Buffon assesses Spalletti, Allegri and Conte: ‘He was the best available’

Gianluigi Buffon believes that Luciano Spalletti was the best coach available for Juventus after the dismissal of Igor Tudor, and insists that Massimiliano Allegri needs to take advantage of Milan’s lack of Champions League football this season, even though ‘it’s better to be in all competitions’.

The Italy and Juventus legend gave his thoughts on some of Serie A’s best coaches during an interview with Radio Rai on Monday.

The national team delegation chief also spoke about the upcoming World Cup play-offs and the prospect of having a ‘get together’ before the next international break.

Buffon on Spalletti, Allegri and Conte

REGGIO NELL’EMILIA, ITALY – JUNE 09: (L-R) Luciano Spalletti head coach of Italy and Gianluigi Buffon during the FIFA 2026 Qualifier between Italy and Moldova at Mapei Stadium – Citta’ del Tricolore on June 09, 2025 in Reggio nell’Emilia, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Buffon believes that his former national team colleague, Spalletti, was the best choice for Juventus when they decided to replace Igor Tudor last month, but claims that the former CT has not yet had a chance to leave his mark on the Bianconeri squad.

“Without a doubt, he was the best coach available on the market, and the best professional that Juventus can rely on at the moment,” Buffon said about Spalletti (via TMW).

“The one concern is that Luciano hasn’t had a chance to establish his own project yet, because he didn’t get to have his say on the transfer market. Someone as demanding as him manages to do the best regardless of the transfer situation.”

Buffon also gave his thoughts on Milan, who are currently at the top of the Serie A table after Week 13. Like Napoli when they won the Scudetto last season, the Rossoneri are not involved in any European competition this term.

“I always think that it’s good to be in the running on all fronts, riding the wave in every competition,” Buffon said. “At certain points, it’s difficult to get the most out of everything in every game, but with the right mentality, it’s better to be in all competitions.

MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 23: AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri reacts during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AC Milan at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“Allegri and Milan didn’t choose to not be in the Champions League, but as it turns out, they could take advantage of it.”

Buffon was also asked if he feels that Napoli’s Conte is ‘exhausting’ to work with.

He replied: “No, no. Antonio Conte is someone who knows what he wants, and has the ability to make everyone adhere to the common goal.”