For a man who has made it his trademark to be at odds with the world, on and off the pitch, Ibrahimovic has come to epitomise most of the negative qualities that we attribute to some of the world's most famous footballers.

Arrogant, controversial with big egos and a giant chip on their shoulder. But one shouldn´t forget that while many coaches undoubtedly have had their share of frustration from dealing with Ibrahimovic, the same coaches have also seen their careers skyrocket on the basis of his miraculous performances on the pitch.

Every season since 2003-04 the team that he has played for has finished top of their league; one with Ajax, two at Juventus, three at Internazionale, one in his only season with Barcelona and then last season for Milan.

As Ibrahimovic is pretty much able to do whatever he wants with the ball, most football fans are willing to forgive his fiery temperament, which has however, marred an otherwise amazing career. For every goal he has scored, title he has won, there have also always been the stories of his controversial clashes that made it hard for him to settle at just one club.

Born in traditionalist and ultra-conservative Sweden, childhood was never going to be a picnic for the child of a Bosnian father and Croatian mother and his rebellious attitude was no doubt shaped in these surroundings. 

In addition, Ibrahimovic had already from early age an incredible self-belief (often displayed in his famous quotes) that turned out to be fully justified judging from the number of prizes in his trophy cabinet.

While Ibrahimovic has often found himself in the midst of controversy at his various clubs, once back in the comfort of the Swedish national team squad, he has adopted a more humble attitude. 

The decision of coach Erik Hamren to give Ibrahimovic the captain's armband has transformed the lofty striker's attitude.

Usually described as a self-indulgent individualist, Ibrahimovic has seemingly through the wise words and motivation from Hamrén become an inspiring, unifying force around which the other players are able to excel.

During the last European Championship in 2008 Ibrahimovic was at the centre of blame from Swedish journalists as tests revealed that he was one of the players that ran the least during the tournament.

Failing to deliver at crucial moments had earlier been a problem for Ibrahimovic in the Swedish shirt. But should he perform at the level he has displayed at AC Milan throughout the season, there certainly won´t be any complaints from the Swedish media this time.