Name:
Paolo Maldini
Date of Birth:
June 26, 1968
Position:
Defender
Clubs:
AC Milan (Italy)
AskMen's Rating of Player:
(skills, leadership, etc., out of 100)
88
Importance to Team:
8 out of 10
Why is he a key player?:
Paolo Maldini is considered by many the best attacking defender in the world of soccer. He has made more international appearances than any other Italian player. He is an icon back in Italy, where men emulate him and women want to bear his children. Despite the acclaim, fame and attention, Maldini's maturity has prevented his ego from inflating, making him a model professional and a coach's dream.
He is accustomed to playing on the international stage. He was on Italy's World Cup squads in 1990, 1994 and 1998. He has won the Italian league title six times, the European Champions Cup three times, and won't be afraid of the pressure Italy will have to win the World Cup.
He can control the pace of the game, even if he isn't a midfielder. He is as rock solid as a defenseman, but it is his offensive skills that set him apart. He can run across the entire field throughout the entire game, has a strong shot, and is an excellent crosser. He is a graceful player whose coordination and dribbling skills are astonishing for a defensive player.
He will have to exert his leadership skills and keep the large egos on the Italian squad in check. With him on the backline, the Italian defense is hard to beat. Paolo Maldini will do his part as he has done for the last 15 years.
Related Links:
ACMilan-Online.com
» Rating:
9.0/10
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