Image Credits: Getty Images
Zlatan Ibrahimovic is not exactly a shy guy.
The Sweden striker is known almost as much for his opinions as he is for his footballing ability.
But one thing is for sure – his footballing ability was second to none.
When Zlatan joined Manchester United on a free transfer in 2016, it was seen as quite the coup for the club.
This was despite the striker being the ripe age of 35 at the time of the signing.
That’s because he had just finished a season with Paris Saint-Germain where he had scored 50 goals in 51 appearances.
And the striker took Old Trafford by storm in his first season.
Despite the likes of Paul Pogba, Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Eric Bailly also joining in that transfer window, it was Zlatan who proved to be the most successful.
Reuniting with his former boss, Jose Mourinho, Zlatan scored 28 goals in all competitions including two in the 2017 League Cup Final victory against Southampton.
United fans, who love a great goalscorer, finally had another elite striker back at the club.
And now Zlatan has opened up on his time in Manchester.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic on Manchester United
Speaking to The Athletic, Zlatan discussed what he set out to do when he joined the Red Devils.
“They [Manchester United] were different from what I was used to,” said Zlatan.
“You’re just a number there, I felt.
“Then, in my mindset, I want to make my own history.
“I was not interested in what happened before, with all respect. Yes, that brings pressure to live up to what they were used to.
“But I was not interested in listening to the Class of ’92.
“That doesn’t help me because it’s not my team and I wanted to do my own history.
“I wanted people to say, ‘You won and United won this together.’ I was 35. I came to England.
“People said I’m too old, I should retire, blah blah blah.
“But this triggers me. This — I will prove you wrong.”
The former United striker definitely did prove his critics wrong.
It will always be a question of what would have happened if Zlatan didn’t get injured towards the end of his first season at the club.
The second season for Zlatan didn’t go as well as the first and the parties decided to part ways. It always felt that he hadn’t fully recovered from the brutal injury he had suffered.
But what about the man who brought him to the club?
Zlatan Ibrahimovic on Jose Mourinho
Jose Mourinho and Zlatan Ibrahimovic have always had a close relationship.
And Zlatan discussed that in the interview also.
“Jose was a machine.
“He brings the best out of you.
“He’s that person — manipulative.
“He knows how to get in your head. He knows how to treat you, independent of your level.
“He reminded me of Capello. But a newer version.
“Discipline. Hardcore. Intense. Not the soft types. This is what I like.
“Remember where I came from? My family is tough.”
It seems that the Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Jose Mourinho partnership was meant to be. They brought out the best in each other and it’s clear the respect that Zlatan still holds for Mourinho.
Manchester United fans will be hoping their current strikers can replicate the impact and output that Zlatan had at Old Trafford.
If any of them can become half the player that Zlatan was, then they’ll have a heck of a career.
Want to get the latest Manchester United news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
