'Family decided Czech Republic better than Italy for my career' at age 17

Louis Thomas Buffon explains why he chose to represent the Czech Republic at international level rather than father Gigi’s nation of Italy. ‘I spoke to my family and we agreed it was better for my football career.’

The 17-year-old is the son of World Cup winning goalkeeper Gigi Buffon and TV presenter Alena Seredova, so has dual nationality from birth.

After making his Serie B debut for Pisa this season, he was given his first call-up for the Czech Republic Under-18 side.

He is now ready to feature in a tournament against Portugal, England and France.

Buffon a chip off the old block

“I was very happy to come to the meeting and curious about the different football culture,” he told the official Czech Republic football federation website.

“I spoke with my family and together we decided that it would be better for my football career and my development as a player to play for the Czech Republic.

“My mother, of course, was very happy, but my father was also excited because it was my first call-up for the national team.”

Having been born and raised in Italy, Buffon is still getting to grips with the language spoken by his mother.

“I don’t speak Czech very well yet, but as soon as I found out I could come here, I started learning it. I spend about 10 minutes on Duolingo every day.”

Inevitably, he was asked how he would feel if one day he was to play for the Czech Republic against Italy in an official match.

“I was born and raised in Italy, but I think that in order to be a 100 per cent professional and do my job as well as possible, every match has to be important for me, whether it is against Italy or any other national team,” replied Buffon.

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