Daniel Maldini wrote a new pub quiz on Monday night as he became the third generation of his family to play for Italy.
The Monza midfielder replaced Giacomo Raspadori in the 74th minute of Italy’s 4-1 Nations League victory over Israel in Udine.
Father Paolo sat in the stands and watched with his wife Adriana as their son’s debut meant that the Maldini are the only family to represent the Azzurri across three generations.
While Daniel does not positionally follow Paolo and grandfather Cesare (both were defenders rather than attacking midfielders), he hopes to add to their legacy.
“It was a strong, positive feeling. I’m very happy to have entered and that the game went well,” said Maldini. RAI Sport via TUTTO mercato WEB.
Daniel Maldini became the third generation of his family to play for the Italian national team
The 23-year-old played against Israel to follow in the footsteps of Paolo and Cesare
Father Paolo is a legend for both Italy and AC Milan, where he spent his entire career.
Grandfather Cesare won multiple titles with AC Milan, serving Italy as a player and coach.
“The game was always under control until the goal, but then we did well to recover it and we saw our football in action.
‘I’m glad my parents were here, I’ll talk to them when I get home. I dedicate this debut to my family and my friends, those who love me.
“I hope to contribute a little quality, although the team already has a lot, and help in every way possible.”
Follow in the footsteps of two legends.
Father Paolo is widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders of all time, captaining Italy and AC Milan to great success.
They won seven Serie A titles, five European Cup/Champions League crowns and were runners-up in the World Cup. He was also noted for his longevity, accumulating 25 seasons at San Siro as a single-club player and making 126 international appearances for Italy, surpassed only in that field by Gianluigi Buffon and Fabio Cannavaro.
Grandfather Cesare won four league titles with AC Milan, a European Cup and even coached the national team. He died at age 84 in 2016.
With such a rich heritage, Daniel is one to watch. He won Serie A with AC Milan in 2021-22, but was largely a supporting player.
After moving permanently to Monza in the summer, his good form has put him on a path long trodden by his elders. It has been more than 22 years since his father played in Italy, 61 since his grandfather did. Finally the Italians have a new Maldini to cheer for.