Biography
Andrea Pirlo (born 19 May 1979) is widely regarded as one of the most influential midfielders of his generation. Emerging from Brescia, he transitioned from a classic No. 10 into a deep‑lying playmaker, dictating tempo from in front of the back line. His passing range — from tight triangles to sweeping diagonals — allowed teams to progress with patience and precision.
At AC Milan he became the metronome of a side that conquered Italy and Europe. Later at Juventus he revived a new era of dominance in Serie A, while continuing to shine for the Italian national team with set‑piece mastery and tournament composure. He finished his playing career in MLS with New York City FC, bringing his cerebral style to a new audience.
Quick Profile
- Full name: Andrea Pirlo
- Date of birth: 19 May 1979
- Primary role: Deep‑lying playmaker (Regista)
- Clubs: Brescia, Inter, Reggina, AC Milan, Juventus, New York City FC
- Playing traits: vision, tempo control, first‑touch orientation, free‑kicks
Playing Style
Pirlo’s game prioritized angles, rhythm and disguise. He manipulated pressing lines with body shape and first touch, opening passing lanes that seemed closed. His long distribution switched play efficiently; his short combinations pulled opponents out of structure. From dead balls, his technique generated dip and swerve with minimal backlift.
- Visionary passing: clipped lobs, slicing through‑balls, raking diagonals
- Tempo control: accelerates and cools sequences to manage momentum
- Scanning & orientation: constant head‑checks to pre‑plan actions
- Set‑pieces: free‑kicks, corners and rehearsed routines
- Leadership by calmness: composure under pressure spreads through the team
How to Watch Him
Focus on the pre‑touch: Pirlo angles his body before receiving to reduce pressing options. Track how he drags the opposition block to one side before switching to the other. On set pieces, note his run‑up length and last‑second look over the wall.
Tip: rewatch sequences at 0.75× speed to study scanning and weight of pass.
Career Timeline
Brescia
Creative beginnings; role transition from advanced midfielder to deeper organizer.
AC Milan
Became the metronome of a golden side, winning domestic and European silverware.
Juventus
Re‑energized midfield structure and led a sequence of league titles with elegance.
New York City FC
Closed his playing chapter in MLS, showcasing vision in a new context.
Italy
Leader for the Azzurri: set‑piece precision and tournament composure.
Honors (Selection)
Club
- Domestic leagues
- Domestic cups
- UEFA Champions League
International
- Major international tournament
- Team of the tournament
Individual
- Midfielder of the Year
- Team of the Season
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Stats Snapshot
Highlights
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Gallery
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Get in Touch
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