‘He deserves everything’, Koeman praises Ibrahimovic

 

Barcelona manager, Ronald Koeman has lauded AC Milan striker for netting his 500th and 501st club goal last week.

The 39-year-old Swede took his tally to more than 500 club goals through a brace against Crotone, that helped the Rossoneri back top of the Serie A standings on Sunday.

Ibrahimovic put the hosts ahead in 30th minute with his 500th club goal before bagging the 501st in the second half. Ante Rebic also bagged a brace in the game shortly after to record a 4-0 win. Ibrahimovic scored the opener through a one-two with Rafael Leo. The lanky striker placed an angled drive into the far corner.

His second was regarded as the easiest he has ever scored. He converted it after being left unmarked six yards out to tap in Theo Hernandez’s low cross.

Rebic opened his account through a header from Hakan Calhanoglu’s corner. He then scored his second from a rebound after Alex Cordaz parried Ibrahimovic’s effort.

The win moved Milan two points above second-placed Inter. The city rivals will meet in two weeks.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of Barcelona’s Copa del Rey semi-final first-leg clash with Sevilla, the Dutch tactician said he is not surprised at the feat achieved by the Swedish.

Koeman had worked with the 39-year-old during his stint with Ajax, noting that his qualities were clear for all to see.

He added that Ibrahimovic has proved to be one of the best strikers in the world despite his age.

He also lauded him for his winning mentality noted during his stint with several clubs, adding that he deserves everything.

Ibrahimovic is also joint second on the Serie goal scoring chart with 14 goals. Cristiano Ronaldo is topping the log with 16 goals.

Other players on 14 goals include Lazio’s Ciro Immobile, and Inter Milan striker, Romelu Lukaku.

 

Written by: Oladipupo Mojeed