One of the most high profile goalkeepers to ever play in the Premier League, Peter Schmeichel believes Paris Saint-Germain star Zlatan Ibrahimovic would fit in perfectly at former club Manchester United.
In the past few weeks, Ibra has been under constant media scrutiny in France where he has made some controversial statements. Yet, it is that controversial nature that Schmeichel points to when he talks about the Sweden international.
“What Zlatan does with PSG is quite incredible,” he told L’Equipe. “He gives PSG so much credibility and visibility. There we rumors last summer sending him to Manchester United. I said back then that he was built to play for United.”
“Why was Cantona so strong when I was there and not that strong in Leeds or France? Because it’s Manchester United,” he added.
While Zlatan has very quickly squashed rumours about a move away from PSG, speculation surrounding his future continues to circulate. Over the years, the 33-year-old has been linked with several English clubs, but nothing has ever materialised.
However, with Uniteda s new transfer policy, a bid for the Swede in the summer cannot be called unrealistic.
Schmeichel, who is serving as an ambassador for the Red Devils at the moment, feels that Ibra would flourish at the club much like other players with big personalities have.
“There’s this freedom given to players but also responsibilities. We don’t care what you like or who you are, we care about what you do on the pitch and the influence you have on the team. If you don’t respect that, you leave.
“You can have the personality you want. Beckham, Cantona, they blossomed at Manchester United. Thousands of players tried to be Beckham or Cantona but failed because they didn’t have the personality.”
At the moment, United are surplus in the striking department with Robin Van Persie, Radamel Falcao, James Wilson and Wayne Rooney all playing for two spots. Nevertheless, both Van Persie and Falcao have struggled this season and are not certain to be at Old Trafford next year.