This archive report was first published on 12 December 2019.
December 12, 2019, marked a dark day for the people of Malmoe as vandals targeted the prestigious Zlatan Ibrahimovic statue, cutting through its feet and leaving it on the verge of collapse.
The statue, a symbol of Ibrahimovic's success in Swedish football, was placed in honor of the legendary player who began his career in Malmoe 20 years ago.
However, Ibrahimovic's recent investment in a rival club, Hammarby, has sparked controversy in his hometown, with some fans expressing their anger and disappointment.
According to reports, the expensive bronze statue was set ablaze and sprayed in protest, with a toilet seat placed on one arm, in a clear display of the fans' discontent.
Malmo police spokesperson Eva-Gun Westford has confirmed that investigations into the latest wave of vandalism are already underway.
Meanwhile, Ibrahimovic is currently a free agent after leaving LA Galaxy in the summer, and has already been linked with a number of clubs, including struggling Premier League side Everton.
