Maldini, who is set to end his 25-year relation with Milan when he retires by the end of the current season, will be playing his last Milan derby on Sunday.

"In a career like Maldini's, it is not a won or lost derby that will define anything. His achievements are unparalleled," Mourinho told Inter's official website.

"That this really is his last derby is hard for everyone to take, even me.

The Portuguese tactician added that he hopes the 40-year-old defender will not be favoured by the game's referee.

"During the game however, Maldini is just like everyone else. That means, if he commits a foul in the penalty area, the referee has to give it.

"Also if he deserves a booking he should get one and if he deserves a red card, he should be sent off," added the former Chelsea coach.

"This is all to say that during those 90 minutes he is no different to the other players, after the game, he must be considered extraordinary."

Since coming through Milan's youth ranks in 1984, Maldini has so far played over 600 games for the club, as well as 127 caps for Italy.

He won seven Serie A titles, one Coppa Italia and five UEFA Champions League trophies with the Rossoneri.