There are so many emotions going through me right now I can't even think straight. But one thing that has stuck in my mind since Milan were knocked out of the Champions League by Arsenal is that Milanisti and football fans around the world will never see Paolo Maldini play in the competition again.

When someone is asked to describe Maldini, the first things that comes to mind are words like "legend", "a leader", "one-club man", "loyal', "the perfect gentlemen". He is exactly that and more. Every football fan around the world knows the name Maldini and everyone has respect for him.

Never one to claim the limelight, he is one who prefers to stay in the comfort of his own home with his loving family. If he is not at home, he will be at Milanello training and teaching a few of his team-mates a thing or two.

'We will miss his perfectly-timed tackles, his runs up the flanks, his leadership on and off the field'


The perfect professional in all aspects, it is no wonder to us why he has been captain of Milan and the Italian national team. No wonder he has set the record for the most Serie A appearances and the most appearances for the Azzurri. At the age of 16 he was already a leader on the field.

Maldini is one of the most decorated players in the history of football, having won everything one can at club level. And need I remind you it was all with one club. But it has been with the national team where the trophies have been in short supply.

Last night we bid goodbye to Milan and, above all, Maldini on the European stage, as he will be retiring at the end of this season. He will surely be missed after being a predominant figure for 23 years in Europe and having made over 1,000 appearances for the Rossoneri and Italy.

We will miss his perfectly-timed tackles, his runs up the flanks, his leadership on and off the field. Hell, we’ll miss it all, even his perfect good looks with those sharp blue eyes.

When Maldini finally hangs up his boots at the end of the season it will not only be a loss to Milanisti or to calcio (football) but to the whole world of football. He deserves all the tributes and accolades that will undoubtedly come his way, although not even that can make up for all he has given Milan and the fans.

Addio Paolino!