What Happened to Zlatan Ibrahimović?

Zlatan Ibrahimović concluded his illustrious 24-year playing career on June 4, 2023, at the age of 41, following AC Milan's final Serie A match of the 2022-23 season. His retirement was marked by an emotional farewell at San Siro, capping a career that saw him win 34 trophies and score over 570 goals across various top European clubs.

Just six months after hanging up his boots, Ibrahimović announced his return to AC Milan in a new capacity on December 11, 2023. He joined RedBird Capital Partners, the US private equity firm that acquired AC Milan in 2022, as an Operating Partner across its sports, media, and entertainment investment portfolio. Simultaneously, he was appointed as a Senior Advisor to AC Milan's ownership and senior management. This move marked a significant turning point, allowing him to leverage his global appeal and deep understanding of football in a strategic, executive role. RedBird founder Gerry Cardinale emphasized Ibrahimović's importance as a 'proxy' on the ground in Milan, enabling him to be the voice of ownership to players and staff.

Throughout 2024 and 2025, Ibrahimović's influence at AC Milan steadily grew. His mandate includes collaborating with RedBird's investment team, sourcing and evaluating new investment opportunities, advising portfolio companies on commercial projects, digital content strategies, and strategic brand building. At AC Milan, he plays an active role in sporting and business operations, focusing on player development, high-performance training, advancing the club's global brand, and supporting strategic projects like the new stadium. By October 2025, reports indicated he had become a key voice behind the scenes, influencing recruitment and representing Milan in elite football circles.

The year 2026 has seen Ibrahimović's role further solidify and expand. In May 2026, following a major overhaul at AC Milan that saw the dismissal of several key figures including the CEO, sporting director, and head coach, Ibrahimović reportedly took on a more prominent leadership role in shaping the club's long-term sporting vision, with a focus on youth development. It was also revealed that he holds shares in RedBird Capital, making him an integral part of the ownership structure.

Beyond his executive duties, Ibrahimović made his debut as a football analyst for Fox Sports' coverage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, starting on June 11, 2026. On June 12, 2026, he garnered significant media attention for publicly stating his support for Croatia in the tournament, citing his roots, rather than his home country of Sweden. This new media role further cements his continued relevance and outspoken personality in the global football arena, showcasing his transition from a legendary player to a multifaceted figure in sports management and media.