Legends made my life so AC
Massimo Donati idolised Paolo Maldini and Alessandro Costacurta during his time with AC Milan – and would love to emulate the famous duo by playing into his 40s.
The Hamilton midfielder moved to the Rossoneri from Atalanta in 2001 at the age of 20 and kept a close eye on his legendary countrymen.
Now 35, Donati is relishing the opportunity to be viewed as the elder statesman around the Superseal Stadium and is only too happy to pass on advice to the Accies youngsters.
The veteran said: “When I was 20 I went to AC Milan and was in a big team and played with Maldini and Costacurta.
“They were very big players and a big example for me, not just in football where they were very good players but also in life as they are good people.
“They helped me a lot and I feel that’s why I am still playing at a high level – as they showed me that it is possible to play well into your 40s.
“Maybe I can do that. I want to be an example at Hamilton to the younger players.” Donati wants to remain in football as a coach when he hangs up his boots.
He said: “I’ve played under a lot of coaches and learned a lot. I have great ideas for after my playing career.
“I will maybe start here. I have my B- licence which I did in Italy. Maybe I can coach Hamilton Under- 17s or Under-20s this season. I watch their games to learn from the other coaches.”
Donati suffered a broken nose and two black eyes during the 4-2 Lanarkshire derby defeat last week at Motherwell.
But he’s fit to line up against St Johnstone today and said: “I got caught with an elbow. “There is not a lot of pain although my nose is broken but it’s not a problem. I can play. I have trained all week and I’m ready.”