‘What a player!’- Fans teary-eyed as Zlatan Ibrahimovic retires from football
Ibrahmovic has scored 62 goals for Sweden.
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Jun 5, 2023 2:00 pm
Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Source: Twitter)
Football Superstar Zlatan Ibrahimovic has bid adieu to football at the age of 41. The Swedish player’s contract ends at the end of June. His contract will not be extended as he had a season plagued by injuries, which made him retire from the great game. Ibrahimovic had a second spell with Inter-Milan in 2020. In 2011, he won the Scudetto. He again helped them win the same title during the last season.’
The striker had his first short in professional football at Malmo in 1999. Then he switched bases to Ajax in 2001. Then he had stints at some of the best clubs in Europe. The teams that he represented were Milan, Manchester United, Barcelona, Juventus and Internazionale. He netted 511 goals and was part of various league title victories in four different countries. When it came to the national side, he hung up his boots as the all-time leading goal-scorer for Sweden with 62 goals.
The fans welcomed me with open arms: Zlatan Ibrahimovic
“I say goodbye to football but not to you,” he said after being feted by the San Siro crowd after Milan’s 3-1 win over Hellas Verona in their season finale. “So many memories and emotions inside this stadium,” Ibrahimovic added with tears in his eyes. “The first time I arrived you gave me happiness, the second time, you gave me love. I want to thank my family and those close to me for their patience. I want to thank my second family. The players, the coach and his staff for the responsibility they gave me. I want to thank the directors for the opportunity they gave me,” he added.
“Last but not least, from my heart, I want to thank you, fans. You welcomed me with open arms and I will be a Milanista my entire life. It’s time to say goodbye to football, but not to you. It’s too difficult, there are too many emotions. I’ll see you around if you are lucky. Forza Milan and goodbye,” he said in a heartfelt retirement address.
Let us take a look at the reactions on Twitter:
@Ibra_official His retirement marks the end of an era defined by the epitome of confidence and an unapologetic attitude. Zlatan's unwavering self-belief and fearless demeanor have made him a true legend. Your impact on the game will forever be remembered. #ZlatanIbrahimovic
Zlatan doesn't retire from football, football retires from Zlatan. Merci the Original Swedish House Mafia, the Lion of World Football‼️ #ZlatanIbrahimovic
— LORD BARNABAS ETYANG' (@lord_etyang) June 5, 2023
15 years ago, when i was kids, i ask my dad "who's him, he's very tall, cool and scary?", my dad said "oh, he's Zlatan Ibrahimovic". Wow, from that I'm be ibra's fans forever even now u take ur rest time, from me respect my star 🫡🥹😭#Ibrahimovic#ACMilan#GodByeZlatan#SanSiropic.twitter.com/dKTbGQeoqZ
A legend of the game. Zlatan Ibrahimovic has decided that it is time to end his playing career and retire from football. 9 clubs, 827 games, 496 goals, football will definitely miss him. pic.twitter.com/HAq2QWTn3N
