Paolo Maldini Kicks Off at Ralf Rangnick for Threatening His Job Title at Milan

AC Milan technical director Paolo Maldini has criticised Ralf Rangnick for commenting on the structural changes he would need in order to take a job at San Siro.

Rangnick, currently working as head of sport and development at Red Bull, told German newspaper Mitteldeutsche Zeitung that a 'certain influence' would be necessary for him to consider taking a post in Milan.

Accordingly, he has been linked with a hybrid position at AC Milan which would encompass the responsibilities of both a head coach and a director of football.

This combination of roles could jeopardise legendary former Milan defender Maldini's own position as a technical director, while coach Stefano Pioli would also be surplus to requirements in a reshuffle of Milan's upper echelons which has already seen Chief Football Officer Zvonimir Boban move on.

Maldini has now responded to Rangnick's stipulations, in an interview with Italian news service ANSA, by admonishing the former Schalke 04 boss' lack of respect.

"Having never talked to Rangnick, I don't understand on what basis his statements are based, also because I have never been told anything by the owner," fumed Maldini.

"The German coach [Rangnick], speaking of a role with full managerial powers both in the sporting and technical areas, invades areas where professionals work with regular contracts.

"So, I would have some advice for him, before learning Italian he should review the general concepts of respect, as there are colleagues who, despite the many difficulties of the moment, are trying to finish the season in a very professional way, putting the good of Milan to their professional pride."

Meanwhile, 90min has been told that Milan have made contact with Leverkusen youngster Paulinho, who could be one of the first arrivals of a rejuvenated side under Rangnick.