When Zlatan Ibrahimović steps into the spotlight, it’s never just about the game — it’s about making a statement. Whether on the pitch or in the design studio, the Swedish football legend has built a career on blending power, precision, and undeniable style. Now, he’s bringing that same energy to his collaboration with H&M Move, crafting a training collection that’s as much about performance as it is about personality.
In this exclusive interview with Esquire Middle East, Zlatan dives into the creative process behind the line, the inspiration he draws from his own larger-than-life persona, and why he’s just as passionate about inspiring the next generation as he is about redefining activewear.
You’ve conquered the football pitch, but designing activewear is a whole different game. How did you approach this collaboration?
Collaborating with the H&M Move team has been an amazing journey where I could bring my expertise as a professional athlete to the design table. Together, we have created a training collection that not only performs at the highest level but also looks and feels great. I am proud to share this with my fans and H&M Move’s customers who are as passionate about training as I am.
Your collection with H&M Move blends technicality and style. If we were to compare these pieces to your football career, which item would represent your personality the most?
I’d say the items that best represent my personality are those that blend performance, functionality, and style! For me, great sportswear starts with the right fit and materials that support freedom of movement while delivering on performance. The DryMove T-shirts and tank tops, for instance, are designed to pull moisture away from the skin, keeping me comfortable even during the most intense training sessions. I personally test every piece to ensure it meets my high standards. This collection reflects what I value most—functionality, quality, and accessibility—without compromising on style.
You’ve always been known for your larger-than-life persona. How does that translate into the design choices — was there a ‘Zlatan stamp’ moment where you knew the collection was unmistakably yours?
I’m quite involved in the design process. I observe every detail, test prototypes, and give feedback. The H&M Move team takes my input seriously, refining the designs to ensure they deliver both functionality and style. It’s a collaborative effort—everyone brings their expertise to the table, and that’s what makes it special. This is our third Selected by Zlatan collection, and it’s great to see how it keeps evolving and improving. There’s definitely a moment in each piece where I can see that ‘Zlatan stamp’, and that makes me very proud of what we’ve achieved together.
The kids’ line in the collection is a great touch. How important is it for you to inspire the next generation of athletes, and what advice would you give them?
I always want to inspire kids and players to reach their full potential! My main drive today is to help others and encourage people which I am motivated to. There is also synergy to my partnership with H&M Move which has been great and enable me to connect with the next generation of athletes. In terms of advice I always encourage kids to work hard and always look at ways of improving themselves.
The logo blends ‘Zlatan’ and ‘Move’—two words that seem to define your philosophy. If you could add one more word to this mix, what would it be and why?
Strength. We are two parts in the collection that both have long experience and knowledge in what we do. That combination of our strengths is great.
You’ve played for the best teams in the world and trained in every imaginable condition. What’s one piece of clothing or feature in this collection that you wish you had during your peak playing days?
During my peak playing days, I would have liked having pieces that combine technical
innovation, lightweight design, and great breathability—qualities we’ve truly nailed with this collection. These features are game changers for performance and comfort, whether on or off the pitch.
This collection merges performance and style. Which of these two elements do you think more athletes are missing today, and why?
I’m an athlete, so I look for comfort and the freedom to move in my training gear, wherever I am or whatever I’m doing. I think athletes often see sportswear as lacking a sense of fashion, but H&M Move brings fashion and performance together naturally. That’s what makes this collection stand out for me.
You’ve played in some of the biggest stadiums in the world. If you had to pick one iconic location to relive all of the action, where would it be, and why?
I’ve had the privilege of playing for many great clubs and experienced many stadiums, but if I had to pick one iconic location to relive all the action, it would be the San Siro Stadium in Milan. The atmosphere, the history, and the passion of the fans make it unforgettable. Stepping onto that pitch always made me feel like being part of something truly legendary!
What’s one thing people misunderstand about training gear, and how does this collection aim to challenge those misconceptions?
I think a common misunderstanding is that many people often think training gear has to be expensive to work. For me working with H&M Move means not having to compromise and make an accessible collection that many can afford. This collection combines high performance, great design, and products that works for any sport making it a great choice.
If you had to sum up this collection in one word, what would it be (other than ‘Move’)?
Performance.
The Selected by Zlatan collection is now available in selected stores and online in UAE, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Qatar.