The Rossoneri maintained their perfect started to the Serie A season with a win against Antonio Conte’s men at the San Siro thanks to Ibrahimovic’s first half brace.
The former Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and Manchester United forward made a return to the starting lineup after previously testing positive for Covid-19.
Pioli has labeled Ibrahimovic as an ‘exemplary professional’ and insists his side learned their lesson from last season’s game against Inter Milan.
“He was very tired and even asked to come off, but this time I was the one who ignored him! Zlatan is extraordinary, he brings so much to the side with his talent, determination and character,” Pioli told Sky Italia.
“He’s an exemplary professional, gives everything for his team, wants to win everything from a Cup Final to a training ground routine. I can’t take any credit for dealing with Ibrahimovic, as it’s very easy.
“We suffered in the second half, but also held out for the victory, which shows we have improved, learned from previous mistakes and know how to remain focused.
“The team spirit is incredible, we work hard for our cause. We won every game this season, but none of them were easy, which means we have to improve tactically and technically, because we cannot always rely on character.”
“Of course, we’re satisfied to have beaten a side that has a lot of quality and caused us many problems, but we held out well and hit back when we had the opportunity,” he added, when asked if he is delighted with the result.
“It’s an important victory, but there’s a long road ahead of us and so much we still need to improve.”
