Ibrahimovic Hints at Felix’s Future Amid Critical Champions League Showdown

MILAN, Italy — AC Milan faces a crucial match against Feyenoord in the UEFA Champions League tonight, trailing 1-0 from the first leg. With their European campaign hanging in the balance, the team’s focus is on overcoming the deficit to advance.

Speaking to Sky Sports on the eve of the clash, Zlatan Ibrahimovic emphasized the importance of a decisive performance from his team. “I expect [Milan to be] more clinical, aggressive. With the mentality and approach like it’s a final. We need to win to move forward,” he said.

Ahead of the match at the San Siro, Ibrahimovic acknowledged the unique challenges of playing away from home against Feyenoord. “It’s always different away from home. We have to be focused on ourselves, play our game, and be present,” he added.

The significance of the Champions League for AC Milan cannot be overstated. “The Champions League is important. If you look at the history of Milan, the club has written the history of the Champions League. It is an important match, we want to win and we must win,” Ibrahimovic remarked.

Milan is expected to field their notorious forward line, but Ibrahimovic hinted at potential lineup changes. “Everyone wanted these four forwards, then when they are present they want to change them. It’s a question for the coach. The 11 who play have to do this job to win,” he stated.

As discussions swirl around player renewals, Ibrahimovic provided updates on key players. “We are talking to [Mike Maignan, Tijjani Reijnders, and Theo Hernandez]. For us, everything is under control. All three are very happy at Milan and want to continue,” he said.

The future of Joao Felix, currently on loan at Milan, also remains a point of interest. Ibrahimovic indicated uncertainty but optimism regarding Felix’s future with the club. “Everything is possible. We have to make him feel good; he’s playing well. After the season, we’ll talk about it,” he said.

In the first leg, Feyenoord’s Igor Paixão put Milan on the back foot with an early goal, and the Rossoneri struggled to find rhythm against the resilient Dutch side. Ibrahimovic will need to ensure a collective response from his squad to avoid early elimination.

Tonight’s battle will see key matchups, particularly between Rafael Leao and Feyenoord’s Givairo Read. After stating that Leao’s movements were predictable, Read is likely to aim for a stronger defensive showing against him this evening.

With the stakes high and the pressure mounting, Milan’s players understand the significance of tonight’s encounter. Failure to advance could mean a disappointing end to their Champions League aspirations.