Serie A: Paolo Maldini returns to AC Milan

AC Milan have managed to bring a former glory back to the club as Paolo Maldini returns as the club's new Director of Strategic Sport Development. The former left-back spent his entire career at AC Milan and made a record-breaking 902 appearances for the club in all competitions, scoring 33 goals. Maldini also played 126 matches for the Italian national team and holds the record for most appearances in Serie A, 647. He retired after the 2008–09 season, and AC Milan decided to retire the number 3 shirt in his honour, an unprecedented decision for a football club. In 2015 Paolo Maldini became the co-owner of North American Soccer League club Miami FC, but he turned down several coaching roles since retiring as a player. In 2016, the Chinese owners of turn down the offer. Now the club have released a statement confirming Maldini's return: "The new course of AC Milan is further strengthened by the appointment of Paolo Maldini as the new Director of Strategic Development in the Sports Area. Paolo is a living legend in the Rossoneri history for his exceptional class, talent, leadership, loyalty, and his record of successes. These qualities will play a decisive role in getting Milan back to the greatness it deserves." Maldini has won seven Serie A titles with AC Milan, the Coppa Italia, two Intercontinental Cups, a Club World Cup and no less than five Champions League titles. Since his retirement, AC Milan have won the Serie A title just once, in 2010-2011, and also grabbed the Italian Super Cup on two occasions. His return to the club could mark the beginning of a new golden age, especially since the AC Milan have shown their ambition by signing world-class striker Gonzalo Higuain from rivals Juventus last week. AC Milan president Paolo Scaroni said: "There are no words to describe what Paolo Maldini represents for Milan. It was a privilege to see him play and win countless trophies on the field, I am happy and honoured to work with him in his new role. Paolo's leadership and experience will be of great benefit to the club, as well as his passion and energy, and today's appointment is a further sign of Elliott's commitment to building a solid foundation for a long-term success. It will not be easy and it will take time, but we have ambitious goals and the arrival of Paolo is an important step towards the return to the great Milan." AC Milan are 18/1 at Bet365 to win the Serie A title next season.