Official: Ibrahimovic returns to Milan, role revealed
AC Milan has announced the return of Swedish ex-striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, but this time in an executive role. The news comes directly from the club’s owners, RedBird Capital Partners, who have revealed that they’ve brought Ibrahimovic back to the Rossonero family, this time off the pitch.
RedBird Capital released a statement outlining the decision, which has generated considerable excitement amongst the Milan faithful. “Today, we announced the appointment of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, known as ‘Ibra’, as an Operating Partner for our investments in the sports, media, and entertainment sectors. He will also take on the role of Senior Advisor to the Owners and Senior Management of AC Milan.”
They added, “Ibrahimovic left a mark wherever he went, winning 34 trophies with Malmö, Ajax, Juventus, Inter, Barcelona FC, AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, and Los Angeles Galaxy. With over 570 career goals in his illustrious career, including more than 500 for his clubs, and scoring in each of the last four decades, Ibra’s reputation is stellar.”
Widely recognised as one of football’s most iconic players, Ibrahimovic was cited for his multiple rewards, “He was named as the best player in the Italian Serie A three times (2008, 2009, 2011), and top player in French Ligue 1 three times (2012, 2013, 2015). His status as the top goal scorer in Serie A in 2009 and 2012, and in Ligue 1 in 2012, 2013, and 2015, and as an all-time top goal scorer for the Swedish national team only strengthen his reputation.”
The statement concluded with, “On 4th June 2023, Ibrahimovic had announced his retirement from football after the end of AC Milan’s Serie A season, concluding his career with the Rossoneri. With his appointment at RedBird, Ibra is set to continue his illustrious career off the field as part of one of the most prolific and successful investors in sports and media at a global level.”
Undoubtedly, Ibrahimovic’s role will extend well beyond the world of football due to his brand as a businessman, published author, marketing and advertising specialist, and investor. He is also known worldwide for his philanthropic work, generously working with the United Nations’ World Food Program to raise awareness about the world’s hunger problem and the 805 million people who still suffer from a lack of food.
As an Operating Partner at RedBird, he will work with the company’s global investment team to support RedBird’s existing investment portfolio in the sports, media, and entertainment sectors. Alongside finding and evaluating new investment opportunities for the company, Ibrahimovic will also provide advice to RedBird portfolio companies on commercial projects, digital content strategies, and strategic positioning to extend their global presence.