Gigi Buffon

Juventus captain Gianluigi Buffon and vice-captain Giorgio Chiellini have signed new deals with the Serie A champions.

Veteran goalkeeper Buffon has penned a fresh contract until 2017, while defender Chiellini has committed his future to the Turin club until 2018.

The pair yesterday appeared alongside Juve president Andrea Agnelli at a press conference, where the news was announced.

“It’s an important day for Juventus. We’re here with the captain and vice-captain,” Agnelli said.

“Gianluigi Buffon has extended his Juve contract until 2017, Chiellini until 2018.”

Both players stuck with the club despite their relegation to Serie B in 2006 amid the match-fixing scandal, and have since played a key part in the Bianconeri’s resurgence.

“Their leadership is so important,” Agnelli continued. “They stayed with Juve in Serie B and have helped us to return to the top.”

Buffon has made 400 appearances since joining in 2001, winning seven Serie A titles along the way – including 2012, 2013 and 2014.

“As both parties wished to continue, it was the natural choice to extend my contract for another two years,” the 36-year-old said.

“The fact that it will be my last contract was a factor, but I’m not worried about that. I feel energised.

“I’ll need energy and courage to make my career last even longer.”

The 2006 World Cup winner added: “I want to continue performing to a high level, so that I can be an asset and a point of reference for the club.

“I’m very happy to be sharing a day like this with Chiellini. He is a great example for young people.”

Chiellini was equally thrilled to have penned a new deal, and to be sharing the stage with his Italy team-mate.

“It makes me proud to know that, in years to come, when people talk about Gigi and Giorgio, they’ll think of Juventus,” said the 30-year-old, who joined Juve in 2005 from Fiorentina.

“I’m excited to be here. It makes me think back to all the people who’ve helped me grow and become a man in Turin.”