Paolo Maldini was immediately informed of his dismissal upon meeting with AC Milan owner Gerry Cardinale yesterday.

The technical director was dismissed by Cardinale, along with fellow chief Ricky Massara, reports Calciomercato.com.

Maldini went into the meeting expecting to discuss their transfer budget and instead was informed by Cardinale his services were no longer required.

The Milan legend has long been seeking an increase of the transfer budget from Cardinale, who is reluctant to spend.

Just as they did under Elliott Management, Maldini and Massara worked on a shoestring budget at Milan and have managed to produce stunning results. But the tension with the board was too much for Cardinale.

Contrary to previous reports of the pair resigning, it's now emerged the architects of last year's Scudetto triumph were sacked.