Mario Mandzukic relishing strike partnership with 'beast' Zlatan Ibrahimovic

Published on: 20 January 2021

Mario Mandzukic admits he cannot wait to strike up a partnership with Zlatan Ibrahimovic after completing his move to AC Milan this week.

The 34-year-old has joined on a free transfer after leaving Qatari side Al-Duhail last July and will add even more experience to an already-stacked frontline in a bid to help secure the Serie A title this season.

With the Croatian set to wear the club's iconic No 9 shirt, he is adamant that he can work well with the Swede as they prepare to play together for the first time.

'I've been following Zlatan's progress since I was very young and I'm happy to finally be in the same team as him. We are both hungry for success', he told Milan TV.

'He's still a beast on the pitch and I will try to be the same. I think we'll do very well together.'

Mandzukic's excitement was shared by Ibrahimovic earlier this week, who admitted:  'I am very happy. There will be two of us to scare the opponents now!'

With a combined age of 73, the pair will bear the brunt of Milan's quest for a first Serie A title in 10 years.

Milan, who are currently top of the table by three points courtesy of a a 2-0 victory at Cagliari on Monday, also have the option to extend Mandzukic's deal by a further year.

And Mandzukic is looking forward to the challenge, having previously played at Juventus for four years.

'There are various reasons why I chose Milan. It's an historic club and fully satisfies my ambitions. We all know what Milan represent', he added.

'I worked hard lately to earn the call from an important club like Milan. I've trained a lot recently and those close to me know how much effort I've put in to ensure I'm ready to challenge for trophies, so Milan needn't worry about my fitness levels.

'A club like Milan always has big objectives and ambitions. I am accustomed to that, so it's no problem, that's why we play football. I am here and will give my best for Milan.

'It's a special club. You just need to say Milan and everyone knows what you're talking about. The history of Milan is incredible, great champions have played here. The whole world is fascinated by Milan and I can't wait to get started.

'My message to the fans is always the same: I will give my best. I'll try to defend the Milan colours in every game, I can assure you of that 100 per cent.'

Source: m.allfootballapp.com

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