Paolo Maldini

Maldini was born in Milan, Italy, son of Cesare Maldini, who played for AC Milan and Italy in the 1960s before becoming the national team coach. Paolo made his debut for AC Milan in 1985 at the age of 16 and has remained with the club throughout his career. His many honors include five Italian championship medals, three Cup Winners' Cup medals, two FIFA Club World Championship medals, and three European Super Cups. He has been in the Italian squad for three FIFA World Cup finals (1990, 1994, 1998), and met Brazil in the Final in 1994 when Italy lost on penalties. Regarded as one of the world's greatest defenders, he is Italy 's most capped player, and his sense of fair-play makes him a role-model for younger players. His professional career starting at 16 was entirely in the shadow of the triumphs of his father Cesare but emerged prideful into the sunlight, earning a record 126 caps before retiring from international football after the 2002 World Cup.