Zlatan Ibrahimovic announces career change as football icon lands 'exciting' new job

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has announced that he will be joining Fox Sports as part of their 2026 World Cup coverage. The Sweden icon joins the likes of Thierry Henry and Rebecca Lowe as part of a star-studded line-up covering the tournament across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Since retiring from professional football, Ibrahimovic has moved into senior management and a senior advisory role to AC Milan's ownership, Red Bird Capital. The 44-year-old is no stranger to the US after spending a year in Los Angeles when he turned out for LA Galaxy seven years ago, scoring 53 goals in 58 appearances. Ibrahimovic, who made five appearances at the prestigious tournament during his playing career, described the forthcoming competition as the "best of all time".

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In an announcement video posted on social media, Ibrahimovic starts in Milan, Italy where he says: "Where has everyone gone? The (Winter) Olympics is over but it is no reason to be sad and depressed. Felt good, no? Cheering for your red, white and blue.

"All the gold medals, it was nice. But the snow is melting now and you don't know what to do. You want to watch the best in the world. I bring the American people some good news, not only is the FIFA World Cup coming to Fox this summer, so is Zlatan. See you soon and you're welcome."

Reports suggest England icon David Beckham and legendary Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp have been sounded out for studio roles. Some have gone as far as claiming sources suggest the German has appeared close to accepting at times, though he has recently announced a role with national television station in his homeland, Magenta TV.

Fox Sports president Brad Zager said via The Athletic: "He was at the top of the list of people we wanted to take swings at for this World Cup.

"We put a blank slate on the board, thinking some were longshots and guys who have worked with us in the past and a lot of stuff in between. And Zlatan was one that there was no reason to not take a swing and see if he would be willing to do this."

"I think that was actually a cool part of the process. He was so detail-oriented about if he is going to do this, he's going to be good."