OFFICIAL: Andrea Pirlo announces retirement from football

The veteran brings the curtain down on an illustrious career that saw him win two Champions Leagues, a World Cup and six Serie A titles during spells with the likes of AC Milan, Juventus and Inter Milan.

His final appearance as a pro came on Sunday evening as he came off the bench late on for New York City against Columbus Crew.

The 38-year-old left the following message on his official Twitter page: 'Last match in MLS. As my time in NYFC comes to an end I would like to say a few words.

'I want to thank everybody for the kindness and support they have shown me in this incredible city. Thank you to the amazing supporters, thank you to the coaching staff and everybody that works behind the scenes, thank you to my team-mates.

'Not only my adventure in NY comes to an end, but my journey as a football player as well.

'That is why I would like to take the opportunity to thank my family and my children for the support and love they always give me, every team that I had the honour to play for, every team-mate I have been pleased to play alongside, all the people that made my career so incredible, and last but not least, all the fans around the world that always showed me support.

'You will always be on my side and in my heart.' 

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— Andrea Pirlo (@Pirlo_official) 6 November 2017