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Zlatan Ibrahimovic is adding another chapter to his larger-than-life career, this time stepping into the media spotlight as an analyst for this summer's FIFA World Cup.
The 44-year-old Swedish icon has joined Fox Sports as part of its studio coverage team, where he'll work alongside fellow former stars like Thierry Henry and host Rebecca Lowe.
Known for his outspoken personality and supreme confidence, Ibrahimovic's presence is expected to bring both insight and entertainment to the broadcast.
Fox Sports had reportedly explored several high-profile names before landing Ibrahimovic. According to reports, the network made efforts to bring in David Beckham and Jurgen Klopp, with Klopp at one stage appearing open to the idea. Ultimately, however, Ibrahimovic emerged as the standout choice to join the team full-time for the tournament, which runs from June 11 to July 19.
Fox Sports president Brad Zager made it clear that Ibrahimovic was a priority target from the beginning. The network approached the hiring process with an ambitious mindset, identifying top-tier personalities and pursuing them aggressively, even if they seemed like longshots.
While there has been speculation about whether Tom Brady, Fox Sports' lead NFL analyst and an acquaintance of Ibrahimovic, played any role in facilitating the deal, network executives have not confirmed any such involvement.
Ibrahimovic brings star power to World Cup coverage
Ibrahimovic's addition gives Fox Sports one of the most recognizable and charismatic figures in global football. His playing career spanned nearly 25 years, during which he represented some of the biggest clubs in the world, including Juventus, FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Manchester United.
He also had a stint in Major League Soccer with the LA Galaxy, which helped boost his profile among American audiences. That familiarity, combined with his outspoken style, makes him a natural fit for U.S. television.
On the international stage, Ibrahimovic represented Sweden at multiple tournaments, including the 2002 and 2006 FIFA World Cups. He remains the nation's all-time leading scorer, with 62 goals in 122 appearances, a record that cements his legacy as one of Sweden's greatest-ever players.
Now transitioning into broadcasting, Ibrahimovic brings not just experience but a unique personality that has always set him apart. Whether delivering tactical analysis or headline-grabbing quotes, he is unlikely to blend into the background.
For Fox Sports, the move signals a continued push to elevate its FIFA World Cup coverage with global star power. And for viewers, it offers the chance to see one of football's most iconic figures in a completely different role, still commanding attention, just from behind the desk instead of on the pitch.