Milan Legend Paolo Maldini Offered New Job in Saudi Arabia

Five months after leaving Milan, Paolo Maldini could embark on a new chapter in his sporting director career, says Fabrizio Romano. The 55-year-old has emerged among the likeliest candidates to take the same role at Al-Ittihad.

It’s still a mystery why Milan relieved Maldini of his duties at the end of last season. Days after the curtain dropped on the 2022/23 Serie A season, Rossoneri parted with the club icon and his associate Ricky Massara. To this date, it’s uncertain whether the reason behind Maldini’s departure was his alleged idea to replace Stefano Pioli with Andrea Pirlo.

But that’s history now for both Milan and Maldini. The Italian giants wasted no time forging a new management, with Giorgio Furlani taking his prominent predecessor’s place as if it was another day at the office. After a short sabbatical, Maldini is ready to get down to business. However, it will require a change of continent in all likelihood. 

Saudi Pro League heavyweights Al-Ittihad have shortlisted the Milan icon as the leading candidate for the role. Whether Maldini wants to follow the same path that took numerous high-profile Europeans to the Middle East remains to be seen. It’s a genuine possibility, especially after the recent sacking of Nuno Espirito Santo.

The Portuguese’s departure means Maldini would have the freedom to call the shots without interference. He was denied that privilege at Milan, which might have ultimately led to the break-up.