26 June 2023 , 23:38
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Former Manchester United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic has talked up the role he played in Sandro Tonali's development as the Italian prepares to join Newcastle.
Tonali, who has spent the last three seasons with Ibrahimovic in Milan, is poised to join Newcastle as the Magpies embark on a big-spending summer. Mirror Football understands Eddie Howe's side will spend £55m on the former Brescia man - a fee which would make him their second most expensive signing ever, behind Alexander Isak.
The Italian international had previously hoped to become a Milan legend in the mould of superstars like Paolo Maldini. With a Premier League switch seemingly imminent, though, Ibrahimovic has no doubts about his former team-mate's quality.
"Is he ready for the Premier League? Yes, I think so. Sure, it depends on him," Ibrahimovic said at an event in Bergamo (as translated by Sport Witness).
"I made him understand the right mentality he must have in order to win, and he won. He grew up a lot with Milan, he has a great responsibility and still has to grow, but in England he will do it, and he will do it well.”
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Since arriving from relegated Brescia in 2020, Tonali has developed into a key player for the Rossoneri. He made his 100th appearance for the club last season, and also has 14 senior caps for his country - including an appearance from the bench against England in March.
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Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Sandro Tonali have spent three seasons as AC Milan team-mates (Nicolò Campo/LightRocket via Getty Images)Tonali is currently away at the European Under-21 Championships, where he is part of an Italy squad which boasts several senior internationals including Leeds forward Wilfried Gnonto. He captained the team to a crucial victory over Switzerland in their second group game, and Paolo Nicolato's side can book their place in the quarter-finals with a win in their final group game against Norway.
Ibrahimovic's comments are those of someone who knows what it takes to succeed in the Premier League, The Swede top-scored for Manchester United in his first season with the club, though he left midway through his second season before rounding off his career back at Milan, confirming his retirement in early June.
So many memories and emotions inside this stadium," the 41-year-old told Milan fans at the San Siro. "The first time I arrived you gave me happiness, the second time, you gave me love. I want to thank my family and those close to me for their patience.
"I want to thank my second family. The players, the coach and his staff for the responsibility they gave me. I want to thank the directors for the opportunity they gave me. Last but not least, from my heart, I want to thank you, fans.
"You welcomed me with open arms and I will be a Milanista my entire life. It’s time to say goodbye to football, but not to you. It’s too difficult, there are too many emotions. I’ll see you around if you are lucky. Forza Milan and goodbye.”