The Italy captain is certain the midfielder has what it takes to achieve iconic status in his homeland, while he is also looking forward to facing Atletico Madrid
Gianluigi Buffon believes Juventus team-mate Paul Pogba can become "one of the three best French players of all time".
Pogba is still just 21 but he has already played a key role in two Serie A-winning campaigns since joining the Bianconeri from Manchester United in 2012, as well as representing his country at this summer's World Cup in Brazil.
He recently revealed that his dream now is to win the Champions League and Buffon is in no doubt that the midfielder has what it takes to flourish in the most prestigious tournament in club football.
“Paul is a top-rate talent and, if he maintains his focus and desire to enjoy his football, he could become one of the three best French players of all time," the Juve captain told reporters on the eve of Wednesday's Champions League clash with Atletico Madrid.
Buffon admitted that he cannot wait to see how Juve fare at the Vicente Calderon. The Italy goalkeeper has the utmost respect for Diego Simeone's side and feels the Group A clash in the Spanish capital will prove a good indicator as to the Bianconeri's standing within Europe.
“It’s a fascinating game because it pits two very traditional clubs together, something that perhaps bucks the trend in modern football as many teams have only emerged on the scene in the last few years," Buffon mused.
“There’s plenty of enthusiasm in the camp and we’re looking forward to seeing how far we’ve come by testing ourselves against Atletico. They can be a useful yardstick for us.
“Atletico are no longer a surprise package: they have won two Europa Leagues, La Liga and are aware of their own strength.
"But we want to pick up from where we left off two seasons ago against Bayern [Munich in the quarter-finals].
"It’s important to have at least that as an aim, even if a great deal depends on the luck of the draw.”
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