Legendary Italy midfielder Rino Gattuso has paid tribute to his former team-mate and friend Andrea Pirlo, after the graceful play-maker decided to retire from the game.
Gattuso and Pirlo played together at club and international level for many years and formed the heart of the AC Milan team which won two Champions Leagues in the early 2000s, as well as the Italy side which won the World Cup in 2006.
They also played against each other many times too but their friendship has endured throughout both of their trophy-laden career, and it seems they are both still close to this very day.
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As we told you earlier this week, Pirlo decided to hang-up his boots at the age of 38 following New York City FC's exit from the MLS play-offs on Sunday, and speaking in an interview with Radio 24, via AS, Gattuso said: "[He's] a really funny guy - and he could be a bit of a twat (laughs).
Pirlo and Gattuso were part of the AC Milan teams that lifted the 2003 and 2007 Champions Leagues, as well as forming the midfield of Italy's 2006 World Cup winning team. Images: PA
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"I've smacked him more times than Bud Spencer has hit Terence Hill. I remember one day, we were having lunch and I left my mobile phone on the table.
"When I wasn't looking, he secretly took my phone and sent text messages to [Milan president, Adriano] Galliani and [director of sport, Ariedo] Braida telling them that my sister was single - if they were interested..."
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"When I first saw Pirlo play I thought maybe I should change profession. Pirlo can do anything, he's an intelligent guy who is good at putting himself across".
So, can we perhaps expect to see Pirlo and Gattuso cross paths as a pair of managers in the not too distant future? Let's hope so.
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Topics: Football News, Football, Andrea Pirlo, AC Milan, Gennaro Gattuso, Italy
