Zlatan on his new role:

They attacked me every day for 25 years. Why? Because I was the best.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has taken an active role at AC Milan, but he emphasizes that he is not there to lead a one-man show. In an interview with GQ Italia, as reported by Football-Italia, he describes himself as a protector of the team.

– If someone has to be shot, let them shoot me, he says.

A New Position Off the Field

Since December 2023, Ibrahimovic has been an advisor to RedBird, the investment company that owns Milan. Although he does not hold a formal role in the club, he has been involved in several matters, including the coaching staff and transfers.

He highlights the importance of teamwork and praises Gerry Cardinale, the founder of RedBird, for putting the right people in the right places.

– Just like on the field, collaboration is crucial. I told Cardinale that I'm not here to save anyone. I want to learn and help others perform their best, Zlatan explains.

"Wolf of Wall Street"

Ibrahimovic describes Cardinale as a driven person who never gives up.

– Now I understand why he is successful. He always gets what he wants. In the end, he gave me an offer I couldn't refuse.

He also mentions that his wife, Helena Seger, persuaded him to take the role. But the decision was not about money.

– Milan does not pay me. I work for RedBird, but my mission is clear: to take Milan back to the top.

From Star Player to Protector

Ibrahimovic returned to Milan as a player in 2020 and contributed to the Serie A title in 2022. Now, he has a different role – to protect the club.

– When I played, everything revolved around me. Now, I'm the bodyguard. If someone has to be shot, let them shoot me. But I will shoot back twice.

He also reflects on his background and the trials he has experienced.

– I went through ten years of war. If you've lived like that, you fear nothing. That's real fear.

He concludes with a jab at the media:

– They attacked me every day for 25 years. Why? Because I was the best.

Milan in Headwinds

Milan is struggling in Serie A and is currently seventh, eight points away from a Champions League spot. In this year's tournament, the team unexpectedly got knocked out in the playoff round against Feyenoord.