Andrea Pirlo returns to Italy to educate Sampdoria in Serie B after a season in Turkey

GENOA, Italy (AP) – Andrea Pirlo is returning to Italy as coach of Serie B membership Sampdoria.

Pirlo, who coached Turkish membership Fatih Karagümrük final season, signed a two-year contract, Sampdoria introduced Tuesday.

Pirlo, the previous midfield maestro who helped Italy to the 2006 World Cup title, started his teaching profession at Juventus however lasted only one disappointing season with the Bianconeri.

Last season, Pirlo coached Fatih Karagümrük to seventh place within the Turkish league.

Sampdoria gained solely three matches final season and completed backside in Serie A, which resulted in relegation. Combined with the promotion of metropolis rival Genoa to the highest flight, Sampdoria is below stress to carry out below Pirlo.

Pirlo replaces Dejan Stankovic, whose contract expired on the finish of the season.

___