Ibrahimovic named in United’s European squad, but ‘no chance’ he’ll be fit
Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been included in Manchester United’s squad for the group stages of the Champions League, but Chelsea have omitted Diego Costa.
Ibrahimovic agreed a deal to rejoin United last month, but is still out of action with a knee ligament injury sustained in April.
There is doubt the 35-yearold former Sweden striker will play again in 2017 but manager Mourinho’s decision to include him in his European squad – which was not unex- pected – would improve United’s options should he return ahead of schedule.
United will play Basle, CSKA Moscow and Benfica in Group A. Mourinho said last month he doubted Ibrahimovic would be fit for any of the six fixtures but would name him in his squad anyway.
Mourinho said: “He will not be ready for the group phase of the Champions League. I don’t think there is any chance of that.
“Do we have space in the Champions League list to have him? Yes, we have. So we don’t need to leave any player outside of the list. But I’m not thinking Zlatan to play any part in the group phase. Hopefully he can play in the knockout phase.”
Ibrahimovic scored 28 goals for United last season after joining the club from Paris St Germain on a one-year deal. His time at the club was ended prematurely by injury but United invited him to continue using their facilities and a new one-year contract offer followed.
Fellow forward James Wilson, 21, has also been included in the squad.
Meanwhile, Costa has been left out of Chelsea’s 25-man squad for European action.
The 28-year-old is yet to return to Chelsea for the new season, having remained in Brazil in a bid to force a move to Atletico Madrid.
Atletico’s transfer ban means the Spain forward cannot move until January at the earliest.
Chelsea want their employee to return to the club and fulfil the terms of his contract, but his omission from the Champions League ranks serves as another reminder of his exiled status at Stamford Bridge.
Meanwhile, Liverpool have not included right-back Nathaniel Clyne in their squad.
The England international, 26, has been out with a back problem since the start of the season.
Tottenham have not registered forward Vincent Janssen for Europe.
The 23-year-old Dutchman signed for the club last summer and had a disappointing debut season. He has made only one appearance for Spurs this campaign.