Andrea Pirlo has retired from football after a successful playing career in both Europe and the United States. The 38-year-old made the announcement on his official Twitter account (h/t BBC Sport) after completing his stint with Major League Soccer side New York City FC.
Following a 4-3 aggregate defeat to Columbus Crew in the conference semi-final on Sunday, the Italian said: "Not only [is it that] my adventure in New York comes to an end but my journey as a football player as well." Pirlo's statement also included a note of thanks for "every team that I had the honour to play for" and "every team-mate that I have been pleased to play alongside."
