Zlatan Ibrahimović recently finished his MLS campaign in a playoff derby against fellow-city foes LAFC. He cited it may be his last appearance in Major League Soccer - a statement clouded with numerous egotistical remarks about his impact on the league. Hate it or love it, this man has an ego unlike any we’ve ever seen. He’s made a lasting impact in every league he’s played in. No one other than Zlatan will ever know if he believes everything he says or if this is all, but we all do know one thing - his ego becomes a major talking point wherever he goes. He becomes the center of attention. That begs the question - is Zlatan’s ego good for the publicity of the sport, or is it too much?
Ibrahimović’s tenure in MLS is certainly unique. The prestige of European football leagues is already there, so his impact playing in Spain or France or England certainly isn’t the same as the MLS. The European leagues are already well-supported, so his egotistical remarks were simply another talking point in an already highly-discussed league (Albeit, they’ve always added entertainment value). The MLS is a whole new story - he comes to the league as a 36-year-old in the twilight of his career following major knee surgery. Most athletes would be considering retirement at this stage (*cue MLS retirement league jokes), but Zlatan’s goals were to make an impact in Los Angeles while he still had gas in the tank. His impact was immediately felt even before stepping on the field when he compared himself to an ageless Benjamin Button in his introductory press conference. He talked the talk and walked the walk with a stunning long-distance goal in his first MLS appearance. These performances became the norm as Zlatan dominated a league that no player in their late 30’s should be playing so well in.
Is Zlatan’s Ego Good for Football?
Caveat - I believe Ibrahimović is overconfident. I do not believe any human being on earth should act as confident as he does, and I think there is a benefit to humility. I am giving him the benefit of the doubt that he exaggerates his beliefs, but honestly, I would not be surprised if he completely believes what he says. However, I can still feel he is overconfident and that his ego has a positive impact on football.
After his arrival in the MLS two seasons ago, Zlatan’s impact is noticeable in the MLS. His success raised the bar for other players and his teammates gained valuable experience playing alongside a European legend. Now cross-town rivals LAFC began to play in 2018, right when Zlatan began his tenure with the Galaxy. His constant criticism of LAFC star Carlos Vela and their organization sparked a rivalry that will continue to intensify after his departure from the league. He’s criticized the talent and coaching of the players in the league that has created headlines and debates.
Thus, you cannot argue that his ego is negative for the game. We are at a crucial time in the MLS where it is fighting for views - the league is still relatively young and trying to establish itself into American sports culture. Having an icon in the league constantly making bold statements gained the attention of American sports fans. Media outlets like ESPN and Fox have shared Zlatan stories that expose his comments and the MLS to a wide range of sports fans. He’s brought attention to the league that not even David Beckham was able to do, and that wouldn’t have been possible without his ego. If this is the end of your MLS run, thank you Zlatan. I hated most of your comments when you made them, but in hindsight, your ego will be a crucial piece in the long-term growth of the league.
Author: Living in Southern California, Robert Sweeney has been a fan of soccer since he played as a young child. Since then, he’s become a diehard Tottenham and US National Team fan. Rob enjoys writing about the impact soccer has had on his life in hopes that it betters others as well. Twitter: @robsweeney11