Maldini ‘happy to play anywhere’ for Italy but didn’t ask for father’s advice | OneFootball

Daniel Maldini is ‘proud’ to have received his first Italy call-up and insists he can play ‘anywhere’ in attack. However, he hasn’t asked his father for advice on how to dribble past defenders.

Monza talent Maldini, 22, has received his first Italy call-up for Nations League games against Belgium and Israel in October.

If he’s given any playing time, he’ll become the third member of his family to play for the Azzurri after his late grandfather Cesare, also a former Italy coach, and his father, Paolo.

“I’m very proud to be here. I was delighted to hear the coach’s words. I will start training with the team today, and I hope I can do good things,” Maldini said at a press conference on Tuesday, as quoted by TMW.

Spalletti praised Maldini on Monday but also noted that the 22-year-old must be more continuously involved in games.

“The coach is totally right and I must remain involved for as long as possible. It’s a gift to be here,” said the Monza talent.

“My family has always been close to me, but we haven’t talked much about the call-up. We usually talk about other things. I know my dad is happy, like everyone else. This is the important thing,” he continued.

Maldini ‘happy to play anywhere’ for Italy but didn’t ask for father’s advice

Maldini’s mother is from Venezuela, so the 22-year-old was also offered to play for the South American country.

“I was contacted, but I’ve always preferred to wait for the right moment. I think it was worth it,” he confirmed.

“I am happy to play anywhere. Perhaps attacking midfielder is the ideal role, but I can play as a winger or support striker, it doesn’t change much.”

Maldini also answered questions about his idols as a kid and whether he asked his father for advice on attacking moves.

“Footballers like Kaka are those I liked the most,” he replied, “but I didn’t ask my father for any advice on dribbling past defenders.”

Maldini has one goal and one assist in eight appearances across all competitions with Monza in 2023-24.

He has five goals and two assists in 19 games for the Brianzoli, who he joined this past January.