Zlatan Ibrahimovic makes career admission in uncharacteristic show of humility

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has made a startling career admission in an uncharacteristic show of humility for the striker.

The Swedish attacker has long become as known for his antics off the pitch and arrogant quotes as what he does on the pitch.

A google search of 'Ibrahimovic best …' offers up 'Ibrahimovic best goals' swiftly followed by 'Ibrahimovic best quotes'.

An undeniable talent, Ibrahimovic has played at some of Europe's top clubs and beyond.

He has always rated himself amongst the best players in the world.

Despite never quite reaching similar levels the Swede did produce moments of magic on the pitch.

Dusan Vlahovic spoke to Zlatan Ibrahimovic following Fiorentina's defeat by AC Milan on March 21 ( Image:

Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

However, now in a rare moment of humility, Ibrahimovic has acknowledged that as he approaches his 40th birthday, he must be aware of the limits of his body.

In stark contrast to most of his career, the Milan striker has admitted he is "not Superman".

The Swede is renowned for also having a black belt in taekwondo, but admitted that there will be barriers he will be unable to break.

He told Sportweek: "When I was young, I just played, even if I felt pain in my tendons.

"I wanted to win and score, stop. With time and experience, I started using my head and I realised how important it is to listen to your body.

"My head is fine, but my body is getting old, it doesn't always keep up with it [the head] and it's a problem. This year I have to listen to my body, every little signal it sends me.

"Only by doing so, I can avoid worse consequences. I need to listen to my body every day to play consistently. I need to think slowly, day by day, and realise that I am not Superman."

The ability to still be playing at the top level in his 39th year cannot be overstated, but the veteran is currently out injured with an achilles issue.

The Swedish striker is currently out with an achilles injury

He missed AC Milan's Champions League clash against Liverpool but is hopeful to return for Milan's next European tie against Atletico Madrid.

Stefano Pioli's Milan have started the season well, with four wins in five games and looked impressive against an indomitable Liverpool side in the Champions League.

However, his current deal only keeps him at the San Siro until next June and questions remain about his future.

A career spanning five countries and seven clubs could come to an end if the player chooses to hang up his boots.

Ibrahimovic began his career at Malmo FF, in Sweden, before moving to Ajax after two years.

Since then he has bounced around some of Europe's top clubs, playing regularly in Italy for first Juventus, and then his first stint at Milan.

The Swede spent an infamous single year at Barcelona, and as well as four seasons at PSG, during which he won Ligue 1 every time, he spent two years in America at LA Galaxy and played for Manchester United.