Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes has congratulated legendary goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon on signing a new contract with Parma.
The all-time great Italian stopper has extended his contract with the Serie B club until 2024 which means Buffon will still be playing at the age of 46.
The man who has 175 caps to his name for Italy moved back to his boyhood club Parma last summer after leaving for Juventus in 2001.
Parma’s number one has made 23 appearances this season and his side sit 13th in Serie B, nine points off the play-offs with 12 games remaining.
It’s testament to Buffon’s fitness, longevity and passion for the beautiful game that he still has the ambition to continue his career into his late 40s.
He’s an inspiration to the rest of the footballing world as he continues to defy father time.
One man who has lauded Buffon after putting pen to paper with his latest contract renewal is Fernandes.
United’s Portuguese ‘Magnifico’ has faced Buffon 13 times throughout his career, but United’s number 18 has never scored past the icon.
Fernandes has shared a story on his Instagram account paying tribute to the ‘eternal’ Buffon.
One man who hasn’t had an issue scoring and crushing Buffon’s dreams of getting his hands on the elusive Champions League trophy is Cristiano Ronaldo.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has scored past Buffon 10 times throughout his career.
Looking to prolong his own career until his 40s and stay at the top of the game, Ronaldo will take inspiration from his former Juventus teammate.
As will David de Gea, who at the age of 31, could have at least another decade competing at the top if he decides to follow in Buffon’s footsteps.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
