News Focus
- Ibrahimovic allegedly ordered Fonseca to leave the dressing room during the coach’s first day at the club
- The Swede remains in power after four senior officials lost their jobs in a major clear-out
- Supporters are growing angry at the former striker’s influence over team matters
- Fonseca lost his post after just five months in charge at the San Siro
- Reports claim Ibrahimovic also gave players tactical advice that opposed the manager’s instructions
Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been accused of humiliating Paulo Fonseca on the Portuguese manager’s first day at AC Milan. Reports claim the Swedish legend forced the coach to exit the dressing room so he could address the squad alone.
The incident allegedly took place when Fonseca joined the club last summer. Witnesses say Ibrahimovic introduced the new boss to the players, then demanded that Fonseca leave the room. This behaviour reportedly showed the squad who held real control at the club.
These claims emerge following a major clear-out at the Italian giants. Club owner Gerry Cardinale recently removed chief executive Giorgio Furlani, sporting director Igli Tare, technical director Geoffrey Moncada and manager Massimiliano Allegri. Ibrahimovic is the only senior figure to keep his position.
Fonseca’s time at the helm proved brief. The 51-year-old took charge in July 2024 but departed in December the same year. Sergio Conceicao replaced him in the dugout.
Sources also suggest Ibrahimovic clashed violently with Allegri before the Italian’s dismissal. The pair allegedly fought at a restaurant, with Tare reportedly separating them.
Further claims state the former striker telephoned Milan players to give them tactical instructions. These suggestions directly contradicted the orders given by the coaching staff during training sessions.
Despite his heavy involvement, Ibrahimovic does not hold an official position within the club structure. He works as a Special Advisor to RedBird, the American investment firm that owns the majority stake in the Serie A side.
AC Milan supporters have expressed frustration at the amount of power given to the retired forward. Many believe his actions undermine the authority of the coaching team and damage the club’s stability.