Main content

Zlatan Ibrahimović's retirement 'the end of an era for more than football'

Swedish journalist Philip O'Connor reflects on the glittering career of Zlatan Ibrahimović who has announced his retirement from football.

Speaking to Sport Today's Mani Djazmi and Nick Hatton, the Reuters journalist - who first saw Sweden's record goalscorer play live in 2001 - says this is "an end of era for not just Swedish football but for Sweden".

He shares how the striker's impact and legacy extends far beyond the pitch including how he's changed how immigrants are seen in Sweden. He also explains how his style of football, which he describes as "un-Swedish", has paved the way for the next generation of Swedish talent.

(Image: Zlatan Ibrahimovic of Sweden during the World Cup Qualifier match between Spain v Sweden at the Estadio La Cartuja on November 14, 2021. Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images)

Release date:

Duration:

5 minutes