Negative test quiets drug rumours as Maldini prepares Italy call‑up
Daniel Maldini, the 24‑year‑old Cagliari striker, has been cleared of drug use following a toxicology examination after the car crash that left five people lightly injured in Milan ten days ago. The result, released on Monday 21, removes the cloud of suspicion that hovered over his recent Italy call‑up.
The accident occurred in the early hours of 13 September on the northern outskirts of Milan. Maldini was driving a Porsche Carrera 4 with three passengers when he ignored a priority rule at a junction and collided with another vehicle. Five occupants, including the striker, sustained only minor injuries and were discharged after a few hours.
Police had previously recorded a positive breath‑alyser reading, leading to the suspension of his driving licence. The initial breath test sparked media speculation that drug use might have been involved, although no substance other than alcohol was confirmed at that stage.
Speculation intensified after reports suggested a preliminary drug test conducted by the Polícia Local had yielded a positive result. Those early findings, based on a saliva swab with no legal standing, were quickly amplified by newspapers, prompting concerns about the striker’s fitness for upcoming matches.
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Drug test clears the striker
A full toxicology analysis was carried out at Hospital Niguarda. Authorities said the sample was "below the cut‑off limit" and "not compatible" with driving under the influence of drugs. The result was disclosed by the local police on Monday 21 and subsequently forwarded to the Ministério Público.
Club and legal reactions
Cagliari president Tommaso Giulini condemned the rumours, stating: "We do not understand how such news can arise. It seems the traces of drugs are more in the newspapers than anywhere else, and that is very serious." Defence lawyer Danilo Buongiorno added that Maldini "has never used drugs" and will pursue legal action to protect the athlete’s reputation.
On the pitch, Maldini has been prolific, scoring a penalty in Cagliari’s 2‑1 victory over Atalanta and netting the winner in a 1‑0 win over Udinese on Saturday 19. He has recorded three goals in the club’s first five Serie A matches this season.
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Roberto Mancini has retained Maldini in his Italy squad for the Nations League fixtures against Belgium, Turkey (twice) and France. The striker’s inclusion underscores the national team’s confidence in his abilities despite the recent off‑field drama.