Euro 2024: Italy legend reveals joys of ‘playing at home’ in Germany, recalls 2006 World Cup triumph

Buffon after the 2006 World Cup final with Italy | Imago

Euro 2024: Italy legend reveals joys of ‘playing at home’ in Germany, recalls 2006 World Cup triumph

Ayoola Kelechi 22:25 - 13.06.2024

Former Italy international Gianluigi Buffon has tipped the Azzurri to defend their 2024 Euros crown in Germay

Italian goalkeeping legend Gianluigi Buffon expressed his delight at the warm reception Italy has received from the large Italian community in Germany as they commence their Euro 2024 training camp, comparing the atmosphere ahead of the European Championships to the 2006 World Cup which the Azzurri won.

Italy land in Germany ahead of Euro 2024

The Italian national team landed in Dortmund last night and began their preparations with a training session at the Hemberg Stadium in Iserlohn. Buffon, who now serves as the Team Manager, highlighted the strong sense of familiarity and support from the Italian diaspora, making the team feel as if they are playing on home turf.

Italian football icon Gianluigi Buffon has won a host of titles including the 2006 World Cup | Imago
Italian football icon Gianluigi Buffon has won a host of titles including the 2006 World Cup | Imago

“The constant presence, unconditional affection, and support of the Italians in every minute makes us feel like we’re playing at home,” Buffon told journalists present.

Reflecting on the 2006 World Cup Triumph

Drawing parallels to Italy's triumphant 2006 World Cup campaign, also held in Germany, Buffon fondly recalled the overwhelming support that contributed to their success. The atmosphere in Germany during that victorious run provided a home-like environment for the Azzurri, a sentiment Buffon believes will be replicated in the upcoming Euros.

Italian legend Gianluigi Buffon with the 2006 World Cup trophy | Imago
Italian legend Gianluigi Buffon with the 2006 World Cup trophy | Imago

“When we were in Germany in 2006, we fully felt like we were playing on home turf and that will be the case in these Euros too,” Buffon reminisced.

Italy will be hoping to replicate their 2006 heroics when they play the 2024 Euros in Germany as they attempt to defend the crown they won at Wembley just under three years ago.

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