Paris Saint-Germain great Pauleta has backed Zlatan Ibrahimovic to enjoy several more years at the top of his game.
The Swedish superstar has only one year left on his current contract with the French giants, and had been heavily tipped for a departure from the Parc des Princes outfit this summer.
Both Arsenal and Manchester United were understood to be keen on the forward, but despite a swirl of deadline-day rumours linking the forward with a move to the Emirates Stadium, Zlatan stayed put.
However, Pauleta, whose scoring record with PSG may soon be overtaken by the former Barcelona forward, has backed his successor to enjoy much more success at the Parc des Princes…hinting that the striker may want to remain at the club beyond the end of his current contract.
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“From a certain age, people and the media love to talk about your age,” the ex-Portugal striker began, speaking to Le Parisien, “I also found that.
“Obviously, physically, it’s maybe harder, but the instinct of the goalscorer is never lost. I have no worries for Ibrahimovic. He has such a physique, he his so strong that no injury should bother him, he could still enjoy two or three seasons more at the top.
“I can see him making the difference both in the league and the Champions League this season.”
The 33-year-old Ibrahimovic has featured three times in Ligue 1 so far this season, scoring once and contributing two assists.
Last season, he managed a terrific 19 goals in 24 league outings, as well as six assists, as PSG lifted the domestic title.
The forward will be hoping that he can help the capital club reach the final four of the Champions League this season.
As well as Arsenal and Manchester United, AC Milan were also understood to be interested in the veteran frontman during the summer.