The presence of Paolo Maldini in Istanbul in recent days alongside Hakan Safi, one of the two candidates for the presidency of Fenerbahçe, has attracted a great deal of attention. The two are very close friends, as confirmed by the former Milan captain and executive himself in comments to sabah.com.tr:
“I am very good friends with Hakan Safi, candidate for the presidency of Fenerbahçe. We are in touch and often talk about football. In the world of football everyone knows my connection and my family’s connection with Milan, which has lasted for three generations. Mr Safi was impressed by the role I had in Milan’s history and by what I have achieved recently. Like many other experts in the field, he is consulting me on Fenerbahçe and on his vision for the club’s football structure.”
Maldini then spoke about Fenerbahçe, also drawing a comparison with Milan:
“During the period when I was a player, I faced Fenerbahçe. It is a club I have known since then. It has a very well-established organisation. It has many similarities with Milan. I know it is a club with very passionate fans. Mr Hakan also explained to me the expectations of Fenerbahçe fans. I know they want to see dominant and attacking football. After my conversation with Mr Hakan, I have followed Fenerbahçe even more closely in order to provide him with the most precise guidance, so that he can develop the right projects.
Fenerbahçe is a very strong club and has long been eager to win a league title. We have also seen this at Milan. First of all, the team needs to make a leap in quality. I explained this to Mr Hakan. In addition to building a winning team in one year, it is necessary to lay solid foundations and aim for consistent success. From what I have seen, Mr Hakan is ready to make very important decisions for Fenerbahçe. This is fundamental for the club.”
