Is Zlatan Ibrahimović Retired From Football?

Yes, Zlatan Ibrahimović is retired from professional football. He announced his decision to stop playing in June 2023, bringing a 24-year senior career to an end after his second spell with AC Milan.

When did Ibrahimović retire?

Ibrahimović confirmed his retirement after AC Milan’s final home match of the 2022–23 Serie A season. The Swedish striker was 41 at the time. His contract with Milan was ending, and recurring knee problems had limited his appearances during that campaign.

His final competitive season was difficult physically. Ibrahimović made only a small number of appearances for Milan and scored once in Serie A. After considering his fitness and future, he decided not to continue as a professional player.

Why did Zlatan Ibrahimović retire?

The main reason was the physical impact of a long career, particularly his knee injury and rehabilitation. Ibrahimović had undergone significant surgery and spent much of the 2022–23 season recovering. At his age, returning to the level required for regular top-flight football became increasingly demanding.

His retirement was not caused by a transfer to another club. He left playing on his own terms after completing a career that included spells at Malmö, Ajax, Juventus, Inter Milan, Barcelona, AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United and LA Galaxy.

What did Ibrahimović achieve as a player?

Ibrahimović won league titles in several countries and scored more than 500 goals for clubs during his career. He became one of Sweden’s most successful footballers, holding the national team’s scoring record with 62 goals.

His major individual honours included the Puskás Award for his bicycle-kick goal against England in 2013 and numerous domestic scoring awards. He also returned to AC Milan in 2020 and helped the club win Serie A in the 2021–22 season.

Although he never won the UEFA Champions League, Ibrahimović played for many of Europe’s leading clubs and remained a prominent football figure for more than two decades.

Is Ibrahimović still involved in football?

Retirement ended Ibrahimović’s playing career, but not his connection with football. After stepping away from matches, he took on an advisory role linked to AC Milan. The role allows him to contribute to the club away from the pitch, including discussions around sporting and development matters.

That means references to “Ibrahimović at Milan” after 2023 may concern his work as an adviser rather than appearances as a striker. He is no longer eligible to play in Serie A or for the Sweden national team.

Did Ibrahimović retire from international football too?

Yes. Ibrahimović’s international playing career also ended before his final club season. He initially retired from Sweden after Euro 2016, then returned to the national team in 2021. His last Sweden appearance came in 2023, shortly before he announced his full retirement from professional football.

So, if the question is “is Ibrahimović retired,” the answer is yes: he has retired both from club football and international playing competition. His later football activities are connected to his work away from the field.

Frequently asked questions

When did Zlatan Ibrahimović retire?

Ibrahimović retired in June 2023 after the end of AC Milan’s 2022–23 season.

How old was Ibrahimović when he retired?

He was 41 years old when he announced his retirement.

What was Ibrahimović’s last club?

AC Milan was his final club. He had returned to Milan in 2020 and remained there until his retirement from playing.

Is Ibrahimović still playing for Sweden?

No. He is retired from international football and does not play for Sweden.