Zlatan Ibrahimovic, serving as a senior advisor to AC Milan's ownership, is facing backlash for taking a Fox Sports punditry position for the 2026 World Cup at a time when Milan faces significant leadership gaps.
The Athletic criticized the quality of Ibrahimovic's analysis, claiming he demonstrated insufficient knowledge during Canada's World Cup coverage, notably being unfamiliar with Jesse Marsch, Canada's head coach, while providing analysis to a US audience.
The publication also criticized the on-screen dynamic between Ibrahimovic and fellow pundit Alexi Lalas, suggesting Fox Sports would benefit from reduced coverage of both commentators, while better utilizing Ibrahimovic's goalscoring insights.
Ibrahimovic's media commitment comes as Milan seeks to appoint new sporting, technical, and executive directors following management departures last month. The club's leadership vacuum and approaching summer transfer window have made his absence from club operations particularly notable.