Twin blow for Man United

– Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s magical season with Manchester United is over after the club announced he had suffered a serious knee injury in Thursday’s Europa League clash with Anderlecht.

The club revealed that both the 35-year-old Swedish striker and Argentinian defender Marcos Rojo had suffered knee injuries in the same match.

“Detailed investigations on the injuries sustained by Marcos Rojo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic during Thursday’s Europa League match have confirmed significant knee ligament damage in both players that requires specialist opinions over the coming days,” read the United statement on their website.

“Estimations of time to full recovery will only be possible once definitive treatment plans have been decided after these consultations.”

Ibrahimovic (above) didn’t have his finest game against Anderlecht – Marcus Rashford edging United through to the semifinals – but his goals have been the main reason for an improvement in the club’s fortunes, albeit without ever being title challengers.

Ibrahimovic has defied many doubters since joining on a free transfer from Paris St-Germain last year, scoring 28 goals and inspiring United to victory in the League Cup.

Rojo’s injury is also a serious bodyblow to United’s depleted resources at the back with both England international central defenders Phil Jones and Chris Smalling expected to be out till mid May.

Ibrahimovic’s one-year contract is up at the end of the season, meaning it is possible the Swede has played his last game for the club, with speculation linking him with a move to Major League Soccer in the US. – AFP