Andrea Pirlo appointed as a Juventus manager

• Andrea Pirlo has been appointed as coach by Juventus just hours after sacking Maurizio Sarri following the club’s Champions League elimination against Lyon, the club announced on Saturday.

Pirlo, 41, was a legendary player for the club, as well as AC Milan and Italy over his storied career, winning numerous league titles, the Champions League and a World Cup in 2006. He was appointed manager of Juventus’ Under-23 side just last month but has now signed a two-year contract to coach the first team.

Under Sarri, Juventus suffered a round of 16 exit to the French club despite a 2-1 win on Friday night, losing on the away goals rule as the tie ended 2-2 on aggregate.