Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s first day back at AC Milan has, by all accounts, gone swimmingly, and it seems that he has adapted almost instantaneously to the characteristics required in his new job at Milanello.
Ibra’s return was the topic of much speculation, given his importance to Milan as a player, but also due to the limits concerning what his role could entail due to his lack of qualifications. His ‘double role’ moulds perfectly to his skillset, allowing him to be effective to both the executives at RedBird and the Rossoneri.
He will act as a Senior Advisor to the management, offering his opinion and expertise in matters such as managerial choices and mercato movements. However, he will also be a reference point and advisor to Stefano Pioli should the 58-year-old ask for Zlatan’s assistance.
Following his first day back Peppe Di Stefano, a Sky Sports journalist, offered his thoughts on the Swede’s first day back at Milanello, and his comments were relayed by Radio Rossonera.
“A new adventure begins for Milan and for Zlatan Ibrahimovic as a consultant for RedBird, but I believe he will be very much a manager of Milan.”
How was Ibra’s first day?
“From what I know he has taken the first steps with a lot of sensitivity. Ibra is a very intelligent person and he understands well that this prospect has never seen him.
“Consequently, he will take the steps one at a time to enter in the best way possible. But be careful, he knows the environment well.
“He knows Milanello, Milan, the managers, the vices and virtues of this place, he knows the players. But this is a new role.”
What did the Swede do on his return to Milanello?
“Today he saw training, but he didn’t speak to the team. He greeted the players in the locker room and the gym. On the sidelines, he was with [Geoffrey] Moncada and [Antonio] D’Ottavio and they watched the training together.
“Then he stayed a while with Stefano Pioli. A Zlatan Ibrahimovic in his new role will make an impact, he will play an active role.”
