Daniel Maldini turns into third era of household to play for Italy

Daniel Maldini authored a new pub quiz question 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 win over Israel in Udine.

Father Paolo sat in the stands watching alongside his wife Adriana as his son’s debut meant the Maldinis are the only family to represent the Azzurri across three generations. 

While Daniel does not take after Paolo and grandfather Cesare positionally – they were both defenders rather than attacking midfielders – he will be hoping to add to their legacies. 

‘It was a strong sensation, positive, I’m very happy to have come on and that the game went well,’ Maldini told 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 came on 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 manager

‘The match was always in control until their goal, but then we did well to take it back and we saw our football in action. 

‘I am glad that my parents were here, I’ll talk to them after I get home. I dedicate this debut to my family and my friends, those who love me.  

‘I hope to bring a little quality, even if the squad already has plenty of it, and to help out as much as possible.’

He is following in the footsteps of two legends.

Father Paolo is widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders of all time, skippering Italy and AC Milan to great success. 

He lifted seven Serie A titles, five European Cup/Champions League crowns, and was a World Cup runner-up. He was also notable for his longevity, racking up 25 seasons at the San Siro as a one-club man and earning 126 Italy caps, beaten only in that field by Gianluigi Buffon and Fabio Cannavaro. 

Grandfather Cesare won four league titles with AC Milan, one European Cup, and even went on to coach the national team. He died aged 84 in 2016. 

With such rich heritage, Daniel is one to watch. He won Serie A with AC Milan in 2021-22 but was very much a bit-part player. 

After moving to Monza permanently in the summer, his good form has set him on a path walked long ago by his elders. It is over 22 years since his father played for Italy, 61 since his grandfather did. Finally the Italians have a new Maldini to cheer on.