Speaking after his 175th and final appearance for Italy, Buffon apologised to his country for their shortcomings in the play-off against Sweden.
"I'm not sorry for myself but all of Italian football. We failed at something which also means something on a social level. There's regret at finishing like that, not because time passes."
The veteran goalkeeper was incredibly emotional after the game and struggled to hold back the tears, but was adamant that Italian football would bounce back.
“There is certainly a future for Italian football, as we have pride, ability, determination and after bad tumbles, we always find a way to get back on our feet," the Juventus stopper said.
“I leave a squad of talent that will have their say, including Gigio Donnarumma and Mattia Perin. I want to give a hug to Chiello, Barza, Leo and Lele, who I had almost 10 years alongside. I thank the lads who were with us and, although it wasn’t enough, I hope that we gave them something.
“In football you win as a group, you lose as a group, you divide the credit and the blame. The coach is part of this entire group.”