Pavlovic says Ibrahimovic was ‘fundamental’ in him signing for Milan

Strahinja Pavlovic has revealed that the role of Zlatan Ibrahimovic was ‘fundamental’ in him signing for AC Milan this summer after persistent interest from the Rossoneri.

In comments during his first press conference that were relayed by Milan News, Pavlovic explained what led to his move from Red Bull Salzburg and looked ahead to the upcoming season which begins for Milan with a match against Torino on August 17.

Pavlovic was part of Serbia’s squad at the 2024 European Championship but they were unable to make their way out of the group stage, despite having a very talented squad on paper.

If Malick Thiaw does end up leaving the club for Newcastle, although the move seems to be losing pace, there is a good chance that Pavlovic will be the starting defender alongside Fikayo Tomori for the upcoming season.

Ibrahimovic has taken up a role with Milan that is more transfer-focused than many people initially expected, but it seems that he played a very important role in getting Pavlovic to join the club this summer.

“[Zlatan’s influence] was fundamental for me. After the first contact, I immediately understood that Milan is a great club. The more I spoke with Zlatan the more I was convinced to come here. I understood how much they wanted me,” Pavlovic said.

One of the major selling points when it comes to Pavlovic is that he is a versatile defender who is happy to play a number of different roles if the coach needs it.

When asked what type of defender he is, Pavlovic said: “I’m an aggressive player. I still have to talk to the coach, I’m here to do what he asks of me. A three or four-man defence makes little difference to me. I’m here to give 200%.”

Have you spoken to any Serbian players?

“I spoke to several Serbian players who play in Italy. Coming to Italy is the right choice for me at this moment. In Italy I can improve a lot.”

Who is your idol from Milan’s past?

“I chose 31, which is the number I already had at Salzburg. Then I learned that [Jaap] Stam had worn it here, and he has always been a hero to me. Many compare us, certainly because of our hair, but apart from that we both have great aggression.”

Who will you compete with for the title?

“In Italy there are excellent teams, there is great competition for the Scudetto. The comparison with Inter? I spoke with many fans, there is great respect between the two clubs. This is beautiful.”

What can you improve on at Milan?

“Every day you have to improve and learn. I don’t know what specific things I can improve on, but I can say that I will give my all every day.”

How are you physically?

“I feel fit, I’m fine and I’m in shape. I’ve already trained at Milanello, I also trained well at Salzburg.”

What are your dreams now that you are at Milan?

“When you arrive at a big club like Milan, the dreams are big.”

What do you think of Milanello?

“Everything has been positive since I arrived. It’s a dream come true. Milanello is beautiful, everyone is helping me. I also like the city, even though I’ve only been here a short time.”

What can the fact that you are left-footed bring to Milan?

“As a left-footed player, it’s an advantage because there are few other left-footed defenders.”

Did you see any of Milan’s matches last year?

“Yes, I’ve seen several. I’ve seen the goals conceded. The whole team has to work in attack and defence. We need to be compact.”

What should your opponents be afraid of?

“As long as they look at me like Ibra said.”

Can you play other roles too?

“When I was younger I also played other roles. I had a coach who used me in various roles and that helped me.”

What can you bring to a match like the derby?

“I played the Belgrade derby. I was very young and I learned immediately what it means to handle the pressure in games like that.”

Are you excited that you will soon hear the fans chanting?

“I’m happy. I want to get on the pitch and show everyone my qualities. I hope I’ll be able to show who I am and that the fans will appreciate the way I play.”

Does Inter have the strongest attack in Serie A?

“I don’t know if they are the best, but they have great quality. I played twice against Inter and they have strong forwards.” 

How did the family take Milan’s interest?

“They are proud and happy. They will come to the first league match They are definitely happy and proud.”