In a twist that could only fit the Hollywood script of Wrexham AFC, football legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been sensationally tipped to come out of retirement and join the Welsh club, currently basking in the limelight under the ownership of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. The suggestion, made by former Premier League striker Matt Jansen, has set tongues wagging among fans and pundits alike, with many speculating whether the 43-year-old Swedish icon could be lured back to the pitch by the ambitious “Hollywood project” at the Racecourse Ground.
Ibrahimovic, who retired from professional football in June 2023 after a storied career that saw him win league titles in four countries and cement his status as one of the game’s most charismatic figures, has been enjoying a quieter life as a senior advisor at AC Milan. However, Jansen, who briefly played for Wrexham in 2009, believes the financial muscle and global appeal of the club—backed by Deadpool star Reynolds and Always Sunny in Philadelphia’s McElhenney—could tempt the veteran forward to lace up his boots once more.
Speaking to FruityKing, Jansen remarked, “It would probably suit Zlatan Ibrahimovic, although he retired. Wrexham have the financial clout to make him rethink his decision. It would certainly be that type—a big personality, a target man—who could thrive there.” While acknowledging the long odds, Jansen also floated Nottingham Forest’s Chris Wood as a similar profile, though he noted Wood’s current form makes a move unlikely.
Since Reynolds and McElhenney took over Wrexham in 2021, the club has undergone a remarkable transformation, rising from the fifth tier of English football to League One, bolstered by a £26.7 million turnover in the 2023-24 season—much of it driven by the Emmy-winning Welcome to Wrexham documentary series. The duo has not shied away from bold moves, spending over £2 million in the January transfer window alone to sign forwards Sam Smith and Jay Rodriguez. A move for Ibrahimovic, however, would elevate their project to stratospheric levels.
The idea isn’t as far-fetched as it might seem. Wrexham’s owners have turned the club into a global phenomenon, attracting attention far beyond the Welsh borders. With their flair for the dramatic and a knack for generating headlines, a Zlatan signing would fit their narrative perfectly. Ibrahimovic, known for his larger-than-life persona and memorable quips like “Lions don’t compare themselves to humans,” could find the stage at Wrexham irresistible.
Yet, challenges abound. Ibrahimovic, now 43, has not played competitively in nearly two years, and his last season with Milan was hampered by injuries. In a December 2024 interview with UEFA.com, he expressed contentment in his post-playing career, saying, “I don’t miss playing football. I am at peace with it.” His current role at Milan, where he wields significant influence under owners RedBird Capital, also keeps him deeply involved in the sport.
Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson would likely welcome the boost, though. Sitting second in League One as of April 2025, the club is chasing a third consecutive promotion. Ibrahimovic’s experience and physical presence could provide the edge needed to compete in the increasingly tough English third tier.