The AC Milan schemer sustained the injury in Thursday's friendly defeat to Mexico and it is believed that he needs two weeks to be fit.

"It's an injury which worries me but there's time," team doctor Enrico Castellacci told reporters.

"The intention is to take him to South Africa to see if he can be fit. Before June 13 we can change players in the squad."

The Italian football federation said that Pirlo will miss the opening game against Paraguay on June 14th.