Zlatan Ibrahimovic returns to Sweden squad five years after retirement
What's the story
Football superstar Zlatan Ibrahimovic will once again be seen in national colors. The veteran forward, who had earlier announced his retirement from international duty five years earlier, has been included in Janne Andersson's squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Georgia and Kosovo. The 39-year-old is currently playing for AC Milan in club football. Here we present the details.
Words
Anderrson praises Zlatan, highlights his qualities
Anderrson praised Zlatan and said he can contribute towards the team's growth. "First and foremost he is a very good footballer, the best we have had in Sweden. It's obviously very good that he wants to come back," Andersson said. "Apart from what he can contribute on the field, he has incredible experience and can contribute that to the other players in the team."
Details
Key details about Zlatan
The 39-year-old scored 62 goals in 116 internationals before calling it quits after the team's Euro 2016 group-stage exit. The former Manchester United striker opened the door to a return in a newspaper interview in November 2020. That was followed by Andersson flying to Milan to meet with the striker. Zlatan has scored 14 goals in 14 Serie A appearances for Milan this season.
Quote
'The return of God', tweets Zlatan
"The return of the God," Zlatan wrote on Twitter alongside a photo of him playing for Sweden. When asked about Zlatan's tweet, Andersson said with a laugh that the former can be a little funny at times.
Out take
Can Zlatan help Sweden?
Sweden face Georgia on March 25 before playing Kosovo three days later in their opening two 2022 World Cup qualifiers. Zlatan's presence will give Sweden a huge lift. Even at 39, the legendary footballer has shown no signs of slowing down. He will however be hoping to stay injury free. A return to the national side will also help Zlatan in showing his consistency.