Paolo Maldini looks on
Paolo Maldini is widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history. The Italian Rolls-Royce experienced almost everything the beautiful game could offer, with his illustrious career at AC Milan stretching across three decades.
After making his debut in 1984 and eventually retiring 25 years later in 2009, Maldini lifted five European Cups/Champions Leagues as well as seven Serie A titles. His European adventures, in particular, saw the versatile defender play at some of the biggest and best stadiums in world football.
Collage featuring Man Utd's Ryan Giggs, Roma's Francesco Totti and Barcelona's Carlos Puyol.
Collage featuring Man Utd's Ryan Giggs, Roma's Francesco Totti and Barcelona's Carlos Puyol.
Ahead of an AC Milan legends match in 2018, Maldini spoke highly of a famous British stadium. A side packed with some of the Serie A club's greatest-ever stars travelled to Merseyside to face a Liverpool Legends XI.
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The retired defender was preparing for the Legends' fixture, which was due to be held the following year, when he said: "It’s a true honour to be part of this great match."
Remembering the famous Champions League final in 2005 against Liverpool, the former left-back added: "Games against Liverpool have always been hard-fought battles until the very last minute.
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Although the greatest European comeback of all time took place in Istanbul with Maldini on the losing side, the former Italy international did describe Anfield as a 'special' stadium. Reflecting on the extraordinary noise generated inside the ground, he said:
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Jamie Carragher and Steven Gerrard celebrate winning the Champions League in 2005
Despite suffering a three-goal comeback in the second half of the 2005 clash with the Reds, Maldini is adamant that his side performed exceptionally well for most of the contest. According to GOAL, he lamented the brief 10-minute period in which the Italians lost control. He said in 2019:
Maldini himself opened the scoring inside the first minute before Hernan Crespo added two more goals late in the opening period. Steven Gerrard then led the English giants' remarkable comeback, scoring a header before earning the penalty that brought the score level. The Reds ultimately held their nerve in the shootout, winning on penalties and securing a place in football history for that unforgettable match.