Paolo Maldini

Paolo Maldini (born June 26, 1968 in Milan) is a defender of world repute for AC Milan.

He is the son of Cesare Maldini and one of the most famous members of the Italian national football team. Maldini is a defender who now predominantly plays the position of centre back although he sometimes plays at left back which is his original position in the team. Throughout his long career, he has remained a one club man with A.C. Milan, where he holds the current captaincy, and has currently made the most appearances for the club (as well as any player in Serie A) after having passed Franco Baresi’s record of 512.

Maldini is widely regarded as the best defender of his era and one of the greatest defenders of all time. He is well known for his influential captaincy, ice-cool temperament, well timed attacking runs, outstanding headers, his outstanding ability to play with both feet and flawless defending. Approaching 40 years of age, he is still playing at the very highest level, which is confirmed by his inclusion in the FIFPro World XI in 2005, his nomination to the UEFA Champions League 2004-2005 most valuable defender title, second place in Golden Foot nominations in 2005, and a top-ten finish in the voting for the 2005 FIFA World Player of the Year.