Wanted to Leave Juventus on my Own Terms, Says Andrea Pirlo

The 36-year-old left Juventus earlier this summer to join the first year club, and the veteran was adamant he did not join the MLS to be a tourist as he is focused on continuing his playing career.

Pirlo is now training in New York for his new club and could make his debut against Orlando City on Sunday.

“I want to start because it is a new experience”. I will be available in order to achieve the best results.

“I’ve been on vacation for a month, I did work during that month and I am feeling well, but we’ll see what happens on Sunday”.

“I think that soccer is one thing and money is another thing”.

Playing in New York, a city he says he knows well and enjoys, in front of the huge Italian community in the area was also a draw, as was the chance to help a growing league like MLS continue its ascendancy.

“I came to New York City as a player, so my objective is to take the team as high as possible, preferably to victory”. “But the level is growing with many players coming in from Europe and South America, so I hope it will continue to improve”.

‘I’m not one that cares for publicity.

“We have a long way to go in the season”. We have a lot to work on.

“Unfortunately I can’t turn back the clock”. Now I just want to find my best condition. Certain matches are so important and it would be hard for me to ever play in them again. In fact, with a new adventure the passion always grows.

“Yes, I spoke to Conte about the decision I had in mind”.

The former Juve and AC Milan maestro even took some time out to tutor a group of young players at the Downtown United club in his new city.