Andrea Pirlo

Verified Timeline

Lore & Background

Pirlo's evolution into a deep-lying playmaker began during his loan at Brescia in the 2000–01 season. Manager Carlo Mazzone, observing Pirlo alongside his idol Roberto Baggio, made a ground-breaking decision to deploy him deeper rather than as an offensive midfielder. This role capitalized on his long-passing ability. Upon joining Milan, Ancelotti further developed this position, allowing Pirlo to play alongside attacking talents like Rivaldo, Rui Costa, and eventually Kaká. In the 2002–03 season, Pirlo led Serie A in passes played (2589), ball possession (123 hours and 39 minutes), successful balls (661), and successful passes (2093), averaging nearly 90 passes per game. He also scored a career-best 9 goals in Serie A that season, helping Milan win the UEFA Champions League by defeating Juventus 3–2 on penalties after a 0–0 draw.

In Their Own Story

The 2005 UEFA Champions League final against Liverpool remains a defining chapter of Pirlo's Milan career. On May 25, he assisted Paolo Maldini's opening goal just 50 seconds into the match with a free kick and later combined with Kaká to set up Hernán Crespo for Milan's third goal before halftime. Despite Liverpool's three-goal comeback leading to a 3–3 draw and eventual penalty defeat, Pirlo's performance was instrumental throughout the competition. Earlier in his tenure, he scored his first Milan goal on March 30, 2002, a free kick in a 3–1 home win over Parma. He also demonstrated resilience during the 2003 Supercoppa Italiana against Juventus; after scoring a penalty in extra time to level the match at 1–1, he converted again in the shoot-out despite Milan's eventual loss.

Reader's Guide

Pirlo's tenure at AC Milan (2001–2011) showcases the ultimate adaptation of a player to suit a tactical system. After being loaned to Reggina and Brescia between Inter stints, his permanent move to Milan for €17,043,078 marked the beginning of his most successful period. The transfer involved complex swap deals with Inter, including the movement of Dražen Brnčić. At Milan, he replaced the gap left by legend Demetrio Albertini in the deep midfield role. His ability to control tempo allowed him to excel as a set-piece specialist and playmaker. Key achievements include leading the team to the 2003 UEFA Champions League final and the 2005 final, where he was one of the second-highest assist providers with four assists. He also won the 2004 Supercoppa Italiana over Lazio, adding to his collection of domestic and European honors.

Did You Know?

• Pirlo was the first coach to deploy him as a deep-lying playmaker during his loan at Brescia under Carlo Mazzone.
• In the 2002–03 season, Pirlo led Serie A in passes played (2589) and averaged almost 90 passes per game.
• Pirlo scored his first goal for Milan on March 30, 2002, with a free kick in a 3–1 win over Parma.
• He assisted Paolo Maldini's opening goal in the 2005 Champions League final just 50 seconds into the match.
• Pirlo was loaned to Reggina for the 1999–2000 season alongside fellow youngster Mohamed Kallon before returning to Inter.