At 34-years-old, it’s amazing the influence that Andrea Pirlo is still able to have on a game. Whilst players who play in a more advanced role tend to burn out earlier in their career, there’s a good chance that the Italian maestro will continue to play attractive and effective football for the next two or three years.
Pirlo’s a deep-lying play maker, so he’s never much had to rely on any kind of pace. He rarely tricks his way past players, instead preferring to pick out a perfect pass and find newer and more inventive ways to link up with the strikers in front of him.
He’s also never really been a physical player. He doesn’t have any particularly impressive defensive ability and it’s rare that you see him slide into tackles. He tends to stay clear of this area of the game. This may keep his joints fresh and limber and add a year or two to his career.
Which is a good thing. The longer we can see Pirlo playing his football, displaying his craft, technical ability, control and passing range, the better. We haven’t even touched on his ability over a set-piece yet.
All of this is a pre-amble before I move into the remarkable story that surfaced last week. According to former Chelsea manager Ginaluca Vialli, Tottenham are moving in for Andrea Pirlo:
“There are contacts between Andrea Pirlo and Tottenham for the next season.” (Source: The Mirror)
This would be a remarkable move and big step forward for Tottenham. Spurs are trying to position themselves as a big club and Pirlo is a big player. Given that his career is winding down, this strikes me as a good match.
Pirlo will be out of contract at the end of the season having won consecutive Serie A titles with Juventus. Perhaps he’s ready for a change of scenery and a new challenge?
Perhaps he fancies a move to the Premier League, a place where great passers like Xabi Alonso and Cesc Fabregas have thrived in the past.
If he’s available as a free transfer, Tottenham would only have to cover his wages. This would make him an excellent signing for the North London club – a genuine bargain.
Of course, Spurs will likely face some competition. But if they approach him on the back of another strong season, maybe they can pull this move off!
What’s your take? Could Tottenham really seal a deal for Andrea Pirlo?
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Tom Huddlestone by another name. I was a big fan of Huddlestone and like Glenn Hoddle could not believe we sold him. I see we are being proved right!