Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the renowned striker, has bid farewell to the world of football, culminating a remarkable career filled with trophies. Surprising everyone, Ibrahimovic announced his retirement from the sport after AC Milan’s 3-1 victory over Verona, marking the end of their Serie A campaign.
During an on-pitch ceremony at the San Siro, the veteran striker shared his decision to step away from the game. “It’s time to say goodbye to football, not just to you,” expressed Ibrahimovic. Overwhelmed with emotions, he added, “Forza Milan and goodbye.”
Initially, it was anticipated that the 41-year-old would only bid farewell to Milan fans after his departure from the seven-time European champions was announced on Saturday. Ibrahimovic returned to Milan in late 2019 for a second stint, having previously won the Serie A title with the club in 2011.
Addressing the crowd, Ibrahimovic acknowledged the support he received from Milan fans: “The first time I came here, you gave me happiness, and the second time, you gave me love. You welcomed me with open arms, making me feel at home. I will be a Milanista for the rest of my life.”
Ibrahimovic played a crucial role in Milan’s revival, contributing to their resurgence and their eventual triumph in the Scudetto last season. His return helped lift the club from a period of stagnation, propelling them back to the pinnacle of Italian football.
Reflecting on his retirement, Ibrahimovic shared his thoughts with reporters: “I used to be afraid when journalists asked about my future, but now I can accept it. I’m ready.” Football had a profound impact on his life, shaping him as a person and allowing him to forge connections with people he would have otherwise never known. It granted him the opportunity to travel the world. He expressed gratitude to the sport, saying, “It’s all thanks to football.”
Throughout his illustrious career, Ibrahimovic captured league titles in the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, and France. However, his only major European trophy was the 2017 Europa League with Manchester United. Choosing the San Siro as the stage for his retirement announcement was fitting, given his previous success with Inter Milan, where he secured three consecutive league titles between 2006 and 2009 before a tumultuous stint at Barcelona.
Ibrahimovic’s decision to retire comes after a season plagued by injuries, limiting his appearances for Stefano Pioli’s side. He made a comeback in February following knee surgery in May. In July, he signed a contract entailing a fixed salary of approximately one million euros ($1.02 million) along with significant bonuses linked to appearances and achievements.
However, he started only one match and scored one goal for Milan, securing his place in history as the oldest goal scorer in Serie A with a strike against Udinese in a 3-1 victory in March. Unfortunately, a calf injury sustained during a pre-match warm-up in April ultimately sidelined him, quashing rumors of a potential move to Monza and dashing hopes of participating in Euro 2024 with Sweden.
