Paolo Maldini is rated not just as a regular defender but as one of the best defender in the history of football.

The former AC Milan captain faced some of the greatest footballers to play the sports with most attesting to how incredibly good he is.

Maldini’s aptitude at knowing when to enter a tackle was one of his main assets. He was always on the lookout for visual indicators to indicate his actions. Maldini went hard for the recovery if a player made a poor touch, sat down, or turned their back on him.

Despite all his challenges, he only committed a few fouls. Maldini has one the highest longevity in football history.

Here are 10 reasons why Paolo Maldini is the greatest defender of all time;

1. Carles Puyol’s and Sergio Ramos’ idol.
2. The player who inspired Philipp Lahm the most.
3. The toughest defender for Ronaldo Nazario.
4. The teacher & mentor of Alessandro Nesta.
5. The player who had the most influence on Ricardo Kaka.
6. 5 Champions Leagues.
7. 7 Italian Championships.
8. 3rd in the Ballon d’Or 1994 and 2003.
9. Named in the 1990 and 1994 World Cup Squad
10. Named in the 1988, 1996 and 2000 Euro Squad