Boban Defends Maldini and Sings Guardiola's Praises: 'We Should All Thank Him'

Zvonimir Boban has come out swinging in defence of his former AC Milan teammate Paolo Maldini, rubbishing suggestions that the legendary defender betrayed any agreements during the recent upheaval surrounding the Italian national team setup. In comments reported by Football Italia, Boban was unequivocal when addressing the swirling controversy, insisting that Maldini 'didn't betray agreements' and that any narrative painting the World Cup-winning captain as having acted in bad faith is wide of the mark. 'Paolo has always been a man of his word,' Boban's defence made clear, with the Croatian great keen to protect the reputation of a player he shared a dressing room with during Milan's golden era of the 1990s. The two men lifted trophies together at the San Siro and have remained close ever since, making Boban a particularly credible character witness. But Boban's intervention was not limited to defending Maldini. He also reserved lavish praise for Pep Guardiola, the tactical revolutionary whose potential involvement with the Azzurri has electrified Italian football just months before the World Cup 2026 kicks off across North America. The former FIGC chief of staff revealed that Guardiola holds 'enormous respect' for Maldini — a mutual admiration between two figures who, between them, represent the very best of the modern game both on and off the pitch. And in Boban's eyes, Italian football owes the Catalan coach a debt of gratitude. 'We should all thank' Guardiola, he argued, pointing to the prestige, innovation and winning mentality that the multiple Champions League winner would bring to the national team project. The timing could hardly be more significant. With Italy desperate to reclaim their place at football's top table after the disappointment of missing recent tournaments, the prospect of Guardiola's influence combined with the institutional wisdom of figures like Maldini represents a tantalising vision for the Azzurri's 2026 campaign. For Boban, the controversy that has clouded recent discussions misses the point entirely. Rather than assigning blame or questioning loyalties, he believes everyone involved in Italian football should be pulling in the same direction — and expressing appreciation for those willing to contribute to the cause. As the countdown to the World Cup 2026 continues, Boban's message serves as both a shield for his old friend and a rallying cry for the Italian game: unity, respect and gratitude, not recrimination, should define the road ahead. This article is based on reporting by Football Italia.