Fonseca faces conflict with Ibrahimović at AC Milan

A conflict has emerged between AC Milan's head coach Paulo Fonseca and the club owners' advisor, Zlatan Ibrahimović.

Earlier reports suggested that the Rossoneri might consider sacking the Portuguese coach if the team loses their Serie A match against Inter on September 22.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the tension between Fonseca and Ibrahimović is not solely due to the team's results. Three incidents contributing to the souring relationship have previously occurred.

During pre-season preparations, Paulo Fonseca stated that AC Milan's transfer campaign would conclude with the signing of midfielder Youssouf Fofana. However, a few days later, at a press conference dedicated to the French midfielder's signing, Ibrahimović declared that the transfer window would close when he says so. The Portuguese coach did not appreciate the Swede's words and reported his displeasure to the club's management.

Two similar incidents took place at Milan's training base. Before Milan's opening Serie A match against Torino (which ended in a 2-2 draw), Ibrahimović gathered the squad at Milanello and spoke to the players without the coach. A similar scenario occurred before their Champions League group stage match against Liverpool (which Milan lost 1-3). The Swedish advisor emphasized that he is the leader at the club and inquired with players about their relationship with Fonseca.

Zlatan Ibrahimović retired from professional football at Milan last summer and became an advisor to the club owners in December.

Paulo Fonseca became the head coach of the Rossoneri this summer, signing a three-year contract. Under the 51-year-old Portuguese manager’s leadership, the team has achieved one win in the first five matches of the season.