MN: Giroud not at Milan to be Ibrahimovic’s deputy as new tactical hypothesis emerges

Questions marks have been raised over the idea that Olivier Giroud will be Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s deputy when the Swede is fully fit.

MilanNews recalls how the signing of Giroud was initially met with some scepticism by Milan fans because of his age (34) and the fact he arrived having had little playing time at Chelsea last season, at least compared to what he has been used to in recent years. However, his response was emphatic, as the Frenchman netted three times in preseason and has shown himself to be ready for the new campaign.

There is no doubt a player like Giroud would have been fundamental last year when Ibrahimovic was injured and Milan needed attacking depth, but is he really the reserve to the Swede no? It doesn’t seem like that, as Pioli is trying out a 4-4-2 that would allow both Olivier and Zlatan to play together.

The defensive contribution of the two would be zero in a system like this and they would both be able to make their presence felt in the opponent’s 18-yard box. The two will support each other to always remain in top condition and to avoid injuries, but of course this solution raises questions about options from the bench.


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