“Not part of our plans” - Zlatan Ibrahimovic confirms Liverpool icon Divock Origi has been banished from first team at AC Milan

AC Milan adviser Zlatan Ibrahimovic has confirmed that former Liverpool forward Divock Origi has been banished from the Rossoneri's first team. Origi joined the Italian giants in 2022 as a free agent but hasn't found his feet in Serie A.

The Belgian forward made 36 appearances for Milan in the 2022-23 season, registering just two goals and one assist. He joined Premier League side Nottingham Forest on loan in 2023-24, but could only manage one goal and one assist in 22 games.

After consistent sub-par performances, AC Milan have decided that Divock Origi is no longer a part of their plans. He has been banished from their first team and will play with the youth squad, as Zlatan Ibrahimovic confirmed. He said (via GOAL):

"Divock Origi and Fode Ballo-Toure are not part of our plans. They will be part of the youth team as they’re not included in our project."

While the Rossoneri are set for a trip to the USA for pre-season, it does not seem likely that Origi will go with them. The 29-year-old will hope he can convince the club to bring him back into the fold with improved performances in the youth setup.

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Zlatan Ibrahimovic has provided an update on AC Milan's move for Serie A forward

Ibrahimovic also spoke to the press about AC Milan's interest in Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee. The forward enjoyed a remarkable 2023-24 season, helping the Serie A side qualify for the UEFA Champions League with 11 goals and five assists in 34 league games.

Reports claimed that the Dutch forward had agreed personal terms with the Rossoneri, but the Italian giants did not want to pay the associated agent fees. Ibrahimovic has confirmed that AC Milan have ended their pursuit of the 23-year-old striker. He said (via GOAL):

"Zirkzee? It’s the past for us. We already have the new striker in mind but I’m not gonna tell you the name."

According to GOAL, Manchester United are set to trigger Zirkzee's €40 million release clause. It is now expected that the move will happen before the month is concluded, with the Red Devils' hierarchy intent on Zirkzee joining their pre-season tour of the USA.