Milan legend Maldini returns to San Siro in directorial role

Paolo Maldini is back at AC Milan, with the Rossoneri legend having agreed to become the club’s new Director of Strategic Sport Development.

The iconic former full-back spent his entire playing career at the San Siro, taking in over 900 senior appearances.

Over the course of a 25-year spell Maldini lifted seven Serie A titles, the Coppa Italia, two Intercontinental Cups, a Club World Cup and five European Cup/Champions League crowns.

He has retained close ties with Milan since hanging up his boots in 2009 and will now continue his association with the club away from the field.

A statement released on the Rossoneri’s official website read: “The new course of AC Milan is further strengthened by the appointment of Paolo Maldini as the new Director of Strategic Development in the Sports Area.

“Paolo is a living legend in the Rossoneri history for his exceptional class, talent, leadership, loyalty, and his record of successes. These qualities will play a decisive role in getting Milan back to the greatness it deserves.”

Milan have been short on success since seeing Maldini head into retirement, with one Serie A title in 2010-11 and two Supercoppa successes all that they have been able to muster.

There are, however, ambitious plans being pieced together at the San Siro, with the acquisition of Gonzalo Higuain forming part of those this summer, and the club are confident that they are heading in the right direction.

Maldini’s presence is expected to aid their cause, with president Paolo Scaroni delighted to have the 50-year-old on board.

He said: “There are no words to describe what Paolo Maldini represents for Milan.

“It was a privilege to see him play and win countless trophies on the field, I am happy and honoured to work with him in his new role.

“Paolo's leadership and experience will be of great benefit to the club, as well as his passion and energy, and today's appointment is a further sign of Elliott's commitment to building a solid foundation for a long-term success.

“It will not be easy and it will take time, but we have ambitious goals and the arrival of Paolo is an important step towards the return to the great Milan.”

Maldini will be officially unveiled in his new post on Monday.