Milan handed blow as Ibrahimovic ruled out of next two Serie A games

The striker was forced off in the match against Juventus after suffering what appeared to be a non-contact injury.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic will sit out the next two Serie A outings for AC Milan, Stefano Pioli has confirmed.

Ibrahimovic was replaced by Ante Rebic during Milan’s 3-0 win over Juventus on Sunday as, despite receiving pitch-side treatment, he was in no condition to continue following a knock on his knee.

The 39-year-old’s absence could prove fatal for Milan, who are not yet guaranteed Champions League qualification. He is their top scorer with 15 goals in 19 league outings.

The Rossoneri are currently safe, sitting in third place with 72 points. However, there is little margin between the top-four hopefuls as only three points separate them from fifth-placed Juventus. Lazio, who have 64 points and a game in hand, are in contention as well.

Pioli, though, will have to make do without his star striker as Ibrahimovic is set to miss the trip to Torino on Wednesday and the subsequent clash with Cagliari.

“The only bad news is his injury, a slight sprain in the knee,” the Milan manager told Sky Sport Italia.

“He will not be available tomorrow and on Sunday against Cagliari. Let’s see what the developments will be next week.”