Gianluigi Buffon: Italy and Juventus legend announces retirement at 45

After an illustrious 28-year career in football, former Italy goalkeeper and World Cup winner Gianluigi Buffon has officially retired from the sport at the age of 45.

In an emotional message shared on social media, Buffon expressed his gratitude, stating, "That's all folks. You gave me everything. I gave you everything. We did it together."

Buffon's remarkable journey includes lifting the World Cup in 2006 and securing 10 Serie A titles with Juventus, as well as a Ligue 1 triumph with Paris St-Germain.

Returning to where it all began in 1995, Buffon chose to end his career at Parma, which is now competing in Serie B. Despite having a contract with Parma until 2024, he made the decision to retire after facing challenges with injuries last season, playing in 19 matches.

His professional football path commenced in Parma's academy, and he made his Serie A debut for the club in November 1995 before moving to Juventus in 2001. Throughout his illustrious career, he spent the majority of his time at Juventus, with a brief stint at PSG during the 2018-19 season.

Buffon leaves a lasting legacy in Italian football, setting a record with 657 appearances in the Italian top flight and earning the title of the most-capped goalkeeper of all time with 176 appearances for Italy.

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