The fallout from the Brisbane Lions' latest annus horribilis will not only end the senior coaching career of Justin Leppitsch but is also expected to see the resignation of the club's three-time premiership coach and powerbroker Leigh Matthews.

Leppitsch, who received a one-year contract extension in March, cannot survive the Lions' disastrous season that has, to date, seen just three wins, captain Tom Rockliff at odds with club leaders and AFL intervention as Brisbane's debt continues to spiral out of control.

AFL bosses Mark Evans and Travis Auld are leading the AFL review into the club's football and off-field operation, and are expected to recommend a number of key personnel changes, including the appointment of a senior football operations manager and several new coaching positions.

Although the AFL has guaranteed it will assist the rebuilding of the hapless Lions, it is expected to stop short of funding the Leppitsch payout given that it cautioned the club against guaranteeing the coach's wage — about $450,000 — for next season.