Zlatan Ibrahimovic is considering retirement more concretely due to the fact that Sweden failed to qualify for the World Cup. They lost to Poland in the playoffs. Without the prospect of closing his storied career in Qatar, he could be tempted to hang his cleats in the summer, La Gazzetta dello Sport informs.
It could happen especially if Milan won the Scudetto. He would have fulfilled his mission to lead them back to winning ways, making the decision less bittersweet. The veteran striker has openly admitted his doubts over the matter.
On top of the disappointment on the international level, injuries would be the main reason behind Ibrahimovic choosing retirement. The striker has not started a game since mid-January. He has routinely missed time with muscular problems. Moreover, his left knee and Achilles’ tendon constantly bother him.
According to the publication, the player and the Milan management will take stock at the end of the campaign. If he wanted to keep going, they would come to terms on a low salary in an incentive-laden deal. The 40-year-old has scored eight goals in 22 appearances in 2021-2022.
The Rossoneri would add another center-forward to pair with Olivier Giroud regardless of Ibrahimovic’s decision. Divock Origi remains their top target, Calciomercato.com informs. The parties are finalizing their agreement, and then they will submit to ownership for the final greenlight. On the other hand, Liverpool could still trigger a unilateral option to extend his expiring contract. Milan would lose interest if they had to pay a fee.