Leao: I see Ibrahimovic as big brother, since he arrived he has been helping me

Rafael Leao is already getting on famously with “big brother” Zlatan Ibrahimovic, as Milan practice a 4-4-2 without Suso or Krzysztof Piatek.

Ibra only arrived last week and made his debut off the bench in partnership with Leao during the 0-0 draw with Sampdoria.

There are increasing reports the pair will start on Saturday against Cagliari in a 4-4-2 formation, as that was used in training today with Samu Castillejo and Hakan Calhanoglu on the wings.

“I see Ibrahimovic as a big brother,” Portugal Under-21 international Leao told Sky Sport Italia.

“Since he arrived, he’s been talking to me, giving me advice on how to improve, how to position myself in the penalty area. He’s a great player and I want to learn as much as I can with him by my side.

“I think he’ll help us to change things and win games this season, because any team with Ibrahimovic in it has a better chance of success.”

The Rossoneri certainly need it, as they are languishing in mid-table and failed to score in their last two games.

“We are Milan, so we have to get back into the Champions League or at least Europa League, as that is where the club belongs,” continued Leao.

“I have not been playing much this season, but Stefano Pioli is a fine coach and helping me with my confidence. I can play in any attacking role, but I prefer to be a centre-forward, as I can move more near the area and have a better chance of scoring goals.”