MN: Pioli needs the ‘Brahim’ factor back – goal drought of key duo must end

With 180 minutes separating AC Milan from knowing their fate in the Scudetto race, Stefano Pioli needs the contribution of every player in his squad.

MilanNews writes how this also applies to Zlatan Ibrahimovic who has been afflicted by several physical problems over the past few months but has not scored since January 9 against Venezia, while at home his last goal was 12 September 2021 against Lazio.

His future is still cloudy, but the present is well defined: Ibrahimovic plans to bring home the title again with Milan, the team that he feels the strongest connection to, and while he is not in perfect shape he will do everything to make a big impact against La Dea on Sunday.

Then there is Brahim Diaz who is also not going through a very easy period in terms of performances and goals. He last scored on 25 September 2021 against Spezia and despite being the only attacking midfielder in the squad, Diaz has lost his starting spot to Kessie and Krunic.

He will probably start from the bench against the Bergamo side, but can be useful as a substitute to try and exploit any space being left. Pioli needs everyone to get the four points needed between now and the end of round 38.