Juventus and Italy legend Alessandro Del Piero has signed a two-year contract with Australian club Sydney FC.

The 37 year-old completed the free switch despite interest from European clubs.

The move had been mooted for a while but the believed interest of the likes of Liverpool and Olympiakos delayed the switch.

Legend

Legend is a word that is bandied about far too regularly these days, but Alessandro Del Piero is a true legend of the Italian game. His domestic career spanned 19 years with the Old Lady of Italian football and he won literally every trophy he could have in club football.

He was also part of the Italy team that won the World Cup in 2006, despite scandal in the game back home. He is a true football great.

Challenge

Playing in a new league and a new country will present the former-Italian international with a fresh challenge. Playing in the A-League will also allow Del Piero more playing time, as during his last years at Juve he was increasingly used as a substitute.

The move will also provide Del Piero with a chance to experience a new lifestyle and that’s no bad thing. I’m sure he is keen to sample what Australia, and Sydney in particular has to offer.

Applauded

The veteran striker has to be applauded for the fact that he wants to carry on playing, even though he really could have retired from the game. I think he should also be applauded for the fact he has chosen lifestyle over money.

I’m sure he received far more lucrative offers from European clubs, but he chose to move to Australia because of the lifestyle it has to offer. In these days of footballers being controlled by money it really is refreshing to see a football move for more than merely the financial gains on offer.

Good luck Alessandro in Australia. I’m sure I speak for Juventus when I say I hope that you are a big success and you enjoy your time in Oz.

Is Sydney FC the right club for Alessandro Del Piero?