5 best players to move from Europe to MLS

#2 Andrea Pirlo

Toronto FC v New York City FC

New York City boasted a classy roster as they first exploded into existence, with former Spain international striker David Villa and ex-Chelsea star Frank Lampard dreaming up with Italy great Andrea Pirlo, who saw out his career in the Big Apple.

A cultured midfielder who was once branded “a genius” by Johan Cruyff, his game was based on vision and technique.

“Pirlo spots a pass in a split-second that lesser players could spend a whole lifetime waiting to see,” Carlo Ancelotti said of the former Juventus man, who AC Milan foolishly released in 2011, believing he was past his prime.

The Brescia-born midfielder was 36 when he eventually made his way to the MLS as one of expansion team New York City’s marquee players, instantly making an impact as he played a vital role as a substitute on debut in a 5-3 win over Orlando City.

But his time in the US was not straightforward by any means. He faced criticism for his poor work rate defensively, while his team failed to live up to expectations in their first season, missing out on the playoffs, despite a lavishly built squad.

Two Eastern Conference semi-finals followed, but both resulted in disappointment for the Italian, who quit the game the day after defeat in 2017.