Andrea Pirlo praised Juventus” data-scaytid=”2″>Juventus teammate Paul Pogba, explained his Milan exit and revealed his choice for the Ballon d’Or.
Andrea Pirlo praised Juventus teammate Paul Pogba, explained his Milan exit and revealed his choice for the Ballon d’Or.
The midfielder sat down with Sky Sport Italia to discuss his career ahead of Sunday’s showdown with Napoli. It kicks off at 19.45 GMT, click here for a match preview.
“Winning on Sunday would allow us to stay close to Roma, who are doing very well. I didn’t expect them to win so many games, though I always knew they had quality.
“Napoli have changed their style under Rafa Benitez and always go out to win, whereas before they focused heavily on the counter-attack. I have above all been impressed by Gonzalo Higuain, who really is a great buy.”
Pirlo is the only Italian in the running for the Ballon d’Or this year and he was asked who he would give it to.
“I am very pleased to be in amongst all those champions. I’d give it to Franck Ribery, as this year he proved that he is a great player and won so much with Bayern Munich.
“Pogba can become the best midfielder in the world. He has strength, technique and the right mentality.”
Pirlo arrived at Juventus as a free agent after his contract with Milan was allowed to expire, ending 10 years at the club.
“We had reached the end of an era with Milan and they needed a new generation to step in. It doesn’t surprise me that they are struggling at the moment, but it’s just a matter of time.”