Gianluigi Buffon: ‘I am not a legend’

Buffon earned the nickname ‘Superman’ over a career that has so far spanned two decades with Parma, Juventus and the Italian national team.

In an interview with Spanish outlet AS, the veteran contemplated his remarkable career and noted how he feels he has changed over time.

“It's been a beautiful journey,” said the Italian international. “I have changed very much.

“At first I was a boy with all the virtues and the shortcomings of boys. Now I am an adult, I'm more mature and reflexive, and I hope not to make certain errors.

“Aside from all that, my characteristics as a goalkeeper have changed.

“I have improved in many things through hard work and experience, and perhaps I am a bit more of a defensive goalkeeper, because when you're a lad you have those physical superpowers and that exuberance that dwindles away over time.”

Buffon is one of the most famous names in Italian football, but he said he dislikes being called a legend.

“No, no, legends seem to have something that isn't very human and I don't like them.

“I am an athlete with soul, with heart, for the good and for the bad, that's for others to judge.

“I consider myself a footballer who marked a part of the history of the sport in Italy, in Europe and in the world.

“But you turn into a legend when you die. I hope that's in the very distant future!”

Buffon is one of the oldest active players in Serie A and has signed a new contract with Juve to take him beyond his 39th birthday.

However, the current 36-year-old doubts that in Italy veterans are given more consideration than elsewhere.

“You earn respect with your performances. It's not like the club has any kind of debt with me, because when you play you get paid in money, you get people who idolise you, you can work and take care of yourself in the best possible way.

“It's an equal exchange. We shouldn't ask more of the club. They extended my contract, I believe, because I proved on the pitch that I was worth it.”

Read the original article on Football Italia - The ultimate website for English-speaking fans of Italian football