41-year-old superstar striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who played for Manchester United between the years of 2016 and 2018, has drawn the curtain on his professional football career [via Fabrizio Romano on Twitter].
After an monolithic 24-year journey, Ibrahimovic has finally decide to put his career to bed – he scored 405 goals across seven divisions.
In his tearful goodbye speech to AC Milan supporters, Ibrahimovic said [via BBC Sport]: “There are too many emotions for me right now. Forza Milan and goodbye. The first time I came here you gave me happiness, the second time you gave me love. You welcomed me with open arms, you made me feel at home, I will be a Milanista for the rest of my life.”
Romano’s tweet read as follows: “BREAKING: Zlatan Ibrahimović has now decided to retire from professional football with immediate effect. Incredible player, incredible icon.”
As previously mentioned, Ibrahimovic joined Manchester United in 2016 on a free transfer. At this point, he was already 34 years of age – but he was far from past his best.
In the 2016/17 season, the Swedish legend helped United to a League Cup and Europa League double. During his time at Old Trafford, Ibrahimovic scored 17 goals in 33 games.
Ibrahimovic’s professional career began at Malmo, amid a turbulent time for the club – he would then join Ajax in 2001, where he began to attract attention from top teams across Europe.
A mixed spell at Juventus led to a move to Inter Milan, where he led La Beneamata to a league title in his first season with the club. In 2009, he then moved to Barcelona – a move that would ultimately become the lowlight of his career.
Becoming disillusioned with Pep Guardiola’s coaching style, Ibrahimovic enjoyed a successful loan spell at AC Milan, before joining them permanently in 2011.
A four-year stay at PSG led to his move to Manchester United – after the termination of his Red Devils contract, he joined LA Galaxy in the MLS.
After leaving LA Galaxy in 2019, many expected Ibrahimovic to retire – but he wasn’t done yet. He once again joined AC Milan, helping them to Serie A league title in 2022.