AC Milan and Swedish superstar, Zlatan Ibrahimovic has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 41 after the club’s final game of the 2022/23 season.
The 41-year-old veteran striker’s contract expires at the end of June and will not be renewed by the club after a season full of injuries resulting into his retirement from an exceptional and amazing career.
The Swedish superstar arrived for his second spell in Milan in early 2020 having won the Scudetto with them in the 2021 Serie A season, and helping them secure the title again last season.
With a season full of Injuries, Zlatan only managed 4 games and 1 goal with no assists in the 2022/23 Serie A season. He said after being honored by the San Siro fans, “I can’t breathe but it’s fine. So many memories and so many emotions here. The first time I arrived at Milan you gave me happiness, the second time you gave me love.”
ALSO READ: U20 World Cup: See how Super Eagles coach reacted to Flying Eagles elimination
“I want to thank the family and all those who support me I want to thank my second family: the players. I want to thank the coach and staff for their responsibility. I want to thank the directors for the opportunity given. Last, but not least, I want to thank the fans. You received me with open arms, you made me feel at home, I will be a Milanista for life. The time has come to say goodbye to football, not to you.”
The striker began his professional career in Malmo FF in 1999 and left for Ajax Amsterdam in 2011 before setting on a career that included leading important European teams that included Paris Saint Germain, Manchester United, Inter Milan, Barcelona and AC Milan.
He is Sweden’s all-time top scorer with 62 goals in 121 caps. Although he quit the national team after the 2016 Euros, he returned for their unsuccessful World Cup qualifying Campaign.
His departure was marked by the crowds at the San Siri with a large Tifo spelling out ‘Godbye’ held out by the fans.
Leave a Reply