Milan's Daniel Maldini is a Third-Generation Title Winner with Rossoneri

Paolo Maldini and Daniel Maldini celebrating after winning the Scudetto at the end of Sassuolo-Milan at Mapei Stadium

Daniel Maldini: Like grandfather, like father, like son

Pride as son Daniel lifted his first-ever Serie A title

The Maldini name has been synonymous with AC Milan and a new chapter was scripted in the rich history of the family with the Italian giants. Daniel Maldini, son of Paolo Maldini, scored on his first start for his father and grandfather’s club last year.

Daniel Maldini became the third member of his incredible footballing family to win a Serie A title with Milan.

The 20-year-old made eight appearances in Serie A as the Rossoneri claimed a 19th league title with a 3-0 victory over Sassuolo on the final day of the campaign.

Despite not being a regular first-team player, Daniel made a telling contribution to the Scudetto win with the opening goal in a 2-1 win away at Spezia.

Paolo is regarded as one of the greatest defenders in history, having played 902 times for Milan during a stunning 25-year career.

He won seven titles and five European Cups, while also being capped 126 times for Italy.

25 years at one club. One of the greatest defenders and players of all time. Part of multiple great Milan teams to have dominated Europe. Il Capitano’s resume built on the work put by his father on the club and alleviated their family’s claim to dizzying heights.

Paolo started his Milan career as a 17-year-old right-back but quickly switched onto the left flank because his left foot was considered to be better. His first real breakthrough came in the 1987-88 season when he was part of AC Milan’s iconic defensive display throughout the season, where they conceded a mere 14 goals. The consistent league performance earned him a spot in the Italian team and he was a regular for them until his international retirement in 2003.

But Paolo too was following in the footsteps of greatness.

Grandfather Cesare, who passed away in 2016 aged 84, played 412 times for Milan.

Maldini and Milan is a partnership that has been going on since 1954. Cesare Maldini started his career with the Italian club Triestina before making the switch. Once in Milan, he led the team to four Serie A titles and one European Cup in 12 years at the club.

Like father, like son

International, Cesare earnt 14 caps for Italy and was part of the team in the 1962 World Cup. He captained both club and country.

After retiring in 1967, Cesare then went on to coach Milan twice, and Foggia and Parma as well. But his success as a manager was far more on the international level. Cesare was the three-time winner of the European Under-21 championship as coach of the Italy u21 team. He then coached the Italian senior men’s team at the 1998 World Cup and then the Paraguay WC team during the 2002 event.

With Daniel now joining the Maldini legacy of Serie A winners, all eyes will be on the midfielder to see if he can now land more silverware.

Sources: