Bayern Munich are preparing to use Arijon Ibrahimović as understudy to Luis Díaz on the left wing this season. The Bundesliga champions have opted against recruiting another wide player after primary target Anthony Gordon joined Barcelona instead, according to Kicker journalist Frank Linkesch.
The decision to promote from within follows the recent arrival of Ismael Saibari, who operates predominantly through the middle. With the Moroccan international expected to feature in central attacking roles, Bayern believe Ibrahimović possesses the attributes to provide cover on the flank.
Three loans, one chance
The 20-year-old Germany Under-21 international has spent the past three campaigns on loan away from the Allianz Arena. Unsuccessful spells with Frosinone and Lazio in Italy’s Serie A proved frustrating, yielding few opportunities to impress. However, Ibrahimović discovered consistent form during the second half of last term with Heidenheim in the Bundesliga.
Despite the Baden-Württemberg club’s eventual relegation, the attacking midfielder finished the campaign strongly. He scored twice and provided one assist across Heidenheim’s final three matches, form that convinced Bayern’s hierarchy to trust him with a permanent squad role rather than sanction another temporary departure.
Those end-of-season contributions were vital for a side battling the drop, demonstrating Ibrahimović’s capacity to influence matches at senior level despite his youth.
Contract security and fresh digits
Ibrahimović remains tied to the Rekordmeister until 2028 and will inherit the number 22 jersey previously worn by Raphaël Guerreiro. Club officials are counting on the Munich-born talent to seize this maiden opportunity after years of drifting between loan destinations in Rome and southern Germany.
Manager Vincent Kompany now views the youth product as genuine competition for Díaz on the left side of attack. Rather than pursuing costly external solutions in a difficult market, Bayern’s revised strategy reflects confidence that Ibrahimović’s recent Bundesliga experience prepared him for regular involvement with the senior squad.