Andrea Pirlo and has stated that he is not ruling out a return to MLS as a coach. Among other news about possible, unforeseen football transfers, Pirlo may become an MLS coach, after Juventus recently fired him.
After all, Pirlo finished his playing career with New York City, and he says – ‘I had a great time there’.
Pirlo unexpectedly replaced Maurizio Sarri ahead of the 2020-21 season as the Juventus head coach.
And though a quick start against Sampdoria in Serie A raised Pirlo’s expectations, the rest of the season went subpar. And instead of giving Pirlo, who was new to coaching altogether, more time, they replaced him with ex-employee Massimiliano Allegri.
Pirlo, who has 116 Azzurri caps, had an illustrious career in Europe with clubs such as Inter, Milan, and Juventus.
But now, he admits he still keeps a close eye on MLS and “won’t rule out” a return.
Pirlo Loves America, Especially New York
Former Italy international Andrea Pirlo, now retired from playing, moved from Juventus to New York City in July 2015. He played for the American club for two and a half years before retiring.
The former Juventus coach is currently unemployed after another former Juventus coach Max Allegri returned to upstage him at Juventus.
After his season-long stint at the Allianz Stadium, Pirlo has stated that he is “ready” to begin working elsewhere immediately.
“I don’t watch all the games, but I turn it on when I can,” Pirlo told the Athletic. “I know it’s really hot this time of year. I remember playing in that heat. It’s hard for players to maintain high intensity when it’s this hot.
“I watch all the teams. I love New York — I had a place there before I moved stateside — but I like everything about MLS. I really enjoyed my time there.”
“I got on well with the club, my teammates, the staff, and the coaches I had,” Pirlo said. “It was a great life experience, a great football experience too.
“Two of my kids were born in America, so it’s something we’ll always carry with us. It’s like home to them, a part of our lives. They’re American.”
Unforeseen Football Transfers – Pirlo May Become an MLS Coach
So, former New York City player Andrea Pirlo has not ruled out a return to MLS.
“I’m not ruling out anything,” Pirlo said.
Indeed, Pirlo has even emphasized the growth of soccer in the United States: “It’s a great league. I see lots of coaches coming to MLS from other countries. I was lucky enough to play there. You saw what the USMNT did in the Gold Cup, so I’d say the American game is taking off.
“Lots of Americans are now playing for the best clubs in the world — Juve, Barcelona, Chelsea. If they’re playing at that level, it speaks to their potential.”
“I’m looking at lots of different coaches,” he revealed further. “You can learn from anyone. I’m watching games and training sessions online.
“Once it’s easier to travel, I’ll go watch some in person. I bumped into Mauricio Pochettino on holiday in Ibiza and he asked me to swing by Paris and say hello. If I can, I’d like to go to Manchester to see Guardiola.”
“I am ready to embark on a new adventure,” Pirlo finished.
