As Milan veteran Olivier Giroud prepares for his first Derby della Madonnina, Zlatan Ibrahimovic misses out on what could prove to be his last.
The 40-year-old Swedish forward will miss tomorrow’s derby at the San Siro due to Achilles tendon problems, forcing him to watch the clash from the stands. It’s a crucial match in the title race between the two Milanese sides this season, and the former Paris Saint-Germain man will not be happy to miss out.
In contrast to Ibrahimovic, there’s Giroud; the 35-year-old Frenchman has struggled to make a strong impression since signing for the Rossoneri last July, but his experience in big games could be crucial in tomorrow’s derby.
Ibrahimovic is often pointed to as a key figurehead in the Milan squad, leading the younger players with his experience and strong mentality, and this is something that Giroud can look to replicate tomorrow.
The 35-year-old was an important part of the France team that won the 2018 World Cup, and his almost-decade worth of experience with Chelsea and Arsenal could also prove important to Stefano Pioli’s players as they look to secure the three points over the league leaders.