After weeks of rumors, NYCFC proudly announced the signing of our third designated player, the maestro Andrea Pirlo! The AC Milan and Juventus legend joins the squad after an incredible season with Juventus that saw them capture the Italian Serie A title as well as reaching the finals of the UEFA Champions League.
For those that aren’t familiar with the pride of Italian soccer, Pirlo has dazzled the world over as one of the signature midfielders of the modern game. Pirlo’s determined style of play results in crisp passes, precise longballs and free kicks that level even the world’s elite keepers baffled. His expertise on and off the ball has served as the basis of a game that has produced titles on the highest levels including the Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and World Cup.
The 36 year-old leaves Italy for the first time in his playing career, though the premier clubs of the world have tried to transfer him away on countless occasions. Now, Pirlo is ready to come stateside–a decision he told NYCFC.com he feels extremely comfortable with. He said, “I had several opportunities to play outside of Italy, but I never had a doubt in picking New York for the enthusiasm of the people that come watch the team.”
When discussing why he chose to play for the club, he credited head coach Jason Kreis. “I met with the coach, Jason Kreis, and he gave me a fantastic impression of the Club,” Pirlo noted. “He has well defined ideas in mind, and I am sure we will get on well and create a good relationship to train well and try to win together.”
The excitement for Pirlo’s start couples with the impending arrival of another midfield legend, Frank Lampard. Fans can’t wait to see what the two legends bring to our side that already boasts David Villa, Josh Saunders and Kwadwo Poku to name a few. The presence of Pirlo and Lampard is sure to bring additional poise to a New York City FC team that is starting to gel and climb up the MLS Eastern Conference Table.
Recently, the two were spotted watching over their new club during NYCFC’s latest match against the New York Red Bulls. If the excitement from the packed house at Yankee Stadium that day is any indication, we can’t wait to see both legends in sky blue.
