What more could you expect from a star’s son caught in a DUI scandal? The son of Italy’s most celebrated footballer has slammed drug allegations after the crash.
Daniel Maldini, a Cagliari forward, tangled with a Porsche Carrera that slammed into another car in Milan during the early hours of Sunday.
The episode came right after his match‑winning display against former side Atalanta in nearby Bergamo.
A breath‑alyser confirmed the 24‑year‑old was over the legal alcohol limit, prompting an immediate licence suspension.
After Italian tabloids claimed a police drug pre‑test was positive, Maldini shared clinic results from Cagliari on Instagram.
The posted analysis showed no amphetamines, cocaine, cannabis, methadone, ecstasy, opiates or buprenorphine were detected.
Lawyer Danilo Buongiorno dismissed the circulating claims as baseless, warning he will defend the player’s reputation through legal channels.
For my money, the press rushes to sensational headlines. Agent Beppe Riso stressed that while Daniel erred, mistakes happen and deserve measured coverage.
He urged caution in reporting, noting the media often seeks the most explosive story, yet emphasized Daniel is among Italy’s genuinely gifted talents.
Maldini has earned six Italy caps and opened the season with goals in his club’s last two victories, propelling Cagliari to a fifth‑place best since the early ’70s.
Outside a Serie A shareholders meeting in Milan, Cagliari president Tommaso Giulini spoke about the matter.
He reminded his children never to drive after drinking, trusting Daniel will avoid repeat lapses that endanger himself and others.
He expressed shock at recent headlines, claiming drug rumors dominate the press and reaffirmed the youngster’s claim of only a few drinks, backed by breath‑test data.
Daniel reported to training on Monday. Will he still make Mancini’s squad for the upcoming Nations League fixtures?