 Throughout his career, he was known for his pace, stamina, technique, dribbling, and crossing ability; his speed and galloping offensive runs earned him the nickname "the horse".Maldera was born in Milan, and he spent a large part of his career with one of the major local clubs of his city A.C. Milan (1971–1982); with the club, he won a Serie A title in 1979, two Coppa Italia trophies in 1972 and 1977, a Serie B title (earning promotion to Serie A the following season, following Milan's involvement in the 1980 Totonero football betting scandal) in 1981, and a Mitropa Cup, during his final season with the club, in 1982, also serving as the club's captain.Throughout his career, he also played for Bologna F.C.