Daniel Maldini, the young Monza forward, expressed his pride and excitement after receiving his first call-up to the Italian national team. Speaking at a press conference, Maldini shared his thoughts on this significant milestone in his career and addressed questions about his future.
“I’m very proud to be here. I heard Coach Spalletti’s words, and they’re very pleasing. Today I start training with the group, and I hope to show some good things,” Maldini began.
The 22-year-old also revealed that he had previously declined an offer to represent Venezuela, his mother’s home country. “Venezuela wanted to call me up, it’s true, but I always preferred to wait, and today I can say it was worth it,” he explained.
Regarding his family’s reaction to the call-up, Maldini said, “I haven’t talked much with my dad, but I know he’s happy, and everyone is happy. I believe this is the right moment to be here.”
Maldini expressed his eagerness to contribute to the national team: “This call-up from the national team has come at the perfect moment. I feel good on the field and with the team. Italy is a team with incredible quality, and I hope to help in any way I can. I want to bring my quality but also sacrifice myself for this team.”
When asked about a potential return to AC Milan, where he started his career, Maldini remained open but focused on the present: “I’m not thinking about a possible return to Milan. Everything is possible, but I’m focusing on doing well, and we’ll see at the end of the year.”
The young forward also shared his footballing inspirations: “Kaká was the player I liked the most. In this season, the player who has impressed me the most is Dybala.”
