Italy & Juventus Legend Claims Bastoni Hatred ‘Is A Bit Over-The-Top’ But Stresses ‘VAR Must Intervene’ | OneFootball

Gianluigi Buffon has come to the defence of Alessandro Bastoni, insisting the public reaction to the Inter Milan defender has been disproportionate, while also calling for urgent reform of VAR protocols in the wake of the Kalulu controversy.

Speaking as a guest at Il Messaggero, via FCInterNews, the Italy and Juventus legend addressed both the Bastoni situation and Italy’s upcoming World Cup playoff with characteristic directness.

Indeed, showing no reluctance to wade into two of the most debated topics in Italian football right now.

On Bastoni, Buffon confirmed he had spoken personally with the player.

“I found the whole thing a bit excessive,” he said.

“It will inevitably die down. He apologised and he is paying, but much more than his actual faults deserve.”

Buffon Shows Support For Inter & Italy Star Bastoni

VERONA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 02: Alessandro Bastoni of FC Internazionale celebrates during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and FC Internazionale at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on November 02, 2025 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

It is a significant show of support from one of the most respected figures in the game.

Indeed, offering some relief to a player who has faced a torrent of criticism in recent weeks.

On VAR, Buffon was equally forthright, using the Inter-Juventus match as a reference point.

“Inter-Juve was confirmation that VAR is indispensable, and you realise it must intervene on exactly these kinds of situations, like the Kalulu incident,” he said.

“How can you not be able to correct such a serious error? Who could have conceived such a procedure? It drives you mad. If you avoid a huge mistake you do good for football, not the opposite.”

Buffon also took the opportunity to express his confidence in Italy’s World Cup playoff chances, rattling off a list of quality players that includes Dimarco, Barella, Tonali, Retegui and Pio Esposito alongside Bastoni himself.

“How does Italy not get through? I struggle to see it,” he said.