1o. Because footballers with beards are better than footballers without beards

Image: John Walton/EMPICS Sport

9. And he got emotional when he wasn’t allowed have one

GIF: Tumblr/Colonel Mustard

8. He understands the science of the game

Image: Fabrizio Giovannozzi/AP/Press Association Images

7. But prefers its artistry

6. His team-mates realise he can probably walk on water

A player of his level and ability, not to mention that he was free, I think was the signing of the century. [On Sunday] I thought God exists because it’s truly embarrassing just how good he is – Gianluigi Buffon

5. But that doesn’t mean he’s afraid to mix it with the toughest of opponents

Image: INPHO/Getty Images

4. He’s been known to enjoy a glass of red wine

GIF: The Football Ramble

3. And can make a mean cappuccino

Image: Tumblr: La Vecchia Signora

2. He did this against England in a penalty shoot-out

YouTube: renzochoclot

1. And didn’t call his autobiography ‘My Story’, opting instead for ‘I think, therefore I play’

GIF: Tumblr/Gifbuffet

A version of this piece was originally published on 19 May 2013

Manchester City players celebrated Roberto Mancini’s sacking – reports

Alex Ferguson raring to go in his final Manchester United match