What’s the story?
Antonio Conte is in talks with Andrea Pirlo to join his coaching staff, according to Ray Wilkins. The former Chelsea assistant and caretaker manager is highly reliable for the news and rumours related to The Blues' and has now revealed that the legendary Italian is set to join the club as a coach.
“Pirlo, the Italian, speaks English and he can come in tomorrow. I know for a fact he’s been around Stamford Bridge a few times this season. He’s the one I’m sure he wants to bring in - he managed him until he was 34 at Juventus.” said Wilkins while talking to talkSPORT.
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In case you didn’t know...
Conte was the manager who brought him to Juventus when he was released by AC Milan. The Chelsea manager managed him till he was 34 before he left to become the Italy manager.
The Italian legend has spoken a lot about the manager's impact on him and has said that he's his favourite manager. "Conte for me is the best coach. He is a genius. He works every day, every single moment for soccer, for the team, every small detail." said Pirlo.
The heart of the matter
Steve Holland, who has been Chelsea's assistant manager for a long time, has taken up the job of being Gareth Southgate's assistant for England. That has left a vacant spot in the backroom staff, and Conte wants Pirlo to fill it.
Andrea Pirlo is still under contract at New York City FC but is expected to retire at the end of the season. The Italian has been spotted at Stamford Bridge a lot of times this season.
Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba have also been linked with a return to the club in coaching roles. While Lampard has confirmed his retirement, Drogba is yet to announce his retirement, despite being without a club.
What’s next?
Pirlo is expected to join the Chelsea backroom staff once the MLS season ends in October. The player has hinted at a retirement as he has already turned 37.
The arrival of Pirlo would benefit the likes of N'Golo Kante, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Nemanja Mati and Nathaniel Chalobah a lot. And with Tiemoué Bakayoko also linked with a move to the London club, it would only improve the squad even more.
Author’s Take
Pirlo's qualities are not unknown. Any team would love to have him as a coach and it’s a surprise that no other side is trying to get him.
