Andrea Pirlo was no stranger to the biggest stages in world football during his 22-year senior career. From battling AC Milan's local rivals Inter in the San Siro to fierce Champions League ties in hostile atmospheres, the Italian maestro saw it all.
He was rarely phased in the loudest stadiums around, either, as Pirlo was perhaps the most composed midfielder of his generation. The retired metronome was a key performer for AC Milan, Juventus and the Italy national team, being trusted with controlling the biggest games from the middle of the park.
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Despite his unshakable confidence in possession, 'The Professor' was still able to soak in the brilliant atmospheres he played in during his long and successful career. British football is known to have some of the most passionate fan bases around, and Pirlo acknowledged two particular stadiums he loved visiting at the recent Golden Boomerang Awards.
Andrea Pirlo on 'Memorable' Old Trafford
'The fans are always incredible'
Speaking to GIVEMESPORT on behalf of Boomerang, Pirlo was asked to name the best British grounds he experienced in his playing days. The first iconic stadium that came to mind for the two-time Champions League winner was Manchester United's Old Trafford.
'The Theatre of Dreams' is the biggest venue for club football in England, with a capacity of over 74,000. Man United supporters are also among the most energetic and loudest in the world, especially during the height of their success under Sir Alex Ferguson.
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He visited the English giants three times for AC Milan in the Champions League, but was only on the winning side once, as Hernan Crespo netted in a narrow 1-0 victory in 2005. Despite then losing his next two trips to the red side of Manchester, Pirlo was glowing in his praise for Old Trafford, saying:
"One of the most memorable away stadiums I’ve played at, in terms of atmosphere, would be Old Trafford in Manchester. The energy and passion of the fans are always incredible."
Pirlo Loved the Atmosphere at Celtic Park
The Italian hero enjoyed the Scottish emotion
Secondly, he recalled yet another famously impressive footballing venue in Celtic Park. Home of the 55-time Scottish champions, the ground labelled 'Paradise' is electric on big European nights, in particular.
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Pirlo, having experienced the biggest and best atmospheres in the UK - including Liverpool's Anfield - claimed Celtic's stadium stood out to him. He stated:
"In terms of British stadiums, I would say Celtic Park in Scotland stands out. The atmosphere there is incredibly emotional."
It's not the first time he's been complimentary of the Glasgow-based club and everything that comes with it. Praising the fans, players and size of Celtic, Pirlo previously said (per Celtic FC):
"Celtic belong in the Champions League. It is not just the quality of players they have but everything they represent as a club. Their history, their fans, the stadium – it’s clubs like this that make the Champions League great."
Statistics in this article are courtesy of Transfermarkt. Correct as of 08-06-25.