Ibrahimovic to arrive in Belgrade for the Red Star v Milan match

Photo: Tanjug/AP

Although there were rumors that he will rest due to the tight schedule and that he will not play against Red Star, Zlatan Ibrahimovic will definitely be here for the showdown with the Serbian champion.

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This was confirmed by Milan coach Stefano Pioli during a news conference.

"Yes, Ibrahimovic is coming to Belgrade. The whole Milan team is coming," Pioli said, replying to Telegraf's question, and then added:

"We are happy about Europa League and we are aware of the responsibilities that come with the competition. We appreciate where we are and we are convinced that we will continue. Now, it's Red Star first, then preparations for the Milan derby (against Inter). The most important thing is to focus on Red Star. They play good football and it will not be easy."

Asked to comment on the fact that there will be no fans at the stadium in Belgrade, Pioli said:

"We are very sorry, because we play football for the audience that brings that great atmosphere. The pressure on us would be greater if there was an audience. Personally, I am very sorry that we will play in front of empty stands."

Photo: Tanjug/AP

One of questions for Pioli was what it's like to coach players whose last name ends with an "ic" (i.e., those from the Balkans), considering that during his career, and even now, he has worked with them.

"I like working with them, they are great players and strong personalities. As such, strong personalities are a little difficult, that is, it's not easy to work with them, but they always show great respect. Mostly they say what they think."

Italian reporters were also interested if Mario Mandzukic would finally be in Milan's starting 11.

"Mandzukic is a great football player and professional, he works a lot and tries to get back the rhythm he had. Maybe he will play against the Red Star tomorrow," Pioli was clear.

(Telegraf.rs)