Gianluigi Buffon suggests Serie A has become a stepping stone for players seeking opportunities in other leagues, exemplified by recent transfers to the Premier League, La Liga, and the Saudi Pro League. He believes that while Serie A’s prominence has diminished, the exposure of Italian players to top clubs worldwide can benefit the national team. Italy faces crucial World Cup qualifiers, and Buffon emphasizes Gianluigi Donnarumma’s continued importance despite his current situation.
Gianluigi Buffon, a legendary figure in Italian football, has voiced concerns about the evolving landscape of Serie A, suggesting it has transitioned into more of a "stepping stone" for players seeking to advance their careers in more prominent leagues. This perspective arrives amidst a backdrop of increasing player movement from Italy's top flight to other European and global destinations.
The recent transfer of Liverpool's Giovanni Leoni to the Premier League exemplifies this trend, joining a growing list of Italian talents like Sandro Tonali, Riccardo Calafiori, and Federico Chiesa who have sought opportunities abroad. Furthermore, rumors persist about goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma potentially joining Manchester City this summer, while attackers Giacomo Raspadori and Mateo Retegui have ventured to La Liga and the Saudi Pro League, respectively. Retegui notably featured in Italy's recent World Cup qualifier against Moldova, underscoring the impact of these departures on the national team.
Buffon, now serving as the head of delegation for the Italian football federation, offers a pragmatic view on this phenomenon. He acknowledges that Serie A is no longer the dominant force it once was, and views players' decisions to move abroad as a potentially positive development for the national team's overall quality. He believes that exposure to diverse playing styles and higher levels of competition can ultimately benefit Italian football.
Calafiori is cooking for @Arsenal pic.twitter.com/HWNLJh34Gc
— Italy (@Azzurri_En) August 24, 2025
"Today’s football has changed, and our evaluations must change as a result, too,” Buffon stated in an interview with Tutto Mercato. He elaborated on his assessment, stating, “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’.” He also posited that the presence of several Italian players competing for top clubs worldwide could elevate the national team's performance.
Italy is preparing for crucial World Cup qualifiers against Estonia and Israel, currently positioned third in Group I following a 3-0 defeat to Norway in June. The national team's performance in these matches will be crucial for their qualification hopes.
The situation of Gianluigi Donnarumma has also been a topic of discussion. Despite not having played since Paris Saint-Germain's Club World Cup final loss to Chelsea in July, Buffon emphasized Donnarumma's continued importance to Gennaro Gattuso's squad. Buffon conveyed, “I’m waiting to see Gigio and talk to him in-person. I know the coach has already heard from him several times, and they know what his future could look like depending on his choices.”
Buffon further affirmed Donnarumma's integral role, asserting, “Apart from this specific moment, Donnarumma represents – and will always represent – a strength for the national team.” Buffon's insights provide a valuable perspective on the current state of Serie A and its implications for Italian football as a whole. His observations underscore the need for adaptation and strategic planning to ensure the continued competitiveness of both the league and the national team on the global stage. The league must find a way to keep their stars and improve their standing to get back to the top.
The challenge for Serie A is to reverse this trend by increasing its financial appeal, improving stadium infrastructure, and fostering a more competitive environment. This would require significant investment and strategic decision-making by club owners and league officials, as well as a commitment to developing young talent and attracting top-tier international players. The future of Italian football may depend on it.