Zlatan Ibrahimovic's Statue Has Fallen Following Latest Attack By Vandals

Zlatan Ibrahimovic's statue in Malmo has been toppled after vandals sawed it off at the ankles.

The statue, which has been frequently vandalised since it's unveiling in October, was built outside Malmo's stadium to recognise the 38-year-old's achievements.

However, the Swede invested in rival club Hammarby IF not long after and Malmo fans were furious.

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Its latest damage was discovered at 3.30am local time on Sunday and graffiti reading 'take away' in Swedish was spotted next to it.

The effigy has also been hit with other attacks, including being set on fire and having it's nose cut off.

A protective fence was placed around the 3.5-metre bronze structure in December after more attacks, this time involving spray paint as well as hanging a toilet seat around the arm.

'A vandalism complaint has been lodged,' a police spokesman said.

Malmo deputy mayor Frida Trollmyr explained per Daily Mail: 'I can understand that many people are disappointed in Zlatan's behaviour but vandalising a statute is simply unworthy.

'Better to express your dissatisfaction in a democratic way.'

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She also added a citizens' initiative to move the sculpture will be considered in February.

On the pitch, Zlatan is gearing up to make his competitive debut for former club AC Milan tomorrow afternoon.

He signed a six-month contract with the Italian outfit last week and fans are excited to see him back in Europe.

He has already managed to make an impact, by scoring and creating a goal for his new side during their 9-0 friendly win over Rhodense.

Ibrahimovic scored his team's third goal by tapping in from close range. He then set up Hakan Calhanoglu who made it 4-0.

Ibrahimovic was a free agent after leaving LA Galaxy in November has insisted he'll still be the Zlatan of old despite his MLS stint.

"I know what I have to do. Zlatan is still here," he said at his official unveiling.

The Rossoneri will need him at his best as they currently lie in 11th place after a poor first half of the season.

Topics: Zlatan Ibrahimovic, AC Milan

Daniel Marland

Daniel is a journalist for SPORTbible and he has previous experience with Manchester United. He has spoken to some of the biggest names in sport including Rio Ferdinand, Peter Crouch, WWE COO Triple H and WWE legend The Undertaker. May or may not do a decent impression of Jamie Carragher.

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