Italy playmaker Andrea Pirlo joins New York from Juventus

New York City FC Manager Jason Kreis (R) introduces the team's third Designed Player, Italian international Andrea Pirlo, at an event in New York, July 23, 2015.  [Photo/Agencies]

Pirlo has spent his entire professional career in Italy. An exceptional passer, he has won two Champions League titles and six Italian league titles. He has made 115 appearances for Italy and was part of the 2006 World Cup-winning squad.

"Nobody could question that in Pirlo we are bringing one of the best in the world and one of the finest players to come to MLS," Kreis said.

New York City FC Sporting Director Claudio Reyna called Pirlo ``one of the most recognized and influential players in world soccer.''

Pirlo spent four years at Juventus after joining from Serie A rival AC Milan, and helped it to the Champions League final this year. Juventus lost to Barcelona after having won the Italian Cup and the league title.

"It's difficult to put what I feel into words, especially as it involves four such important years of my life," Pirlo wrote on Twitter account. "I can only say a huge THANK YOU to everyone who has accompanied and supported me in this adventure ... A heartfelt thanks to all of you."

Juventus said in a statement that it was an "honor and a privilege" to have had Pirlo on the team, adding: "Thanks for everything, Maestro, and good luck."