AC Milan Legend Paolo Maldini Reveals Secret Behind Inter Milan Success: 'Napoli Collapse No Coincidence'

Legendary Italian defender Paolo Maldini identified the reason why Inter Milan have been successful while their rivals are faltering.

The 55-year-old spent his entire elusive playing career with AC Milan. He then returned to the club as a technical director, and managed to build a squad that went on to lift the 2021/22 Serie A title.

Nevertheless, the club’s owners RedBird decided to end his services last summer to make room for a new management.

On the contrary, the Inter hierarchy has been almost intact over the past years, with Beppe Marotta acting as CEO and Piero Ausilio as sporting director.

Hence, Maldini feels this consistency has played an instrumental role in the Nerazzurri’s success.

“What happened this season is very indicative,” said the former Italy and Milan icon in his interview with Radio TV Serie A via FcInterNews.

“Inter has a structure that defines the future of the sporting department. The club rewarded them with long-term contracts.

“It is no coincidence that Napoli are doing badly after losing their coach and sporting director.

“In Italy, we’re giving little importance to team management. We are treating players as machines, but in order to produce they need to have someone to help them and show them the way.”

Paolo Maldini Explained Why Inter Milan Emerged As The Dominant Force In Serie A

Moreover, Maldini revealed that former Milan owner Silvio Berlusconi didn’t mind Inter winning titles whenever the Rossoneri fell short.

“He truly believed in the fact that if Milan didn’t win, he would be content with Inter winning instead.

“Being able to compliment your opponent is a great lesson. Naturally, he also had an emotional detachment from the match, but if you’re a footballer it’s more difficult.”

Finally, the legendary defender spoke about his duels with Il Fenomeno Ronaldo during the latter’s time at Inter.

“I liked one-on-one, duels but with Ronaldo, it was very tough. He didn’t stop.