Maldini emerges from family shadow as Cagliari make strong start
Daniel Maldini, son of Paolo and grandson of Cesare, is finally establishing himself as a top-flight player after years in his family's shadow at Milan. He scored on his 25th birthday during Cagliari's victory over Juventus, extending his run to four consecutive Serie A goals, showcasing the impact of manager Fabio Pisacane's coaching. Cagliari's revival matters because the Sardinian club has become a genuine Serie A contender, posting their best start to a top-flight season in over 50 years with four wins from their opening five matches.
Manager Fabio Pisacane has an extraordinary personal story: he overcame Guillain-Barré syndrome as a teenager and made his Serie A debut at 30. His Cagliari squad mixes experienced signings like Harry Winks and Yerry Mina with talented youth, creating remarkable cohesion. This turnaround ends a 30-year drought—the club has not finished in Serie A's upper half since 1996 and last won the title in 1970.
- Maldini extends goal streak to four games on his birthday beating Juventus
- Manager Pisacane's remarkable story mirrors Cagliari's unexpected turnaround
- Sardinian club enjoying best start in 50 years, now contending for title
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Daniel Maldini is the son of Paolo Maldini and grandson of Cesare Maldini, both celebrated Italian footballers. For years he struggled to establish himself at AC Milan, overshadowed by his family's legendary status. Now 25 and playing for Cagliari, he is finally beginning to shine as a top-flight footballer.
Cagliari's performance this season matters because it marks a historic turnaround for the Sardinian club. They have won four of their opening five league matches, their best start to a top-flight season in more than 50 years. The club has not finished in Serie A's top half since 1996 and has not won the title since 1970, making their current trajectory remarkable.
Manager Fabio Pisacane himself overcame serious illness as a teenager and did not make his Serie A debut until the age of 30. He has balanced the squad by signing experienced players such as Harry Winks and Yerry Mina whilst also integrating young talent. The combination has yielded early success.
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Originally published by The Guardian as “Daniel Maldini finds his feet at Cagliari after years in family’s Serie A shadow”.