NYCFC Introduces Andrea Pirlo In Press Conference As Coach Jason Kreis Calls Him “The Perfect Fit”
Soccer News: On Thursday, after two official practices, New York City FC officially introduced the third Designated Player, midfielder Andrea Pirlo—a player that Coach Jason Kreis calls a perfect fit. “It has always been our goal to play a style that would really suit Andrea, to play a possession style game, a dominant game, a game where we’re dictating the tempo of the match. And for someone who dictates the tempo of the match, this should be the perfect fit.” While Kreis praised Pirlo, no clues were given as to when his debut with the club, and Major League Soccer, will take place—a pressing question many have.
The Italian midfielder has already had two practices with his new team—but according to Kreis, Pirlo’s performance at Thursday’s practice really impressed the other players. “He had his first real opportunity to show some of his qualities and you could hear the chatter among the players that they were quite impressed,” Kreis said.
However, despite a great practice, it is still unknown if Andrea will join his new teammates on the field at Sunday’s match against Orlando City SC. The designated player has just come off a month long vacation. When asked if he will play, Pirlo’s response was, “We’ll see what happens Sunday”—a point that his coach agreed with.
“It’s a day by day process. We’re not ready to make that decision today and we don’t need to make it today,” Kreis said. Should Pirlo make an appearance at the pitch Sunday, it will only help his transition process as Jason informed reporters that this period will come through playing matches. “It takes some time but we’re going to do everything in our power to make that time as short as possible,” Jason added.
This is certainly an exciting time for the club, who are currently three points out of the playoffs spot. They have added yet another European soccer legend to the team—one who is certainly eager to play and who’s passion for the sport is still just as strong as it was when he started to play. When asked by reporters about discussions regarding his old age, Pirlo made it clear that he doesn’t feel old, but rather that he feels like playing. “The passion is still there,” Pirlo reassured the media.
With this next chapter in his career, his love for the sport has only grown—evident by the fact that he has yet to retire. If he had no more interest in playing, Andrea would have “stayed in Italy, probably played a few more games and then left soccer”.
Pirlo’s goals are aligned with those of the club: to win and make the playoffs. Unlike David Beckham, who made the move to the MLS and owns the Miami MLS team, Pirlo’s priority isn’t to be an ambassador of the league.
“I came here to be a soccer player, to do the best for the team and possibly make my team the winner.”
“I was hired by NYCFC to play.” If in some way, he could help make MLS big, then he will. Pirlo cites that though the league is currently young, the level of play is one that is physical and demanding but is improving. But for now, Pirlo hopes to help take the club to the playoffs—a point that Coach Kreis reiterated at the conclusion of the conference.
“Andrea’s role in our team is not to be here as an ambassador. Andrea’s role is to be one of the most important players in our team,” said Kreis.
“Andrea’s role is to help this team win and win now.”
Both NYCFC and MLS have gained momentum, with Kreis describing it as an “incredible time for our league.” The numerous international soccer legends who have signed with American clubs serves as a testament. With the final designated player—one that has won two UEFA Champions League titles, and the 2006 FIFA World Cup with the Italian national team—introduced, all eyes are on Pirlo to see when he’ll play alongside his new club in his new hometown.
Following the press conference, Pirlo made a surprise appearance at the Downtown United Soccer Club—surprising the kids (wearing Pirlo shirts) who were practicing and developing their skills. Pirlo joined in on the action, passing the soccer ball now and then as he walked around and watched the excited kids play. With the New York City buildings in the background, it was clear that Andrea Pirlo was ready to get started and complete his goal.
Watch Andrea Pirlo’s debut training here.
