Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s stint as a television pundit during the World Cup is turning into anything but a success story. The iconic Swedish striker, who has been away from the pitch for some time and is currently in a transitional phase regarding his official role at AC Milan, has come under heavy fire from the American press — specifically from the New York Times.
The New York Times Verdict
According to the prestigious US newspaper, Ibrahimovic is falling well short of expectations in his new role as a pundit and commentator during the World Cup. The New York Times describes his approach as arrogant and presumptuous, with analysis deemed shallow and lacking genuine tactical depth. A communication style that, according to the outlet, simply doesn’t suit a broadcast environment where audiences demand quality technical insight.
The American publication openly expressed a preference for other studio pundits, seen as more knowledgeable and capable of offering sharp, well-grounded readings of the game. It amounts to a comprehensive dismissal of Zlatan — a man used to being the absolute protagonist in every arena he has entered throughout his remarkable career.
The Bigger Picture: Ibrahimovic and His Role at Milan
Ibrahimovic, who in recent years held a prominent executive role at AC Milan, now finds himself in a less clearly defined position within the club’s structure. The Rossoneri are still searching for both a sporting director and a technical director, and the absence of a structured sporting governance setup inevitably fuels speculation about the influence Zlatan continues to wield behind the scenes.
Whether on the pitch, on television or in the boardroom, Ibrahimovic never stops making headlines. This time, though, the spotlight isn’t shining on a goal or a moment of brilliance, but on a punditry performance that has failed to impress even across the Atlantic. AC Milan, meanwhile, keeps its eyes firmly on the future — a future being built with vision, hard work and belief in the project.
