Inter Milan great Beppe Bergomi says Paolo Maldini was reluctant to work within the limits of AC Milan's American owners.

Maldini was sacked by Milan owner Gerry Cardinale immediately at the end of the season.

Bergomi said: “I know Paolo Maldini well, he studied a lot to become a director, he did well at Milan, won a Scudetto and took Milan to the Champions League three times, but with the Americans there is one word to keep in mind: collaboration, perhaps some choices have not been shared so much.

“The Americans offer the possibility to operate but still want a return. So let's remember that already in (Zvonimir) Boban's time, even if it was another property, there was a clash over Rangnick, and this year too, even if seen from the outside, there was some problem.

“The line is dictated by the owners, you are a employee and you have to adjust. Some choices have not been made well but above all I think it is a problem of personal relationships.

“Now I don't know what Paolo will do, Paolo is Milan. He can go abroad, he knows English perfectly and is highly appreciated, I don't see him so much in another Italian team."