Maignan reflects on PSG quarrel with Ibrahimovic: “I didn’t like him” | OneFootball

Mike Maignan and Zlatan Ibrahimovic have had a close relationship in recent years, and this has likely helped in the recent situation with the Frenchman’s AC Milan renewal. However, the Frenchman revealed that the two had not always been as close.

Currently, it is difficult to imagine Milan without Maignan, and when Ibrahimovic departed, his presence was missed. Now, though, the pair are working together once more, given the matter of the shot-stopper’s renewal is a key topic at the club.

In recent months, the situation seemed bleak, and a departure seemed likely, but suggestions now seem that the position is more promising, especially considering Fonseca sees the Frenchman as a pillar in his squad.

It is clear that Ibrahimovic and Maignan share a lot of respect for each other, and it is feasible that this relationship and respect shared between the two will help in the contractual negotiations, but the story could have been much different.

Before France’s game against Belgium in the 2024 European Championship Round of 16 fixture, Maignan spoke to the Carre, a French media outlet, about his team, Ibrahimovic, and his past, and his words have been relayed by Calciomercato.com.

History with Ibrahimovic…

“I fought with Ibrahimovic once. It all happened in training at PSG. Zlatan pulled hard and then called me a ‘me**a goalkeeper’. I didn’t like him. I stopped training and told him he was a ‘bloody striker’.

“Ibra likes people who stand up to him. Responding like that showed him who I was. From there on we were able to work well.”

History with Rabiot…

“Yes, I also argued with Rabiot. We didn’t know each other well. We had some inappropriate words for each other, but all in all, it ended well. For me now he’s like family.”

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PSG history…

‘I spent several years in the PSG academy. Shortly before I signed up to become a professional, the club changed ownership. Several stars arrived, and I could train with them, and gain experience. At a certain point, however, my path was no longer going forward. I was stuck, I had to leave. I arrived at Lille in 2015 with top goalkeepers, a top group, and a top coach.”

Giroud’s performance against Genoa…

“Giroud my replacement against Genoa? The most surprising thing for me was not the first exit, but the way he threw himself on the ball with two hands after the rebound. It was a gesture of a true goalkeeper. What I admire most about him is his ability to kick on the volley and in acrobatics. He has incredible balance and coordination.”