Former midfield maestro confirms he ‘signed for Real Madrid’ in 2006

In a recent interview with Radio Serie A (h/t Football Italia) former Milan, Juventus and Italy football legend Andrea Pirlo revealed a surprising chapter in his illustrious career. The former midfield maestro revealed he had signed for Real Madrid in 2006.

This revelation comes as a significant twist during the backdrop of the notorious Calciopoli scandal that rocked Italian football during the same period.

Pirlo, a midfield maestro renowned for his elegance on the ball, disclosed that he inked a five-year contract with Real Madrid. This happened shortly after clinching the 2006 World Cup with the Italian national team. The timing of this move coincided with the chaos generated by the Calciopoli scandal. The scandal was a match-fixing controversy that implicated several Serie A clubs, including Pirlo’s former team, AC Milan.

Reflecting on the circumstances, Pirlo remarked, “The World Cup had just ended, and there was all the Calciopoli mess. There was a chance that Milan could play in Serie B, and Fabio Capello had moved to Real Madrid.” Pirlo had engaged in discussions with Capello and the club’s directors, reaching a preliminary agreement.

Pirlo helped Italy beat France on penalties in the 2006 World Cup final (Martin Rickett/PA)

However, uncertainty arose when, upon returning for Milan’s pre-season, they were informed of the club’s Serie A participation with a point deduction.

Caught between the allure of Real Madrid and loyalty to Milan, the former midfield maestro faced a pivotal moment. “I wasn’t sure because I had decided to go to Real Madrid, but coming back to Milanello, I met Adriano Galliani and my agent, and we agreed to continue the adventure,” Pirlo explained. In a dramatic turn of events, Galliani presented a contract, urging Pirlo and his representatives to fill in the financial details. Days later, the deal was signed, and Pirlo committed to remaining with AC Milan.

Pirlo eventually parted ways with Milan in 2011, joining forces with Antonio Conte’s Juventus. During his four-year stint in Turin, Pirlo showcased his footballing brilliance, contributing 19 goals in 164 appearances for the Old Lady. His time with Juventus marked a resurgence in his career, solidifying his status as one of the finest midfielders of his generation.

Fast forward to the present, and Andrea Pirlo has transitioned from a celebrated player to a managerial role. Currently serving as the head coach of Serie B side Sampdoria, Pirlo continues to leave his imprint on Italian football, both as a player with a remarkable journey and now as a coach navigating the intricate world of management. The revelation of his near move to Real Madrid provides fans with a fascinating glimpse into the intricate decisions that shape the careers of footballing icons.

With regards to transfers, Real Madrid do not plan to make any new signings in the coming market. The club however, has plans for the summer.