Scaroni explains Ibrahimovic is ‘on loan’ to Milan, but ‘will definitely remain’ | OneFootball

Milan President Paolo Scaroni has explained that Zlatan Ibrahimovic is ‘on loan’ to the Rossoneri from owners RedBird, but is adamant that the Swede ‘will remain’ part of the project for the foreseeable future.

The Rossoneri President gave an in-depth interview to La Gazzetta dello Sport, published on Saturday, in which he spoke about Milan’s failures in 2024-25 and what the minimum expectations are moving forwards.

Scaroni also spoke about the team’s management structure. There has often been confusion regarding Ibrahimovic’s role within the club, given that he is not directly employed by Milan.

epa11761049 Swedish former soccer player and AC Milan’s senior advisor Zlatan Ibrahimovic looks on during the Italian Serie A soccer match between Atalanta BC and AC Milan, in Bergamo, Italy, 06 December 2024. EPA-EFE/MICHELE MARAVIGLIA

Ibrahimovic is an advisor to Milan’s owners, RedBird, and effectively acts as Gerry Cardinale’s man on the ground. He often conducts talks with players, coaches and staff at Casa Milan, and has previously held press conferences in lieu of the head coach or sporting director.

Scaroni: Ibrahimovic ‘on loan’ to Milan, ‘will definitely remain in this project’

PARMA, ITALY – DECEMBER 01: Paolo Scaroni President of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio and AC Milan at Stadio Ennio Tardini on December 1, 2019 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

While Ibrahimovic’s role is technically within the RedBird structure, and not directly with Milan, Scaroni has explained that the situation is similar to a ‘loan’ deal.

He also admitted that Ibrahimovic will be a part of the Rossoneri project for the foreseeable.

When asked by La Gazzetta dello Sport about Ibrahimovic and his relationship with CEO Giorgio Furlani, Scaroni said:“Look, I see them working together at Casa Milan and they get along well. The roles are clear: Ibra is part of Red Bird’s management, and is ‘on loan’ to Milan. He was criticised for going away, but he was ill.

“To repeat myself: He brings added value. He was a champion on the pitch and he’s also a champion off it. He will definitely remain in this project. But I want to insist on one concept: People are important, but Milan comes first. We are aware of that.”