The football icon sheds light on his evolving role at AC Milan, his enduring passion for the game, and candid thoughts on its future, from the heart of Rome.
Rome recently played host to the European Club Association (ECA) assembly, now rebranded as the EFC, gathering football`s luminaries to discuss the game`s direction. Among the distinguished guests, one figure stood out, not for a spectacular overhead kick, but for his sharp observations from a new vantage point: Zlatan Ibrahimović. The former striker, now a prominent operational partner for RedBird and a super consultant for AC Milan, offered a rare glimpse into his post-playing life, reflecting on a storied past and dissecting the nuances of modern football.
The Eternal Pursuit of Adrenaline
For a man who once declared, «I came as a king, left as a legend,» the transition from the roar of the stadium to the quiet strategy of the boardroom might seem stark. Ibrahimović readily admitted the absence of the raw, visceral thrill of playing. «I miss the adrenaline of when I played,» he stated, a sentiment perhaps universally understood by retired athletes of his caliber. His solution? A daily pilgrimage to the gym – a fascinating testament to his unwavering dedication, even when the immediate stakes are no longer a Champions League final, but rather, perhaps, a slightly more efficient supply chain for AC Milan’s training equipment. It`s a reminder that some habits, and some drives, are simply too ingrained to fade.
«I miss the adrenaline of when I played, that`s why I go to the gym every day. But I learn a lot in this new role.»
His current role with AC Milan is more than just honorary; it`s hands-on. «I lend a hand to an excellent team,» he remarked, underscoring his active involvement. This isn`t Zlatan merely gracing events with his presence; it`s Zlatan applying his unique competitive fire to the administrative and strategic challenges of one of Europe`s most iconic clubs. The learning curve, he noted, is steep, but for a mind as keen as his, it`s clearly a challenge he relishes.
Reflections from the Pantheon of Italian Football
During his address at the Football Leaders Forum, Ibrahimović transported the audience back to his formative years in Italian football. He recalled the indelible impression of seeing his name for the first time in Gazzetta, a publication he reverently described as «an icon.» His early days at Juventus under Fabio Capello offered a stern, yet invaluable, lesson in humility and respect. Capello, engrossed in his newspaper, didn`t even acknowledge the young striker`s greeting. «By not answering me, he made me understand how to earn the respect of the group,» Zlatan recounted, a classic Capello masterclass in psychological warfare that clearly shaped the formidable personality we know today.
He spoke of his arrival in Serie A from Ajax, a league he championed as «the most important championship in the world,» populated by «champions I had only seen on PlayStation.» His candidness even included a playful revelation about a near-transfer to another Italian club – «but I won`t name it, otherwise a friend of mine, who belongs to the other team in the same city, will get angry and owes me a ride.» A subtle nod, perhaps, to Rome`s rival clubs, keeping everyone guessing with characteristic Zlatan flair.
A Pragmatic Vision for Modern Football
Beyond personal anecdotes, Ibrahimović shared his considered opinions on the evolution of the game itself. He lauded the newly reformed Champions League with its 36-team single-group format, introduced last year. «It`s extraordinary, even the smaller clubs enjoy it,» he enthused, highlighting the inclusivity and increased competitive opportunities. While acknowledging concerns about fixture congestion, he pragmatically countered, «Players want to play as many games as possible, and 25-man squads allow for rotations. And fans want to see matches, not training sessions.» A typically straightforward argument, emphasizing entertainment and athlete welfare in equal measure.
His stance on VAR was equally measured: «It`s welcome if it helps the referees. The important thing is to use it well and not waste too much time.» A sentiment shared by many, perhaps with an implied wish for efficiency that only Zlatan`s decisive nature could truly appreciate.
Future Echoes: Coaches, World Cups, and Magic Touches
When asked about coaches he wished he had played under, two legends immediately sprung to mind: Sir Alex Ferguson and Jürgen Klopp. An interesting pairing, reflecting his appreciation for both commanding authority and passionate leadership. And for the 2026 World Cup? His prediction was as bold as his persona: «I hope Brazil wins, under my friend Ancelotti. He has a magic touch that can turn even Brazil into gold.» A testament to his respect for Carlo Ancelotti`s coaching prowess, and perhaps a touch of wishful thinking for a nation renowned for its footballing artistry.
Zlatan Ibrahimović`s appearance at the ECA assembly wasn`t just another speech; it was a reaffirmation of his enduring presence in football, albeit in a different arena. From the pitch to the boardroom, his insights, charisma, and distinctive worldview continue to shape discussions and inspire those around him. The game might have lost a prolific goalscorer, but it has gained a formidable strategist, whose «magic touch» is now applied to the grander scheme of club management.