Gianluigi Buffon Player Review
Pros
Excellent Reflexes
Buffon has lightning-fast reactions, making crucial saves in high-pressure situations. He can stretch and block shots that many goalkeepers would struggle with.
Strong Against Power Shots
He excels at stopping powerful strikes, whether from close range or outside the box. His shot-stopping ability on driven shots makes him a reliable last line of defense.
Great Diving Ability
His diving is exceptional, allowing him to parry shots that are heading towards the top or bottom corners of the goal. His reach helps him make fingertip saves on difficult attempts.
Effective Against Long Shots
He reacts well to shots taken from distance, positioning himself effectively to make sure he is in the best spot to make a save.
Good Height (6'4")
His tall frame gives him an advantage in aerial duels and allows him to cover more of the goal, making it difficult for attackers to beat him with high shots.
Smart Positioning
Buffon reads the game well and anticipates the movement of attackers, allowing him to step off his line at the right moments. He makes good interceptions in one on one situations by rushing out at the right time.
Cons
Struggles Against Finesse Shots
He is vulnerable to well-placed curved shots, especially those aimed at the far post. Top attackers can exploit this weakness effectively.
Inconsistent Handling
While he makes good saves, he sometimes fails to secure the ball, leading to dangerous rebound opportunities for the opposition.
Lacks Consistency
Buffon can have outstanding performances but also moments where he lets in goals that feel preventable. His inconsistency might frustrate players looking for a reliable goalkeeper in every match.
No Long Thrower Trait
His distribution is decent but lacks the ability to launch quick counterattacks with long throws. This can slow down transitions from defense to attack.
Conclusion
Buffon is a solid shot-stopper with excellent reflexes, diving, and positioning, making him a strong choice against power shots and long-range efforts. However, his struggles with finesse shots, inconsistent handling, and lack of long-throw ability hold him back from being an elite-tier goalkeeper. If he gets a gameplay buff, he could become a top pick for many teams.
Rating: 9.3/10