AC Milan Legend Paolo Maldini 'Correctly' Predicted Which Defender Was The Heir To His Throne In 2009

AC Milan icon Paolo Maldini specifically named Sergio Ramos as his footballing "heir" as he showered praise on the Real Madrid skipper's skills.

The 52-year-old legendary Italian enjoyed a prolific playing career with Milan and won an incredible 25 trophies with the club.

And Maldini, who retired from football in 2009, has been recognised by many as the best defender in football history.

Speaking to Spanish newspaper Marca after he retired from football, the former Milan defender tipped Ramos to become his heir.

"My heir will be Sergio Ramos," Maldini said (via Goal).

"He is young and has everything to become my heir. He is quick, powerful and has technique. He is young and has plenty of time ahead of him."

Ramos, 34, left Sevilla in 2005 to complete a sensational €27m move to Madrid and would be deployed at both right-back and centre-back during his earlier seasons at Los Blancos.

Maldini suggested that his most important advice to Ramos would be to "play in the middle of defence like I did."

He explained: "He is part of a great club in Real Madrid. My advice to him will be to play in the middle of defence like I did. The secret is to train hard."

Maldini's faith in Ramos would pay off as the Spain captain has become one of the best defenders in world football right now.

And even the former Italy international recognised how far Ramos came in his career as he later labelled him the "best defender in the world."

Maldini said: "I'd say yes, Ramos is the best defender in the world, not just this season but for the past years."

Ramos has become an instrumental part in Madrid's success since his ascendency to captain, replacing Iker Casillas after his transfer to Porto in 2015.

The Spaniard has won five La Liga titles, four Champions Leagues, two Copa del Reys and four Spanish Super Cups during a glittering career at Madrid.

And Ramos has continued his trophy-laden exploits on the international stage as he won two Euros and the World Cup with Spain.

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: Los Blancos, Football News, Sergio Ramos, Paolo Maldini, Football, Serie A, AC Milan, Real Madrid, La Liga

Adnan Riaz

Adnan Riaz is a journalist for SPORTbible. He studied for a B.A. in History at the University of York and followed it up with an M.A. in Multimedia Journalism at MMU. Before he started writing about sports, he spent over four years in the gaming press. He has worked for several publications, including Hardcore Gamer, LADbible and the Manchester Evening News. Follow him on Twitter to find out what he is working on next. Got a story tip for Adnan? Email him: [email protected]

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