Giroud wants to emulate Ibrahimovic after becoming Milan's new number 9

Olivier Giroud revealed he wants to emulate the longevity of Zlatan Ibrahimovic after joining the Sweden legend at Milan.

The France striker has left Chelsea for Milan in a deal that was officially completed on Saturday.

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Giroud scored 11 times for Chelsea last season despite only starting 12 matches across all competitions.

The 34-year-old will hope to feature more regularly for Milan, who finished second to city rivals Inter in Serie A last season.

He has been handed the number nine shirt at San Siro, suggesting he could be poised to play a pivotal role alongside Ibrahimovic after signing a two-year deal.

As he gave his first interview with Milan TV in quotes carried by Football Italia, Giroud was enthused about Ibrahimovic.

"I have played against Zlatan a few times," said the striker.

"To be playing at almost 40 years old, I think he’s an exceptional professional.

"You can’t play until that age, like that, without a big commitment for the team and great determination.

"He’s looking after himself and his body. I try to do the same to continue to enjoy football for as long as my body allows me.

"I think he’s an example for the youngsters, he’s one of the best strikers in Serie A and I’m looking forward to play alongside him. And enjoy training too, I think we will have fun.

"I just want to win something with Milan, and with Zlatan it’s even better, you know."

Giroud & Tomori discussed swapping Chelsea for Milan

Defender Fikayo Tomori swapped Chelsea for Milan last season in a loan move that has since become permanent.

Giroud did not miss the opportunity to discuss his move to Italy with Tomori.

He added: "I spoke with Fik a few weeks ago and he said: ‘We are waiting for you to help us win the Scudetto’.

"I don’t want to put too much pressure on everybody, but we obviously want to be the protagonists."

Giroud continued: "I feel blessed that I had the opportunity to win trophies, playing for big clubs.

"I think Milan is a club that deserves to play at the highest level.

"To fight for the Scudetto in Serie A and to have a great tournament in the Champions League too.

"We want to play in every competition, I know that there’s the Coppa Italia too, which is very important for the tifosi."

After the Serie A fixtures were announced this week, Milan will open their campaign away to Sampdoria on the week ending August 22.