Ibrahimovic returns to AC Milan for the third time.
“Redbird today announced the appointment of Zlatan Ibrahimovic as an operating partner in its sports, media and entertainment investment portfolio. He will also serve as a senior advisor to AC Milan’s owners and senior management team,” the club confirmed on its website.
After announcing his retirement from professional soccer in June of this year at the age of 41, the former Swedish international striker returns to his third Italian club, but this time not as a player.
During his two spells with Milan, Ibrahimovic scored 95 goals and provided 35 assists in 163 appearances, winning three trophies, including two Serie A titles.
Ibrahimovic will work closely with the club’s majority shareholder, Redbird Capital Partners. The Financial Times reported that Ibrahimovic, a former Manchester United star, will join the club as a management and ownership advisor to AC Milan.
Redbird acquired a 99% stake in Milan in 2021 for €1.2 billion, turning around the fortunes of a club that had struggled over the past decade. Milan won the title in the 2021/22 season and reached the Champions League semifinals last season. It also holds a stake in Fenway Sports Group, the owner of Liverpool.
Ibrahimovic said: “I am very grateful to be joining Redbird and AC Milan in such an important and influential role. Redbird has partnered with some of the world’s top athletes, teams, and business people to create meaningful and impactful businesses. I look forward to contributing to their investment activities across sports, media, and entertainment assets.”
“My love for Lawsoneri will never fade, and the opportunity to be part of its future in a meaningful way is something I’ve only dreamed of. I am grateful to Gerry (Cardinal) for creating this opportunity. I have great admiration for the dedication, passion and hard work that Redbird and the senior management team have shown since taking over the club.”
He concluded: “This is not a decision I have taken lightly as it is a very important and personal matter for me and my family. I have been thinking for a long time about taking the first steps in my post-playing career and I couldn’t be more excited to start that journey as a member of the Redbirds and AC Milan.”