2014/15 Serie A Team of the Season
Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Buffon
At the age of 37, veteran Gianluigi Buffon has had one of his best seasons to date as Juventus challenge for the treble. The Juve legend has kept 18 clean sheets in Serie A conceding just 20 goals – the best in the league. The nearest challenger is Roma’s Morgan De Sanctis with 16 clean sheets.
He oozes confidence to all the players in front of him and is a great leader. I hope he lifts the Champions League this week, a trophy that has proved elusive, so far.
Right-back: Matteo Darmian
The Torino full-back has been sensational this season. His bursting forward runs alongside his defensive capabilities have helped Torino to a successful campaign – finishing in 9th position and reaching the last 16 of the Europa League.
It was between him and Juve’s Stephan Lichtsteiner for that right-back slot. Over the last two years, Darmian has emerged as arguably Serie A’s premier full-back, establishing himself not only in the Torino line-up but also becoming a regular starter in the Italian national setup.
Having represented Italy at all youth levels and progressing from Milan’s ranks, he possesses pedigree in abundance, making it no surprise that European powerhouses such as Juventus and Arsenal are reportedly interested in his services.
Should he decide to cross the city, he would be the perfect replacement for the ageing Stephan Lichtsteiner.
Right center-back: Leonardo Bonucci
For me, Leonardo Bonucci has been the best defender in the league this year. Part of a side that have clinched their fourth consecutive Scudetto, therefore, we have been aware of his qualities, but he has matured this season.
A performance that immediately springs to mind is Juventus’s 3-2 win against Roma back in October. His spectacular late volley gave Juventus victory in a fiery top of the table encounter.
Not only is he a great defender, but also he’s incredibly comfortable on the ball, whether in possession or passing. – often initiating their attacks.
Left center-back: Giorgio Chiellini
I was reluctant to pick another Juventus centre-back, but it’s hard to look past a side with one of the best defensive records in Europe. Giorgio Chiellini has been a rock once again.
He’s had some dodgy moments this season, particularly in the first half of the season with a couple of slips, but he has finished the season strongly. He lifted the Coppa Italia last month, scoring a great equaliser against Lazio. It was a brilliantly improvised goal from a true warrior!
Left-back: Stefan Radu
The Romanian full-back has had a consistent season, helping Lazio to Champions League qualification and a Coppa Italia final. He has been at Lazio for 7 years and is a fan favourite and you can understand why.
Radu has been solid, he is powerful when on the offensive and brilliant in the air- demonstrated by his goal against Juventus in the Coppa Italia final. His versatility is crucial for Lazio as he can play in the centre of defence as well as left back.