Marco Storari had a decision to make. Should he extend his contract and stay at Juventus even thought the club is close to bringing in the man, Fiorentina goalkeeper Neto, many expect to replace him as Gigi Buffon's backup? Or, does Storari, at the age of 38, head out to a different club for another shot at a starting spot as his career comes to an end?
We're close to knowing for sure — and it looks as though it's what is going on behind Door No. 2.
According to reports out of Italy early Thursday, Storari's five-year run with Juventus has come to an end. Storari, who could still start for a number of teams in Italy's top flight, is heading to the second division of calcio after reportedly agreeing to a deal with recently-relegated Cagliari as they look to spend just one year in Serie B.
After five seasons at Juve, Marco Storari is starting the next chapter of his career in Sardinia. The goalkeeper agreed to a two year deal with Cagliari, who has recently relegated to Serie B. According to our information he'll earn €700k net of taxes, there also will be an option for a third season. Storari is expected to join his new team on July 12th, the first day of summer retreat.
(Source: Gianluca Di Marzio)
Storari — who was signed in large part because Gigi Buffon was dealing with serious injury problems in the aftermath of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa — has been widely regarded as one of Europe's top backup keepers ever since he arrived in Turin five years ago. And with Buffon being almost injury-free ever since his lengthy absence to begin the 2010-11 season, playing time hasn't exactly been anything close to consistent for Storari.
Yet, despite it all, he has proven once again to be a solid contributor as well as one Juventus' most valuable presences in the locker room. Honestly, I don't think I will ever forget Storari waving flags in support of Andrea Barzagli as he worked his way back from his own injury troubles in the middle of last season. What a classy, classy teammate he is and always will be.
A consummate professional and a damn good goalkeeper who was perfectly okay with the role he had. Those are hard to come by these days. Storari certainly didn't appear in a lot of games, but it's safe to say that Neto does have some pretty big shoes to fill when you consider everything his predecessor brought to the table.