In a surprising move, 17-year-old Louis Buffon, son of Italian World Cup winner Gianluigi Buffon, has announced that he will represent the Czech Republic in international football, rather than following in his father’s footsteps with Italy.
The young winger, who recently made his professional debut for Pisa in the Italian second division, qualifies for the Czech national team through his mother, model Alena Seredova.
Buffon has been called up by the Czech Under-18s side for upcoming games against England, France, and Portugal.
In an interview with the Czech Football Association (FACR), Buffon explained that he and his family decided that playing for the Czech Republic would be the best decision for his football career and development.
Buffon’s father, Gianluigi, was a key player in Italy’s 2006 World Cup-winning team and earned 176 senior international caps throughout his illustrious career.
However, the younger Buffon revealed that his father was supportive of his decision to represent the Czech Republic, advising him that it would be the best way to evolve as a player.
Louis Buffon is prepared to face Italy in future international matches, stating that he would approach each game with professionalism, regardless of the opponent.