Since Manchester United revealed on Friday that Zlatan Ibrahimovic had suffered "serious ligament damage" during their Europa League clash with Anderlecht, speculation has been rife that such an injury might draw the curtain on the big Swede's illustrious career.
Ibrahimovic's cruciate injury will reportedly keep him out of action until at least January, and despite the fact that he's set to visit one of the world's leading specialists for such ailments in the States - Dr. Freddie H Fu - the path to recovery for a man of his 35 years tends to be a lot more strenuous than it might be for players his junior.
His United future remains uncertain, but judging by Zlatan's latest Instagram update, his future in the sport certainly shouldn't be called into question.
On Sunday night, the United striker thanked fans for their concern, and appeared to hit out at those who suggested he might retire due to his age and the considerable severity of his injury. He also appeared to rip the piss out of himself, somewhat, for having gone through his career without properly cultivating his weaker left foot.
Ibrahimovic wrote:
First of all, thank you for all the support and love.
Its no news I got injured so I will be out of fotball for a while.
I will go through this like everythings else and come back even stronger. So far I played with one leg so it shouldn't be any problem. One thing is for sure, I decide when its time to stop and nothing else. Giving up is not an option. See you soon
Zlatan Ibrahimovic denies he's set to retire due to injury
Considering his general physical condition, it's not beyond the realms of possibility that Ibrahimovic can emerge from the injury and rediscover some of the form he's enjoyed for United in a 28-goal season. As to whether that will be at Old Trafford or elsewhere remains to be seen, but the 'unfinished business' narrative might well sway him towards staying for another season under José Mourinho.
