Panucci resigns as Palermo director of sports

Christian Panucci resigned as director of sports of Serie A side Palermo on Tuesday just over a month after he took the job. The 38-year-old former Italian international defender's resignation came about, the club said, because of a misunderstanding over comments made by president Maurizio Zamparini. "We are very bitter over this action," the club said in a statement. "We would like to thank Panucci for the work he has done during this short period of time. This resignation comes after a misunderstanding over comments made by the president which were reported in an incorrect fashion by the press." Panucci, who had a distinguished playing career winning the UEFA Champions League twice with AC Milan and Real Madrid, had been working as a pundit for Sky Sport prior to being hired by Zamparini on 19 March. Zamparini has earned the nickname of 'the coach eater' as he has gone through 45 coaches as president of Venice (1987-2002) and from Palermo in 2002. Palermo are presently 11th in Serie A, but just six points above the final relegation place with five matches remaining.