Considered by many to be one of the best goalkeepers of all time, he said in a statement that he wanted to resign immediately after the match against Bosnia, but was asked to wait until the right decisions were made. He added that despite the effort and the unity built, the main goal – Italy qualifying for the World Cup – was not achieved.
He also emphasized that he believes it is right to leave room for new people to take on responsibility, with the message that this experience, despite its painful ending, will be with them forever.
We transmit his announcement in full:
"I would have resigned a minute after the end of the game against Bosnia, it was an immediate act that came from deep within me. Spontaneous as the tears and the heartache that I know I share with all of you."
I was asked to wait so that everyone could draw the right conclusions.
Now that President Gravina has decided to take a step back, I feel free to do what I consider an act of responsibility, because, although I am sincerely convinced that we have built a lot in terms of spirit and unity, together with Rino Gattuso and all the collaborators, in the very short time that the national team has at its disposal, the main objective was to return Italy to the World Cup.
And we failed at that.
It is right that I leave the person who comes after me the freedom to choose the person they believe is best for this role.
Representing the national team is an honor and a passion that has accompanied me since childhood.
I tried to perform my function by investing all my energy, taking into account all segments, in order to be a link, dialogue and synergy between the younger selections, trying to build a system together with those responsible that leads from the youngest categories to the U21 national team.
All this with the aim of changing the way talents are developed for the future A selection.
I sought and received the involvement of several important people with extensive experience, who, together with the existing staff, are implementing the necessary changes with a medium- and long-term vision.
All this because I believe in meritocracy and a clear division of responsibilities.
It is up to others to assess how correct these decisions were.
I carry it all in my heart, with gratitude for the privilege and lessons that this experience brought me, even through the painful ending.
"Forca Azzurri always," concluded the popular Gigi.
As a reminder, Italy was defeated by the Bosnia and Herzegovina team in Zenica two days ago on penalties and will miss the World Cup for the third time in a row.
The "Azure" are four-time world champions, and they last won the title in 2006 in Germany, when Buffon was among the goalposts.
