Atalanta forward Daniel Maldini has earned his first start for Italy, taking the field in their crucial battle for a spot in the UEFA Nations League semifinals against Germany.
This marks his fourth appearance for the national team, but it’s the first time he’s been in the starting lineup. Nearly 23 years after his father Paolo’s last appearance, the Maldini name is once again featured in Italy’s starting lineup.
The last time Paolo Maldini played for the Azzurri was on June 18, 2002, in a dramatic World Cup round of 16 match against South Korea. Italy lost 2-1 after conceding a “golden goal” in extra time.
The Maldini legacy in Italian football goes even further—Daniel’s grandfather, Cesare Maldini, played for Italy from 1960 to 1963, earning 14 caps. He also served as the national team’s head coach from 1997 to 1998.
