Andrea Pirlo

One of the finest playmakers to have ever played football, Andrea Pirlo was a joy to watch. Known for his remarkable vision, Pirlo was a world-class footballer with a creative streak that set him out as a role model to football fans throughout the world.

Breathtaking at times, Pirlo had a unique ability to control and play a ball with the perfect balance of speed, accuracy and control. In addition to his tremendous skill in open play, Pirlo was one of the finest dead-ball specialists in world football. His ability to pick out the top corner with a dipping and curling free-kick earned him rave reviews.

His quality was recognised on numerous occasions. As an individual, he won over 40 accolades, some of which included entry into the FIFPro World XI in 2006 and the Serie A Team of the Year on four consecutive occasions.

In 2012, 2013 and 2014 he was the Serie A Player of the Year, and he was inducted into the AC Milan Hall of Fame. He was also voted in Juventus' Greatest XI of All Time in 2017. On three separate occasions, he was nominated for the biggest individual prize in football, finishing 9th, 5th and 7th in the race for the Ballon d'Or.

In 2018, he was given a Golden Foot award that recognises players who stood out for their personality and athletic achievements. He was also appointed an Ufficiale Ordine al Merito della Repubblica Italian in Italy.

But, as is the character of Andrea Pirlo, his biggest strength on the pitch was in his ability to inspire, to lead and to work for the greater good of the team. Former international coach, Marcello Lippi said of him: "Pirlo is a silent leader. He speaks with his feet". He was affectionately known by fans around the world as "the Architect", "The Maestro", "Mozart" and "the Professor".

Pirlo won Serie A twice, the Champions League twice and both Italian domestic cups once each at his time with AC Milan, becoming a club legend in the process. Pirlo then moved to Juventus, where he once again played a pivotal role in the club's success, winning four successive league titles , which included two league and cup doubles.

At international level, Pirlo was instrumental as Italy landed football's grandest prize, the FIFA World Cup in 2006. He would also help Italy to an Olympic Bronze medal in 2004 and a runner up spot in the 2012 European Championships.

Since hanging up his boots after a successful two-year stint in the MLS with New York City, Pirlo has been a popular presence in the media and at events all over the world. Whether to entertain or inspire corporate audiences or feature as special guest at awards and events - Andrea Pirlo offers a touch of magic.