5 players who peaked after turning 30

#1 Andrea Pirlo

Pirlo reached new levels with Juventus

Pirlo was one of the finest midfielders of his generation and his smooth and seductive playmaking has enthralled us all. Before turning thirty he had played the majority of his career in Milan, with both the clubs.

He began his fourth decade by winning the Serie A in Milan in 2011. Pirlo decided against extending his contract, however, making him a huge free agent. Juventus landed him in what was arguably one of the best bargains ever.

"When Andrea told me that he was joining us, the first thing I thought was: "God exists". A player of his level and ability, not to mention that he was free, I think it was the signing of the century!", said Gianluigi Buffon on Pirlo's arrival.

Pirlo hit new levels in Turin, guiding Juve to four titles in four years. He played in a deeper role compared to previous seasons, but was arguably more effective at the base of the midfield.

The European Championships in 2012 saw him hit his peak, as he led a less favoured Italy side to the final. Pirlo was majestic in the tournament, dictating play at will throughout.

The Italian was voted as the Serie A Player of the Year in three consecutive years from 2012 to 2014. He left Juventus for New York City in 2015, even when many thought he could have carried on for at least one more year.

Andrea Pirlo was a master technician who got better with age, a boon for millennials like myself.