Ibrahimovic describes Conceição as ‘a winner’

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has reacted to the appointment of former Porto manager Sergio Conceição, describing him as ‘a winner’.

The Milan legend also apologized to former Milan coach Paulo Fonseca for making him hold a press conference moments before he was officially sacked.

The former Sweden international, who retired from football last season, is the RedBird advisor who introduced Conceição’s first press conference as Rossoneri’s manager.

He pointed out that the decision to fire Fonseca was taken ‘after the match’ against Roma and not days before, as many suggested. He added that he and the other directors are ‘the first to be dissatisfied with the results.’

Speaking with reporters before introducing the new manager, the former PSG striker thanked Fonseca for what he has done and for his professionalism.

“Maximum respect for him. He could not maintain consistency in results, and when you’re at Milan, results are fundamental. We decided to dismiss him after the match and made a mistake by sending him to the press conference. I apologize to Paulo and the fans.”

Milan supporters had recently expressed their discontent with protest chants. They displayed banners urging owner Gerry Cardinale to sell the club. Ibrahimovic said they ‘understand’ their frustration and are satisfied only when they achieve their goals.

While admitting the Supercoppa Italiana is one of their objectives, the Swede said Milan have the utmost respect for the fans, adding that they won’t be satisfied until their goals are achieved.

 And the Supercoppa is one of those goals. The responsibility is not solely the coach’s; we all have to take responsibility.”

As the former Portuguese international begins his tenure at the San Siro, Ibrahimovic said that he hopes Conceição can bring the club to the ‘next step.’

While stating that Conceição that is ‘a winner’ with a ‘clear vision’ said a club like Milan is always prepared for the next step,”.

“Everyone knows who Conceição is: he has character, is a winner, and has already taken over mid-season with great results at Porto.

“He has a clear vision: yesterday, as soon as he arrived, he immediately got the team to work. Our job now is to provide him with everything he needs.”