TO TAKE A BOW IN 2014

Andrea Pirlo has revealed that he may
retire from international football if Italy
are successful at the 2014 FIFA World
Cup.
Pirlo won the World Cup with Italy in
2006 and came close to securing glory
at the 2012 UEFA European
Championships as the Azzurri lost in
the final to Spain.
The 34-year-old has also enjoyed success at club level with Juventus in recent
times, helping them to consecutive Serie A titles.
Pirlo, who was part of the Italy side that finished third at the recent FIFA
Confederations Cup, admitted that one of his main goals for the new season is to
help his country secure their spot in Brazil next year.
"When I was little I always dreamed about becoming a professional player and to able
to play in a World Cup," he said.
"I was lucky enough to win one so all of my dreams came true. I'm still playing and
the task ahead is to go and try to win another World Cup.
"We are not qualified yet, but we hope to do so quite soon because I can't wait for it
and I want to have my ticket for that flight back to Brazil."
Pirlo is approaching the latter stages of his career, but he continues to perform at the
highest level.
However, the midfielder did hint that he may step away from the international scene if
Italy have a strong World Cup.
He added: "If things go well that will probably be the time so say thanks and
goodbye to everybody."