Publications
Partners
Cape Town - Veteran Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon feels that a number of complex factors is hindering Italian clubs' success in the Champions League.
The 38-year-old has expressed his concern over Serie A and even appears to have forgotten when last an Italian club lifted the European Cup.
Internazionale were the last team to do so following their 3-0 over Bayern Munich at the Santiago Bernabeu in 2010, but Buffon seems to have forgotten this fact, citing AC Milan's 2007 victory.
When asked whether he was satisfied with the quality of football played in the Italian domestic league, the Azzurri keeper gave a very direct answer.
"No, not at all. We have lost a place in the Champions League," Buffon told the Times of India, referring to UEFA's recent decision to reduce the number of Serie A teams that qualify for the competition to three.
"Italian clubs are not winning the Champions League. Last time it came to Italy was in 2007 when Milan had beaten Liverpool. We could not do so last year.
"However, it happens. It's a cycle and we shall be [on top] again. As a nation we are going through [a] severe financial crisis. That has something to do with it.
"I am not losing hope, though. Italian clubs will be back at the top of European competitions soon."
