Di Marzio discusses Pioli's fate and Ibrahimovic's role: "Guarantor of the future"

Ahead of the summer, there are many uncertainties regarding AC Milan, and Gianluca Di Marzio has offered his opinions on the Stefano Pioli situation as it currently stands and also on Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s role.

Pioli’s future is still the topic of speculation – the 58-year-old has been rumoured to leave the club at the end of the year, but going far in the Europa League could turn the tide. However, with reports still emerging about the club’s favoured candidates, it seems that the writing could be on the wall.

There is a guarantee for the future, though, and that is Zlatan Ibrahimovic. After much speculation, the Swede finally returned to Milan at the end of 2023, and he has already proved himself to be as influential off the pitch as he was on it.

Rumours emerged that the Rossoneri icon will ‘hold weight’ in several matters this summer, including, but not limited to, the managerial situation and the club’s market movements, which is exciting, given the magnitude of both decisions.

Di Marzio spoke to Sky Sport 24 and offered his insight on Pioli’s future, and the role that Zlatan can and likely will play going forward – his words have been relayed by PianetaMilan.

Di Marzio’s opinion on Pioli’s future…

“Not if the final results will really decide Pioli’s future. He’s doing well this year apart from the Champions League elimination and the many injuries. Pioli deserves respect regardless of how the season ends. Then the parties will meet and they will have to understand, regardless of how the season ends, if they both have the incentive to continue together. At the beginning of this season, Pioli was given an even more important role with more powers.”

Di Marzio’s opinion on Ibrahimovic’s role…

“Now we need to understand if with the arrival of Ibrahimovic the Milan coach, whether Pioli or not, will still have the same strength. The Swede is the right person to tell Cardinale whether or not to continue with Pioli. He knows the environment and the dynamics within the team well. Ibra is the guarantor for the Milan bench of the future.”