Ibrahimovic retires - VnExpress Sports

Italy Striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic announced the end of his football career at the age of 41 after Milan beat Hellas Verona 3-1 in the final round of Serie A.

Ibrahimovic was ruled out of the game with an injury and wore a black kit in the stands. The Swedish striker shed tears before kick-off, and continued to show his emotions at the post-match farewell ceremony at the San Siro. Milan players and fans in the stands also broke down in tears as they stood to applaud Ibrahimovic.

After receiving the framed shirt, which was a gift from the legendary Paolo Maldini, the 41-year-old striker announced his retirement and sent his gratitude to his teammates, members, coaching staff, leaders as well as Milan fans. "There are many memories and emotions in this stadium," he said. "The first time I came here, you gave me happiness. The second time, love. It's time to say goodbye to football, but not to everyone. It's difficult, I have too many emotions right now. Forza Milan and goodbye."

In the stands, a group of visitors booed Ibrahimovic. The Swedish striker immediately responded, pointing at the Verona fans and saying: "Keep booing. You are lucky to be able to witness this moment."

Ibrahimovic bowed to thank Milan fans after announcing his retirement. Photo: AC Milan — Ibrahimovic bowed to thank Milan fans after announcing his retirement. Photo: *AC Milan*

At a press conference later, his last as a Milan player, Ibrahimovic said he had asked the club to host the ceremony, but did not announce his decision to retire. "This is a very special day for me. I didn't tell anyone that I was leaving football," Ibrahimovic said, joking that reporters would have "less work to do" after he retired.

After breaking down in tears on the pitch, Ibrahimovic returned to his usual humorous dressing room remarks. "When I woke up this morning, it was raining. I said to myself: 'Even God is sad today'," he said. "Even my family doesn't know what's going on today, I feel like a zombie. I don't joke or talk to anyone. Three months ago, I was confused about the idea of retiring, but today I accept it and I feel ready. But obviously there is a bit of sadness."

When asked about the moment he cried on the pitch, Ibrahimovic replied: "People think I'm a superhero. Yes, I am a superhero, but I also have a big heart. I looked around, trying to find a face that could give me strength, but everyone was crying. I thought my wife would give me strength to stay strong, but she cried the most."

Ibrahimovic cried on the day he announced his retirement. Photo: AC Milan — Ibrahimovic cried on the day he announced his retirement. Photo: *AC Milan*

Ibrahimovic played for Milan for two spells, 2011-2012 and 2020-2023, winning two La Ligas and an Italian Super Cup. He considers Milan his second family and revealed that he will spend the coming time resting and enjoying life. The 41-year-old striker sees becoming a coach or taking on any other role in football as a big responsibility, and needs time to make the right decision.

When asked about who could be the new Ibrahimovic, he replied in his usual brash style: "No way, there is only one Zlatan. They used to compare me to Marco van Basten, but Van Basten is Van Basten, and I am me. There may be similarities, but I don't think the comparison is right. I don't think there will be another Ibrahimovic with the same ego as me."

Ibrahimovic announces retirement — Ibrahimovic announced his retirement at San Siro on June 4.

This season, Ibrahimovic struggled with injuries and only played 144 minutes in Serie A. However, he still left his mark when he became the oldest player to score in Serie A in the 1-3 loss to Udinese in round 27, at the age of 41 years and 166 days. In total, in two appearances for Milan, he scored 93 goals and assisted 35 in 163 matches.

During his career, Ibrahimovic has won more than 30 titles, including national championships in the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, France, but has never won the Champions League. His only European title is the Europa League with Man Utd in the 2016-2017 season. At the national team level, Ibrahimovic holds the record for scoring goals for the Swedish national team with 62 goals in 122 matches. He was also voted Swedish Player of the Year 11 times, winning the award 10 times in a row from 2007 to 2016.

The striker born in 1981 has been nominated for the Ballon d'Or 11 times with the best achievement being fourth place in 2013, winning the Puskas award in 2013 and being in the UEFA Team of the Year four times.

Hong Duy

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