“I Could Still Play” – Better Than ‘95%’ of Strikers, Zlatan Ibrahimovic Admits Retiring at the ‘Right Moment’

Sweden international Zlatan Ibrahimovic is one of the most iconic strikers in the history of the game. The 41-year-old apart from his record and trophies is known for his antics on and off the field. The former AC Milan star has never shied away from expressing what’s on his mind during any conversation. Zlatan was present in a recent interview with television personality Piers Morgan, where he made a surprising statement regarding his retirement while taking a dig at the active strikers.

Zlatan announced his retirement earlier this year in June during AC Milan’s last league game of the season. The Swede received an emotional farewell from the home fans who were seen in tears watching Zlatan take to the field for the last time. However, amidst the tears, Zlatan managed to make the moment iconic with a gesture synonymous with himself.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic gives an honest take on his retirement decision

Former Manchester United superstar Zlatan Ibrahimovic was present in London for an interview with television personality Piers Morgan. Morgan during the opening stages of the interview, asked Zlatan about his decision to retire from the game. In reply, the Swede added that he retired in the perfect moment as he was suffering in a physical way.

“I just retired three months ago. And I agree with you that if I wanted it or not, is different, but I accepted it. Because in the end, I was not feeling good. I could have continued. I could have continued suffering in a physical way and keep going. But I wanted to feel good. And I didn’t want to have a consequence after my career where I’m limping or I cannot do things with my boys.”

However, the striker also added that he is still better than probably 95% of strikers out there.

“So I chose to stop and I think I stopped in the right moment. But to be honest with you, when I see all the other strikers out there, I could still play because I will do much more than that. I’m better than and there’s not for my ego. I could give you many names. Probably 95% of them are out there.”

Zlatan Ibrahimovic announced his retirement from the game last season. The former AC Milan star had an emotional send-off during the team’s last game of the season, with the Swede giving an emotional speech to his fans.

Also Read: “I’m the Best, F**K the Rest” – Facing Similar Fate as Al Nassr’s Cristiano Ronaldo, Zlatan Ibrahimovic Recalls Ditching Arsenal at 17

AC Milan gave the Sweden icon a well-deserved farewell

The 41-year-old announced his retirement this year in June. Zlatan, who had a great season with Milan 2021-22, helping them win the Serie A title, was sidelined for most of the 2022-23 season owing to injuries. The player announced his retirement in a big ceremony held by the club during their last game of the season against Hellas Verona.

The Swede gave an emotional speech to the fans at San Siro, thanking them for welcoming him with open arms while adding that he would be an AC Milan fan for life. During the speech, some of the Hellas Verona fans booed the Swede, which saw the striker reply with a response synonymous with himself. He proudly mentioned, “Keep booing. This is the biggest moment in your year seeing me”.

Zlatan, following his retirement, has been enjoying his time away from the game. The former soccer star is partnered up with multiple brands and is focusing on building a new career. What do you think of Zlatan’s comments regarding his retirement? Let us know in the comments below.

Watch this story: Meet the Legendary Tennis Player Who is 3x Richer than Cristiano Ronaldo