Milan director Paolo Maldini admits “the more time passes, the more difficult it becomes” to sign Zlatan Ibrahimovic, but he doesn’t regret hiring Marco Giampaolo.

The match with Sassuolo kicks off at 14.00 GMT, click here for the LIVEBLOG.

In the build-up to the game, and today’s ceremony marking the 120th anniversary of AC Milan’s foundation, he was inevitably asked about the bid to bring Ibra back.

Milan director Paolo Maldini admits “the more time passes, the more difficult it becomes” to sign Zlatan Ibrahimovic, but he doesn’t regret hiring Marco Giampaolo.

The match with Sassuolo kicks off at 14.00 GMT, click here for the LIVEBLOG.

In the build-up to the game, and today’s ceremony marking the 120th anniversary of AC Milan’s foundation, he was inevitably asked about the bid to bring Ibra back.

“Ibrahimovic is certainly an option and we are continuing to talk, but there are other options too,” Maldini told Sky Sport Italia.

“The more time passes, the more difficult it becomes. He hasn’t played since October 28, so it becomes a tricky situation.

“We are open to all talented players. The Leo Duarte injury caused us a few problems in defence, but Mattia Caldara is making his way back.”

Napoli, Bologna, Roma and Manchester United are also known to be interested in Ibrahimovic, who is a free agent after his LA Galaxy contract expired.

Meanwhile, the Rossoneri have won their last two games under coach Stefano Pioli and seek a third against Sassuolo today.

“We made a decision at the start of the season to bring in a coach with strong ideas and I would make that decision again,” insisted Maldini, despite the club sacking Marco Giampaolo.

“It didn’t work out with Giampaolo, but Pioli has brought his very direct way of doing things and is in sync with the directors.

“The team confirmed it was a good group of players, with a few defects largely down to a lack of experience.”

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Tickets Kit Collector