The Swedish striker saw red in the 87th minute of his team's 2-1 victory in Florence for saying something to the assistant referee.

Ibrahimovic claimed his comment was not aimed at the official, but at himself.

"I was angry with myself after losing possession," Ibrahimovic said. "I made a comment to myself - it was not directed at the referee or his assistant.

"I ask for forgiveness from everyone. I left the pitch without making a scene. I was looking at the officials as they were in front of me, and I did not have a gripe with him."

Ibrahimovic had only just returned from a two-match suspension but will now be banned for at least Saturday's match against Sampdoria.

"It was not the best time to be getting a red card, as I was returning from a suspension," Ibrahimovic said.

Milan lead the Serie A standings three points clear of Napoli with six games remaining.