Manchester United and Spain goalkeeper David De Gea has described Italy's Gianluigi Buffon as a "living legend" ahead of the two nations facing each other in the European Championship.
Spain play Italy in the Euro 2016 round of 16 on Monday, with De Gea's position in the Spain team under scrutiny after he conceded a disappointing late goal in the 2-1 defeat against Croatia on Tuesday, allowing the ball to squeeze past him at the near post.
United and Italy defender Matteo Darmian has already said that both De Gea and Buffon are "two of the best goalkeepers" in the build-up to Monday's game, but added that the Italy stopper is the "best of all-time."
De Gea was also happy to admit that he has learned from Buffon, 38, who has made 159 appearances for Italy since making his debut against Russia as a 19-year-old in October 1997.
"He's a living legend," the United goalkeeper said. "[Buffon] is one of the goalkeepers who I have really studied. I've followed his career right the way through.
"He is an amazing goalkeeper and he keeps showing that he is, even after so many years in the elite. Above all else, he is an idol for any goalkeeper."
De Gea has been starting for Spain ahead of their own veteran, 35-year-old Iker Casillas, who has won 167 caps for their national side.
Spain kept clean sheets in their opening two group games -- a 1-0 win against Czech Republic and a 3-0 triumph over Turkey -- before the disappointment against Croatia.