Italy football legend Andrea Pirlo has officially returned to management, taking over as the new head coach of Dubai-based United FC, a rising club in the UAE First Division. The former Juventus and AC Milan midfielder has signed a two-year deal that will see him lead the club until the summer of 2027. This marks the fourth club in Pirlo’s managerial journey and is seen as a significant move both for him and the ambitious Emirati side.
With a reputation for tactical intelligence and calm leadership, Pirlo brings valuable European experience to a club aiming to establish itself in the UAE football scene. His arrival is expected to attract increased attention to United FC and further raise the profile of the UAE First Division, which has seen steady growth in recent years through foreign investments and emerging local talent.
Key Details of Andrea Pirlo’s Appointment
- Full Name: Andrea Pirlo
- Role: Head Coach
- Club: United FC (UAE First Division)
- Contract Duration: 2 years (until Summer 2027)
- Club Founded: September 2022
- Promotion Achieved: UAE Second Division (2022–23, 2nd place)
- First Match in Charge: September 20, 2025 vs Al Dhaid
- Previous Clubs Managed: Juventus, Fatih Karagümrük, Sampdoria
- Club President: Ilie Cebanu
- Club Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Andrea Pirlo’s Move to United FC
Andrea Pirlo, widely regarded as one of the finest midfielders in football history, has embarked on a new managerial chapter in the UAE. The appointment was made official this week, confirming Pirlo as the head coach of United FC, a club based in Dubai that was founded in September 2022.
The announcement has created a buzz in the Middle East football scene, as United FC looks to climb further up the domestic ladder under Pirlo’s leadership. With his extensive experience as a player and growing reputation as a coach, Pirlo is expected to bring international credibility and tactical discipline to the young UAE side.
United FC may be a recent addition to UAE football, but the club has made rapid progress since its inception. In their debut season (2022–23), they secured promotion from the UAE Second Division by finishing in second place. Since then, the team has successfully retained their UAE First Division status and is now preparing for the 2025–26 season with high ambitions.
Club President Ilie Cebanu expressed his excitement over Pirlo’s appointment, stating:
“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.”
Andrea Pirlo’s Coaching Journey
This appointment adds another chapter to Pirlo’s evolving managerial career. Previously, he has taken charge of three senior sides:
- Juventus (Italy) – 2020–2021
- Fatih Karagümrük (Turkey) – 2022–2023
- Sampdoria (Italy) – 2023–2024
At each club, Pirlo has shown promise, especially in nurturing young talent and implementing a possession-based style of play. His move to the UAE suggests a desire to take on new challenges in an emerging football market.
Pirlo’s appointment at United FC reflects a growing trend of Middle Eastern clubs attracting top European football names to boost visibility and competitive standards. His arrival is not only expected to benefit United FC but also shine a global spotlight on the UAE First Division, a league that is steadily developing its talent and infrastructure.
United FC’s strategic planning and international vision could make them a long-term contender in the regional football scene. With Pirlo at the helm, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how far the club can progress under his guidance.
FAQs
When did Andrea Pirlo join United FC?
Pirlo was officially appointed as head coach of United FC in July 2025.
What league does United FC play in?
United FC competes in the UAE First Division League.
How long is Pirlo’s contract with United FC?
He has signed a two-year contract, running through to the summer of 2027.
When is Pirlo’s first match as United FC manager?
His first game in charge is scheduled for September 20, 2025, against Al Dhaid.
Has Andrea Pirlo coached other clubs before?
Yes, he previously managed Juventus, Fatih Karagümrük, and Sampdoria.