Paolo Maldini backed to make stunning return to AC Milan despite 'shameful' contract termination in 2023

In a recent interview on Andrea Longoni's 'Milan Hello' podcast, Zvonimir Boban, the former AC Milan midfielder and executive, suggested that Paolo Maldini might be open to returning to the club in the future. Maldini, a lifelong Rossoneri, was dismissed from his role as technical director in 2023, a decision that sparked criticism among fans and former players.

The departure of Maldini, who played over 900 first-team games for AC Milan between 1984 and 2009, marked a significant shift in the club's leadership, raising concerns about the direction being taken and the team's identity. Boban, who has been vocal about his disapproval of the club's current management, emphasised Maldini's enduring connection to Milan, stating: "He suffers, I know he suffers [after having had his contract terminated]... he has given his whole life for Milan."

When asked about Maldini's potential return, Boban said: "Even though I love and respect Milan so much, the symbols and flags are different. Paolo feels all this, he has given his whole life to Milan. The other day I told him that in the end he has to be happy, at the end of the day, whether he comes back or not - who knows, he wouldn’t mind a little."

On the decision to let the Milan legend go in 2023, the Croatian expressed his disgust at the Rossoneri hierarchy: "A shameful page, done in a shameful way. Indecent, unacceptable and I could say a thousand other bad things. Above all, inexplicable even for them. For them Paolo represented the last obstacle to do what they wanted. And the [Sandro] Tonali thing (allowing him to leave for Newcastle) had a big impact, Paolo would never have let him go."

AC Milan face Bologna on Wednesday, May 14, in the Coppa Italia final, with the Rossoneri aiming for their second trophy under Sergio Conceicao. With 60 points and two league games remaining, Milan are still in the hunt for a European spot, and they travel to face direct rivals Roma on Sunday in a crucial clash that could define their league finish. The San Siro giants wrap up the season at home against Monza on May 25.