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Andrea Pirlo is the quiet man at the heart of Italy's midfield.

Described as "soccer's Leonardo" for his inventive play, Pirlo has also been called "the metronome" for the way he sets his team's timing and pace.

With Francesco Totti now retired from international play, Pirlo is more important than ever for the Azzurri. You wouldn't know it by talking to him.

Pirlo is one of the most understated, introverted players at the sport's highest level. Just getting a smile out of him takes effort.

"That's how I am. I'm not interested in becoming famous," he said recently. "I prefer to spend my free time with …