Zlatan Ibrahimovic out of Euro 2020, Sweden icon suffers injury heartbreak

AC Milan's Zlatan Ibrahimovic. [AP Photo, Antonio Calanni]

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been ruled out of Euro 2020 after it was announced that he requires knee surgery.

The Swedish icon came out of retirement earlier this year and had his sights set on this summer's tournament.

He tweeted: “The return of the God" upon announcing his return, but it has now been confirmed that he will be absent from the Euros.

Sweden coach Janne Andersson said: “I spoke to Zlatan Ibrahimovic today, who unfortunately told me his injury will prevent his participation in the European Championship this summer.

“Of course it is sad, especially for Zlatan, but for us too. I hope that he is back on the pitch again as soon as possible.”

Ibrahimovic has played 27 times for AC Milan this season but was forced off during their win over Juventus last weekend.

Initially it looked as if he'd only face a few weeks on the sidelines, but it has now emerged that the recovery process will rule him out during the summer.

At 39 Ibrahimovic may not get a chance to play at another major tournament.

He last played for Sweden on the biggest stage at Euro 2016, scoring a sensational volley against France.

The Swedes have two wins from two in qualification for the World Cup in Qatar next year.

They will begin their Euro 2020 campaign with a match against Spain on June 14. Sweden are in Group E so will also face Slovakia and Poland.

UEFA's decision to increase the squads from 23 to 26 players will also prove beneficial for Andersson as he begins to plans for life without one of his star men.