AC Milan legend Paolo Maldini returns to Italian giants in newly-created senior role
Former captain accepts sporting strategy and development director role as club targets a return to successful times
AC MILAN legend Paolo Maldini will return to the club after being named as their new sporting strategy and development director.
The 50-year-old is a hero among Rossoneri fans having collected a staggering 26 trophies during his time there.
That included five Champions League trophies, seven Serie A titles, four European Super Cups and one Fifa Club World Cup.
The former defender spent his entire 25-year playing career with the club before retiring in 2009 – and will now return in an official role.
Paolo Scaroni, executive chairman at the San Siro said: “There are few words to describe what Paolo Maldini represents for AC Milan.
“It was a privilege watching him as a player, winning countless trophies on the pitch, and I am excited and honoured to be working with him today in this new role.
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“Paolo’s leadership and experience will benefit the Club greatly, as will his passion and energy.”
AC Milan finished last season sixth in Serie A and failed to qualify for the Champions League.
Their struggles have also been matched off the pitch with US hedge fund Elliott Management taking over the Italian giants last month after the club’s Chinese owners failed to repay the debt.
Scaroni continued: “Today’s appointment is yet another sign of Elliott’s commitment to build a strong foundation for long-term success.
“It will not be easy and it will take time, but we have ambitious objectives, and Paolo’s appointment is an important step toward returning AC Milan to where it belongs.”