AC Milan and Juventus legend Andrea Pirlo lands surprising new job as coach of second-tier club

Pirlo is set to mark his return to football management less than 11 months after his last job. The legendary midfielder has been announced as the new head coach of UAE's second-tier side United FC, more commonly known as Dubai United. In his last job, he was the coach of Serie B side Sampdoria from July 2023 to August 2024.

The Italian manager will be tasked with guiding the Emirati outfit to promotion to the top flight, UAE Pro League, which has been the club's goal since its foundation in 2022. Pirlo will try to put aside the disappointment of his time at Sampdoria, which ended on 29 August 2024 due to his dismissal following the Blucerchiati's poor start to the league season.

Two years ago, his stay in Turkey at the helm of Fatih Karagumruk ended prematurely with the termination of his contract three games before the end of the Super Lig. His first-ever job was with Juventus in the 2020-21 season.

"United FC is delighted to officially announce the appointment of Andrea Pirlo as the new head coach of the first team," a press release from the club read.

"We are proud to welcome Andrea to the United FC family. He embodies the values and ambitions of our club, and we believe he will be a key figure in taking us to the next level," president Ilie Cebanu stated.

Pirlo is already in Dubai where, in the coming days, he will begin preparations for the new season with the team. The UAE First Division League kicks off on September 19, with Dubai United playing away against Al Thaid the following day.

Additional reporting by Vittorio Rotondaro.