MILAN: Speculation that controversial Silvio Berlusconi is preparing to sever his command of Milan has been stepped up after confirmation that executive vice-president Adriano Galliani is poised to quit after 27 years at the club.

Berlusconi’s focus over the last years have been on fighting a swathe of political and court battles. These culminated earlier this week in the former Italian prime minister being expelled from parliament after a fraud conviction.

More and more infuence within the board has been wielded by Berlusconi’s daughter, Barbara, though the family are considered to lack his long-term loyalty to the former world, European and Italian champions.

Barbara Berlusconi questioned publicly the club’s direction and transfer strategy under Galliani.

Galliani, confirming he believes he is being forced out, will step down after next month’s UEFA Champions League clash with Ajax.

He said: “I will resign after the Ajax tie. I quit for good reason. I understand a generational change but it should not be like that, I deserved more elegance. There has been a severe damage to my image.

“I will resign with or without agreement (on the severance pay). My future? I’ll wait some time before deciding. My affection for president Berlusconi is not changed and it won’t change.”

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