Manchester United forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic will reportedly begin his coaching badges in the New Year as he looks ahead to a managerial career.
The Swede has made an impressive impact at Old Trafford already after his arrival this summer, scoring four goals in four games to secure the Community Shield and help take the Red Devils level at the top of the Premier League.
Not content with his impact on the pitch, the 34-year-old has already held talks with Jose Mourinho about his plans once his playing career comes to an end, according to The Sun.
That involves taking his coaching exams next year, and although he doesn’t see his time on the pitch coming to an end anytime soon, he is ‘picking up a few ideas’ and considering prolonging his time in the game further after hanging up his boots.
“Zlatan is already tapping into Jose Mourinho and planning for the future in the game,” a source told The Sun. “He has told the lads he does not see an end to his playing days for another two or three years.
“Jose has left his door open and Ibra likes the idea of coaching, but not necessarily a manager right away.
“He is enjoying picking up a few ideas and he fancies Italy. Ibra will take a badge when things settle down for him early in New Year and then progress it next summer.”
The former AC Milan and Barcelona star’s influence at Carrington has already been felt with reports that he’s helping the younger players in the squad when staying behind after training to work with them.
Given his experience, track record and winning mentality, the towering forward will arguably make an excellent coach in time, although he may well have to start to tone certain things down in his interviews and press conferences.
Nevertheless, the priority for now will be on helping United win trophies this season, and they’ve certainly made a solid start in achieving that objective.