Juventus maestro Andrea Pirlo talks Ancelotti, Real Madrid and his future

Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo's reputation as football's embodiment of James Dean (plus a fantastic beard) has exploded since his move to the Turin club, and he always proves one of the most interesting interviews in the sport.

Anybody who has read Pirlo's wildly quotable autobiography, "I Think Therefore I Play," can attest to the intrigue of the 35-year-old (and anybody who hasn't should rectify that immediately).

The Italian, preparing for Tuesday's Champions League semifinal against Real Madrid, lived up to his billing in a wide-ranging interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport that was published Monday.

Here are the highlights:

On former manager Carlo Ancelotti

Pirlo spent eight years working with Ancelotti when the two were at AC Milan.

"It's like rediscovering your father again. He changed my career, putting me in front of the defence. We shared some unforgettable moments. We had a magnificent past together."

On Juventus's growth this season under Max Allegri

Allegri, much derided after taking over for the departed Antonio Conte, has taken the club to new heights this season.

We've matured a lot these years and the experience we've gained in Europe has helped the team in general. In the three seasons under (Antonio) Conte, we were still lacking something - maybe we just weren't ready - but this year our belief that we can beat anybody has grown as the season has progressed.

We play good football, without any fear or concerns. Yes, we are on a par with Real, right to the end. We don't need a miracle. We've got nothing to lose so we go out there with our heads free, pursuing our dream.

On his future

Could MLS be on the horizon?

It would actually be a dream way to end my time in Turin, by winning the Champions League. But I wouldn't stop playing altogether. I'm going to continue for as long as I still have the great desire to train every day. Certainly I wouldn't stay in Italy - Juve will be my last Serie A club no matter what.

(The United States) is an option, but there's nothing definite yet. I'm still only thinking about Juve, and besides - let's get our hands on that trophy first and then we'll see.

- With translation from ESPN FC