2010 World Cup: Gian Luigi Buffon delays operation to fight for Italian victory
Despite the lack lustrous showdowns put by the Italian squad, Gian Luigi Buffon is one man on the roster who knows how to perform his duty. He knows how to respond when duty calls. Like a missionary, the solider has treaded on despite the damage that has been inflicted upon him.
The 32-year-old Italian devotee had earlier damaged his sciatic nerve and was being set-up for an immediate operation. But when the dutiful goalkeeper came to know that it would end his journey in the FIFA World Cup in South Africa, Buffon has postponed his operation till the end of the tournament.
Later reports have shown that the world class shot stopper is also suffering from a herniated disc. An operation that will put him off the game for 4 months at least was underway but after understanding the entire story, Gigi stated that no self-made obstacle can come between him and his dream in South Africa.
The world most expensive goal keeper made a record transfer of £32.6 million from Parma to Juventus. He has already made his presence noted in this World Cup saving Italy from the shame of losing by blocking a penalty and making a couple of his usual miracle saves. He is known for his fast reflexes and his swift movement on the ground.
Opponent strikers have often commented that he could do well as a mind reader because of his uncanny ability to anticipate the moves made by a player. The game against Paraguay saw Buffon being troubled with his back in the first half. The match later went on to a 1-1 draw and Buffon had to be replaced by the end of the first half.
At the moment, it is predicted that he will miss the game against New Zealand and be replaced by the 2nd best on the team Fredrico Marchetti. Gigi told that he will stay with the squad and train to the best of his ability and keep alive the spirit of the Italian journey towards victory. The Azzurri have so far not shown their calibre that a defending champion team should have shown. However, they have defeated France in the last game.
This news will be troubling for Juventus as they would have definitely tried to trade Buffon after he missed the first part of season in the Serie A. Buffon stated, “I thought a lot about it. But I have to think about myself before anything else. I will have an operation in Italy after the World Cup”. He then added, “I hope I can make it even though it will be tough. But I have to for Italy. I want the final. I would never say no to Italy. They would have to kick me out”.
On the other hand, there are reports that Marchetti is in absolute demand at the moment with Arsenal and Bayern Munich being the prospective buyers. It’s been quite a while since the two clubs showed their interest in the goalkeeper. They both have been complaining about Manuel Almunia and Hans-Joerg Butt for some time now. Finally, the team is laying their eyes on a possible replacement.
Marchetti can be put in command of the post between poles when Buffon is not available. The 27-year-old Marchetti was brilliant with Rossoblu. His outstanding performances were eyed by the Italian coach Marcello Lippi and he took him with the squad as the number two glove man for the World Cup in South Africa.
Along with Arsenal and Bayern Munich, Juventus too were eyeing the goalkeeper but they instead have signed Marco Storari for €4.5 million.
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