Former Italy star Antonio Cassano has blasted AC Milan owner Gerry Cardinale for the sacking of director Paolo Maldini.

Both Maldini and fellow football director Ricky Massara were dismissed by Cardinale on Monday.

Cassano said on Bobo TV: "Maldini has done an extraordinary job at Milan, while this Cardinale reminds me of Pallotta from Roma, he only takes pictures and drama while he should be kissing where Maldini walks.

"As always, these Americans arrive without understanding anything about football.

"I hope for Paolo that he can send them to s*** and starts over elsewhere, if he's not happy it's right that he goes away and that they are left with it."