Andrea Pirlo to retire from international duties after the Brazil World Cup

Topics: FIFA World Cup, World Cup 2014, Italy, Andrea Pirlo

Andrea Pirlo announced that he will retire from international duties after the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

In a recent interview, after renewing his contract with Juventus for an additional two years, Andrea Pirlo talked about his future with Italy’s national team. The Italian maestro said:

“As I already said, I am still thinking of retiring after this World Cup, as I have a certain age and it’s only right to leave the field to the next generation coming through," said Pirlo. "It would be pointless to continue.”

EURO 2012: Pirlo humiliated England's number 1 with an amazing chip-shot during the penalty kicks

The 35-year-old however, did not want to be excessively final in his decision and chose to leave the door half-way open for Italy. The creative midfielder stated:

"If I am needed, then there’s no problem in coming back. If I come on international duty and don’t play, then I’d get angry! It’s perhaps better I stay home...”

During the European Championship in 2012 there were just not enough English players on the pitch to stop the pass-master

With regards to the World Cup, Pirlo believes Italy has everything necessary to go all the way to the final. Juventus’ player revealed:

“Can Italy win the World Cup? Of course. When I play, it is solely to win. I am never just content with getting through the round […] We have what it takes to go far.”

Andrea Pirlo was one of Italy's most important players to win the 2006 World Cup

The 2006 World Champion then talked about their first opponent, England. Against the Three Lions, the Azzurri needed the penalties to eliminate them during Euro 2012, due to the English squad’s deep and incessant defending. The architect announced:

“We know England are a good team, that has improved a lot. They have new young players, who are fast. We will have to be careful. However, we know how to face them. Italy has always played great games against England and hence we will have our chances.”

During the 2012 Euros, the Italian maestro had more passes individually than England's entire team put together