June 07, (THEWILL) – AC Milan legend, Paolo Maldini, has decided to step down from his position as the club’s Technical Director, according to an announcement made by the Serie A side on Tuesday.
This development comes amid growing reports of tensions between Maldini and the club’s American owners. Milan expressed gratitude for Maldini’s valuable contributions, acknowledging his instrumental role in their return to the UEFA Champions League and their triumph in the 2021/2022 Scudetto.
In an official statement, Milan stated, “Paolo Maldini concludes his tenure at the club. We extend our heartfelt appreciation for his years of dedicated service in this capacity, which significantly contributed to our success in reclaiming a spot in the esteemed Champions League and securing the Scudetto in the previous season.” The club further noted that Maldini’s day-to-day responsibilities would be entrusted to a dedicated team working closely with the first team manager, ultimately reporting to the Chief Executive Officer.
Reports in the Italian press had recently alluded to tensions between Maldini and Gerry Cardinale, the owner of RedBird Capital Partners, who acquired the club in August 2022. These tensions appear to centre around disagreements regarding recruitment decisions. Maldini, a revered figure in Italian football, spent his entire playing career at Milan, retiring in 2009. He later rejoined the club in 2018 and assumed the role of Technical Director in July 2022 for a two-season term.
Under Maldini’s guidance, Milan clinched their 19th Scudetto in 2022 and achieved a notable run to the semi-finals of the UCL this year. They concluded the recent Serie A season in fourth place.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
