Zlatan Ibrahimovic admits the 1-0 defeat to FC Porto was Milan’s ‘worst performance’ of the season, but the Champions League experience will help their younger players to grow.
It was their third straight loss in the competition, decided by a Luis Suarez strike from the edge of the box, although Medhi Taremi seemed to barge over Ismael Bennacer in the build-up.
“Of the three games, this was our worst performance and therefore we don’t deserve the points,” Ibrahimovic told Mediaset.
“Sometimes you can play badly and still bring points home, but never mind. We have to remember this is the first Champions League for many of our players and they just need to grow.
“You can see in Serie A that they bring that increased experience, tempo and knowledge to the league as well, they grow after every Champions League match.”
The Rossoneri had numerous injury absentees, including Theo Hernandez, Brahim Diaz, Mike Maignan and suspended Franck Kessie.
“We are missing some players, but that’s football. I just returned, I’m happy to play, but need more minutes to get match fitness and form. It’ll arrive slowly.
“There are three games to go. We fought last season to qualify for the Champions League, so as long as it’s possible, we keep fighting. I am confident, the win will come.”