Zlatan Ibrahimovic has retired from football after a legendary career across Europe’s top leagues, spanning over two decades.
In the twilights of his career with AC Milan, Ibrahimovic struggled at the peripheries and was sidelined with multiple injuries but he continually ruled out exiting the game soon.
On Sunday night, before AC Milan’s final matchday kickoff against Hellas Verona, Ibrahimovic shocked football fans across the world as he announced his retirement from the game in an emotion-soaked atmosphere.
Ibrahimovic was in tears as he bade farewell at the San Siro to over two decades of a legendary career.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic in tearsSpeaking before the sea of heads at the San Siro, the football legend thanked his fans and family for their support throughout his career.
“The first time I arrived you gave me happiness, the second time, you gave me love. I want to thank my family and those close to me for their patience”, he said.
”I want to thank my second family. The players, the coach and his staff for the responsibility they gave me. I want to thank the directors for the opportunity they gave me.
”Last but not least, from my heart, I want to thank you, fans. You welcomed me with open arms and I will be a Milanista my entire life. It’s time to say goodbye to football, but not to you. It’s too difficult, there are too many emotions. I’ll see you around if you are lucky. Forza Milan and goodbye.”
Some AC Milan players paid tributes to the Swedish football legend.
Giroud wrote, “you inspired me when I started my career and it was such a privilege and an honour to play along side you. Thank you for everything legend.”
Zlatan Ibrahimovic in tearsPortugal prolific winger, Rafael Leao, wrote, “what a way to finish the season. Thank you @iamzlatanibrahimovic for everything, your legacy will be alive forever.”
The club career of Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Ibrahimovic’s professional career started with Swedish club Malmo in 1999, before spells with Ajax, Juventus, Inter Milan, Barcelona, AC Milan, PSG, Manchester United, and LA Galaxy. He returned to Milan from the United States in 2020.
Ibrahimovic won 4 trophies at Ajax, 2 at Juventus, 5 at Inter Milan, 5 at Barcelona, 3 at AC Milan, 12 at PSG, and 3 trophies at Manchester United.
He has won League titles in Netherlands, Spain, and Italy. At Manchester United he won the Europa League, Community Shield, and the EFL Cup.
One club trophy that eluded Zlatan Ibrahimovic in his 24 years career in club football is the Champions League.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic became Serie A’s oldest ever goalscorer after he scored against Udinese in March. The goal turned out to be his last professional goal.
The 41-year-old is Sweden’s all-time top scorer with 62 goals in 122 matches.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic has the most goals in France, where he netted 156 goals for PSG. His next most successful destination was AC Milan where he scored 93 goals in his double stint with the club.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s career by numbers
Malmo 18 goals in 47 appearances
Ajax 48 goals in 110 appearances
Juventus 26 goals in 92 appearances
Inter Milan 66 goals in 177 appearances
Barcelona 22 goals in 46 appearances
AC Milan 56 goals in 85 appearances
Paris Saint-Germain 156 goals in 180 appearances
Manchester United 17 goals in 33 appearances
LA Galaxy 53 goals in 58 appearances.
AC Milan 37 goals in 78 appearances
Sweden: 62 goals in 122 appearances
Zlatan Ibrahimovic age
Before his retirement, Zlatan was one of the oldest football players still active in the game. He is 41 years now.
Who is Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s wife?
Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s partner is Helena Seger. Seger was live at the San Siro with Ibrahimovic as the latter announced his retirement from football. She is a 52-year old businesswoman and has become famous due to her marriage with Ibrahimovic.
Helena and Zlatan Ibrahimovic started their relationship in 2003. They have dated each other for 20 years but have not gotten married officially.
Helena is also a Swedish national as Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Her estimated net worth is £160m. They have two children together Maximilian and Vincent.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s net worth
Ibrahimovic has amassed a fortune in 24-year-old career. As of 2023, his estimated net worth was £110m.
