Gianluigi Buffon has admitted he feels ashamed of the words he directed at referee Michael Oliver following Juventus’ dramatic Champions League exit at the hands of Real Madrid in April 2018, but maintains he would not take them back.
Details: The former goalkeeper, who now serves as team manager for the Italian national side under Luciano Spalletti, spoke at the Turin Book Fair and opened up about the most controversial moments of his illustrious career, including heated exchanges with referees—such as Byron Moreno at the 2002 World Cup.
He recalled the pain of the stoppage-time penalty that wiped out Juventus’ incredible comeback, and his subsequent sending off for protesting the decision.
Quote: “Now, years later, I am ashamed of what I said. I was the captain and should have behaved differently. But if I could relive that moment, I would say the same thing.”
Reminder: In April 2018, Buffon confronted referee Michael Oliver after a late penalty decision dashed Juventus’ hopes of a Champions League comeback. His furious reaction earned him a red card.
