Given his prestige within elite football's upper echelons, as well as his outspoken nature upon being so, it may be hard for some to imagine being unaccustomed to the sport's highest level. However, there is one team-mate who knows the better than any other and before the adoration of the masses. With 325 appearances together, across four different teams, left-back Maxwell must have a plethora of intriguing stories.
In this article, looks way back at Zlatan Ibrahimovic's early career, why he's in debt to a man who he calls a "teddy bear", and the key moments from the pair's iconic companionship. Zlatan believes he's above Messi, Ronaldo, Pele, Maradona and all the rest..
. This story begins in Amsterdam in 2001. , of course already renowned for their youth academy, had cast their net once again across the globe and picked up more hot prospects for the future.
In this particular summer transfer window, a young Maxwell arrived from Brazil and a fine stint at Cruzeiro. His move was seemingly natural progression, yet the humble defender didn't see it that way on his arrival that June. "I am happy and surprised by this transfer," he said.
" A few weeks ago I was not considering a transition to Europe at all. I'm now starting to get used to the idea that I will soon play for Ajax." Although self-assured, Maxwell's calm and likable nature was clear for all to see.
This was a young who could now test himself at the highest level. His attitude was quite the contrary to the following mo.
