Yesterday's press conference by AC Milan consultant Zlatan Ibrahimovic was exactly what the media expected. When presenting a project, you can only speak highly of it, even very highly, hiding any doubts and potential flaws, writes Calciomercato.com.
Every time a new season is introduced, the best intentions are always expressed. The words were beautiful, with the recurring emphasis on the desire to win: however, words will need to be followed by actions, as only they will prove Ibrahimovic right or wrong. The Swedish player's reassuring presence is certainly a comfort for Milan fans: many, because of this, will have accepted the choice of Fonseca, who is not exactly the dream of Milan supporters. It is not an ambitious choice, it is risky, perhaps even intriguing, and hopefully successful.
Regarding the much-anticipated actions, without a top coach, a great forward will be needed. We all know that Milan has long been chasing the dream of Joshua Zirkzee: perhaps not a true number 9, as he describes himself as a 9 and a half, but certainly the main target that everyone, including the vast majority of fans, agrees on.
It is an almost declared objective, with a negotiation that has now come to light. At this point, Milan cannot afford not to bring the Dutchman home. They cannot afford to face what would be an embarrassing failure: they can't because they haven't brought in an exciting coach and because they have had deals that seemed close to completion but then fell through.
After Thuram and Taremi, another failed negotiation for an important striker would be unacceptable: it would be difficult to explain and endure for an environment that needs confidence (Ibra's words are not enough). The game is being played on the ground of commissions, and the management knew this from the start: stopping now and turning back would be a highly incorrect choice. Time is running out, and it's crucial to close the deal before Zirkzee's European Championship campaign kicks into high gear: the risk is that other clubs might come in and possibly take away the Dutchman.
