Olof Mellberg retired from football on Friday at the age of 36. Mellberg was an institution with Sweden, the steady hand at the back. There were better and flashier players, but he was the symbol of the national team. He earned 117 caps and on the day of his retirement, he got the greatest gift possible for Sweden's greatest export -- a letter from Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Olof Mellberg got a letter from Zlatan Ibrahimovic for his retirement
Zlatan Ibrahimovic wrote an amazing heartfelt letter for Olof Mellberg’s retirement.
Handout
The day Olof Mellberg decided to quit the national team it was a great loss to Swedish football and the team. But to me personally it was an even greater loss. When I had him on the team I never had to look back because I knew he was behind me and I could concentrate on what was going on up ahead.
Olof was the person that trigged and challenged me. This drove me to want to do more on the pitch.
Olof had a winner mentality like no other. He simply refused to lose, not only in football but in practically everything. And when he did lose, which rarely happened, he refused to admit it. I think this mentality was what took him a long way in his carreer.
I’ve been doubly lucky when it comes to Olof. Firstly because I got to play with him, and secondly because I got know the person Olof Mellberg, not only the player.
If Olof in my opinion is the best Swedish defender of all times, I think the person Olof is even better.
It is sad that Olof now chooses to end his career because I’m sure he has much more to give.
I wish Olof Mellberg and his family all happiness and love in the future.
Thank you my friend.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic
So many feels. So much Zlatan. So lucky, Olof.
See More:
