Ibrahimovic explains why he loves AC Milan so much: “I just want to give something back’ | OneFootball

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has spoken in depth about the strong sense of attachment he feels towards AC Milan, as the club he connected with most in his career.

Ibrahimovic and Milan is a love affair that began back in 2010 when he joined on an initial loan from Barcelona, firing Max Allegri’s side to the Scudetto and then signing on a permanent deal.

He would be sold in 2012 to Paris Saint-Germain along with Thiago Silva and for many that was the point where the downfall into the ‘banter era’ began. However, he then returned in 2020.

The Swede encountered a squad that seemed to need psychological help after a tough start to the season, and – with the help of a lockdown break – he again dragged the team to the title in 2021-22.

After hanging up his boots at the end of the 2022-23 season, Ibra couldn’t stay away for long as around one year ago he returned to Milan as a Senior Advisor to the management.

Ibrahimovic was interviewed exclusively by the UEFA Champions League Magazine before the game against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu, and we translated his interview in full last night. One of the things he was asked about was his connection to Milan.

More Stories / Features

From Amsterdam to Abidjan: The 15 Milan players called up for international duty

12 November 2024, 19:40

How Milan’s Champions League hopes look after resurgence – the midway point

7 November 2024, 15:45

Crossroads and light at the end of the tunnel: What next for Rafael Leao and Milan?

7 November 2024, 13:15

Can you describe the bond? What does this club represent for you on an emotional level?

“I have played in many clubs, extraordinary clubs, great teams, but the club that has given me the most in my career is Milan. I have been here twice, and I really appreciate what Milan represents.

“The first time I was here, I felt happiness in playing, and the second time they gave me love, and I feel like I just want to give something back. I am proud, happy and very ambitious in helping and giving back. I am not in a situation where I want to receive; on the contrary, I want to give something back.

“Obviously, I do not feel frustrated, even if sometimes I would like to be on the pitch and directly help Milan, but now I play a different role and I accept that I have retired, so I contribute from another angle.”