Arsene Wenger: 'Zlatan Ibrahimovic could struggle in Premier League'

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter | 06 August 2016

Manchester United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic's age could well count against him in the Premier League this season, according to Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has praised the quality of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, but questioned whether he will make the desired impact at Manchester United due to his age.

The Swedish striker, who turns 35 later this year, joined the Red Devils on a free contract this summer after an impressive goal-scoring campaign at Paris Saint-Germain last time out.

Wenger admits that he is unsure exactly how Ibrahimovic will fare in his maiden campaign on English soil, with pressure on the former Ajax, Juventus, Inter Milan, Barcelona and PSG star to find the net regularly.

"Honestly I don't know [how he will get on]," Wenger told reporters. "Going for him is his class, his talent, his desire to do well. What goes against him is that he is not the youngest player anymore, so you are questioned about that in every game.

"From what I saw of him last year at Paris Saint-Germain, it was his most complete season as an individual player and as a team player. He became a really great team player last season.

"On the mental aspect he will bring something to Man United as well. He is a winner, he has charisma and he will give them a strength as well as his individual quality."

Ibrahimovic is likely to lead the line for United in Sunday afternoon's Community Shield meeting with Leicester City.