“The return of the God” – Zlatan Ibrahimovic returns to Sweden squad five years after retiring from international football

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been recalled to Sweden’s squad for the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers, five years after retiring from international football.

The AC Milan striker has been included in the squad for the games against Georgia on March 25 and Kosovo three days later, as well as a friendly against Estonia on March 31.

The 39-year-old, who scored a national record 62 goals in 112 games for Sweden between 2001 and 2016, will become the oldest player in the history of the Swedish national team if he plays.

Ibrahimovic took to social media to confirm the return, tweeting a picture with the caption: ‘The return of the God’.

The return of the God @svenskfotboll pic.twitter.com/hQThIdWRY0

— Zlatan Ibrahimović (@Ibra_official) March 16, 2021

In a statement, Sweden coach Janne Andersson said: “First and foremost, he is a very good football player, the best we have had in Sweden.

“It is, of course, very fun that he wants to come back. In addition to what he can contribute on the pitch, he has incredible experience and can contribute it to other players in the team.”