Manchester United striker and one of the most fierce attackers on the planet Zlatan Ibrahimovic's United career looks uncertain. He was signed as a free agent from PSG in the summer and signed a one year contract with the Red Devils. The player is at the top of his form and has contributed most of United's goals this season at an age of 35. Few may say how it is possible for such an old player to score freely with such ease.
With the season coming to its climax stage soon Ibrahimovic is yet to agree an extension. He definitely deserves one, but is it worth it.?
Let's look at his pros and cons next season.
Pro's
1. Free Scoring.
With his great run of form and scoring ability at such an age he could have an impact next season. With potential arrivals there would be creatively and pace in the squad,it will be easier for him to score.
2. Experience
Zlatan has conquered most of Europe, having played with Malmo, Ajax, Barcelona, the Milan Clubs, PSG, Bayern Munich and with United he arguably has the most experience and is the most experienced player in the squad having played in leagues which have different playing styles and not to forget European experience. His continental experience will prove vital for United if they are to qualify for Champions League next season.
3. Mentor
Having such experience and old age will prove beneficial for the young United attackers who could learn a thing or two from the Swede. Namely Rashford, Martial, Pogba, Lingard. His guidelines can help them improve their game play and become more efficient. As they are the next generation of football. They are the future. Not only for them but the hole team in particular could benefit from this.
Con's
1. Age
Even though he can score so many goals it is risky to have an old player that too a striker among the midst. He is 35 now and next year 36. He is closing towards retirement and if he continues to play there could be a chance of an injury as players tend to get weak, slow and they don't feel up to it. What would be better retiring with respect and happiness or forcefully retire due an injury which could finish of a career and end on a sad note. One small knock can be vital.
2. Form.
With ageing also comes the fact of form. With the player ageing and not being effective his form could be lost and may never come back. This could impact him psychologically. And force him to retire Mid Season.
3. China and The MLS.
Ibrahimovic is being monitored by many undisclosed chinese clubs and MLS clubs who are wanting his signature. These leagues are considered the retirement home for old footballers. Not to forget even they are rich especially China they could offer him a lucrative contract which he can't refuse.
4. Demand for young strikers.
We can assume that United are fully aware of the situation that Ibrahimovic is ageing and at some point they will have to find a perfect replacement for him. Nowadays there is a short supply for young world class strikers. United are linked with a move for Griezmann and Belotti. These are two young and world class strikers. They are young, strong, technical, fast, versatile and clinical finishers. If Zlatan is kept and one of them are signed they could pose a threat for him and make him insecure and there would be tough competition.. There could also be a chance that Ibrahimovic could be sold to make way for them.
To conclude we would say that there is a mixed probability of Zaltan staying an other year. We could also buy strikers who can play in other support attacking roles which could result in a team built around him. Example. Griezmann can play as a CAM as well as a Right Winger. But this would involve in the sale of Rooney.
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