Zlatan Ibrahimović has never needed much to draw attention. A few words, said at the right moment, are enough. That was the case during an event organized by the European Club Association. At 44 and already retired, he said he’ll be cheering for the Brazil national soccer team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Not because of patriotism, but because of a friendship.
“I hope Brazil wins. I’ll cheer for Brazil because of my friend Ancelotti. I wish him the best, because everything he touches turns into something magical,” the former player said. Just one sentence was enough to make headlines in three countries: Brazil, for obvious reasons, Italy, because of Carlo Ancelotti’s name, and Sweden, his homeland, which is still fighting for a World Cup spot.
Same Zlatan, different stage
Zlatan hasn’t changed. Even in retirement, he speaks when he wants, how he wants, and he knows people are listening. He could have given a safe answer about the World Cup or avoided the question, like so many former players. But Zlatan goes for impact. His words were short and sharp, just like they’ve always been. By linking his support for Brazil to Ancelotti, he highlighted the respect built when they worked together at Paris Saint-Germain between 2012 and 2013.
Zlatan has had public disagreements with top coaches over the years, but he doesn’t hold back when it comes to recognizing those who shaped his career. “I had coaches like (Fabio) Capello, (José) Mourinho, (Pep) Guardiola and Ancelotti. These four are soccer and, in their own way, they managed to change the game,” he said. Coming from him, that’s not just small talk. It carries weight.
A compliment with real meaning
His words have layers. On one side, they show friendship. On the other, they reflect public respect from someone with global credibility. Ancelotti is not just another coach. He wins everywhere, earns respect in every locker room, and has the admiration of players who don’t hand out praise easily. When Zlatan says “everything he touches turns into something magical,” he’s remembering a leadership style he experienced up close. It doesn’t sound scripted or formal.
This kind of support comes at the perfect time. Ancelotti will lead Brazil, the most successful national team in history, at the 2026 World Cup. All eyes will be on him. Having Zlatan Ibrahimović publicly speak about his respect for Ancelotti shows exactly how the Italian is viewed by players who have been at the top of the game.