Zlatan Defies Father Time

How is Zlatan Ibrahimović still one of the best strikers in Europe?

by Brendan Smith, Sports O’Clock Writing Team Member

(photo credits: ESPN.com)

He calls himself a god, and he sure is playing like one. At 39 years old, Zlatan Ibrahimović continues to defy Father Time while leading AC Milan the top of the Italian Serie A table. While AC Milan’s season is still in its infant stages, Ibrahimović is in fine form with six goals, including a brace against AS Roma last week; those six goals are the most in Serie A. Since returning to Milan in January, Ibrahimović has scored 18 goals, with 16 of those in Serie A matches. And, as stated earlier, he is 39!

How on earth is this possible? Normally, players deteriorate physically with age and lose the sharpness and ability that elevated them to greatness. But not Ibrahimović. He still scores regularly, and his work ethic and professional demeanor have not only elevated his performances but have also been a massive boost for a very young AC Milan squad. In return, the squad has formed itself around Ibrahimović in a way that maximizes his clinical finishing without the hindrance of his lack of mobility.

It should not be understated that Ibrahimović has a fantastic supporting cast. Rafael Leao, a young Portuguese forward, holds the Serie A joint lead in assists, while Theo Hernandez, Franck Kessie, and Hakan Calhanoglu have chipped in assists as well. Ibrahimović typically performs his best work in the penalty area, which is dependent on receiving quality assists from all areas of the pitch. Leao’s impact has not been solely confined to the assist column; he has also chipped in a pair of goals and has thrived as a strike partner to Ibrahimović.

Zlatan Ibrahimović has proved he still has a lot of quality soccer left in him, but rather than letting his talent and ego do the work, he is thriving off of his talented teammates. That comradery is why AC Milan, and Ibrahimović himself, have exceeded all expectations so far.

(All photos are cited properly. No copyright infringement intended.)