Jose Mourinho, the Manchester United manager, praised Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s recent form. Mourinho added he had no doubts that the striker would have a great impact at the Manchester side.
These comments arrive after Ibrahimovic came off the bench against Blackburn Rovers in the FA Cup, to score the winning goal for United. This was his 24th goal of the season, with the Swede bringing his contribution to almost all games won by his team this year.
“I don’t know the number of goals [Ibrahimovic has scored], I don’t know,“, Mourinho told reporters after the game.
“I knew that he would be a very important player for us. I knew that for sure. One more goal, one less goal, but I knew that the contribution would be massive for us.”
Our #EmiratesFACup defence continues! #MUFC pic.twitter.com/2bXMm00eIV
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 19, 2017
The 35-year-old striker arrived at Manchester United at the beginning of the season. Some doubted he could have the same success he had enjoyed in Italy or France. The doubts could also be attributed to previous high profile transfers, during Van Gaal’s time as United manager, that failed to bring expected results. (e.g. Angel Di Maria’s purchase for £59.7 million and subsequent sale for £44 million a year later or Radamel Falcao’s loan spell that ended without many highlights).
However it was a different story once Zlatan Ibrahimovic arrived at Old Trafford. The Swede was became a vital part in the team from the very beginning. Most of United’s attacking strategies were focused on his strength, technique and efficency in front of goal
Sunday’s game proved once more how much of an impact he can have on United’s game and results. The striker and Paul Pogba (the recent most expensive transfer in football history) came off the bench late in the game, at 1-1. The duo clinched the winner for United, with a Ibrahimovic being on the receiving end of a brilliant Pogba pass.
United move through to the FA Cup quarter-finals, where they will face rivals, and current Premier League favorites, Chelsea.
