TFF had a conversation with a friend at the start of the season – a friend who will remain unnamed due to the current amounts of egg on his face – in which he spoke about the profligacy of Swedish international Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
It was a fair point at the time because the Swede was missing more chances than he was scoring for Manchester United in his early days at the club. But he ultimately went on to have a brilliant season and bagged 28 goals before he was injured so cruelly before he got the chance to represent United in the Europa League final on his home turf.
Many believed at the time that this would be the end of his Manchester United career. But his agent has talked up the prospect of him staying at the club beyond the end of the season despite constant rumours linking Manchester United with other strikers.
Mino Raiola is quoted by British media outlet Talksport as saying:
“Oh, yes. He wants to stay in England, he wants to stay at the top, and if he sees that he can be a valuable asset for Manchester United, then why not Manchester United?
“He can be a valuable asset for some other top clubs also. But I think it is respectful to talk to Manchester United and to see what all parties want.”
Zlatan was by far and away Manchester United’s best player this season. He may have taken a little bit of time to get up to speed in the Premier League but those 28 goals in all competitions were beautifully taken and he was a fantastic target man for the club.
His touch was second to none and he still has the power and athleticism to be a top player in a top league. There were suggestions that he might be going to America this summer but if he feels he can get enough game time at United then perhaps he can once more be the main number nine again next season at the club.
United fans: would you like him to be the number one choice again next season or would you prefer another player to come in?