Back to the International Newsfeed

Zlatan presence led new AC Milan signing Roback to pass up Arsenal move

New AC Milan arrival Emil Roback has revealed that he was close to a move to Arsenal, but that he was ultimately swayed by the chance to share a pitch with the legendary Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Roback, 17, received his first taste of action for his new club on Wednesday following a €1.5 million transfer from Hammarby, coming off the bench in Milan's 4-2 friendly victory over Novara.

A host of big European clubs were interested in his signature before signing for Milan, but Roback admits that the presence of his fellow Swede, a national idol, tipped the balance in the Rossoneri's favour.