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: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:3. And can make a mean cappuccino
Image: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:A version of this piece was originally published on 19 May 2013