MILAN: Barbara Berlusconi has demonstrated who is in charge at the Stadio Meazza by sacking Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri, a day after a 4-3 league defeat by minnow struggers Sassuolo.

Favourite to take over is ex-Holland and Milan midfielder Clarence Seedorf, the only footballer to have won the Champions League with three different clubs, and who retired overnight from playing with Flamengo in Brazil.

The 18-time Italian champions are 11th in Serie A, 30 points behind leaders Juventus. Allegri, 46, who was due to leave when his contract expired at the end of the season, has been replaced on a caretaker basis by former assistant Mauro Tassotti.

Berlusconi reacted to the defeat by saying: “This was a disappointing evening, like others, which confirms that a change is both necessary and urgent with the contribution of everyone concerned. It’s no longer tolerable that our fans participate in performances like these.”

Berlusconi is the 29-year-old daughter of scandal-hit club owner and former prime minister Silvio Berlusconi.

Before Christmas she was appointed as joint executive director with long-serving Adriano Gallani. However the two have never been considered allies and Berlusconi underlined her power by removing Allegri after a conference call with her father.

A club statement read: “Massimiliano Allegri and his staff have been relieved of their duties. AC Milan would like to thank Mr Allegri and his staff for their time with the club and wishes them the best for the future.”

Former Cagliari boss Allegri led Milan to the Serie A title  in his first season in charge after replacing Leonardo in June 2010.

They finished as runners-up to Juventus the following year but ended last season 15 points behind Juventus, who won the title again.

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