Italy suffered a significant last-minute setback ahead of their crucial World Cup opener against England, as veteran goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has been ruled out due to an ankle injury. His replacement will be Salvatore Sirigu, who plays for Paris Saint-Germain.
Despite the disappointment, Buffon took to Twitter to show unwavering support for his teammates and Sirigu, writing:
“Life is beautiful and it’s not a missed game or a missed World Cup that will make me change my mind. Go, great Salvatore! Go guys! Forza Italia, my great love!”
His message, full of class and positivity, not only reassures fans but also gives Sirigu a morale boost ahead of one of the most high-pressure games of his career.
Sirigu now steps into the spotlight, tasked with keeping out a determined England side led by Steven Gerrard, Wayne Rooney, and Daniel Sturridge. While Buffon’s absence is a blow, Italy will hope Sirigu rises to the occasion in this high-stakes encounter in the Group of Death.
