Daniel Maldini felt a ‘strong sensation’ upon making his record-breaking Italy debut, with father Paolo and mother Adriana watching proudly in the stands.
The midfielder has had quite a few days, as he celebrated his 23rd birthday on October 11 and today made his senior Italy debut during the 4-1 Nations League victory over Israel.
It was an historic moment, as for the first time three generations of the same family all represented the Azzurri, following in the footsteps of father Paolo and grandfather Cesare.
Maldini will always remember Italy debut
“It was a strong sensation, positive, I’m very happy to have come on and that the game went well,” Maldini told RAI Sport.
“The match was always in control until their goal, but then we did well to take it back and we saw our football in action.”
Daniel’s parents were in the stands to watch his debut, as mother Adriana was filming it on her phone, wanting a personal memento along with the television cameras all over the stadium.
“I am glad that my parents were here, I’ll talk to them after I get home. I dedicate this debut to my family and my friends, those who love me.”
The Monza midfielder grew up in the Milan youth academy, so what does he feel that he brings to Luciano Spalletti’s Italy side?
“I hope to bring a little quality, even if the squad already has plenty of it, and to help out as much as possible.”
There was another debutant this evening, as Udinese striker Lorenzo Lucca also came off the bench to make his first appearance for Italy at senior level.
3 – With Cesare, Paolo and Daniel, Maldini is the first family with three generations of players (grandfather, father and son) in the history of Italy. 22 years and 118 days have passed since Paolo Maldini’s last match with Italy and 61y 1d since Cesare Maldini’s last. Dynasty. pic.twitter.com/UgUyqxeZes
— OptaPaolo (@OptaPaolo) October 14, 2024