The curse of injuries has returned to haunt Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, threatening his future with the team in particular and with football in general.

The "Sultan" was injured again during the warm-ups that preceded the start of the match between Milan and Lecce last Sunday, in which the "Rossonio" won with two clean goals at the San Siro Stadium.

According to Zlatan's subsequent medical tests, the injury is likely to keep him out of action for nearly a month, meaning his season is coming to an end.

The injury compounds the plight of the Swedish striker, who is doubtful about his continuation next season with Milan, who appeared reluctant to extend the player's contract.

Ibrahimovic's contract with Milan is due to expire on June 30, 2023.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has never won the Champions League. If AC Milan win the CL this season, he will not receive a medal, because he is not on the club’s list for the CL.. pic.twitter.com/usGSEbRT7b

— KYSTAR (@KYSTAR) April 22, 2023

The Spanish newspaper "Sport" confirms that Ibrahimovic is living a real "nightmare" with injuries, as he underwent surgery in June 2022 that kept him away from the stadiums for 8 months.

This season, the 41-year-old Swedish striker has made just four appearances for Milan, all in Serie A.

Zlatan played 144 minutes spread over the four matches:

  • Udinese (76 minutes) scored a goal.
  • Atalanta (16)
  • Fiorentina (24)
  • Salernitana (28)

Zlatan is no longer able to get out of this impasse, and the idea of retiring began to hover in his head despite his previous statements rejecting it.

Ibrahimovic in recent months answered a question about whether he was considering retiring, saying: "I have never decided that, I want to continue as much as possible."

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A post shared by Zlatan Ibrahimović (@iamzlatanibrahimovic)

"I don't want to think about leaving football, and become like those who feel sad, thinking they can go on without doing it.

Ibra explained that "at a time when I was feeling a little upset, I was determined to do my best with the team because that is my mentality."

"After I turned thirty, I noticed that my physical pain was not leaving me. In Milan I have a physiotherapist who follows me throughout the day, the doctor intervenes at every small and large thing, and as soon as I feel something I receive treatment directly."

Zlatan returned to Milan on January 2020, <> from Los Angeles, to wear the "Rossoneri" shirt in a second era.

Zlatan contributed to Milan's crowning of the Serie A title in the 2021-2022 season, for the 19th time in the club's history.