AC Milan: Where has Zlatan Ibrahimović gone?

Europe 28 March 2025 at 07:32

Aliou Toundé

News Editor

Zlatan Ibrahimović's future at Milan is uncertain. Officially, the former Swedish striker has been absent for three weeks due to medical reasons. However, behind the scenes, his influence is waning. The man who claimed just a few months ago to be "the boss" seems to be losing ground to a management team asserting itself without him.

A Milan in turmoil

Since Paolo Maldini's departure, the Rossoneri have been in a state of upheaval. The transfer window, deemed insufficient under his leadership, was followed by massive investments... without any convincing results. Milan is now trailing in the race for the Scudetto, and its qualification for the Champions League seems compromised. Worse, a complete absence from European competitions can't be ruled out.

As a direct consequence, several key players might leave the club. Theo Hernández is already on his way out, but no club has yet made a concrete offer. Mike Maignan, although close to an extension, is still waiting for news from the owners. As for Rafael Leão, his salary of seven million euros could become a financial burden if the team fails to succeed.

Zlatan losing influence internally

Back at Milan, Ibrahimović has to deal with reduced influence. He opposed the appointment of Sergio Conceição as coach, just as he did with Paulo Fonseca last summer. His choice for sporting director, Igli Tare, was also overlooked in favor of Fabio Paratici.
During his absence, Giorgio Furlani, the club's general manager, has gained prominence. He is now the primary contact for the American owners and even fills a role once reserved for Zlatan: acting as a liaison between the coach and management.

In light of this dynamic, could Ibrahimović be the next to leave Milan? His presence, once a symbol of strength and ambition, now seems to fade in a restructuring where he no longer holds sway.