Ibrahimovic Signs New United Contract

Manchester United have added more verve to their attacking force by re-signing Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the Swedish striker. Aged 35, the tall, menacing pointsman, was United’s star player last season with 28 goals in all competitions before injury cut short his campaign in the last days of the season. Following that setback, there were doubts about his future with the Reds, particularly given that he only signed a one year contract with the club but talks about his imminent recovery in the new season soon led to speculation about him staying put. This is despite the fact that United had acquired the services of Romelu Lukaku from Everton for a princely £75 million. Lukaku, a proven goalscorer himself, has already shown his worth by scoring three goals in two matches for United so far. But it is a measure of the faith that United has in Ibrahimovic that it decided to re-engage him for another year. While this may delight many United fans who now wonder at the prospect of the dual attacking force, there’s sign, however, that contrary to many people’s belief, Ibrahimovic hasn’t fully recovered from his injury.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic photo — Zlatan Ibrahimovic

This came to light after the deal had been sealed and was revealed by no less a person than Jose Mourinho, United’s coach, who, while speaking about the contract, said: “We are delighted Zlatan is on the road to recovery and we are equally delighted to have his ambition and experience back with us. After his contribution last season he deserves our trust and we will be patient waiting for him to return. I have no doubt that he will be important in the second part of the season.”
Ibrahimovic confirmed his coach’s view when, in his response, he said. “I am back to finish what I started. It was always mine and the club’s intention for me to stay. I cannot wait to get back out on that Old Trafford pitch, but I also know that I have to take my time to make sure that I am ready. I have been working hard and will continue to do so to make sure I am in the best possible condition for my return to the pitch.”
With this scenario, it remains to be seen when exactly he will lace boots for United again, and even more importantly, how he and Lukaku will complement each other.