Buffon Turned Down Saudi Arabia Move for Family Reasons

Silvano Martina, former agent of goalkeeping legend Gianluigi Buffon, has lifted the lid on some intriguing transfer tales from the past during an interview with Tv Play.

In his revelations, Martina discussed Buffon’s near-transfer to Roma in 2013. He disclosed, “We missed by a hair’s breadth that Buffon went to Roma in 2013, his contract was expiring after all. He was a legend at Juve and was happy where he was.”

The former agent of Buffon went on to talk about the interest Buffon garnered, even at the age of 40. “Many teams would have wanted him even at 40,” Martina confessed, indicating the enduring appeal of the veteran shot-stopper.

Martina also shone light on the potential future beyond European football for Buffon. “Saudi Arabia would have been a problem for the family and after so many sacrifices, this time he renounced,” he stated, revealing Buffon’s decision against a move to the Middle East.

The insight given by Martina provides a glimpse into the transfer decisions of one of football’s most significant figures. It certainly adds another layer to the incredible career journey of Gianluigi Buffon.