Paolo Maldini may be set for a return to football administration with Turkish side Fenerbahçe. The former AC Milan technical director was photographed in Istanbul with Hakan Safi, a candidate in the upcoming Fenerbahçe presidential election, according to journalist Yagiz Sabuncuoglu via X. Safi reportedly intends to appoint Maldini as a key advisor should he win the election.
The Fenerbahçe presidential election is scheduled for June 6-7, with Safi competing against the favored Aziz Yildirim, who previously served as club president for two decades. Safi is backed by Safi Holding, a conglomerate involved in logistics, energy, and industry, giving him significant financial resources. During his campaign, Safi has pledged to acquire two high-profile forwards, a goalkeeper, and a left-footed central defender in an attempt to end Fenerbahçe’s 12-year wait for a league title.
Linked to this potential restructuring is speculation surrounding Rafael Leão, the Portuguese forward currently at AC Milan. Reports in Turkey suggest that Maldini’s involvement could pave the way for a move for Leão to Fenerbahçe. Other players reportedly under consideration by Safi include Alexander Sørloth, currently with Atlético Madrid, and there has been some discussion about the possibility of appointing Italian coach Francesco Farioli.
Maldini’s future remains somewhat open, with a potential role within the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) also being considered following elections on June 22. Approximately 44,000 Fenerbahçe members are eligible to vote in the upcoming election, with voting taking place at the stadium. The elected president will serve a one-year term, with further elections planned for 2026. Should Maldini take the position, it would represent a significant shift for both he and the Turkish club, potentially injecting fresh ideas and ambition into Fenerbahçe’s pursuit of domestic success.
