Ibrahimovic desperate to be available for Sampdoria but programme will not be rushed

Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s recovery programme is well underway and there is a chance he will be available for the first game of the season, a report claims.

According to Calciomercato.com, Ibrahimovic’s target is clear: 23 August 2021. He wants to be at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris in Genoa for Sampdoria-Milan in the game that will open the 2021-22 Serie A season for the Rossoneri. The 39-year-old wants to be there at all costs and is working hard to recover, while also respecting a strict schedule.

Of course he underwent knee surgery after the problem he sustained in the 3-0 win over Juventus, which has affected his summer preparations and also forced him to miss the European Championships with Sweden.

Up to now he has carried out differentiated work between the gym, exercise bike, and muscle strengthening both of the operated limb and of the rest of the body. He will not rush and should soon be able to train with team-mates, but he wants be there for the debut match against Sampdoria.