Club legend Paulo Maldini returns to AC Milan in director role

AC Milan have announced that iconic figure Paulo Maldini has returned to San Siro as the club's new sporting strategy and development director.

The 50-year-old made a record 647 appearances for the Rossoneri between 1985 and 2009, winning seven Serie A titles and five European cups.

After failing to finish in the top six in Italy's top flight since 2013, Milan have reshuffled off the field and brought in club legend Maldini in an attempt to bring back silverware with backing from US hedge fund Elliott.

"There are few words to describe what Paolo Maldini represents for AC Milan," chief executive Paolo Scaroni said. "Today's appointment is yet another sign of Elliott's commitment to build a strong foundation for long-term success."

Milan finished sixth in Serie A last season, despite an outlay of £175m on players in the summer transfer window.