Amid Anticipation of His Professional Future.. Maldini Meets with Fenerbahçe Presidential Candidate

The Italian football legend Paolo Maldini was present in Istanbul, where he held a new meeting with Hakan Safi, the candidate for the presidency of Fenerbahçe Club, as part of renewed talks between the two parties.

The 'Football Italia' website reported that this meeting comes after a previous meeting between the two parties in Milan, reflecting the ongoing communication between them regarding a potential future phase.

Maldini, who turns 58 next month, has been unemployed since his dismissal from the role of technical director at AC Milan in June 2023, following an unexpected end to his administrative career with the club.

The website pointed out that Maldini had confirmed on more than one occasion that he would not work with any club in Italy except Milan, but this condition may not apply to clubs outside the country, opening the door to external possibilities.

Nevertheless, the matter remains within the realm of speculation, as Hakan Safi is still a candidate for the presidency of Fenerbahçe and has not officially taken office yet, hoping that Maldini's name will enhance his chances in the electoral race.

The same source, quoting Turkish journalist Yagiz Sabuncuoglu, added that an exclusive photo of Maldini during his meeting with Hakan Safi in Istanbul was published, following a previous meeting between them in Milan weeks ago.

Maldini is expected to leave Turkish soil after the scheduled meetings conclude, without taking any official steps so far.

Reports also clarified that some news linking Maldini with the Italian Football Federation has not seen any actual development so far.