Paolo Maldini's son rushed to hospital after Serie A heroics

Daniel Maldini's hospitalisation after a Sunday morning crash throws a shadow over Cagliari's squad, just days after his decisive penalty on Saturday secured a win in Serie A. The 24‑year‑old was rushed to Milan's Fatebenefratelli facility on 13 September 2026, leaving his availability for the next match uncertain.

Saturday's winning penalty

Daniel Maldini, 24, netted a decisive penalty on Saturday night as Cagliari beat Atalanta 2-1. The attacking midfielder, on loan from Atalanta after being deemed surplus by his parent club, delivered the winner from the spot. The goal secured three points for Cagliari in Serie A.

It was Maldini's second goal in four league games this season, helping Cagliari maintain fourth place in the table after an extremely positive start. The young Italian has already earned six caps for Italy. He is on loan from Atalanta after being deemed surplus by his parent club.

Maldini is the son of Italy legend Paolo Maldini, who spent his entire playing career at AC Milan and represented the national side. His grandfather Cesare also achieved legendary status at the San Siro and later managed both club and country. He left AC Milan in 2024, spent a year with Monza and then moved to Atalanta.

Sunday crash and hospitalisation

Around 5:15 am on Sunday, Maldini was involved in a collision while driving his Porsche Carrera. The crash involved two vehicles and six people in total.

Three ambulances and a medical car were dispatched to the scene. Five of those involved were taken to hospital, including Maldini, who was evaluated at Milan's Fatebenefratelli facility, while another individual received treatment on site.

All six people suffered only minor injuries, according to reports. Maldini's hospitalisation now casts doubt over his availability for Cagliari's upcoming match.

Cagliari travel to Udinese next Saturday, and Maldini could be back in action if his condition improves. The club will assess his fitness in the days ahead.