Former Ajax and Inter midfielder Wesley Sneijder has weighed in on Manchester United striker Benjamin Sesko’s admiration for Zlatan Ibrahimovic, insisting the young forward must forge his own path rather than try to emulate his idol.

In August, Sesko revealed that Ibrahimovic, the legendary former Manchester United striker, has long been his role model.

“He’s been my role model since I was small. I’ve watched every YouTube video I can find of him—he’s just amazing for me,” Sesko said on Manchester United’s club channels.

“I love the way he plays and enjoys football. When you enjoy the game, everything works. That joy is probably what makes me admire him so much. Meeting him one day would be amazing—he’s my idol.”

‘He can never be Ibrahimovic’

Speaking to AdventureGamers.com, Sneijder—who played alongside Ibrahimovic at Ajax—offered a reality check for Sesko. While it’s fine to have a role model, he stressed, the Slovenian forward must focus on creating his own identity.

“There are two things: having an idol and adopting their qualities, or trying to reach their level,” Sneijder said.

“Zlatan is unique. When he came to Ajax at 17, I already knew he would become a star, not just for his skill but for his personality.”

Sneijder continued: “It’s always good to look up to someone and follow their path. But Sesko has his own qualities—he can never be Zlatan Ibrahimovic. He needs to develop his own style and become a unique version of Zlatan, inspiring the next generation in his own way.”

Sesko has had a slow start under United boss Ruben Amorim, scoring two goals and providing one assist in 12 appearances. The 22-year-old now has the international break to rediscover his form and, perhaps, take Sneijder’s advice as he aims to become a standout name at the club.