Nadia Nadim Launches Scathing Attack on Ex-AC Milan Coach: ‘It Was Like Training in a Refugee Camp’

Nadia Nadim has launched a strong critique of her former coach at AC Milan following her recent loan move to Hammarby in the Swedish Allsvenskan. The 37-year-old Danish international reflects on a challenging period at the Italian club where her relationship with Dutch coach Suzanne Bakker was far from harmonious.

In an interview with Aftonbladet, Nadim spoke candidly about her experience in Milan, expressing her discontent with Bakker’s coaching methods.

“I’ve played under coaches who have achieved great success throughout my career, so it was quite surprising to be introduced to her style. Honestly, the training I experienced in a refugee camp back when I was 11 was more effective (Nadim fled Afghanistan with her mother and four sisters, arriving in Denmark as refugees), so I suspect she has some sort of inferiority complex,” Nadim remarked to the Swedish press.

Furthering her criticisms, the outspoken striker mentioned that Bakker does not seem to appreciate her approach and that they possess starkly different coaching philosophies. Nadim has openly communicated her dissatisfaction with her former coach.

“We had a few discussions where I expressed my confusion over her behaviour. My intention was to resolve our issues, so I shared my feelings with her.”

“However, if she is aware of her recurring mistakes and we don’t share the same expectations, it will inevitably lead to complications. She might not be accustomed to working with elite athletes—it seems she’s primarily dealt with academy players who comply with her directives. Our ambitions are on a different level,” Nadim concluded.

Additionally, Nadim revealed in the interview that she is contemplating the timing of her farewell from the Danish national team.

“I’ve contributed significantly to the national side. One of my main aspirations is to conclude my time with the team on a high note. I’ve been considering stepping back from the national setup for a while now, but I’m trying to ascertain the right moment.”

“I would prefer to retire gracefully, and the European Championship would serve as an ideal opportunity,” she added to the Swedish media.

Denmark has already secured qualification for the tournament, which is set to take place in Switzerland this summer. To date, Nadia Nadim has earned 105 caps for her country.