‘Pirlo key for Dortmund game’

By Football Italia staff

Mauro Camoranesi says it would be ‘key’ for Juventus if Andrea Pirlo were to recover in time for the Champions League second leg.

The Italian international limped out of the first leg against Borussia Dortmund with a calf injury, and was later confirmed to be facing three weeks on the sidelines.

The Bianconeri went on to win 2-1, but former winger Mauro Camoranesi says they’ll need Pirlo back if they’re to complete the job next week.

“It’s hard to pick a favourite,” Camoranesi mused as he discussed the match with Tuttosport.

“It’s one of the most balanced Last 16 ties, the 2-1 at [Juventus] Stadium means everything is open.

“Juve are a great team, but Borussia are very tough to deal with, I wouldn’t set much store by the problems they’ve had in the League.

“The atmosphere is red-hot in Dortmund, but it’s the players who win the games.

“Pirlo? Andrea is unique, and to have him back for Dortmund would be essential. Having him on the pitch shifts the balance.

“Sometimes I hear criticism against him and I laugh. Pirlo can never be a problem, he solves problems.

“I was convinced that Pirlo could play until he’s 40, but given the current level of Italian football he can play until he’s 50 or 53. I don’t see anyone around with his quality or intelligence.”

The former Italian international also had praise for Juventus Coach Massimiliano Allegri, saying he’s always admired him.

“He’s a Coach I’ve always liked, but of course it’s easy to say that now given the results. Compared to the standard Juventus Coach, his teams play in a more relaxed way.

“There are fewer systems and diagrams, and more freedom for individual players to make decisions.”

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