Paolo Maldini (born June 26, 1968 in Milan) is an Italian football player. Maldini is adefender and predominantly plays the position of left back, although he sometimes plays at centre back. Throughout his long career, he has remained with A.C.Milan. One of the great defenders of all time, he was arguably the best defenderof his time at the peak of his career, and remains well known for influential captaincy, ice-cool temperament and flawless defending. He is still playing at the very high level, which is confirmed by inclusion to FIFPro World XI in 2005, nomination to the UEFA Champions League 2004-2005 most valuable defendertitle, and second place in GoldMaldini is Italy's most capped player. However, he never managed to win a trophy at the international level despite playing in the 1994 World Cup final and the 2000 European Championship Final. He retired from the national team after2002 World Cup finishing his successful career with 126 caps and 7 goals. Maldini also played in the 1990 and 1998 World Cups, Euro 88, and Euro 96.en Foot nomination in 2005.Maldini recently broke Dino Zoff's Serie A appearance record, making his 571st appearance against Treviso F.B.C.. He also recently played his 800th game in all competitions for Milan.