Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the retired 42-year-old Sweden striker is making a comeback in AC Milan, the Italian club, not as a player, but as an Operating Partner with RedBird Capital Partners, US private equity firm controlling the Serie A club. In addition to this role, he will serve as a Senior Adviser to the Ownership and Senior Management of AC Milan.
Ibrahimovic had two separate periods with the Italian club during his career journey. The first, from 2010 to 2012, followed his time at Barcelona when he joined AC Milan. The second, between 2020 and 2023, saw his return, leading the Milanese club to a notable Serie A title.
Footballer Ibrahimovic at the age of 41, retired from his playing career in June, marking the end of the season with Milan after the 2022-23 campaign with the capital city club. His extensive career includes stints with Manchester United, Paris St Germain, Juventus, Inter Milan, Barcelona, and Los Angeles Galaxy.
Photo: Yahoo Sports
Ibrahimović now as an Operating Partner at RedBird, will closely collaborate with Gerry Cardinale, RedBird's founder, to expand the investment firm's portfolio in sports, media, and entertainment. In addition to his role at AC Milan, the former Swedish international, known for his investments, chose RedBird for its successful track record in partnering with athletes and celebrities entering the business world. His responsibilities extend to player development and the promotion of Milan's global brand.
RedBurd Founder Cardinale highlighted that Zlatan's success extends beyond physical talent, emphasizing his high intellect and entrepreneurial spirit. RedBird, having established partnerships with a select group of high-performing athletes and artists, regards Zlatan as a valuable addition to their ecosystem.
RedBird has partnered with some of the greatest athletes, teams, and business figures in the world to create businesses with meaning and impact. I look forward to contributing to their investing activities across their sports, media, and entertainment properties." Zlatan said, as quoted by the Financial Times.
Zlatan showing gratitude expressed, "My love for the Rossoneri will never die, and the opportunity to be a part of its future in a meaningful way is something I could only have dreamed of,"
Milan CEO Giorgio Furlani formally acknowledges the significance of Zlatan's role as an adviser, emphasizing their commitment to the future success of AC Milan.
Photo: Getty via Goal.com
Furlani said, "Bringing a leader like Ibra as an Advisor to AC Milan's leadership team underscores our commitment to the future success of our club for the benefit of our players and our fans." He added "We're fortunate to have access to Ibra's creativity and expansive network of relationships across European Football to continue elevating the club on a global stage."
Milan currently holds the third position in the table with 29 points from 15 games, boasting nine wins, two draws, and four losses in the ongoing campaign of Serie A. Milan’s next faceoff with English side Newcastle on Wednesday in their final Champions League group game. To advance to the UEFA Champions League knockout stages, Milan need a win along with German heavyweights Borussia defeating French champions PSG in the other group game.
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