Since becoming AC Milan’s technical director, Paolo Maldini has had a big say in the restructuring of the squad and his footprint on it is evident.
As TMW writes, Fikayo Tomori offered a glimpse of his qualities during Sunday’s 2-1 win over Roma at the Olimpico and certainly has the potential to become the next success with regards to Milan’s defensive recruitment. The Englishman is on loan with option to buy from Chelsea, but he reaffirms a starting point: this Milan, when it comes to choosing defenders, knows how to do it.
The importance of being Paolo Maldini cannot be understated as the imprint of the technical director is undeniable. He has made targeted signings, even at the cost of going against the tide, as seen with the purchase of Theo Hernandez. He seemed to be yet another player destined to fail at Real Madrid and fade into obscurity, but today he is the best left-back in the league.
Simon Kjaer arrived quietly too, but the Dane is the real certainty of Pioli’s rearguard. Maldini explained his involvement in a very young team in this way: “If I hadn’t had Baresi and Tassotti at my side, I wouldn’t have done what I did, I felt safe with them.”
It is also a question of charisma, because Maldini’s influence in negotiations when it comes to persuading players is important too. Theo himself said it: “Maldini was fundamental for me, when he called me I had no doubts.” Tomori said the same a few weeks ago: “The greatest ever, after the call I didn’t think about it much.”
He made a difference on the pitch, he also makes a difference in management.
In Maldini we believe!