🗞️ SPORT NEWS

Paolo Maldini picks Newcastle legend as his dream defensive partner – and it’s not a Liverpool icon

Paolo Maldini has stunned the football world after naming a Newcastle United legend as the defender he wishes he had played alongside, overlooking several famous Liverpool greats in the process.

In an exclusive interview, the AC Milan and Italy icon reflected on his glittering career, where he partnered some of the finest defenders the game has ever seen — including Franco Baresi, Alessandro Nesta and Fabio Cannavaro. Yet, Maldini admitted there is one name missing from his illustrious list of teammates.

🗣️ “I have played with some of the greatest defenders like Nesta, Baresi, Cannavaro,” Maldini said.
“But I feel like I was unlucky not to pair with him. There was something unique about the way he defended.”

That player? Newcastle United cult hero Philippe Albert.

The Belgian centre-back, remembered fondly at St James’ Park for his elegance, intelligence and iconic goal against Manchester United in 1996, left a lasting impression on Maldini — even from afar.

🗣️ “Albert was calm, brave on the ball, and tactically intelligent. He defended with style, not fear,” Maldini added.
“If we had played together, I believe our understanding would have been natural.”

What surprised many fans was Maldini’s decision to overlook Liverpool legends when discussing his dream partner, choosing instead to highlight a defender whose influence went beyond trophies and headlines.

The revelation has reignited debate among fans, with Newcastle supporters proudly claiming one of the game’s greatest ever defenders has validated their club’s rich defensive history.

For Philippe Albert, it is a remarkable post-career honour — proof that even without the medals of Milan or Liverpool, true football intelligence never goes unnoticed.

⚫⚪ Once a Magpie, always respected.