Ibra to leave PSG 'a legend'

PARIS • Zlatan Ibrahimovic confirmed yesterday that he will leave Paris Saint-Germain at the end of this season, but the French champions said the Swedish star will eventually return in a "management" role.

"My last game tomorrow at Parc des Princes. I came like a king, left like a legend," wrote Ibrahimovic on Twitter, ending speculation that he could extend his contract with PSG beyond this season.

Ibrahimovic, whose existing deal expires on June 30, will make his final home appearance for the club in their last Ligue One game of the season against Nantes today.

However, he will then run out in a PSG shirt one more time when they face Marseille in the French Cup final on May 21 at the Stade de France.

"After discussions between Paris Saint-Germain and the agent of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the club and the player have mutually decided not to renew his contract," a PSG statement said.

"They have also agreed that once his playing career is over, Ibra will join the management of the club in a position of responsibility."

There has been widespread speculation about the 34-year-old former Ajax, Juventus, Inter Milan, Barcelona and AC Milan star's next destination.

He has been linked with a move to the English Premier League, while his agent recently suggested he could return to AC Milan, while Major League Soccer is another potential destination.

"I am very proud of the last four years. I have loved every day I have spent here," Ibrahimovic said.

"PSG have become a star club internationally and I have played a major part in that transformation.

"The time has now come for me to take a different path.

"This is not a farewell but simply a goodbye for now. I came here like a king and leave as a legend. But I will come back!"

AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on May 14, 2016, with the headline Ibra to leave PSG 'a legend'. Subscribe