Called Again The Swedish National Team, Ibrahimovic: The Return Of A God

Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Photo: Antara)

JAKARTA - Veteran striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been recalled to the Swedish national team squad for qualifying for the upcoming 2022 World Cup.

Ibrahimovic has not strengthened his country since announcing his retirement from the national team in 2016, but is named in coach Janne Andersson's newest squad.

The 39-year-old will join Sweden's national team later this month when he begins qualifying for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Andersson is delighted to welcome the former Sweden captain.

When asked what Ibrahimovic would bring after being in his last squad on Tuesday, Andersson replied, "First and foremost, he is a very good football player, the best we have in Sweden."

"Of course it is very funny that he wants to come back. Apart from what he can contribute on the pitch, he has extraordinary experience and can contribute to other players in the team," he added on the Goal page as reported by Antara.

Ibrahimovic himself confirmed the decision to cancel his retirement through social media by uploading a photo of himself playing for Sweden, on Twitter with the caption: "The return of a god".

The return of the God @svenskfotboll pic.twitter.com/hQThIdWRY0

- Zlatan Ibrahimović (@Ibra_official) March 16, 2021

Ibrahimovic made his debut for Sweden in 2001 and made 116 appearances for his country, appearing in two World Cups and four European Cups.

The Milan striker still holds the record for top scorer in the history of the Swedish national team with 62 goals and will have the opportunity to add to his tally if he starts against Georgia next Friday.

Ibrahimovic is still productive in the 2020-2021 season despite being one of the oldest players still playing in one of Europe's top five leagues.

Ibrahimovic has scored 16 goals in 21 appearances in all competitions this season, but has not played as often as expected due to a series of injuries.

Georgia, Kosovo, Spain and Greece are in Group B with Sweden for the 2020 World Cup qualifiers. Andersson hopes to take his country to the tournament for the second time since 2006.

Sweden will face Kosovo three days after facing Georgia and have a friendly against Estonia on March 31.