World Cup 2010

Gianluigi Buffon: I Will Quit Football When Italy Stop Calling Me

The number 1 has hinted at retirement when the Azzurri calls end, and he has confirmed his date with the doctor...

Nov 13, 2009 1:25:19 PM

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Gigi Buffon - Juventus (Getty Images)

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Gianluigi Buffon

Juventus and Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has hinted that he could quit the game once the Nazionale call ups stop.

The Massa-Carrara born custodian will be making his 100th Italy appearance when he takes to the field on Saturday night against the Netherlands. Buffon is happy at having reached the milestone, but has downplayed the occasion.

"I have done everything to be here because I wanted to be in L'Aquila," Buffon told the press, referreing to his rapid recovery from flu.

"100 games? It's a nice number, but one like the rest. The National team is always important, and it will also determine the end of my career. When Italy no longer calls me, I will be very very close to retiring."

The goalkeeper has been playing with a knee injury, and he has confirmed that he will go under the knife once Juve get over the Inter, and Bayern Munich hurdles.

"I will play against Inter and Bayern, and then I will have the operation after that."

Reports suggest he needs surgery to fix a meniscus in his right knee.

Salvatore Landolina, Goal.com