The 39-year-old is still an interesting striker, but is able to retire due to advanced age.
AC Milan would like Zlatan Ibrahimovic to be back next season, but they still don’t know if the goalkeeper wants to keep going.
Ibrahimovic has scored 15 times in all competitions in this campaign after retiring in the summer. His brace on Sunday helped Milan to a 4-0 win over Crotone.
After the game, manager Stefano Pioli said he appreciates all the qualities that Ibrahimovic brings to his side, from attacking firepower to emotional dominance. Pioli, however, admitted his striker was “tired” of another tough year.
What was said
“Zlatan is happy with us and I think the best thing about this team is that the players are happy,” Piolli told Sky Sports Italia after Milan’s win. ” We’re with a great club, everyone wants to do well and I think it’s okay that he continues to play, and that he does it with us.
“He’s a well-motivated athlete, he’s awesome in the way he looks after his body with everything from diet to recovery.
“He’s tired, but you won’t stay at this stage for so long without looking after yourself.”
The bigger picture
With so many big clubs always trying to find the next big thing to lead their attack, Milan’s commitment to Ibrahimovic is something special. The club dominates Serie A with a striker old enough to be the father of some of his opponents.
If Milan do not have Ibrahimovic in their lineup next year, would there be a big drop in the goals scored? They may have to dive into the transfer market for a younger striker in the summer to avoid that result, especially as Inter Milan and Juventus are still ready to overtake them at a weak mark any.