On 31 May 2009, Maldini said goodbye to football. Kaka and Ancelotti match
On 31 May 2009, Paolo Maldini played his final match for AC Milan against Fiorentina. The match also signaled the departure of Carlo Ancelotti to Chelsea and Kaká to Real Madrid. Maldini's departure received a standing ovation from the spectators and players, celebrating his 24-year career.
![]()
On 31 May 2009, at the Franchi Stadium in Florence, Fiorentina faced Milan in what was the final match of the league. For Carlo Ancelotti, this match was essential for direct entry into the Champions League, with Kaká and Pato scoring goals to help Milan reach the group stage. But it was an important moment because it was the last appearance in an AC Milan jersey for Paolo Maldini. He played 647 matches in Serie A and appeared in a total of 902 matches. From 1985 to 2009, it was a wonderful story for 24 years. The spectators in Florence also remembered this special day. "I remember that day, the fans of Fiorentina honored me with great applause. I am an icon of Milan, but playing with the national team helps me win a place in the hearts of fans of other teams throughout Italy, I feel very proud of that," he said about that match a few years later. A standing ovation begins at the end of the match, as Milan had already completed their substitutions and Fiorentina's players decided to send the ball out to hold a farewell ceremony for Maldini. That day was not only Maldini's departure, but Ancelotti also decided to move to Chelsea and Kaka to Real Madrid.

Related Articles
- Serie A
- (Serie A)