Gianluigi Buffon, the legendary former goalkeeper and 2006 World Cup champion, is set to take on a more hands-on role with the Italian national team. Buffon, who has always been passionate about making a significant impact, will now be constantly alongside the squad, even between training camps.
La Gazzetta dello Sport outline how on the morning of June 30, following Italy’s disappointing defeat to Switzerland, Buffon was a noticeable presence at the press conference held by head coach Luciano Spalletti. While Spalletti admitted his responsibilities with numerous caveats, Buffon’s silence spoke volumes about his disappointment and bewilderment at the team’s lack of response and pride during the match.
Reflecting on the situation, Buffon said, “The next World Cup is the minimum objective. We have disappointed everyone, including myself.” His frustration stemmed from a sense of powerlessness, feeling like he was trying to save shots with his hands tied while being bombarded from all sides, reminiscent of Spain’s relentless attacks on Donnarumma. Despite his efforts to motivate the players with his extensive experience and memories from his long career with the Azzurri, Buffon found himself spending more time signing autographs and taking selfies than making a real impact.
Buffon expressed his desire for a more operational role, one that would allow him to leverage his experience more effectively. “I needed a more hands-on role, less representative, to make a bigger impact,” he explained. This wish has been granted. In recent meetings with FIGC President Gabriele Gravina, head coach Spalletti, and youth national teams coordinator Viscidi, Buffon’s new role was defined. Starting in September, Buffon will become the sporting director of Club Italia, staying close to the team and the field without encroaching on Spalletti’s responsibilities. He will also maintain contact with players and clubs between training camps.
Buffon, who earned his sporting director diploma at Coverciano last February, will now help rebuild the national team structure, similar to successful models in other countries. For instance, Spain has had former goalkeeper José Francisco Molina working alongside coach Luis Enrique, and Germany benefited from the collaboration between technical director Oliver Bierhoff and coach Joachim Low during their 2014 World Cup triumph.
The role of a technical director, common in many successful national teams, ensures continuity in the technical project, even as coaches change. This structure has been instrumental in the success of teams like Spain and Germany. However, Italy has traditionally resisted this approach, clinging to an outdated notion of the head coach as the sole authority.
Buffon’s new role aims to bring Italy in line with modern football management practices. “We need to build an open, modern, and supportive working group,” Buffon emphasized. The isolation of the senior national team and the infallibility of the head coach are concepts that no longer make sense. A technical director is not a rival but an additional support, providing a broader perspective and freeing the head coach from administrative burdens.
As Buffon steps into this new role, he brings with him a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of Italian football. His presence and leadership are expected to play a crucial part in revitalizing the Azzurri and steering them back to their former glory.
