Pioli: 'Ibra Milan reference'

By Football Italia staff

Stefano Pioli confirms Milan have signed Zlatan Ibrahimovic to be “the reference point in our attack. He’ll stimulate the whole team.”

Ibrahimovic is about to embark on his second spell at Milan, having won the Scudetto first time out, and Pioli admits he “can’t wait” to coach the 38-year-old.

“Ibra is a warrior, a leader, a charismatic player who has a great sense of responsibility and a great desire to win,” he told Corriere della Sera.

“He’ll stimulate the whole team, his contribution will be crucial. Being the youngest team in the League, we’ve encountered some limitations in terms of a competitive streak.

“Ibra is the kind of player, person and leader who can help us fill that void. I thank the club. Gazidis, Maldini, Boban and Massara worked a lot during the holidays.

“He can do it all, he knows how set up his teammates, he knows how to occupy the box well and he’ll know how to be the reference point in our attack.

“I spoke to him on the phone, he’s very fired up and he can’t wait to train with us, just like I can’t wait to coach him.

“What did he tell me? I welcomed him, he asked about the conditions of the team, our upcoming training sessions and what situations to expect.

“He told me: ‘Mister, don’t worry I’m fine.’”

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