Louis Buffon: Son of Italy World Cup winner pledges future to Czech Republic

It means he will not follow in the footsteps of his father Gianluigi, who was part of the Italy side that won the 2006 World Cup in Germany.

Buffon Sr played a major part in that success as part of a stellar 28-year professional career which saw him win 176 senior international caps, 10 Serie A titles with Juventus, as well as Ligue 1 with Paris St-Germain and the 1999 Uefa Cup at Parma.

But his son added: “My mum was naturally very happy but my dad was excited too because it was my first national team call-up. He also advised me to play for the Czech Republic, because it’s the best way I can evolve as a player.”

Louis was first called up by the Czech Under-18s for a training camp in February, sparking worldwide media interest.

“Honestly, I didn’t expect that, but I have grown up under a microscope with my parents since I was a child and I hope they have taught me what to do and say,” he said.

Louis would also not have a problem if he eventually played against Italy as he added: “I was born and grew up in Italy, but I think that to be a 100% professional and do my job as best I can, I have to see each game as important, whether against Italy or another national team.”