Mehdi Benatia Names Paolo Maldini as His Role Model
Bayern Munich defender Mehdi Benatia has revealed that Italian football legend Paolo Maldini was his role model growing up. In an interview with UEFA.com, the Moroccan international shared his admiration for the former AC Milan captain, citing him as a major influence on his own career.
Benatia, who rose to prominence at AS Roma before moving to Bayern, spoke fondly of the legendary Italian centre-back, who is widely regarded as one of the best defenders in football history.
“Paolo Maldini. He was phenomenal when I was 17, he’s always been a very high-level player. He’s a true champion!” Benatia told UEFA’s official website.
Maldini, who spent his entire 25-year career at AC Milan, was known for his impeccable defending, leadership, and longevity, qualities that have clearly left a lasting impression on Benatia.
The Moroccan defender, who played for Olympique de Marseille before his stints at Roma and Bayern Munich, has established himself as one of the top centre-backs in Europe. His performances at Roma, in particular, were instrumental in attracting attention from some of Europe’s elite clubs, including Bayern, where he now plays a pivotal role in the heart of their defence.
Benatia’s respect for Maldini underscores the Italian’s enduring legacy as one of the greatest defenders of all time, with the 52-year-old having won numerous titles, including five Serie A titles and five UEFA Champions League trophies with Milan.
