Ibrahimovic extends Milan contract to keep on playing beyond 41
AC Milan's Zlatan Ibrahimovic celebrates winning the Serie A, Reggio Emilia, Italy, May 22, 2022. (Reuters Photo)


Evergreen Zlatan Ibrahimovic will continue playing well beyond his 41st birthday after signing a one-year extension Serie A champion AC Milan on Monday.

Details of the contract were not released, but a source close to the deal said the Swede has accepted a reduced salary given he will be unable to play until 2023 after undergoing surgery on his left knee in May.

"AC Milan is pleased to announce the renewal of Zlatan Ibrahimovic's contract until June 30, 2023," Milan said in a short statement. "The Swedish forward will continue to wear the No. 11 shirt."

Ibrahimovic, Sweden's all-time top scorer with 62 goals, returned to his former club Milan in January 2020 after leaving Major League Soccer (MLS) team, LA Galaxy.

Although his second stint at the Italian side has been riddled with injuries, Ibrahimovic has made 74 appearances and scored 36 goals in all competitions since his return, helping Milan win its first Serie A title in 11 years last term.