Zlatan Ibrahimović, now serving as an advisor to AC Milan’s ownership group, shared his thoughts on the appointment of Portuguese coach Sérgio Conceição as the new head of the Rossoneri bench. The decision marks an important turning point for Milan, a club eager to rediscover consistency after a mixed run of results in Serie A.
Speaking to Football Italia, Ibrahimović explained that the decision was made with the aim of shaking up the squad and inspiring a stronger response from the players. “We wanted a reaction, so the boys could get a shake-up from the coaching change. It’s important for the team to adopt Sérgio Conceição’s style of work,” he said. Ibrahimović emphasized that while Conceição has already brought silverware by winning the Super Cup, one trophy cannot hide the bigger picture. “He won the Super Cup, but if we don’t continue that streak, the Super Cup win will be less valuable. It’s important to maintain this reaction and pick up points to climb the table.”
When asked whether the club regretted not hiring Conceição earlier, back in the summer, Ibrahimović was clear: there are no regrets, only lessons. “Does Milan regret not appointing Conceição back in the summer? No regrets. When you make a decision, you have to believe in it, and we did, but we lacked consistency, and we had to take a risk,” he explained. This comment highlights the difficult balancing act of leadership at a club like Milan. Decisions are made collectively, and while hindsight may offer alternative perspectives, commitment to those choices remains essential. For Ibrahimović, the willingness to take risks is a natural part of football management, especially when the ultimate goal is to push Milan back to the top of both domestic and European football.
The lack of consistency in results has been Milan’s biggest challenge in recent months. Performances that once promised momentum fell away too often, leaving the Rossoneri short in both Serie A and European competitions. Conceição’s arrival is viewed as a chance to install discipline, tactical intensity, and a clear identity—a necessity if Milan are to compete with rivals like Inter, Juventus, and Napoli.Beyond his thoughts on the new coach, Ibrahimović also reflected on his own journey since stepping into a management role.
Known throughout his career for his arrogance on the pitch and his larger-than-life personality, the Swede admitted that this position has been both a challenge and a learning opportunity. “We’re a team, we work together, and we make every decision together. We all have our responsibilities, and this is obviously a new experience for me. I’m learning every day and I started at a club where the pressure is always at its highest,” he said.
Far from being intimidated, Ibrahimović insisted that pressure motivates him. “I’m not afraid of challenges; quite the opposite, they inspire me. I’m humble and know I have to improve with time. I’m humble when I win or lose, but arrogant when I play,” he added. These words underline his dual identity: a fierce competitor who thrived on confidence during his playing career, now balancing humility and responsibility as he transitions into a leadership figure. His comments also illustrate how deeply he understands Milan’s culture—one built on resilience, tradition, and the constant demand for excellence.
Zlatan Ibrahimović’s comments on Sérgio Conceição’s appointment provide valuable insight into Milan’s current mindset. The coaching change is not just about tactics but about reigniting a competitive fire within the squad. For Ibrahimović, the arrival of Conceição represents both an opportunity and a test: Milan must now build on the momentum of the Super Cup win and translate it into consistent results.
At the same time, Ibrahimović’s own reflections highlight his evolving role within the club. Once Milan’s talisman on the field, he is now part of the decision-making body shaping its future. His confidence, balanced with humility in his new responsibilities, mirrors the very qualities Milan hope to embody as they chase glory once again. The road ahead is filled with challenges, but with Conceição’s leadership and Ibrahimović’s guidance behind the scenes, the Rossoneri are determined to rise to the expectations of their fans and their history.
