Milan fans have shifted protests toward Zlatan Ibrahimovic after defeats and leadership dismissals. Questions have arisen about why Ibrahimovic was not removed alongside other figures tied to failures since 2024. Gerry Cardinale has strong admiration for Ibrahimovic and describes a close bond that goes beyond public image. Cardinale previously sought a similar relationship with Paolo Maldini but was blocked when Maldini declined a proposal to buy shares in RedBird. Ibrahimovic instead showed interest, entered business with Cardinale, and invested an initial amount around €10m, later increasing total investment to roughly €28–40m depending on sources. His financial stake and involvement led to his role as RedBird Senior Advisor for club operations.
"On Sunday night after the defeat to Cagliari and ever since that crushing blow, Milan fans' protests have turned to Ibrahimovic. After the dismissals of Giorgio Furlani, Geoffrey Moncada, Igli Tare and Massimiliano Allegri, the Swede has emerged as the strongman alongside Gerry Cardinale. As MilanNews write, the question mark that many have is why Ibrahimovic was immune from the managerial clear-out that happened on Monday, given that he also had a hand in the failures of 2024 onwards."
"Cardinale has a special admiration for Ibrahimovic. When he talks about the Swede, according to those who have gathered his impressions over the past few weeks, his eyes light up. The Milan owner sees in Zlatan a sort of heir apparent to whom he wants to pass on his entrepreneurial know-how, and a very strong bond has developed between the two. It's not just an aura thing either, it is an almost 'emotional' connection, as per the report."
"Cardinale, in the now-famous Four Seasons hotel briefing with journalists earlier this week, said he wanted to do the same with Paolo Maldini. However, he wasn't able to because the former Milan technical director said no to his proposal to buy shares in RedBird. Ibrahimovic, however, expressed interest and effectively entered into business with him. So, beyond their personal ties, Cardinale and Ibrahimovic are partners in RedBird and, specifically, in the Milan investment."
"According to reports, Ibrahimovic invested an initial sum of around €10m to acquire the 'starter pack' of shares, then increased his investments over time to a figure ranging between €30-40m. Other sources report between €28-35m. Essentially, Ibrahimovic has invested a significant sum, making him one of the few known investors in the Milan project, hence his appointment as RedBird's Senior Advisor for the club's operations."
Read at SempreMilan
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