Zlatan Ibrahimovic has decided to retire from professional football, leaving AC Milan three years after his comeback with the Italian club on Sunday. Rossoneri’s fans had a very last chance to see him after the game against Hellas Verona, a 3-1 win. The Swedish striker was unable to take part in the match due to an injury, but bid a fitting farewell after the match. Before the game, the home fans celebrated Ibrahimovic with a special tifo that read “goodbye” and the player watched emotionally as it took place.
After the game, Ibrahimovic was celebrated by the home fans and the entire team in the center of the field. The Swedish star also spoke to the fans and announced his decision to retire.
“I can’t breathe but it’s okay, so many memories and so many memories in this stadium. The first time I came here you gave me love and then happiness. I want to thank my family for their patience. I want to thank my family for their patience.” second family, my teammates. I thank the coach, the staff, the managers. Finally, but with my heart, I want to thank you fans. It’s time to say goodbye to football, but not to you,” said the player.
Ibrahimovic underwent knee surgery in 2022 and has played just 144 minutes in all competitions this season. He scored just once against Udinese, making him the oldest player in Serie A history to score. The Swedish striker returned to Italy in 2020 after spending two years with the LA Galaxy, where he scored 53 goals in 58 games. His second stint with AC Milan, where he also played from 2010 to 2012, was successful given his impact since rejoining the Rossoneri. Thanks to his support on and off the pitch, AC Milan won the Scudetto for the first time in 11 years last season, having been part of the previous squad in 2011.