Buffon thanks Chiellini: the teammate everyone would want to have

Gianluigi Buffon, the former Juventus and Italy national team goalkeeper, has delivered a heartfelt tribute to his ex-teammate Giorgio Chiellini on Instagram following the announcement of Chiellini’s retirement from football.

Buffon hailed Chiellini, his comrade for numerous footballing battles, acknowledging the significant part they shared in their careers. The legendary star commended Chiellini as a teammate everyone would wish to have and a true leader on and off the pitch.

He was quoted as saying: “Giorgio, we battled together, we fell and got back up together, we won together. You were the kind of teammate everyone would’ve wanted – a true leader on and off the pitch.”

Buffon’s words, while translating his comments from Italian, resonate fondly. “Many have already told you how unique you are,” Buffon penned in his tribute. However, the star goalkeeper did not stop at recognizing Chiellini’s irreplaceability.

He emphasized, “What I plainly wish to tell you is a huge thank you for all the moments we experienced together.”

In conclusion, Buffon wished his friend good luck for the future, offering heartfelt good wishes for whatever path Chiellini chooses to pursue next.