Paolo Maldini will bring his illustrious career to an end Sunday on what could prove a day of goodbyes for AC Milan.

The Rossoneri visit Fiorentina in a vital game for both sides in the race for automatic entry into next season's Champions League.

The third-placed Rossoneri will come out on top if they avoid defeat to a fourth-placed Viola side who have been in close pursuit for much of the season.

A Fiorentina win by a two-goal margin would see Cesare Prandelli's men relegate Milan into the qualifying rounds of Europe's premier club competition.

Although that is the main storyline, there are a number of intriguing subplots with Maldini, Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti and on-loan midfielder David Beckham all set to move on in the summer.

Maldini is to retire after making his 902nd appearance for Milan in a one-club career spanning more than 24 years.

The 40-year-old has been in the headlines for the wrong reasons this week, however, after a small number of ultras disrupted his San Siro farewell with a banner accusing him of disrespecting the Milan fans.

The stylish defender admitted to being a "wounded man" after the attack and also expressed his disappointment that those responsible were not condemned by the club.

Milan responded by insisting that any comment would only give credence to the protest.

Either way, it has cast a shadow over the retirement of arguably the best defender in Italian football history.

Maldini's departure has led to calls for a complete overhaul of the Milan squad particularly with Ancelotti, who has been accused of placing too much faith in older players, also set to leave, most likely for Chelsea.

Beckham, another 30-something brought in by Ancelotti, is to return to the Los Angeles Galaxy once his short-term deal expires.

The England midfielder's participation at the Stadio Artemio Franchi is in doubt though after he sustained an ankle injury in training in midweek.

While Milan have much to contemplate going into the game, Fiorentina's focus is trained fully on leapfrogging their opponents into third.

Viola midfielder Marco Donadel told the club's official website, it.violachannel.tv: "We are calm. We have a great squad and are aware that what matters during a season is to be ready at the right time.

"We will play with a free mind against Milan. We will have the fans on our side which will give us a boost."

Defender Juan Manuel Vargas added: "We will play against a great team but we want to finish well in front of our fans.

"It is important to win the match. But what really matters is to think about our game, not about scoring two goals."

Vargas also paid tribute to Maldini, stating: "In Italy he's an idol, he's known all over the world.

"For me he is a great professional, playing against him has always been my dream, it will be fantastic to face him in the last game of his career."