper holds position formerly held by Gianluca Vialli at Euro 2024
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