“I am back to finish what I started.”

In trademark style, Zlatan Ibrahimovic on Thursday announced his re-signing with Premier League giants Manchester United.

Advertisement

After suffering a potentially career-threatening knee injury in April, there were fears that the 35-year-old maverick may never grace the pitch again.

Yet, after an incredible recovery, the Swede is set to return to the Premier League and silence his doubters yet again.

But why have Manchester United re-signed an injured striker who is set to turn 36 in October and why the fuss? The Statesman highlights the reasons the below:

Fan Favourite 

Zlatan is a true maverick and every club loves its own, especially when the maverick bangs in 28 goals in his debut season.

His post-match interviews are legendary and the Swede proved he could walk the talk last season, much to the delight of the United faithful.

Bring him together with the Special One aka Jose Mourinho and fans will never be short of entertainment every week, regardless of their team’s performances.

Cover for Romelu Lukaku

Right now the going is great for United, but should a couple of injuries/suspensions occur, the club attacking department would suffer.

If one considers Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial as wingers, Lukaku is the only centre-forward United possess.

The burly Belgian will need to be rotated from time to time as United are involved in four competitions and will be expected to make a deep run in all four.

There’s no denying Lukaku is their undisputed No.1 striker, but having a player of Zlatan’s pedigree waiting in the wings for cup ties and the odd league game will be quite handy.

Invaluable Experience

Zlatan may not be the fastest player on the pitch, but in terms of sheer experience and quality, is second to few. Considering he will be playing second fiddle to Lukaku for the entirety of the season, his presence in training and in the dugout will be immense.

The kind of winning mentality the 35-year-old brings is not irreplaceable and it’s easy to forget that Martial, Rashford and Lukaku are all below 25. The trio will benefit from having Ibra around on match days and every team that wishes to challenge for titles needs several leaders in the dressing room and the ‘God of Manchester’ is certainly one.

Sells shirts

Modern-day football clubs are much more than just sporting institutions, they are bonafide businesses as well.

And a player who makes commercial and footballing sense is a must-have. As mentioned earlier, United’s fans have already taken to him and with him switching to the No.9 jersey, expect shirt sales to steadily rise as the season progresses.

The Swede’s one of the biggest stars in the game and at a club that rule the roost in terms of commerce will fit right in.

Will be vital when chasing games

A groan comes up each time Marouane Fellaini is sent in by Jose Mourinho, especially when United are chasing games.

Imagine United send on Ibra instead, when they are 1-2 down in the second-half.

United may be crushing everyone in their path at the moment, but there will come a time when they are trailing/drawing sides in the second-half and will need a goal to salvage a point from a losing position or nick a win.

The 6’5 Swede’s sheer physical presence can wreak havoc against the best of defences and will certainly make an impact against tired opponents.