Andrea Pirlo set for Juventus return as Under-23’s boss from next season as 41-year-old takes first managerial step
ANDREA PIRLO is set to return to Juventus as their Under-23's boss from next season, according to reports.
The midfield maestro secured his coaching badges at the world-famous Italian coaching school - the Coverciano - after hanging his boots up in 2017.
The 41-year-old will reportedly lead the Bianconeri's Under 23's team with close pal Roberto Baronio as his assistant next term.
The squad plays in the third tier of Italian football - Serie C Group A - and is currently coached by Fabio Pecchia, another ex-Juventus ace.
Pecchia bagged the Coppa Italia Serie C trophy with the U23s before the coronavirus crisis put football across the globe on standby.
The Italian legend played at the Old Lady for four-years and was regarded as one of the best midfield operators of his generation.
Arguably, he saw his best form come in his 30s, where he would dominate Champions League games for Juve in the middle of the park, as well as become the national team's lynchpin.
He won six Serie A and two Champions League titles with AC Milan and the Bianconeri.
A respected Italian newspaper once reported that Pirlo is seen to be the embodiment of the "Juve brand", and there's no doubt the fans would be delighted to welcome on of their "club legends" back.
Pirlo's decision to move into coaching was reportedly inspired by his former boss Antonio Conte as the Italy legend claimed the current Inter Milan boss is the best coach he's ever worked with.
Pirlo said: “Conte is the best coach I ever worked with.
"Every day he showed us 40-50 minute video sessions.
"It’s because of him that I started considering the idea of becoming a coach myself.
The pair worked together for three years when Conte was Pirlo's manager at Juventus, winning three Serie A titles during that spell.