ributes have begun to roll in from Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s former teams, including the likes of Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain and boyhood club Malmo, after the influential Milan forward announced his retirement from professional football on Sunday evening.
The 41-year-old took the decision to call it a day on his 24-year playing career, which began all the way back in 1999. In the time since then, Ibrahimiovic has gone on to register 866 appearances at club level, scoring on 511 occasions, as well as a record 62 goals from his 122 Sweden caps.
Ibrahimovic has also won league titles in five different countries, the most recent of which came with Milan during 2021-22.
After confirming that he will be hanging up his boots after an injury-laden season at San Siro, Ibrahimovic’s former clubs have begun to post messages of thanks and congratulations after a spectacular career at the top of the European game.
Malmo, the team with whom Ibrahimovic began his career, wrote on twitter: “A long and successful career began in Malmö and ended in Milan. Good luck in life outside of football.”
Manchester United, with whom Ibrahimovic won his sole European trophy, tweeted: “A distinguished career for a man like no other. Congratulations on everything you’ve achieved and all the best in your retirement,” as well as posting a compilation of his highlights from his time at Old Trafford.
PSG also joined in on wishing Ibrahimovic well in his next chapter, adding: “A career fit for a king. Congratulations, Zlatan. We hope to see you at the Parc des Princes soon.”