Juventus decided to turn to legendary former Italian midfielder Andrea Pirlo to be their new manager. The club confirmed the news shortly after announcing that they have parted ways with Maurizio Sarri.
Juve moved on from Sarri after just one season, despite the fact that the 61-year-old manager led them to the ninth consecutive Seria A title in 2019/20. The decision was made following the club’s elimination in UEFA Champions League round-of-16 duel against Ligue 1 side Lyon.
Pirlo takes over at the helm less than two weeks after he was unveiled as the new manager of the club’s Under-23 side.
“The decision for Pirlo was very natural, in the Juventus style, because he is someone who played for us, has always been in contact with everyone here and it felt natural,” said Juventus’ chief football officer Fabio Paratici. “We also believe he is pre-destined for greatness. He was as a player, and we are confident he can do the same as a coach.”
Andrea Pirlo played with Juventus between 2011 and 2015, helping the club to recoup their dominance in Italy after almost a decade of struggles. Despite coming to Turin as a 32-years-old player, Pirlo enjoyed a career renaissance in Turin, playing 164 games in all competitions and contributing with 17 goals and 38 assists. He won four Seria A titles and one Coppa Italia trophy while at Juve.
“I’m deeply pleased and honored to receive such respect and trust from Juventus,” Pirlo wrote on social media after the news went public. “Ready for this amazing opportunity!”
