114 OVR Defining Legacies Andrea Pirlo Player Review
Written by Sloane FC • Jul 4, 2025Andrea Pirlo Player Review
Pros
Surprising Pace
For a deep-lying midfielder, Pirlo is surprisingly quick. He tracks back effectively, covers ground well during transitions, and can quickly move into open spaces when needed.
Elite Passing
Arguably one of the best passers in the game. From long switches to sharp short passes under pressure, Pirlo rarely misplaces a pass. He dictates the tempo, unlocks defenses, and keeps the attack flowing with ease.
Versatility
Pirlo can also play effectively as a CM. His 4★ weak foot adds reliability when passing or shooting on either side, making him a dependable option for more advanced midfield roles as well.
Deep Playmaking Ability
An excellent playmaker who controls the game's rhythm from deep positions. He helps in both build-up play and chance creation, constantly pulling the strings in midfield with precise passing.
Sharp Dribbling & Turns
Very agile for a CDM. His quick turns, feints, and directional changes allow him to evade pressing opponents easily. He feels smooth and controlled when gliding past defenders.
Tight Ball Control
Excellent close control and balance on the ball. He keeps possession well even under heavy pressure, which makes him an ideal outlet for retaining the ball in tough situations.
Reliable Long Shots
Pirlo has the ability to score from range with clean, powerful strikes. He can unleash dangerous shots outside the box, making him a scoring threat from deep positions.
5★ Skill Moves
Rare for a CDM, Pirlo boasts 5★ skill moves. This gives him creative freedom to pull off advanced dribbling moves, making him even more unpredictable in the midfield.
Great Stamina
Pirlo lasts the full 90 minutes with minimal fatigue. He maintains high energy levels and performance deep into matches, which is crucial in longer games or extra time.
Strong Defensive Presence
Reliable in tackles and interceptions. His excellent positioning allows him to break up attacks and regain possession effectively, making him dependable defensively.
Quick Recovery Speed
Drops back rapidly during counters, stabilizing the midfield, closing passing lanes, and preventing dangerous breakthroughs from the opposition.
Set-Piece Specialist
An excellent free-kick taker with a great mix of power and curve. He adds significant value during set-piece situations, whether taking direct shots or delivering into the box.
Balanced Work Rate
Helps both offensively and defensively, contributing to attacks without neglecting his defensive duties. His ability to transition between roles makes him highly adaptable.
Cons
Lower Physicality
Not as physically dominant as some CDMs. He can be overpowered in aggressive duels, especially against strong, physical midfielders or in aerial challenges.
Work Rate
His Medium/Medium work rate could be better suited with a higher defensive focus, as he doesn’t always prioritize dropping back aggressively during defensive phases.
Conclusion
Pirlo is a maestro in midfield—bringing world-class passing, calmness under pressure, and defensive composure. He’s a rare blend of a deep-lying playmaker who can also tackle and recover quickly. While not the most physical CDM, his intelligence, dribbling, and skill set make him an exceptional choice for players who value control and creativity from deep positions.
Rating: 9.7/10