Last summer, AC Milan put on the most eye-catching finale in the transfer window's final moments with the successive signings of Robinho and Ibrahimović, giving fans a glimpse of hope for the club's rebuilding. Indeed, AC Milan did not disappoint their supporters. Since taking the top spot in the 13th round, they have led the standings until now, with a strong chance to reclaim the Serie A title after six years. However, the Rossoneri's performance in Europe has been less satisfying; their home defeat to Tottenham has made it very likely that they will once again fail to reach the Champions League quarterfinals. The European stage is also one that Ibrahimović has yet to fully conquer. Now at Milan, the Swede sees an opportunity for breakthrough, as he expressed the need for patience: "I've found my ideal playing environment at Milan. When I first arrived here, the team presented me with a very attractive plan. Milan would rebuild around me and promised me many things. We are currently in the phase of regaining our strength. Perhaps next season will be the time for our big harvest because by then we will truly be ready."
Ibrahimović also spoke about Ronaldo, who recently announced his retirement: "His retirement is a loss for the entire football world. In the past 15-20 years of world football, no player has surpassed Ronaldo, and very few players have truly reached the level of him and Zidane. I was fortunate enough to have played alongside Ronaldo, and that alone makes me feel satisfied. As Maradona once said, there is only one Ronaldo, and only he is the true Ronaldo (in reference to Cristiano Ronaldo). There can be many kings in this world, but there can only be one God, and that is the value of Ronaldo."
Recently, Zlatan Ibrahimović, currently playing for AC Milan, gave an interview to Eurosport where he discussed his situation at Milan and shared his thoughts on Ronaldo's recent retirement announcement. When asked about the strengths of his current and former club, AC Milan and Inter Milan, respectively, his response sparked some debate.
During the interview, Ibrahimović also voiced his opinion on the FIFA Ballon d'Or results earlier this year: "In my mind, the Ballon d'Or should have gone to Iniesta, followed by Sneijder in second place, and then Xavi in third. That's exactly how I voted." At the same time, Ibrahimović highly praised Vieira, his former teammate at both Juventus and Inter Milan: "Vieira is the best player I've ever played with. He is a perfect role model on the field. No matter what, he always fights for the team until the very last moment."