Parma Jeers Were Misguided, Claims Buffon
Sunday 24th March 2002
Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon claimed it was a case of crossed wires that led to his barracking at the hands of Parma supporters on Saturday.
Buffon, who joined Juve for a world-record �33 million from Parma, was jeered and whistled throughout the clash that saw I Bianconeri lose 1-0, severely denting their hopes of winning the scudetto.
However, the Italy international denied it was a case of sour grapes and blamed Parma officials for his treatment.
"This was not a question of failed gratitude," he insisted. "The protests were raised for another reason.
"I think that my selling to Juventus was managed in a bad way and I think that Parma's supporters subsequently have the wrong idea about me."
His former Parma team-mate Luigi Sartor backed his argument. "I didn't understand the behaviour of our supporters," he said.
"I am sure that Buffon loves Parma and it's supporters. It was a mistake to boo him."
