When AC Milan decided not to renew Pirlo's contract back in 2011 deeming the midfielder as being surplus to requirements, few would have imagined that he would be playing a pivotal role towards a team's progression to the final of arguably the biggest competition in club football.
Despite his growing age Pirlo still asserts authority in the middle of the park like no other midfielder can. He was hardly ever known for his exploits in the final third, but what he is capable of doing from a deeper role, makes him a huge asset for his club.
The midfield maestro has an expansive passing range and his knowledge of the whereabouts of other players is exceptional. He has been positioned in a more deeper role with the passage of time but this has hardly deterred his abilities and the 36 year old still possesses the poise and calmness he did in yesteryears.
However on Saturday, he will be against one of the best midfield in the world of football right now and it will be interesting to see whether the midfield genius can have a positive impact on the game. It is very likely that Barcelona will keep possession for lengthy periods like they do, which means that Juve will have to make the most of every time they get the ball.
Pirlo's genius can come in handy here especially if the Old Lady are to play counterattacking football. The midfield maestro is capable of unlocking defences with a single pass and if the Italian international can do that consistently on Saturday, his team can definitely have the upper hand.
Recent reports have linked the midfielder to a move to MLS, with Pirlo himself claiming that this could be his last match for the club.
"Ending my Juventus story by pocketing the Champions League would be a dream come true," said Pirlo.
"But I won't stop playing, I'll go on as long as I have the same great desire to keep training every day.
"Winning this tournament would admittedly be the best way to close [my Juventus career]. But I wouldn't go to another Italian team.
"Juventus will be my last Serie A team, whatever happens. The MLS could be an idea, but for the moment I don't have anything, Juve are the only thing on my mind."
The 36 year old has achieved remarkable milestones both for club and country, bowing out with a Champions League medal will definitely be a cherry on top and do justice to the phenomenal legacy he will leave behind.
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