TIME TO KISS IT ALL GOODBYE
After 22 years, 116 caps, 12 major club trophies and one World Cup triumph...
ANDREA PIRLO was hailed as peerless, a game changer and told he could still play for 10 more years after announcing his retirement.
Italy’s midfield maestro called time on one of Europe’s great and glittering careers yesterday.
Popular Pirlo, 38, hung up his boots after 22 years as a pro, with spells at six different clubs and playing for his country 116 times.
He represented Brescia, Inter, Reggina, Milan, and Juventus before ending his career in the MLS with New York City.
He won 13 major trophies for club and country, including six Italian titles, two Champions Leagues and the 2006 World Cup.
Pirlo’s effortless style and grace and class on and off the pitch made him one of the games best-liked players.
And that was reflected in the tributes following his announcement. Gary Lineker said on Twitter: “Andrea Pirlo has announced his retirement from football. One of the great midfielders of his generation. A beautiful footballer,” before adding the hashtag “peerless”.
His New York City boss Patrick Vieira said: “He’s one of the best holding midfielders ever – he changed the position of the No.6.
“Before, the No.6 role was just tackling and winning the ball, but now you have to be a playmaker, you have to be as good as your No.10 with the ball.
“He improved that position with the quality he has on the ball and the way his brain works on the field.
“I also believe he’s impacted the game – a lot of young players now want to play that No.6 position. Before, everyone wanted to be a No.9 or a No.10, but Andrea has helped to create more young players who want to play that position. “Andrea is one of the greatest holding midfielders of all time. He had a fantastic career, not just on the field, but off it because he’s a true gentleman.”
Former Italy team-mate Mario Balotelli said: “Unique, inimitable. I had the honour of playing with you. Thanks for everything Andrea. PS... for me you could still play for 10 years.”
And keeper Gianluigi Buffon said: “Whoever played with Andrea understood the meaning of the word ‘unique’. Champion who has alternated class, elegance and humility.”
Pirlo said after his final game in New York’s play-off defeat by Columbus Crew: “I would like to thank every team I had the honour to play for, every team-mate I have been pleased to play alongside.
“Last but not least, all the fans worldwide that showed me support. You will always be on my side and in my heart.”