Andrea Pirlo

[Socrates 8524]

Pirlo will be a Champions League star again

The Italy international was a standout performer on the peninsula in 2011-12 and was superb

during Euro 2012. Now he has a return to the top European competition to look forward to.

Aug 7, 2012

First Ezequiel Lavezzi, then Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva, and for a while it appeared Julio Cesar and Maicon would leave too. And let’s not forget Alessandro Del Piero, Alessandro Nesta, Gennaro Gattuso and Filippo Inzaghi either.

For one reason or another, unlike any other Serie A season, Italian football is becoming less and less attractive – and the Calcioscommesse scandal has certainly not helped. The league is also becoming increasingly poorer from a technical point of view, having lost many champions who have written their names in thick black marker into the history books of Italian football.

Some of them have moved on due to their advancing age, with the real blame for the feeling of loss being the fact that these superstars with a capital S have not been replaced. The remaining so-called top players have been attracted by the petrodollars of Arabs and Russians who do not care about the global financial crisis or Financial Fair Play.

The result is that Andrea Pirlo, the great architect behind the rebirth of Juventus, is the only footballer set to ply his trade in Serie A this season who finished amongst the top 30 of the 2011-12 Goal.com 50, the list of the greatest players of the past year, voted for by Goal.com journalists across the world.

To find another protagonist from the Italian league, you need to go down to 37th position, occupied by another Juventino, Arturo Vidal, with Gianluigi Buffon not far behind. The Bianconeri regista occupies fifth place, on the shoulder of Cristiano Ronaldo, Iker Casillas, Lionel Messi and Andres Iniesta.

Therefore, after the two phenomena of world football and the two Euro-winning Spaniards, it is widely accepted that Pirlo was the best player of the past season; the biggest determining factor to his club and international side.

What Juve didn’t possess under former coach Luigi Del Neri was the “silent leader” type in midfield, and with Pirlo’s signature last summer came the addition of performances and panache that the Bianconeri had been missing previously. After an almost non-season in the Milan shirt, during which time there were some misunderstandings with Massimiliano Allegri, Pirlo has bounced back to be exactly the type of driving force he was during his peak years.

He chalked up many assists (11), added a handful of goals (three), but above all he delivered countless monstrous performances, giving confidence and leadership to a squad of players less accustomed to winning. It’s true that Juventus had the advantage of not playing in European competition, but those who had doubted Pirlo could be influential at a continental level were quickly put in their place thanks to his performances at Euro 2012. The final against Spain apart, he ran the show, with his poise and delightful play transfixing football fans across Europe.

In the season ahead, his class will illuminate the biggest stage once more. There is something about Pirlo and the Champions League that just clicks. He will surely brighten up the whole competition, after all, he is more than accustomed to winning the trophy with the big ears, having collected it twice as a Milan player in 2002-03 and 2006-07.

The hunt for a third European title starts now, and this time in black and white. It is a difficult challenge, similar in scale to Mount Everest, but with Pirlo and his magic, there’s plenty of reason for Juventus fans to dream.

[Socrates 8524]

Pirlo eyeing successful Champions League run with Juventus

The midfielder has spoken of how he hopes his side challenge on all fronts this campaign,

and has also named the 2006 World Cup as the most memorable moment of his career.

Aug 9, 2012

Juventus' Andrea Pirlo has expressed his desire for his side to make their mark in Serie A and the Champions League during the upcoming season.

Speaking ahead of the Supercoppa clash with Napoli in Beijing on Saturday, the Italy star hopes that the Bianconeri will build on their successful 2011-12 season, where they clinched the Serie A title by going through the entire campaign unbeaten.

“We have just started our new season, and we are just as determined as we were last year,” Pirlo told reporters at a press conference in China.

“We really hope Juventus can win the Serie A title again, and take our chance in the Champions League. The Champions League is an attractive opportunity.”

The former Milan midfielder also identified Italy’s victorious World Cup 2006 campaign as his fondest memory, though he was quick to move on from their loss to Spain in the recent Euro 2012 final.

“The World Cup in 2006 was definitely the most exciting moment in my life. But for me, the Euro 2012 final was heartbreaking. But we need open a new page in our lives, and look forward.”

Pirlo also maintained that the 2012 Ballon d’Or would be given to a player who performs well in the 2012-13 Champions League, and named Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Andres Iniesta as his favourites to win the award.

“I think the Ballon d’Or will be given to someone who is successful in the Champions League. I think that it may be won by Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo or Iniesta.”

The 33-year-old also joked about his video game exploits with former Milan teammate Alessandro Nesta, enthusing: “I played for about 10 years with Alessandro because we stayed in the same hotel room. But in Juventus, I did not find a new partner to replace him!”

[Socrates 8524]

Pirlo eyes gift for Chinese fans

Aug 9, 2012

Andrea Pirlo hopes to “give the Chinese fans a great victory” in the Italian Super Cup against Napoli on Saturday.

Juventus are in Beijing for the match, which kicks off at 13.00 UK time, and the local Bianconeri fans clearly outnumber their opponents.

“I’d been to Japan twice, but this is my first time in China,” Pirlo told a local television station.

“I am very happy with the warm welcome we received and hope to give the Chinese fans a great victory to celebrate.

“We hope to win the Scudetto again this season, plus do well in the Champions League, which is a truly interesting competition. We want to improve on last year.”

Pirlo looked back over his career and his slender chances of winning the Ballon d’Or.

“The most exciting moment of my career was certainly the 2006 World Cup Final. The recent Euro 2012 Final was painful, but we have to turn over a new page and go forward,” he said of that 4-0 defeat to Spain.

“The Ballon d’Or tends to be given to those who win on the European stage, but as long as Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Andres Iniesta are in the running, I think it’s always going to be between them.”

[Socrates 8524]

Pirlo fourth for UEFA award

Aug 14, 2012

Andres Iniesta, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are shortlisted for the UEFA Best Player in Europe Award, followed by Andrea Pirlo in fourth place.

Barcelona and Argentina man Messi won the trophy last year and is up against his club teammate Iniesta, who is fresh from winning Euro 2012.

Ronaldo of Real Madrid and Portugal is the other contender for the silverware, which will be awarded on August 30 after a deciding vote.

Italy and Juventus midfielder Pirlo just missed out on the shortlist, as he finished up in fourth place in a vote among 53 sports journalists representing each of the UEFA member associations.

Pirlo received 90 points and was way out in front of the chasing pack, such as Xavi Hernandez (57 points), Iker Casillas (53), Didier Drogba (31), Petr Cech and Falcao (14). Mesut Ozil completed the top 10 on 10 points.

[Socrates 8524]

Pirlo doubt to face Milan

Aug 18, 2012

Andrea Pirlo could miss out on Sunday’s Trofeo Berlusconi match against Milan, as the Juventus midfielder is nursing a knock.

The two clubs come face to face tomorrow evening at San Siro in the traditional pre-season friendly, which will be played on the new hybrid artificial turf.

Pirlo is at risk of missing the encounter with his former teammates, as he picked up a knock during the Italian Super Cup against Napoli last week.

It remains to be seen whether Juve will try to keep their star midfielder under wraps ahead of next weekend’s Serie A debut against Parma or hope he can run it off.

[Socrates 8524]

Pirlo and Buffon miss Milan

Aug 18, 2012

Juventus have left behind Andrea Pirlo and Gianluigi Buffon for tomorrow night’s Trofeo Berlusconi match with Milan.

The game is a traditional pre-season fixture between these two clubs at San Siro.

Pirlo was carrying a knock from the Italian Super Cup victory over Napoli last week and has not been risked for this test.

Buffon has also been left out of the squad so he can focus on continuing a separate training schedule.

Coach Antonio Conte should be in the stands with Massimo Carrera taking over again during the 10-month ban.

Juventus squad: 2 Lucio, 5 Masi, 6 Pogba, 8 Marchisio, 9 Vucinic, 11 De Ceglie, 12 Giovinco, 13 Leali, 15 Barzagli, 16 Ziegler, 18 Boakye, 19 Bonucci, 20 Padoin, 22 Asamoah, 23 Vidal, 24 Giaccherini, 25 Rugani, 26 Lichtsteiner. 27 Quagliarella, 29 Pazienza, 30 Storari, 31 Branescu, 32 Matri, 39 Marrone.

[Socrates 8524]

Pirlo: 'Juve, losers and Balotelli hair'

Aug 25, 2012

Andrea Pirlo slammed “loser” Walter Mazzarri, called Zdenek Zeman “strange” and pledged to get a Mario Balotelli haircut if Juventus won the Champions League.

The 33-year-old midfielder gave a rare interview to Tuttosport ahead of tonight’s Serie A opener against Parma. Click here for a match preview.

“It is odd starting again with Parma on home turf. I hope it brings good luck,” said Pirlo in reference to last year’s opening match in Turin that started the Scudetto season.

“This year our targets remain the same: continuing to affirm ourselves in Italy and try to carry that on to Europe. Clearly everyone is waiting for us to fail – it’s only normal, as winning does tend to irritate others. It is also normal to have more pressure, but we know that we are strong and can get even better.

“Winning the Champions League would be a dream come true for me, the club and my teammates. If it were to happen... I’d get a Mohican haircut like Balotelli!

“Barcelona and Real Madrid remain the favourites. European commitments do take something off you in physical and psychological terms, while the travel alone is tiring and your adrenaline needs to be on constantly. It takes the maximum concentration and a big squad.”

Coach Antonio Conte works with the side in training, but his 10-month ban means he cannot sit on the bench or enter the locker room on match day.

“We are concentrated on the day to day work, without making anything too extreme. After all, our staff is innocent and we can focus only on playing football. At the end of the day, that proved to be easier than expected.

“The anti-Juve Scudetto contenders will be Napoli, Roma, Milan and Inter. The possible surprise could be Fiorentina, who signed quality midfielders like Borja Valero and have a super Coach like Vincenzo Montella. With or without Stevan Jovetic, they still play well.”

Pirlo was asked to comment on the opposition tacticians who have been highly critical of Juventus recently and his verdicts were not kind.

“Zeman is a special Coach, one who stirs up debate. He is a great tactician and his teams play really well. Every now and then he says something strange off the field, but that’s part of his character and by now we accept that.

“Mazzarri talks like a loser, though. When you lose it’s normal to cling to everything, as there is disappointment, but we are accustomed to the battle of words. Juve are the most famous club, perhaps in the world, with many fans and many hoping we’ll fail. It’s only normal to expect them to gang up on you when you win.”

Pirlo has been particularly impressed with new signing Paul Pogba, who arrived on a free transfer from Manchester United.

“He really is remarkable. He’s a young lad with prospects and it was a great move to snatch him from such an important club.”

The Italy hero was key in reaching the Euro 2012 Final against Spain and is keeping his fingers crossed for the 2014 World Cup.

“I hope to get there, as I’ve never been to Brazil. The Final defeat left only bitterness, cancelling out all the achievements to get there. It’s true our journey was positive, but if you don’t win then it feels as if you didn’t do anything.

“The dreams of the fans who became passionate about the tournament are to be underlined, but the adventure concluded with a defeat and we were upset.

“When will I retire? I will stay on the field as long as I have the desire to work, feel in good shape and have fun. My passion for this sport is worked on every day. A future as a Coach? I haven’t thought about it yet, as I see myself only as a player.”

[Socrates 8524]

Pirlo: People attack Juventus because we are winning

The Italy international is not impressed with the recent criticism aimed

at the Turin giants, and feels the gibes are down to the club's success.

Aug 25, 2012

Andrea Pirlo believes that Juventus are only being attacked because they are among the most popular teams in the world, and are fighting for silverware.

Roma coach Zdenek Zeman recently hit out at suspended Juve trainer Antonio Conte, while Napoli boss Walter Mazzarri claimed the Old Lady are being favoured by match officials in the wake of the Supercoppa Italiana.

"We are used to the verbal attacks. Juventus are the most popular team in the world with a lot of fans, but also with a lot of people who dislike us. It is only normal that people attack you when you are winning," Pirlo stated to Tuttosport.

"Mazzarri? Typical talk of someone who lost. If you win a game, you're happy, and you're disappointed when you lose. That's the way things go in football.

"Zeman? He is a rather particular coach. He is a great trainer and his teams play good, attacking football. However, off the pitch, he says some strange things every now and then. That's apparently part of his character. We know about it and have to accept it."

[Socrates 8524]

'Pirlo is a true great' - Lamela pays tribute to Juventus midfielder

The Argentine talent heaped praised on the veteran midfielder,

although he is confident Roma are not far behind in the race for the Scudetto.

Sep 1, 2012

Roma midfielder Erik Lamela has labelled Andrea Pirlo as the key behind Juventus' bid for a second successive Serie A title, but believes his side are not far behind the reigning champions.

La Maggica take on Inter at the San Siro on Sunday as they look to bounce back from last week's 2-2 draw against Catania, while Juventus travel to Udinese, with Lamela paying homage to the veteran Pirlo.

"Pirlo is a true great, and Juventus have an advantage with him," the 20-year-old acknowledged to giornalaccio rosa dello Sport.

[Socrates 8524]

Pirlo: Juventus want to do well in all competitions

The influential playmaker is full of ambition and has set his sights on silverware

both in Italy and in Europe following last year's success.

Sep 10, 2012

Andrea Pirlo has stressed that Juventus are aiming for victory in every competition they feature in this season.

The Turin giants beat AC Milan to the Serie A title last term, while making it to the final of the Coppa Italia as well, and Pirlo believes they can now make an impact in the Champions League, too, following their excellent transfer campaign.

"We enjoyed a great 2011-12 campaign and we're looking to build on that," Pirlo stated to Sky Sport Italia.

"The club has had an excellent transfer campaign, which should enable us to challenge for silverware in all competitions.

"We have started the new season with the ambition to do well in all competitions."

Juventus have won the opening two games of the 2012-13 campaign and currently sit on top of the Serie A table at the moment.

[Socrates 8524]

Pirlo: Juventus built to succeed

Sep 10, 2012

Andrea Pirlo is confident that Juventus will be able to fight for all trophies this season thanks to the club’s summer recruitment policy.

Although the outfit failed to sign the top player in attack they were hoping for, the midfielder is content with the new faces which did touch down in Turin.

“We had a great season in 2011-12,” the former Milan playmaker stated to Sky Sport Italia after the outfit’s remarkable unbeaten Scudetto campaign.

“The club have carried out an excellent transfer campaign in order for us to face all of the competitions in the best shape possible.

“We’re starting the season with the aim of doing well in all.”

The club’s most notable summer signings were Kwadwo Asamoah [udinese], Mauricio Isla [udinese], Sebastian Giovinco [Parma], Lucio [inter], Niklas Bendtner [Arsenal] and Paul Pogba [Manchester United].

[Socrates 8524]

Prandelli on the Pirlo problem

Sep 12, 2012

Italy boss Cesare Prandelli has underlined that his side can’t just rely on the playmaking skills of Andrea Pirlo.

The Juventus man dictates the tempo for club and country, but he wasn’t given much room to operate in the two World Cup qualifiers against Bulgaria and Malta.

“Malta pressed Pirlo,” the tactician stated after the 2-0 win in Modena. “They defended with nine men and stuck one man on Pirlo for the entire game.

“We have to thus do what we did at the European Championship. If Pirlo is not free then we need to use other players such as Thiago Motta or Riccardo Montolivo.”

Italy started the game with an attacking midfielder behind two strikers which should have given them more of a chance to create, but Alessandro Diamanti failed to shine.

“We played better in the second half with two wide attackers, whereas we struggled in the first with the Trequartista.

“Also, by playing with an attacking midfielder that means that the two forwards – Mattia Destro and Pablo Osvaldo – become reference points for the opposition.

“We’ll have to analyse these situations so that we don’t make the same mistakes against teams who just sit back and defend.”

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Verratti: I'm not at Pirlo's level yet

The promising youngster is honoured to be compared to the influential midfielder.

Sep 22, 2012

Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Marco Verratti has expressed his pride at being compared to Juventus star Andrea Pirlo.

The 19-year-old has been in impressive form this season and has been likened to the Italy international for his style of play, with PSG coach Carlo Ancelotti the latest to make the link earlier this week.

Nevertheless, Verratti remains humble and has stressed that he still has work to do in order to reach Pirlo's level.

"The comparisons with Pirlo do me a lot of good as he is one of the best players in the world," the youngster told L'Equipe.

"I am still far from his level. I will have to work very hard if I am to become as good a player as him and achieve the same success."

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Verratti: 'I can play with Pirlo'

Sep 22, 2012

Marco Verratti is still only 19, but the Italy international has won over PSG fans and admits “I’d love to play alongside Andrea Pirlo.”

The former Pescara midfielder is known as the ‘new Pirlo,’ a comparison that was also made by Paris Saint-Germain Coach Carlo Ancelotti this week after his Champions League debut.

“I haven’t forgotten Pescara and as soon as I get two days off, I head straight back home,” he told La Repubblica newspaper.

“I dreamed of making my Serie A debut with my hometown club and I owe them everything. Money was the last reason why I chose PSG, as I thought about this club as a turning point.

“It is one of the most important teams in Europe today and we can win everything. The Champions League represents a great shop window for me.”

Verratti certainly took that chance to shine, as he earned plaudits for his performance in the 4-1 win over Dynamo Kiev.

“Ancelotti tried to relax me before the game. After all, I only have to play football and that is what I have always done. It’s the thing I do best in this life.”

Yet the 19-year-old had been so committed to Pescara that he rejected an opportunity to join Milan a few years ago.

“I didn’t feel ready to leave home, so I said no.”

It would’ve given him the chance to learn from Pirlo, who at the time was still running the Rossoneri midfield.

“I have similar characteristics to Pirlo, but I am convinced that I could play alongside him and I confess I dream of that scenario. It would be wonderful.

“I don’t know if Cesare Prandelli wants to use us together at some point for Italy. I don’t consider it a limitation to be seen as an alternative to Andrea, but rather believe that is an honour. I include him among the three best midfielders in the world.

“There are far more experienced figures in front of me in the Azzurri pecking order, so I will sit, wait for my chance and learn. Wearing the Italy shirt is a privilege.”

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Pirlo should retire from international football, says Boban

The former Croatia international has advised the Juve playmaker to hang-up his boots

for the national side, while he does not think Stevan Jovetic is a world-class player.

Sep 26, 2012

Former AC Milan star Zvonimir Boban feels it would benefit Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo's form if he retired from international football with the Azzurri.

The experienced midfielder has been struggling to find his best form in the opening weeks of the 2012-13 campaign, and Boban believes representing Italy as well as competing in the Champions League with Juve could be too much for Pirlo at his age.

"I think that it's time for Pirlo to leave some duties behind. He should retire from international football," Boban stated to Sky Sport Italia.

"He has been lacking the brilliance that he showed last year, and I think it may be down to the fact that he has too many commitments. He hasn't had much rest this summer."

Boban then went on to voice his opinion that Fiorentina attacker Stevan Jovetic, who was close to joining Juve in the summer transfer window, is not of the highest calibre just yet.

"He is a superb player and I have no doubts that he would have done well at Juventus had the transfer gone through.

"Nevertheless. I do not think that he is good enough to be described as world-class."

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Causio: Pirlo needs rest to recapture magic

The World Cup winner believes that the midfield star could profit from some

tactical adjustments in his game, after a fatigued start to the season.

Sep 26, 2012

Juventus legend Franco Causio has claimed that Andrea Pirlo may need to consider a different approach to his game.

The 33-year-old was one of the Bianconeri's key players in their unbeaten 2011-12 Serie A campaign and one of the stars of Euro 2012, as Italy reached the final of the competition.

However, the creative midfielder has struggled to recapture his form of last season, with fatigue believed to be the, causing him to be rested for the victory over Chievo on Saturday.

Speaking to Sky Sport 24, Causio said: "Is Pirlo having difficulties? I think he has imposed himself. He is finding it a little tough, but you mustn't forget that he is a bit tired and needs a rest.

"Currently, he is the man who opposing teams are marking out; he is being patrolled and it is not easy for him to exert himself and have the freedom that he had last year."

The former winger also offered advice to the Italian playmaker on how he could exert his authority on the game and compared his situation to that of former Juve star Michel Platini.

"If I were Pirlo, rather than playing in front of the defence, I'd prefer to play behind the striker - Vucinic or someone else," he suggested.

"I'd want to see someone helping him out. Platini was equal to Pirlo; he was a marked man. Without Scirea supporting him, he was lost in certain games."

Causio also lent his support to Sebastian Giovinco and thinks that his game could improve if he drops deeper.

"Giovinco is not a problem, but he must find the right position on the pitch. If he continues to play on the shoulders of the centre-backs, he will struggle," the 1982 World Cup winner added.

"He must push back 20 yards, pick up the ball in midfield and face the opponent square on."

[Socrates 8524]

Ancelotti: Real Pirlo will return

Sep 27, 2012

Paris Saint-Germain boss Carlo Ancelotti is confident that former pupil Andrea Pirlo will soon be back to his inspirational best.

The Juventus player has struggled so far this season and there are suggestions that he could even be rested again – after the Chievo tie – for the weekend encounter against Roma.

“Players can go through moments of difficulty,” Ancelotti, who bossed Pirlo at Milan, told Tuttosport on Thursday. “It’s not the first time that it has happened.

“Juventus can remain calm because you’ll soon see that he will return to his old self.”

After another subdued performance in the 0-0 draw at Fiorentina on Tuesday, Pirlo was advised to quit international football by Zvonimir Boban.

“I don’t think that will happen at all,” Ancelotti added. “Andrea is very attached to the Azzurri shirt and I doubt anything has changed in that regard.”

Juventus were linked with the ‘new Pirlo’ in the summer, but 19-year-old Marco Verratti instead left Pescara for Paris SG.

“They are similar in terms of personality,” Ancelotti added. “There are differences on a technical level though, even if they both have great vision.

“Verratti has surprised almost everyone in France so far, also because he is so young.”

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Pirlo expects long Euro journey

Sep 27, 2012

Andrea Pirlo is confident that Juventus can make an impact on their return to the Champions League.

The Bianconeri began their European Cup campaign with a 2-2 draw at Chelsea and the playmaker is hoping that is the start of a special journey.

“I hope we can go all the way, but it's a tough competition with big teams taking part,” the Italian international told Champions Matchday.

“Still, we have every chance to go a long way. I don't know if we can even win it, but we will surely try.”

Pirlo took no part in the 2011-12 competition given Juventus’ failure to qualify for Europe, but he knows what it takes to succeed given his success in the tournament with Milan.

“That special Champions League melody has allowed me to experience great emotions,” he added. “I missed it a lot last season, but now we are back on this fantastic European stage. We will try to do as well as possible.”

The Old Lady have been placed in Group E and will also come up against Shakhtar Donetsk and Nordsjaelland.

“We all know Chelsea, they are the defending European champions,” Pirlo continued. “As for Shakhtar, they play good football.

“I know Mircea Lucescu because I had him as a Coach at Brescia when I was starting out.

“We don’t know the Danes that well yet, but we will play with the same mentality whether we are home or away.”

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Juventus & Italy are in trouble without Pirlo, says Ancelotti

The experienced coach has little doubt that the former Milan star still has

a major role to play at both club and international level.

Sep 27, 2012

Paris Saint-Germain coach Carlo Ancelotti is confident that Andrea Pirlo will soon return to his usual best and believes the playmaker is still a important player for Juventus and Italy.

The 33-year-old midfielder has been struggling to find his best form in the opening weeks of the 2012-13 season, and Croatia legend Zvonimir Boban even suggested that it would be in his best interest to retire from international football.

Nevertheless, Ancelotti, who coached Pirlo at AC Milan, feels it's only normal that the midfielder is going through a difficult period, and added his former pupil still has a role to play for Italy.

"Pirlo remains a very important player. Juventus and Italy would be in trouble if he weren't around," Ancelotti was quoted as saying by Tuttosport.

"It's only normal that Pirlo is going through a difficult period. Things like that happen with every player. I don't think this is the right moment to make drastic decisions and quit Italy.

"Juventus don't have to worry and can remain calm. You'll see that Pirlo will soon return to his usual efficient best again."

The former Chelsea manager then went on to discuss the similarities between Pirlo and PSG youngster Marco Verratti.

He added: "They are quite similar in terms of personality and both have great vision. There are some differences on a technical level as well, though.

"Marco is still very young and has been one of the surprises of the season so far. Things could have been more difficult for him in Italy. We tend to expect a lot from youngsters and raise expectations."

Verratti has provided two assists in six Ligue 1 appearances for Paris Saint-Germain so far.

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Tacchinardi would rest Pirlo

Sep 27, 2012

Alessio Tacchinardi believes that there is only one way in which former club Juventus can regenerate Andrea Pirlo. “He needs rest.”

The classy playmaker has been criticised this term for failing to live up to the high standards he set in 2011-12.

The former Milan man returned to the starting line-up against Fiorentina on Tuesday, but was replaced in the second half of the 0-0 draw, by Paul Pogba, after an ineffective performance.

“I would let him rest up,” Tacchinardi, an ex-midfielder with the Turin giants, told the Corriere dello Sport.

“It would be opportune for him to stop for a bit, to spend some time in the pits. Of course he is fundamental for Juventus, but he needs to be the player he was last term.

“He perhaps should have been given more of a holiday.”

Tacchinardi believes that the fact Pirlo played such a key role in the club’s title success – he missed just one League encounter – and Italy’s march to the Euro 2012 Final has taken its toll.

“He’s paying for a season at the very highest levels,” he continued. “It was a campaign, that included the European Championship, which was played at a frenetic pace with his usual class.

“But he also had a specific motivation – to demonstrate to Milan that he was still not finished. He hasn’t got that ferocious spirit today, even if he remains a player who gives it his all.

“With so many games this term, he doesn’t have the time to recover. You can see out on the pitch that he’s running on low, also on a mental level too.”

Reports today are suggesting that the 2011 Bosman free signing from the Diavolo could be left out of the starting XI for Saturday’s big clash against Roma.

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Pirlo must only play once a week if Juventus want

to make a real Champions League challenge

The midfielder's sluggish start to the season should provoke the Bianconeri

to rethink their policy on how they use the ageing Italian around their European campaign.

Oct 2, 2012

COMMENT

By Kris Voakes | Italian Football Writer

In Italy last season, there was a stand-out story full of the romanticism with which calcio is often associated. While a Champions League spot was lost, betting scandals were uncovered, AC Milan and Inter took backward steps, refereeing controversies caught the headlines and Alessandro Del Piero was tossed aside by Juventus, the rebirth of Andrea Pirlo at the top end of the sport was in many ways the saving grace.

By masterminding the Bianconeri’s Scudetto victory, the regista was rightly credited with having rejuvenated a superpower, providing the composure, the experience and the quality from the midfield axis that was to be their platform for a return to glory in an unbeaten league season. He even managed to carry such form into Euro 2012, helping to inspire Italy to an unexpected runners-up spot with displays of excellence and of wisdom in a team still very much learning its way in international football following the fallout of the 2010 World Cup.

But in 2012-13, something has changed. Pirlo has not managed to provide that consistency of excellence which became his modus operandi over the 12 months prior. While Juventus remain dominant in the majority of their matches at domestic level, the No.21 has been nowhere near his best. It has even become the subject of much debate, with his poor form causing some to worry that either Juve or Italy – or both – could eventually pay for his new increased workload.

With the Champions League having been added to his calendar, the 33-year-old now faces a potential 60-plus games before the international season ends on June 8, and following a campaign in which he missed just three matches in all competitions, it is becoming increasingly obvious that his schedule needs to be carefully managed in order to coax the 2011-12 Pirlo back out of the cupboard.

"I think that it's time for Pirlo to leave some duties behind. He should retire from international football," former Milan star and Zvonimir Boban told Sky Sport recently. "He has been lacking the brilliance that he showed last year, and I think it may be down to the fact that he has too many commitments. He hasn't had much rest this summer."

But do Italy need to lose out completely? Ex-Azzurri defender Christian Panucci was not in favour of such a move. “I believe he should rest with Juventus, not with Italy, who play a lot less games."

Given Pirlo’s apparent desire to prolong his international career, Panucci’s course of action is clearly the preferred route, yet the timing of breaks has already proven to be a bone of contention. The midfielder turned in a very poor showing in the Champions League clash with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge a fortnight ago having played the full 90 minutes at Genoa three days earlier. It was only after the trip to London that he was then rested for the following week’s fixture against Chievo.

This weekend we saw a similar decision. With Shakhtar Donetsk set to come to town for tonight’s Matchday Two contest, Juve ran all over Roma in the opening 20 minutes of Saturday’s Serie A fixture at Juventus Stadium yet still Pirlo was asked to complete a second game in four days following his struggles against Fiorentina while the younger, less pivotal Paolo De Ceglie, Alessandro Matri and Claudio Marchisio were withdrawn ahead of him with the Bianconeri cruising towards victory.

From this, it would seem that Antonio Conte and Massimo Carrera have taken the decision that Pirlo will be rested after, rather than before, Champions League fixtures, but this could be to the club’s detriment. Given the way that the calendar works, he will often be competing in his third game in seven days by the time each European clash comes around.

Surely the most appropriate time to rest him would be the weekend before each European game. Given their clear superiority in Serie A, he could even be afforded successive weekends off either side of Champions League matches and the Old Lady could get away with it. Now that they have Paul Pogba in the frame to stand in for league fixtures, Pirlo need not play much more than the one game a week he was playing last season and Juve could still win the league, but it would also give them a better chance of succeeding on the continent.

“Pirlo remains a very important player. Juventus and Italy would be in trouble if he weren't around,” Paris Saint-Germain boss Carlo Ancelotti told Tuttosport last week. “It's only normal that Pirlo is going through a difficult period. Things like that happen with every player. I don't think this is the right moment to make drastic decisions and quit Italy.”

And nor does he have to. If Juve manage him effectively, they can ensure that he returns to his 2011-12 form, and by becoming their midweek midfield maestro he could still lead them to success in Europe.

[Socrates 8524]

Le Petit Prince de Paris: Marco Verratti

is better than Andrea Pirlo was at 19

The teenage PSG star has taken Ligue 1 by storm since his summer move from Pescara,

and has already surpassed the level reached by Pirlo as a teenager.

Oct 3, 2012

COMMENT

By Carlo Garganese

The pressure of being labelled the "new Andrea Pirlo" would be enough to destroy many careers before they have even begun. Not Marco Verratti, though, who has exceeded all expectations since his much-publicised summer transfer from Pescara to Paris Saint-Germain.

The 19-year-old is already a fan favourite at the Parc des Princes, locals chanting his name and cheering his every pass. While seven-goal Zlatan Ibrahimovic has unsurprisingly established himself as Ligue 1's best attacker, Verratti has turned just as many heads in midfield.

"Verratti is not good ... he is great," hailed Ibrahimovic recently.

"Italy can relax for the next World Cup, as they already have an alternative to Pirlo in midfield and his name is Marco Verratti," lauded PSG coach Carlo Ancelotti, who at AC Milan ingeniously converted Pirlo from a trequartista into the regista role he has since mastered.

After bursting onto the scene with Zdenek Zeman's promotion-winning Pescara in Italy's Serie B last season, laying on the ammunition for star forwards Ciro Immobile and Lorenzo Insigne, Verratti soon became a very wanted man. Juventus seemed destined to sign him, first in January and then in July, but foolishly hesitated over the transfer fee. This opened the door for PSG to snare the teenager for what now seems a bargain price of €12 million.

Like his "idol" Pirlo, Verratti sits deep in a central midfield three. His role as regista is to dictate the play, link the midfield to the attack, and create chances. There are many similarities between the duo. Always available, with a gift for locating space and making time for himself, Verratti is effortlessly calm and collected when in possession. He sees and 'feels' passes, recognises patterns and exploits spaces that most players don't even know exist. And all with unerring accuracy – this season Verratti has a pass success rate of over 91 per cent, as well as three assists.

In truth, Verratti's presence and style of play is perhaps more comparable to Barcelona playmaker Xavi. At just 5ft 5in, he is even smaller than the Catalan, and the majority of his passes are short-ranged – recycling possession, and building attacks with triangles, give and goes, and one-twos. One would be forgiven for thinking that Verratti was trained at La Masia, although that isn't to say he can't execute longer Pirlo-style passes, as his delightful chipped assist for Javier Pastore's goal against Toulouse proves.

What seems certain, however, is that Verratti has already reached a higher level than Pirlo did at the same age. Like the PSG starlet, Pirlo was a teen prodigy – debuting in Serie A at the age of 16 for Brescia, before signing for Inter as a 19-year-old. Although he attained more years of top level experience as a teenager, and went on to score an impressive 15 goals in 37 games for a Euro-conquering Italy Under-21 side, it wasn’t until he turned 23 in his second year at AC Milan in 2002 that Pirlo fulfilled his early promise, broke into the Italy seniors and truly made his mark on the Champions League.

A month short of his twentieth birthday, Italy squad regular Verratti has been capped by the Azzurri, is the midfield leader of European football's newest superpower, and earned a place in Goal.com's Champions League Team of Matchday One following his flawless debut in the competition – a 4-1 thrashing of Dynamo Kiev.

The big question now is whether Verratti can build on this stunning start and go on to enjoy a legendary career like Pirlo.

The player himself is keeping his feet on the ground. "The comparisons with Pirlo do me a lot of good as he is one of the best players in the world," he told L'Equipe. "I am still far from his level. I will have to work very hard if I am to become as good a player as him and achieve the same success."

Verratti is certainly not without his weaknesses. The defensive phase of his game requires a lot of attention, and PSG have been troubled during transitions due to the starlet's failure to close down opponents and win tackles. Against stronger opposition than Ligue 1 has to offer, Verratti could be punished.

He is also yet to be tested in matches where PSG don't dominate possession and territory, although this could be spun into a positive. Such is his ability to dictate proceedings, he often doesn't need to defend. Pirlo has never convinced defensively – indeed he can be described as weak, slow and timid in the tackle – but with aggressive midfielders protecting him, it is of little consequence. Verratti has formed an outstanding understanding with the combative, lung-busting Blaise Matuidi, who plays the Arturo Vidal role for PSG.

Verratti undoubtedly possesses the talent, the team-mates and the trainer to make it right to the top of the European game. Ancelotti already once developed Pirlo into the best centre midfielder in the world ... Verratti could not wish for a more suitable coach to take him to a similar level.

[Socrates 8524]

Prandelli: Pirlo still wants Italy

Oct 5, 2012

Italy boss Cesare Prandelli insists that Juventus ace Andrea Pirlo has no plans to retire from international football.

There have been suggestions that the midfielder should quit the international scene in order to concentrate on his club career given that he is now 33.

However, speaking with Raisport on Friday, Prandelli says that the playmaker is still a key part of his project.

“Andrea is the only guy who needs to make a decision on what he wants to do in the future,” the tactician argued.

“I had a conversation with him recently and he still feels like he wants to be a reference point for this blue shirt.

“He wants to get to the 2014 World Cup Finals and he’ll still be an important player for us.”

[Socrates 8524]

Verratti can play alongside Pirlo, says Prandelli

The successful coach believes the duo can feature in the same team, while the youngster

himself has stressed that he's ready to play wherever the coach needs him.

Oct 10, 2012

Italy boss Cesare Prandelli is confident that Andrea Pirlo and Marco Verratti complement each other on the pitch and can play together, despite the similarities in their style of play.

The national team coach feels the Paris Saint-Germain youngster could play slightly ahead of his Juventus colleague, or the two could even switch positions throughout the match.

"I think he can play alongside Pirlo, maybe slightly in front of him. They could even switch positions during the game," Prandelli told reporters.

Verratti himself, meanwhile, insisted that he's played in an advanced position before, and added that he doesn't feel important at Italy just yet.

"I played a few games behind the striker at Pescara last season so I see myself as a versatile player. But, of course, I will play anywhere for Italy.

"I don't feel important. I am lucky enough to be in the national team at 19 and this is something that doesn't happen to most players.

"I can only be myself and try to improve, that's the only goal a player of my age should strive for. I don't know if I am a player for the future, I have to think about the present."

[Socrates 8524]

Messi: 'I copied Pirlo!'

Oct 13, 2012

Lionel Messi reveals he scored a sensational free kick against Uruguay last night by copying Andrea Pirlo.

The Ballon d’Or winner was on target in Argentina’s 3-0 victory and placed his set piece beneath the wall.

“I saw that the goalkeeper wanted to come forward and also noticed the wall was preparing to jump,” explained Messi.

“I saw recently that Pirlo and Ronaldinho had scored this way. I had some doubts, but I gave it a go and it went well.”

Pirlo, pictured above, placed his free kick under the jumping defensive wall during Juventus’ 2-1 win at Siena last week.