GdS: ‘Help for everyone’ – Ibrahimovic’s new role at Milan becomes even clearer

AC Milan brought Zlatan Ibrahimovic back almost two years ago now, and yet, he still has not really got a solid role.

When he first came back to Milan, the questions on everyone’s lips were, What is Ibrahimovic going to do? Now, two years on, those questions still remain; they are just not at the forefront as they once may have been.

What is Ibra?

As Gazzetta dello Sport writes, he explains what he does fairly regularly. However, some people still do not understand what his role with the Rossoneri really entails. Maybe they do, but even then, it is probably not the full picture.

So, this is why questions about his role are constant. To Gazzetta, he stated that it was the same, that he is ‘here to help’ to bring back the dominance to the Diavolo. Then, at the Trento Sports Festival, he stated that he was a representative of the ownership.

His role has evolved, and whilst he was not lying with either answer, the goalposts have quite literally changed. Perhaps in the past he has been more egotistical; now he must be more cautious, something which he has learned over time.

Photo by AC Milan

The idea before was someone like Paolo Maldini, a legend who could help at Milanello. Now, that role has been filled, so he helps elsewhere. In the summer, he was potentially seen as overbearing in his role, which caused a reshuffling of responsibilities.

Of course, he has also been the face to criticise regularly, too. Now, with the Diavolo back on track, he is not seeking praise. He works in the shadows, doing what is best for Milan. Sometimes that may be taking the criticism to protect others, other times it may be being a face for advice.

Ibra’s role covers everything and nothing in that sense. He can be what is needed in the situation, a Swedish army knife. Zlatan will keep evolving as he remains in the role; it is necessary. After all, he came back to the Rossoneri to learn, and he still is.