Zlatan Ibrahimovic has once again fueled speculation about his relationship with FOX colleague Alexi Lalas, sharing a behind-the-scenes clip from the network's World Cup coverage where he refused to identify the song he was listening to.
Behind-the-Scenes Exchange
In the clip, Ibrahimovic enjoys music before appearing on the panel alongside Thierry Henry. Henry grinned and bobbed his head appreciatively, while Lalas appeared baffled and repeatedly asked what track was being played. Rather than providing a direct response, Ibrahimovic allowed Lalas to continue speculating.
"What music is this?" Lalas asked. "This is my music. Enjoy a little bit. I enjoy your American music," Ibrahimovic replied. Lalas persisted in requesting the artist's identity, but Ibrahimovic simply clapped along to the rhythm, grinned, and dismissed the enquiry. When Lalas eventually asked what the vocalist was singing about, Ibrahimovic offered a brief response: "She's singing about love, you know." Lalas replied: "Yeah, I know love." Ibrahimovic swiftly countered: "You show your true colour."
The track Ibrahimovic concealed was "Luda za tobom" by Serbian artist Lepa Brena, released in 1996. That very year, Lalas transferred from Serie A to MLS for its inaugural season, and the 15-year-old Swede signed his first deal with Malmo FF. Lalas could have identified the song using the music-recognition app on his phone, which was right in front of him. The lyrics concern unrequited love, matching Ibrahimovic's brief explanation.
Social Media Reaction
Ibrahimovic shared the clip on X, where the vast majority of social media users sided with him. Some quipped that you don't need to understand the lyrics to appreciate a song, so long as he enjoys it. One supporter wrote: "Lalas thinks music needs to be analyzed and understood to be enjoyed, what an idiot." Another commented: "You've got to love him. If only they would get rid of the pompous Alexi Lalas."
Ongoing Feud
This exchange was merely one of numerous light-hearted moments between the pair during FOX's World Cup coverage. Earlier in the tournament, Ibrahimovic quipped: "Who?" upon learning that Lalas had left the studio. He also told viewers: "You're welcome," during Lalas's absence, stoking fans' theories that the two are at odds. Subsequently, Ibrahimovic insisted he respected all his colleagues after Rebecca Lowe presented him with the FOX Sports Employee of the Month award. He said: "Wait, wait, Alexi feel it. You never got this," while brandishing the award to the cameras.
Ibrahimovic's on-desk exchanges with Lowe also sparked online reactions between the duo. The ongoing banter has become a highlight of FOX's World Cup coverage, keeping viewers entertained and speculating about the true nature of their relationship.
