Gianluigi Buffon Makes Damning Statement Over Serie A and Praises Inter Milan Youngster

Gianluigi Buffon has given a damning verdict on the current state of Serie A, labeling the league as a ‘stepping stone’ and the Italian icon was also full of praise for Inter Milan star, Pio Esposito.

What Did Gianluigi Buffon Say About Serie A in 2025?

The iconic Italian shot-stopper is often regarded as the best goalkeeper to ever don a pair of gloves, making 975 professional appearances and playing for some of the best teams in Europe.

During his career, Buffon won 10 Serie A titles, seven Supercoppa Italianas, six Coppa Italias, Ligue 1 title, Trophee des Champions and UEFA Cup – alongside a World Cup for his national team in 2006.

His most notable days came in Italy and the goalkeeper currently holds the record for the most Serie A appearances of all-time with 658, establishing himself as a legend in the division.

In 2018, Buffon left Italy for the first time by joining Paris Saint-Germain, similar to another Italian goalkeeper in Gianluigi Donnarumma who could be on his way to the Premier League this summer.

Playing outside of Italy may have broadened Buffon’s horizons, despite returning to Juventus in the following season, as the 47-year-old highlighted how Serie A is no longer the pinnacle for players.

Buffon said (Via Tutto Mercato): “Today’s football has changed, and our evaluations must change as a result, too. Serie A is no longer the reference point it was in the past, but we’ve become a stepping stone in relation to other leagues where players can really ‘arrive’.

“I think it’s a positive, because if you have six or seven players who play for the best teams in the world, it means that your national team will be at an increasingly higher level.”

The likes of Marco Verratti, Jorginho, Donnarumma, Federico Chiesa, Guglielmo Vicario and Destiny Udogie have all found success outside of Italy – being great examples of how moving away from Serie A can be beneficial.

What Does Buffon Think of Pio Esposito?

One Italian that is rising through the ranks in his home nation is Inter Milan youngster, Pio Esposito, who caught the eye during the FIFA Club World Cup in June.

Registering a goal and assist in his two appearances, the 20-year-old became an instant hit after scoring 19 league goals for Spezia during his loan spell last season.

Many expected the Italian to leave the club on loan again this year, however, his recent performance have now put Cristian Chivu in a difficult position – with many fans wanting Esposito to stay.

Chivu is still on the hunt for new additions this summer, with Inter preparing a move for Kobbie Mainoo, however, Buffon believes Esposito has the chance to thrive in Inter and believes Italy should be ‘proud’ to have a player of his quality.

Buffon said (Via Tutto Mercato): “These evaluations are up to the coach. The fact that we’re able to call up a player like him, given his performances and exponential growth, is something that makes us proud.

“Don’t forget that we already have great players in attack like Kean, Retegui and Scamacca, who has recovered from his injury. Players of great value. We welcome the new recruits, but it’s important to know that we already have some guarantees.”