SAN JOSE, California – Zlatan Ibrahimovic has never been one to hold back his opinions, and retirement hasn’t changed that. Now part of FOX’s World Cup broadcast team, the Swedish legend has become a viral sensation for his outspoken commentary and lively debates with former USMNT defender Alexi Lalas. Christian Pulisic, who shares a connection with Ibrahimovic through their time at AC Milan, has been tuning in – and clearly enjoying every bit of it.

‘I think he does extremely well’

Speaking to reporters after the USMNT’s training session ahead of their upcoming clash with Bosnia and Herzegovina, Pulisic shared his thoughts on Ibrahimovic’s new television role. Ibrahimovic currently serves as a special adviser for AC Milan, the same club where Pulisic plays, after a successful playing career there.

“I think he’s hilarious,” Pulisic said on Tuesday. “Obviously, I’ve had the chance to work with him quite a bit too. He’s a really good person, and just hearing him talk and knowing his personality, I think he does extremely well.”

Zlatan’s outspoken opinions

Ibrahimovic has drawn widespread attention for his fiery takes and on-air exchanges. Most recently, he criticised the Netherlands after their penalty shootout loss to Morocco on Monday.

“This defeat is [Ronald] Koeman’s fault because I didn’t recognise this Dutch team. He lost with an identity that is not the Dutch identity. That makes me angry,” Ibrahimovic said.

“I was always taught: attack, attack, attack. This is not the Dutch identity. Today, Koeman looked like an Italian coach, playing not to lose, whereas the Netherlands always play to win. If you lose, at least lose with your own identity and don’t change it.”

He added, “This wasn’t the Netherlands I’m used to seeing. You could tell by the way they played that they didn’t feel comfortable. The possession was gone, the attacking football was gone... It just looked really bad, and that was all on Koeman. I didn’t like it at all, absolutely not.”

Koeman stepped down from his position on Tuesday. Ibrahimovic’s spirited back-and-forth with Alexi Lalas has also generated plenty of buzz, with the duo’s contrasting styles becoming a highlight of FOX’s World Cup coverage.

Pulisic gearing up

After a brief appearance against Turkiye last week, Pulisic is nearing full fitness and is expected to start against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday at the San Francisco Bay Area Stadium.

What’s next?

The USMNT will face Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32 on Wednesday at 8 p.m. ET.

Reporting from PayPal Park in San Jose was contributed by Ryan Tolmich.