On Thursday evening, the official Milan website announced that their main star Zlatan Ibrahimovic has extended his contract for an additional season.
The Swedish giant had a previous stint at the club during the prime of his career between 2010 and 2012, and had returned to the Diavolo once again in January 2020.
This news has been mostly welcomed by the Rossoneri fans, but let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of the legend’s contract renewal.
Pro #1 – Powerhouse Upfront
The first advantage is a pretty simple one. You keep Zlatan, you get Zlatan. The 39-year-old remains a unique player worldwide, and it shouldn’t be forgotten how his return in 2020 turned the club’s fortunes upside down.
The former PSG man put up some memorable performances earlier this season, against the likes of Inter and Napoli among others.
Con #1 – Delaying Youth Movement
With Ibrahimovic set to stay for another season, Milan could delay the signing of a younger striker for another year, whilst hoping that the veteran would be able to hold the attack on his shoulders.
This theory backfired during the second half of the current campaign, with the Swedish and his not-so-young deputy Mario Mandzukic both struggling for full fitness.
Pro #2 – Upgrading Other Positions
On the contrary, keeping Ibrahimovic means that Milan can focus on enhancing other departments within the squad, especially if Gianluigi Donnarumma and Hakan Calhanoglu refuse to sign new contracts.
Zlatan’s stay will allow directors Paolo Maldini and Ricky Massara to reserve their funds to buy new midfielders, defenders and perhaps a goalkeeper.
Con #2 – Inconsistent Lineups
As we’ve witnessed throughout the season, at the the age of 39, Ibrahimovic is slowly turning into a part-time star due to injury problems.
Whilst the striker would always start the important matches if deemed to be fit enough, his unavailability has been forcing Stefano Pioli to keep tinkering with his lineups – switching the likes of Rafael Leao and Ante Rebic to center forwards.
This situation has resulted in a lack of consistency in the starting formation, which is never a good thing for a top club.
Pro #3 – European Experience
Ibrahimovic has never won the Champions League – as his detractors would often remind you – but his vast experience in the European competition would be vital for a mostly young Milan squad.
The Rossoneri will be hoping to book their place in the glamorous tournament for next season, and having their biggest star with them for the European nights would surely help their cause.
Conclusion
Based on our own views, the pros of keeping Ibrahimovic beyond his 40th birthday outweighs the cons.