RedBird’s senior Milan adviser Zlatan Ibrahimovic shared his thoughts on the club’s future and his commitment to its success. In a recent interview with UEFA Champions League Magazine, Ibrahimovic expressed his belief in the club’s potential under the ownership of RedBird Capital Partners.
Reflecting on the significance of this year, which marks Milan’s 125th anniversary, Ibrahimovic stated, “It’s a special year for Milan. You can see it in the club; everyone is excited. We will do great things for the 125th anniversary and have some surprises planned.” He emphasized the importance of blending the club’s rich history with its future ambitions: “The Milan is part of football history; we are just a new generation in this story. We go back in time, bring the past to the present, and mix it.”
Ibrahimovic also discussed his decision to return to Milan after retiring from professional football. “I believe in the project. I believe in what Milan represents and think I share the same vision as those who work here and the ownership because they want to do extraordinary things. They want to make history, win. And when it comes to winning, that’s where I feel alive because I want to win: I will do anything to win and won’t give up until I do.”
His connection to the club remains strong despite his new role off the pitch. “I’ve played for many clubs, but the club that gave me the most in my career is Milan. The first time I was here, I felt happiness playing; the second time, they gave me love. I feel like I only want to give something back.”
Transitioning from player to executive has been smooth for Ibrahimovic. “Since I accepted to stop playing, I’m at peace with this decision. I don’t miss playing football itself; I miss being on the pitch because of my experience and what I know how to do.” He acknowledged that while he sometimes feels frustrated not being able to contribute directly on the field, he is committed to his new role and enjoys working with a talented team.
Ibrahimovic is also focused on nurturing young talent within the club. “The ambition is to make history. Making history means winning trophies, and Milan has historically won many trophies. We are paying a lot of attention to young players now because we believe in them.” He highlighted initiatives like Milan Futuro, aimed at developing young players and providing them with opportunities in professional football.
Discussing Milan’s global presence, Ibrahimovic remarked, “Milan is already global. Looking at history, Milan is known worldwide. Our goal is to return to the top of European football because Milan belongs there.” He acknowledged the challenges posed by competing leagues but emphasized that hard work and smart strategies would help achieve their goals.
When asked about current players Christian Pulisic and Tijjani Reijnders, Ibrahimovic praised their contributions. “Christian is doing extraordinary things; he’s happy at Milan. Being at Milan makes every player happy.” He noted that Pulisic has revitalized his career since joining the club and highlighted Reijnders’ rapid development into an important player.
Ibrahimovic concluded by reflecting on Reijnders’ Dutch heritage and its historical significance at Milan: “If we look back, there’s a historic trio of Marco van Basten, Frank Rijkaard, and Ruud Gullit who were icons of the club.” He believes that while Reijnders feels pressure as a Dutch player, he is performing excellently and must continue proving himself.
