Zlat is it as Ibrahimovic quits Reds
MANCHESTER United have confirmed the termination of Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s contract as the striker prepares to join the LA Galaxy.
The 36-year-old was released last summer after a fine first season at Old Trafford ended in a serious knee injury, only to be rewarded with a new contract until the end of the 2017-18 season in August last year.
However, Ibrahimovic has only managed seven appearances this term as a knee issue halted his comeback and the Red Devils have now confirmed his exit.
A statement from the club read: “Manchester United confirms it has agreed to the termination of Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s contract with immediate effect.
“Everyone at the club would like to thank Zlatan for his contribution to the team since his arrival and wishes him well for the future.”
Ibrahimovic said: “Great things also come to an end and it is time to move on after two fantastic seasons with Manchester United.
“Thank you to the club, the fans, the team, the coach, the staff and everybody who shared with me this part of my history.”
Ibrahimovic returned for United in November after recovering from surgery to repair his ruptured cruciate ligament.
His last game was on Boxing Day, when he was substituted at half-time of the 2-2 draw at home to Burnley, and, although earlier this month he said he was targeting the Champions League last-16 second leg tie with Sevilla, he did not make the matchday 18.
The arrival of Alexis Sanchez in January and the form of Romelu Lukaku have made it even less likely for Ibrahimovic to regain his place and, with question marks over his fitness and his contract ticking down, the time appears right for a move.
Manager Jose Mourinho began to pave the way for an exit when he said in January he would not stand in the former Sweden international’s way if he wanted to leave Old Trafford.