Zlatan Ibrahimovic played a pivotal role in mediating the heated confrontation between AC Milan coach Sergio Conceicao and captain Davide Calabria following the team’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Parma on Sunday. The incident, which threatened to overshadow Milan’s impressive comeback win, was quickly contained thanks to the Swedish legend’s swift intervention.
According to reports from Sky Sport Italia, Ibrahimovic, who now serves as a senior advisor to the club, immediately stepped in to calm both parties. He engaged in separate conversations with Conceicao and Calabria, encouraging them to address the media and explain the situation. This strategic move was aimed at presenting a united front and preventing any escalation of rumours or speculation about internal discord.
Ibrahimovic’s approach demonstrated his growing influence within the club’s structure. He spent approximately 30 minutes in a private discussion with Conceicao, which not only accounted for the coach’s delayed appearance at the post-match press conference but also served to reassure the Portuguese manager and stabilize the team’s environment.
The incident highlights Ibrahimovic’s evolving role at AC Milan since his retirement as a player. While his exact position within the club hierarchy remains somewhat ambiguous, his actions in this situation underscore his importance in maintaining team cohesion and managing potential crises.