When Buffon Named the 3 Best Players He Faced During His Long Career
- Gianluigi Buffon, one of football’s greatest goalkeepers in history, named three players as the toughest opponents he ever faced
- Throughout his legendary career, he battled against some of the sport’s most lethal attackers but highlighted the three as the best
- Buffon praised their extraordinary skills, acknowledging the immense challenge they posed between the posts
Widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers in football history, Gianluigi Buffon built a legendary career, making 685 appearances for Juventus and earning admiration from fans of Parma and Paris Saint-Germain.
Despite many associating him with Juventus from the start, the Italian goalkeeper actually began his professional journey at Parma, where he played from 1994 to 2001 before making his iconic move to Turin.
Source: Getty Images
After officially retiring in August 2023, Buffon closed the chapter on a remarkable 19-year career at the top level, during which he faced some of the most lethal attackers in football history.
From Serie A legends like Francesco Totti and Antonio Di Natale to international icons, the 47-year-old constantly tested his skills against the best.
But who were his toughest opponents? Ahead of his final game for Juventus—a dominant 4-0 victory over AC Milan—the veteran goalkeeper reflected on the most formidable players he ever faced.
Buffon named the 3 GOATS he faced
When asked to name the three greatest opponents of his career, Buffon didn’t hesitate.
Unsurprisingly, he highlighted Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, two superstars who have dominated world football for over 15 years.
Completing his list was Brazilian legend Ronaldo Nazario, widely considered one of the most dangerous strikers of all time.
“I have faced great players, and I cannot remember them all,” Buffon admitted. “But Messi, Cristiano, and Ronaldo are probably the best three who challenged me during my career.”
Buffon’s words reinforce the greatness of these footballing icons, each of whom left a lasting impact on the sport and provided unforgettable battles against one of the game’s finest goalkeepers.
For almost 20 years, Messi and Ronaldo have dominated the sport, setting records that many believe are untouchable.
The Argentine, who added a record-extending eighth Ballon d’Or to his collection in 2023, has also lifted two Copa América titles and the 2022 FIFA World Cup, achievements many believe cement his claim as football’s ultimate player, according to GOAL.
Ronaldo, on the other hand, burst onto the scene at Manchester United in 2003 before establishing himself as a global superstar.
His move to Real Madrid in 2009 sparked unforgettable El Clásico battles with Messi that thrilled fans around the world.
With five Ballon d’Ors, three Premier League titles, a Champions League triumph, and international glory in both the European Championship and the Nations League, his legacy remains unshakeable.
'Forgettable' players who played with Ronaldo
YEN.com.gh has also reported on the surprising players who played with Ronaldo.
The Al-Nassr superstar has played with top stars such as Karim Benzema, Gareth Bale, and Wayne Rooney.
But he also played with 'not-so-known' stars like former Liverpool midfielder Fabinho and former Stoke City star Ryan Shawcross.
Buffon comments on GOAT debate
In another report, YEN.com.gh reported that legendary Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon made his pick in the GOAT debate.
The World Cup winner said both players are different, adding that Messi is complete while Ronaldo has the killer instinct.
Source: YEN.com.gh
