Compilation Of Paolo Maldini's Best Tackles Is A Masterclass In Defending

Paolo Maldini; 902 club games, 126 Italy caps, 26 trophies and 25 seasons. Nobody even comes close.

The 54-year-old, who was nicknamed 'Il Capitano' by many, retired after a glorious 26 year career with AC Milan, where he taught millions around the world the art of defending in its purest form.

Maldini was a spearhead in his club's history, so much so that Milan retired the number three shirt in his honour.

Maldini is one of only 18 players to have made over 1,000 career appearances.

He lifted five Champions League trophies, seven Serie A titles, one Coppa Italia, five Supercoppa Italiana titles, five European Super Cups, two Intercontinental trophies and a FIFA World Cup in that time.

Image: Alamy

His presence lifted the club to unprecedented heights during his stay at the San Siro and in 2007, Maldini became the oldest player to captain a Champions League winning side at 37 years of age.

The Italian defender was a striker's worst nightmare and a defender's dream; just ask Franco Baresi.

Baresi and Maldini were part of the famous Milan side that went 58 games unbeaten from 1991 to 1993.

To celebrate his legacy, you are about to watch Maldini at his very best during AC Milan's glory days.

Image: Alamy

Playing with the likes of Baresi, Seedorf, Romario and Filippo Inzaghi, here's a massive compilation of his greatest tackles and defensive moments.

Sit back, relax and witness one of the all-time greats doing what he did best.

His legacy will live on forever and, while these clips will circulate on a yearly basis, we thought we'd just remind you of his unbelievable talent.