Milan need to approach Feyenoord game like a final, says Ibrahimovic

AC Milan go into their Champions League playoff second leg with Feyenoord one goal down, and they need to approach the return tie with the Dutch side as if it were a final. This is the firm belief of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the club's senior advisor, who emphasized the importance of a strong mindset and a determined approach as they look to overturn the deficit and progress further in the tournament. Speaking to the press on Monday, Ibrahimovic left no room for complacency, stating that Milan must be aggressive, focused, and unwavering in their pursuit of victory.

With Milan manager Sergio Conceicao making his return from Portugal after attending the funeral of former Porto president Pinto da Costa, Ibrahimovic took center stage at the press conference ahead of Tuesday’s crucial match at the iconic San Siro. The former Swedish international, renowned for his commanding presence both on and off the field, underscored the significance of treating the encounter with the utmost seriousness, reminding the players and fans alike that the stakes could not be higher.

Milan’s 1-0 loss in the first leg of the knockout phase playoff away at De Kuip in Rotterdam has left them with work to do, but the team remains hopeful of staging a comeback in front of their home supporters. The atmosphere at the San Siro is expected to be electric, with thousands of Rossoneri faithful rallying behind their team in a bid to inspire them to victory.

“They have to go into this with a final mentality, focused, aggressive, and concrete,” Ibrahimovic told reporters with his characteristic intensity. “It's important to play well, but it's more important to win. We are down by a goal, and we have to get a result to go through. Everyone has to push their teammate and make sure he stays focused. There is no room for distractions or doubt. This is about mentality, about seizing the moment and delivering when it matters most.”

Ibrahimovic, who played a key role in Milan’s last Serie A title-winning campaign before retiring, stressed that a collective effort would be crucial. “It’s a collective thing that starts with some individuality. Even those on the bench have to push. It’s all connected to the collective. This is what makes a group and a team,” he added, highlighting the importance of unity and teamwork. In high-pressure matches such as this, the synergy between players can be the defining factor in turning the tide in their favor.

Beyond the players themselves, Ibrahimovic believes Milan's passionate supporters will have a decisive role to play in this high-stakes encounter. “For tomorrow, our fans are important. Their fans pushed hard in Rotterdam, and it made a difference,” he said, acknowledging the intimidating atmosphere created by Feyenoord’s supporters in the first leg. “But I am confident that tomorrow, with 80,000 AC Milan fans in the stadium and millions more around the world, they will give maximum support to the team. The team will then have to take this energy and use it to do their best.”

The power of the San Siro crowd has been a defining factor for Milan in European competitions over the years, and once again, their presence will be vital. The roar of the fans, the banners unfurled in the stands, and the relentless chants from the Curva Sud could help create an environment that makes it nearly impossible for Feyenoord to settle into the game. The Milan faithful are well aware of what is at stake, and their energy will be channeled onto the pitch to drive the players forward.

Milan defender Fikayo Tomori, one of the key figures in the team’s defensive setup, echoed Ibrahimovic’s sentiments, stressing the importance of maintaining defensive solidity while remaining prepared for any setbacks. “We as a team and as defenders take the field every game with the aim of not conceding goals, and tomorrow we are already down by one,” Tomori said, acknowledging the need for discipline at the back.

He continued, “We know the quality we have, but if we concede a goal, we must not lose concentration and must keep believing in what we are doing. In the end, we know that we have to and want to win. We have to be focused to get what we want.” His words highlight the importance of resilience and mental fortitude, as a single goal conceded could complicate Milan’s path to victory, but maintaining composure and belief will be key.

Milan’s game plan will likely hinge on their ability to strike the right balance between attack and defense. While they need goals to progress, they cannot afford to leave gaps at the back that Feyenoord could exploit on the counter. With the likes of Rafael Leão, Olivier Giroud, and Christian Pulisic leading the attack, the Rossoneri have the firepower to break down Feyenoord’s defense. However, it will be equally important for the midfield, likely marshaled by the experienced Tijjani Reijnders and Ruben Loftus-Cheek, to control possession and dictate the tempo of the game.

Another key figure in Milan’s approach will be their goalkeeper, Mike Maignan, whose shot-stopping ability and command of the penalty area could be the difference between victory and elimination. His leadership from the back will be vital in organizing the defense and ensuring that Milan remain structured even as they push forward in search of goals.

Tactically, Milan’s ability to break down Feyenoord’s defensive shape will be one of the major challenges. The Dutch side, managed by Arne Slot, have proven to be a disciplined unit, capable of absorbing pressure and hitting teams on the break. Milan will need to be patient in their build-up play, avoid forcing unnecessary passes, and look to exploit any spaces left open by Feyenoord’s defense.

Set pieces could also prove to be a valuable weapon for Milan. With the aerial presence of Giroud and Tomori, as well as the precise deliveries from Pulisic and Theo Hernandez, Milan may look to capitalize on corners and free-kicks to create goal-scoring opportunities. Every chance will count, and efficiency in front of goal will be imperative.

As the countdown to kickoff continues, Milan’s players, coaching staff, and supporters are all aligned in their objective: to overturn the deficit and advance to the next round of the Champions League. The task is not easy, but the belief within the squad remains strong. With a legendary figure like Zlatan Ibrahimovic instilling a warrior-like mentality into the team, Milan will step onto the San Siro pitch with nothing less than victory in their sights. The stage is set, the fans are ready, and now it is up to the players to deliver a performance worthy of their club’s illustrious history.