It's now over two years since Maldini and Ricky Massara were axed by Milan owner Gerry Cardinale - just 12 months after Milan won the Scudetto.
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With his old club now struggling, former Milan player, coach and director Leonardo told QS: “Does Milan spirit need to be stronger? But it was already there – his name was Paolo Maldini.
“As a director, he won a Scudetto and reached the Champions League semifinals. Then he was sent away, and with him, a great piece of passion.
“Today, everyone has realised it: Milan feels empty, soulless. But these are cycles, and it will pass. Also, I believe the club has understood that they made a mistake.”