World Cup 2026: Zlatan Ibrahimovic on Ancelotti’s Impact

Legendary striker Zlatan Ibrahimović reflected on the “dark side” of his time working with Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti after the Italian’s side drew 1‑1 with Morocco in Brazil’s opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ibrahimović is widely considered one of football’s greatest forwards. Over his career he played for top European clubs—including AC Milan, Inter Milan, Barcelona, Paris Saint‑Germain, Juventus and Manchester United—scoring 496 goals and providing 205 assists in 827 appearances.

During the 2012‑13 season, the Swede was coached by Ancelotti at PSG. He scored 35 goals and supplied 17 assists in just 46 matches, helping the club win the Ligue 1 title.

In a recent interview with FOX Sports, Ibrahimović said that although Ancelotti is usually calm and composed, he occasionally shows a “dark side” to keep control. The 44‑year‑old recalled an incident shared on X: “I remember after a game, he was not pleased with the team. I was sitting there when he kicked a box that struck my forehead. I was taken aback because no one does that to me, but Carlo did. So yes, he has a dark side as well, which I appreciate because it serves as my trigger.”

Now leading Brazil in his first international coaching role, Ancelotti seeks to add more trophies to his already impressive résumé. With a star‑studded squad that includes Vini Jr, Raphinha, Marquinhos, Gabriel and Alisson, the Seleção are viewed as one of the favorites for the 2026 World Cup.

After a rocky start against Morocco, the five‑time champions look to rebound in their next group‑stage match against Haiti on June 19.