Retiring Pirlo gets star-studded sendoff

MILAN－Andrea Pirlo said goodbye to soccer in a star-studded "Night of the Master" testimonial tournament at San Siro on Monday.

Champions and former teammates from all over the world－from Paolo Maldini to Gianluigi Buffon, Roberto Baggio and Frank Lampard－joined the retiring legend to celebrate the final act of a glittering career.

"I thank my friends and all the people who came to the stadium to enjoy a fantastic evening of entertainment, sport and charity," the 39-year-old former Italy star said as he received a standing ovation from 50,000 fans.

Towards the end of the match, which finished 7-7 and featured a hat-trick from former AC Milan and Juventus striker Filippo Inzaghi, Pirlo gave his place to his 15-year-old son Nicolo, also a midfielder, who plays for the Juventus youth team.

"He has fun and I'm happy," said Pirlo. "He must be happy to play football, it's the best thing in the world. In the future we'll see."

There was no lack of coaching talent on the bench, too, with former Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti leading the White Stars team and Juve's Massimiliano Allegri in charge of the Blue Stars.

Italian FA vice-commissioner Alessandro Costacurta, another former Milan great, and who has said Pirlo could have a future role in the federation, also took to the pitch.

Pirlo said he was considering coaching.

"I have time to think about what to do. I don't miss the pitch. In the future it could be coaching," he said.

"All my ex-teammates didn't want to become coaches, yet they've all done it."

Capped 116 times for Italy, Pirlo called time on his illustrious career last November after winning the 2006 World Cup, two Champions League titles and six Serie A trophies.

Pirlo began his career at Brescia and also played for Inter, AC Milan and Juventus before moving to New York City FC in the MLS.

"I chose May 21 because 21 is my number and I made my debut in May," said Pirlo.

AFP