Liverpool icon Virgil Van Dijk has showered words of praise on Rossoneri legend Paolo Maldini, citing that he has abundant respect for the man who led Milan through their most successful years as a European heavyweight.
The Dutch center-back has evolved into a world-class defence over the years, earning plaudits from the best in the business, including Maldini.
In an exclusive interview with Sky Sports (via MilanNews), the former Southampton man shared the thoughts he has on Maldini’s legacy.
“The respect I have for him is incredible, obviously he is a football legend. You know. … it’s amazing the way he played and what he achieved playing for Milan for so long,” he said.
The duo met during Milan and Liverpool’s clash at San Siro earlier this season in the group stages. The Reds ousted the Diavolo by a 2-1 scoreline during the final matchday. Van Dijk thanked Maldini for his endearing gesture.
“I just wanted to thank him: during my injury I was collecting shirts and I had his own shirt that he signed for me. I wanted to think about him again and I asked him how he was doing. Legend, legend and respect “
Liverpool are in the finals of the UEFA Champions League this season as they fight against Real Madrid for bragging rights in Paris seeking their 7th European title – one that would match Milan as the joint second-highest, only behind Los Blancos’ tally of 13.