Summary:
Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the iconic former striker, returns to AC Milan, this time as a strategic advisor to the club’s ownership and management, confirmed by RedBird Capital Partners. Beyond his role at Milan, Ibrahimovic will also serve as an “Operating Partner” for RedBird’s sports, media, and entertainment investment portfolio. The 42-year-old’s mandate includes player development, high-performance training, global brand advancement, commercial interests, and contributions to special strategic projects, including the construction of AC Milan’s new stadium.
In a significant development, Zlatan Ibrahimovic has rekindled his association with AC Milan, taking on the role of a strategic advisor for the club’s ownership and management. RedBird Capital Partners, the American investment firm, officially announced Ibrahimovic’s return on Monday. The former Sweden striker, celebrated for his illustrious playing career in Italy, will also serve as an “Operating Partner” for RedBird’s diverse investment portfolio in sports, media, and entertainment.
RedBird outlined Ibrahimovic’s multifaceted responsibilities at AC Milan, encompassing player development, high-performance training, bolstering the club’s global brand, and advancing commercial interests. Additionally, he will play a crucial role in supporting strategic projects, including the construction of AC Milan’s new stadium.
Within RedBird, Ibrahimovic’s influence extends beyond AC Milan. He will actively participate in sourcing and evaluating new investment opportunities for the firm. Moreover, he will lend his expertise to advise RedBird’s portfolio companies on commercial projects, digital content strategies, and strategic brand-building initiatives.
Ibrahimovic concluded his playing career at the end of the previous season, marking a remarkable chapter that included helping Milan clinch the Serie A title in 2022. Despite injury challenges, he left an indelible mark by becoming the oldest goal scorer in Serie A history with a memorable goal against Udinese in March.
The Swedish striker’s return to AC Milan is steeped in history, having been a pivotal figure in the club’s resurgence under Stefano Pioli. His influence was instrumental in reviving Milan’s standing in Italian football, culminating in their Serie A triumph in 2022.
Ibrahimovic’s storied career saw him conquer league titles in the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, and France, with the 2017 Europa League being his sole major European trophy with Manchester United. Now, his return to AC Milan injects a renewed sense of strategic vision and expertise as the team seeks to close the gap on Serie A leaders Inter Milan and navigate the challenges in the Champions League.
FAQs:
- What is Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s role at AC Milan?
- Ibrahimovic returns to AC Milan as a strategic advisor, tasked with responsibilities ranging from player development and high-performance training to advancing the club’s global brand and contributing to special strategic projects, including the construction of a new stadium.
- What broader role does Ibrahimovic play within RedBird Capital Partners?
- Beyond AC Milan, Ibrahimovic serves as an “Operating Partner” for RedBird’s sports, media, and entertainment investment portfolio. He actively participates in sourcing and evaluating new investment opportunities and advises RedBird’s portfolio companies on various strategic initiatives.