Manchester United: Zlatan Ibrahimovich could return to Italy this summer

Zlatan Ibrahimovich joined Manchester United last summer and vowed to prove himself in the Premier League. But now the Swede could be about to leave Old Trafford to return to Italy.

Zlatan Ibrahimovich has been a huge success at Manchester United this season. The Swedish striker has already declared himself having conquered England. So does that explain why Ibrahimovich might now be interested in leaving the Red Devils in the summer?

Ibrahimovich has spent much of his career in Italy and could return to Serie A to join Napoli, according to striker’s agent, Mino Raiola. Raiola claims that Ibrahimovich is in love with Naples and that a move cannot be ruled out.

The 35-year-old has an option for a one-year extension in his contract, which United want to trigger. But it seems that the feeling may not be mutual. Or perhaps Raiola is merely stirring the pot? You can’t always trust what a player’s agent say. Although, you necessarily cant dismiss it outright either.

"According to The Sun, Raiola said: ”As for Ibrahimovich, he’s always been in love with Naples and the passion of the Neapolitans. I’ve always said that openly because he grew up in a family which was similar to the Neapolitans and then with me. He knows what the love of the Neapolitans means and that passion has always attracted him. I know that De Laurentiis [Napoli chairman] knows him, and with Zlatan you never know what could happen”."

You never know what could happen, indeed.

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Ibrahimovich has been shining light for United, but his presence has seemingly subdued the impact of others in the United team too. The Swede has 14 Premier League goals, but the next best is Paul Pogba and Juan Mata on just four goals.

Would it really be so bad if Ibrahimovich left the club anyway? As things stand right now it would be a blow. Although, an opportunity would then arise for either Anthony Martial to get a clear run in the team or Marcus Rashford to play in his preferred position.

And then there’s also the Antoine Griezmann elephant in the room. Who knows if that deal is really happening? If it does, then the Frenchman would fill the gap left by Ibrahimovich. It wouldn’t be all bad.

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Then again, maybe the talk from Zlatan’s agent means nothing. There’s a long way to go until the summer. Either way, Manchester United’s future will not completely hinge on Zlatan Ibrahimovich staying or going.

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