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2016-2017 Season Performance Review: Zlatan Ibrahimovic

By Wyatt Miner

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - APRIL 20: Zlatan Ibrahimovic of Manchester United competes with Kara Mbodji of Anderlecht in the air during the UEFA Europa League quarter final second leg match between Manchester United and RSC Anderlecht at Old Trafford on March 20, 2017 in Manchester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Matthew Ashton - AMA/Getty Images)
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - APRIL 20: Zlatan Ibrahimovic of Manchester United competes with Kara Mbodji of Anderlecht in the air during the UEFA Europa League quarter final second leg match between Manchester United and RSC Anderlecht at Old Trafford on March 20, 2017 in Manchester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Matthew Ashton - AMA/Getty Images) /
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Pre-season

Before the season started, there were rumors that the Swede would come to call Old Trafford his new home. Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s transfer was among one of the best deals of the summer transfer window. Mourinho lured Ibrahimovic to Manchester free of a transfer fee.

When he arrived in England, he took over Anthony Martial’s number, 9. Shortly after, Eric Cantona, a Manchester United Legend, said that Zlatan is the “prince” of Manchester; since Cantona is king.

In the summer friendlies, he showed great promise. In fact, his first goal with the English side was a bicycle kick against Galatasaray. The summer gave Ibrahimovic plenty of time to find his form.

Start of the Premier League season

When the season started, Ibrahimovic became a fan favorite instantly. He came to Manchester with one objective: score as many goals as possible. As a matter of fact, he was among the top scorers in the league.

Zlatan’s form was consistent. He was the main goal-scorer in the side, and he almost always got the starting position up top. It was a rare occasion to see him come on as a substitute.

He helped the Red Devils win the community shield; his 31st career honor.

Mid-season

Still, Zlatan continued impressive runs of form. Throughout the Premier League season, Zlatan put the team on his back, and managed to keep the team within a top 4 finish.

The Devils made it to the EFL cup final, and they took home the silverware against an impressive Southampton side. Zlatan’s header in the dying moments of the match final is perhaps the most memorable moment this season; a moment he will surely never forget.

In the same season, Zlatan Ibrahimovic earned his 32nd career honor. Impressive.

Also, competition in the Europa League was heating up rather intensely. Ibra played a major role in the success of the Europa League campaign. Again, he was the main goal-scorer in the competition.

End of the season

Still, United lingered in fifth place; awaiting patiently for a spot in the top 4 of the Premier League. Champions League qualification is what the season has come down to.

Manchester United advanced through the Europa League all the way to the final. However, the Swede suffered severe ligament damage in his knees against Anderlecht. Consequently, the Red Devils are forced to face an impressive Ajax squad without the prince of Manchester.

Overall stats

In the 2016/17 Premier League season, Ibrahimovic made 28 appearances. In those 28 appearances, he netted 17 goals and assisted 5 times. Outside of the Premier League, he scored 11 times and assisted 5 times. For his first season with a new team, his stats are impressive.

In the end, Ibra’s season was rather impressive. Additionally, he displayed poise in front of goal and scored any way possible. Mourinho and the Red Devils have seen multiple successes this season. Will there be more glory to come?

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