GODBYE: Zlatan Ibrahimovic announces retirement from professional football at 41

<p>AC Milan and Swedish superstar, Zlatan Ibrahimovic has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 41 after the club’s final game of the 2022/23 season.</p>, <p>The 41-year-old veteran striker’s contract expires at the end of June and will not be renewed by the club after a season full of injuries resulting into his retirement from an exceptional and amazing career.</p>, <p>The Swedish superstar arrived for his second spell in Milan in early 2020 having won the Scudetto with them in the 2021 Serie A season, and helping them secure the title again last season.</p>, <p>With a season full of Injuries, Zlatan only managed 4 games and 1 goal with no assists in the 2022/23 Serie A season. He said after being honored by the San Siro fans, “I can’t breathe but it’s fine. So many memories and so many emotions here. The first time I arrived at Milan you gave me happiness, the second time you gave me love.”</p>, <p>ALSO READ: U20 World Cup: See how Super Eagles coach reacted to Flying Eagles elimination</p>, <p>“I want to thank the family and all those who support me I want to thank my second family: the players. I want to thank the coach and staff for their responsibility. I want to thank the directors for the opportunity given. Last, but not least, I want to thank the fans. You received me with open arms, you made me feel at home, I will be a Milanista for life. The time has come to say goodbye to football, not to you.”</p>, <p>The striker began his professional career in Malmo FF in 1999 and left for Ajax Amsterdam in 2011 before setting on a career that included leading important European teams that included Paris Saint Germain, Manchester United, Inter Milan, Barcelona and AC Milan.</p>, <p>He is Sweden’s all-time top scorer with 62 goals in 121 caps. Although he quit the national team after the 2016 Euros, he returned for their unsuccessful World Cup qualifying Campaign.</p>, <p>His departure was marked by the crowds at the San Siri with a large Tifo spelling out ‘Godbye’ held out by the fans.