Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Senior Advisor to RedBird Capital for AC Milan, spoke to Sky Sport before the club’s Champions League opener against Liverpool at San Siro. The Swedish legend addressed various topics, including his role at the club and recent absences, with his characteristic directness.
On the importance of the match, Ibrahimovic stated, “It’s an important week, with the first game today against Liverpool. It comes at a good, right moment for the team. We certainly didn’t have the start we wanted, but with the right patience, you’ll see we’ll get there. Tonight will be a great game.”
Addressing his recent absence and its impact, he said, “When the Lion goes away, the cats come closer. When the Lion returns, the cats disappear. I’m not referring to the team, but to those around us, and the level is too low.”
Ibrahimovic emphasized his constant presence: “I’m focusing on the work. From the first day I entered, I’ve always been present, and even when I’m not there, I’m still present.”
Regarding his role at the club, he asserted, “My role is simple: I’m in command, I’m the boss, and everyone works for me. I know Boban didn’t understand it, so I’ll say it again: I’m in command. I work, and we work in silence.”
When asked about key players Theo Hernandez and Rafael Leao, Ibrahimovic said, “We’ve spoken with them and the team. They’re charged up. We had a good game against Venezia, and now they’re ready.”
On adapting to his new role, he admitted, “Since I accepted not playing anymore, I don’t have the same adrenaline as before. Of course, I miss playing, but I’ve accepted the role, so I don’t experience the same adrenaline anymore.”
Addressing transfer market questions, particularly about Osimhen, Ibrahimovic stated, “The market went exactly as we wanted. Everything we sought, we got. We brought in Abraham as an attacking reinforcement, and I’m sorry for Jovic who’s not on the Champions League list. If I spoke with Osimhen? I won’t answer that.”
