In this edition of SEA View: Alan, Bob and David and Alan share their thoughts on the arrival of one Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Alan (writer and forum moderator):
āWhen you buy me, you are buying a Ferrariā. So Zlatan says himself. I donāt know many Ferrariās that you can buy for free, however what I do know is that Zlatan, like Ferrari, doesnāt settle for second best. His winning mentality and experience is the biggest addition to this current United squad. He may ruffle a few feathers within the dressing room but you could argue that we need that. A few ābigā players at the club could do with a shaking ā and this is a pretty big earthquake.
In a stat that has been well versed by now, he has won the league in his first season with every club he has joined. Itās clear the effect he has. Coupled with this heās not a bad footballer either. Although 35 in October, he has never relied on pace, his technique compensates for that. On the back of his best ever goal scoring season, one would expect him to have a healthy goal return again this season ā which is much needed.
Overall, I believe itās the ideal attacking addition. As well as the above, it allows Rashford the chance to learn from the best and it also wonāt overly inhibit his opportunities for game time with Ibra unlikely to play every match. Whatever happens, it will be exciting. So strap in.
Bob (forum moderator):
I am not convinced he will be a rip roaring success. I think the rigours of the Premier League will take its toll on his body at the age of 34/35. His work ethic/movement off the ball is also a concern and I will not be surprised to see him compared to Berbatov, who was criticised by some for his lazy attitude. I doubt he will match his goal scoring feats at PSG; 10-15 goals excluding penalties will be a good season.
His experience will count for little if he is unable to perform to the necessary standard, it could have a negative influence on the dressing room considering his strong personality if things turn sour. The importance of experience is overplayed.
I am content with the signing though as he will lessen the burden and expectation on Rashford.
David (writer):
The arrival of the Swede has finally been confirmed and many have likened his signing to that of Eric Cantona. Ibrahimovic comes with huge pretty much everything; physique, stature, ego, presence, experience and an impressive record to boot.
Regardless of his age, this is a true global star with an impeccable goal-scoring record and Manchester United have made a real statement with his capture. Fears that his arrival will hinder the development of the likes of Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial are misguided. Ibrahimovic will not remain at the club too long to stand in their way, but should be around long enough to impart invaluable experience and a winning mentality.
The Swede will offer an aerial threat up front that United have lacked for some time and has a presence that will facilitate greater flexibility in methods of attacking the opposition.
As a free transfer, this really is as good as it gets. Time will tell if the former Paris Saint Germain man can replicate his recent exploits in the Premier League, but regardless there are undoubted positives away from the pitch. One only has to listen to his first interview to know this is a born winner with an unrelenting mentality and he will bring character to a dressing room that has seriously lacked it in recent years.
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