Manchester United forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic will have his stay at Old Trafford extended for a second season, boss Jose Mourinho has confirmed.
The 35-year-old joined the Red Devils this past summer after his contract with Paris Saint-Germain expired, signing a one-year deal with an option for a further year.
With eight goals and an assist to his name in 17 appearances in all competitions so far this season, it appears to have been enough for Mourinho to want the veteran striker to stay in Manchester for another year.
“Zlatan’s situation is simple,” said Mourinho,” as reported by Sky Sports.
“He has one plus one. We are happy with him. We are going to execute the option of a second season. After that he can do what he wants.”
Ibrahimovic began the season in great form, scoring key goals for his new side and silencing his remaining critics who doubted his ability to be influential in England.
However, that was followed by a goal drought which raised doubts over whether or not United should keep him long term, but evidently Mourinho doesn’t share those reservations and has given the green light for the Swede to remain for another year.
With United struggling to meet expectations both in the Premier League and in Europe, they’ll hope that Ibrahimovic can get back to his best form and inspire them to better results.
In turn, he’ll be desperate to secure Champions League football at the very least for his last year in Manchester, but it will certainly be a tough task as United continue to sit in sixth place in the league table and are six points adrift of the top four.