On a historic Monday night, Daniel Maldini became the latest chapter in his family’s legendary football saga.
As he stepped onto the field for Italy in their 4-1 Nations League victory over Israel, he added a unique touch to an already impressive family legacy, becoming the third generation of Maldinis to represent the Azzurri.
Stepping Into the Spotlight
Daniel, now a midfielder for Monza, entered the game in the 74th minute, replacing Giacomo Raspadori.
His father, Paolo Maldini, was there in the stands, accompanied by his wife Adriana, to witness this significant moment.
The Maldinis, a family already etched into Italian football history, now stand as the only family to have represented Italy across three generations.
A Different Style, But Same Dream
Unlike his father Paolo and his grandfather Cesare, who both made their names as elite defenders, Daniel operates as an attacking midfielder.
Although their positions on the field differ, Daniel shares the same ambition—to add to the family’s remarkable legacy.
After the match, he expressed his excitement:
“It was a powerful feeling, really positive. I’m just happy to have made my debut and that the match went so well,” Daniel shared in a post-match interview with RAI Sport.
He continued, “We controlled the game well, and despite their goal, we were able to take back control and show the kind of football we’re capable of.”
A Debut Dedicated to Family
The moment was made even more special by the presence of his family.
“I’m so glad my parents were here. I’ll talk to them when I get home, and I dedicate this debut to my family and my friends, to those who support me.”
Daniel is determined to contribute to Italy’s squad, even though it’s already brimming with talent.
“I hope to add some quality where I can and help the team in any way possible,” he added.
Following Legendary Footsteps
Daniel is certainly following in the shadows of giants. His father, Paolo Maldini, is regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history.
He captained both Italy and AC Milan, winning an array of trophies, including seven Serie A titles and five European Cups/Champions League crowns.
Paolo’s career spanned 25 seasons, during which he earned 126 caps for Italy—only surpassed by Gianluigi Buffon and Fabio Cannavaro.
The Maldini football tradition began with Daniel’s grandfather, Cesare Maldini, who claimed four league titles with AC Milan and won the European Cup.
He even coached the Italian national team before his passing in 2016 at the age of 84.
The Next Chapter for Daniel
Though he’s still early in his career, Daniel has already tasted success, winning Serie A with AC Milan in 2021-22, though he played a minor role at the time.
His permanent move to Monza last summer has given him the opportunity to make a mark of his own.
Now, over 22 years after Paolo’s last appearance for Italy and 61 years since Cesare’s, the Italians have a new Maldini to cheer for.
What’s next for Daniel? With the weight of a rich football heritage behind him, the world is watching closely as he continues to forge his own path.
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