The end of an era: Zlatan Ibrahimović ends his active career as a player. © MATTEO GIBRAUDI/imago-images
The exceptional Swedish footballer Zlatan Ibrahimović declared his playing career over on Sunday evening in Milan.
Milan – Sweden's football star Zlatan Ibrahimović has declared his active career as a player to be over. "It's the moment to say goodbye to football," said the 41-year-old from AC Milan after the last game of the season against Hellas Verona (3-1) on the pitch of the San Siro: "There are too many emotions for me right now. Let's go Milan and goodbye."
Ibrahimović announces retirement – three-time Italian Footballer of the Year
The club had already announced on Saturday that the Swede would be bid farewell after the game "with a short ceremony", but representatives of the striker did not want to comment on the end of his career to the AFP news agency. Negotiations with AC Monza were also reported. In recent years, Ibrahimović, who has repeatedly caused a stir during his career with his enormous self-confidence, has been struggling with injuries.
During his career, Ibrahimovic played for the top European clubs Juventus, FC Barcelona, Paris St. Germain, Manchester United and Milan's city rivals Inter Milan. Last season, the 122-time Sweden international became Italian champion with Milan. In total, he won Serie A five times and was voted Footballer of the Year in Italy three times. (SID)