Rui Costa: Milan will still achieve objectives & Zlatan's return is great

Rui Costa believes former clubs Fiorentina and Milan will still achieve objectives this season and is delighted with Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s return to San Siro.

Rui Costa played alongside Stefano Pioli at Fiorentina in the 1990s, and he is confident the Milan boss has what it takes to guide the Rossoneri back into Europe.

“I love Stefano and owe him a lot," the Portugal icon told Corriere dello Sport.

“The year I arrived in Florence, everything was completely new to me and I went to live above him.

“He wasn’t only a teammate but also a friend who helped me in many situations. I have huge respect and consideration for him, as a coach and as a man.

“I can only wish him the best. I’m convinced that he’ll revive Milan.”

Finally, the Benfica director expects Ibrahimovic to roll back the years in his second spell for the Diavolo.

“Ibra is Ibra. Age doesn’t count for him, even at 38, and we’ll soon see how he’s still in the right shape.

“A star like him can make a difference. Milan needed someone like Zlatan because he’s able to drag his teammates.

“He decided to come to Milan for reasons other than money. And if someone like him cares then the club has made a good deal.”