Ray Wilson vs Paolo Maldini
England against Italy. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Ray Wilson
England · 1955–69 · LB
- Almanac rating
- 89
- Rank in England
- #27 of 33
It is his shoulder, alongside Geoff Hurst's, that holds Bobby Moore aloft in the photograph every England fan knows, taken minutes after the 4-2 win over West Germany at Wembley on 30 July 1966. He played all six matches of that World Cup as the oldest man in Alf Ramsey's side at 31, won the FA Cup with Everton a few weeks earlier, and collected 63 England caps after twelve years at Huddersfield.
Paolo Maldini
Italy · 1985–2009 · LB
- Almanac rating
- 96
- Rank in Italy
- #3 of 33
- Caps
- 126 · 976 goals
- Clubs
- AC Milan
- Honours
- 2× Hall of Fame (1991–2000)
One of the greatest defenders of all time, 'Il Capitano' won five Champions League titles with AC Milan and was an icon of Italian football for over two decades. Career record: 126 caps and 976 goals for Italy; club career at AC Milan; honours include 2× Hall of Fame (1991–2000).
The verdict
The almanac puts Paolo Maldini ahead by 7 rating points, 96 against 89.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.