Zlatan Ibrahimovic claims FIFA cannot stop him from going to the World Cup

Los Angeles Galaxy and Sweden striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic has said that FIFA will not stop him from playing at this year's FIFA World Cup finals in Russia.

Ibrahimovic retired from international football following the conclusion of Euro 2016 and has not played for the national team since. The Galaxy striker indicated that last month that he may make his return to international football this summer, however, his recent partnership with gambling company Bethard may jeoporadise those plans in accordance with FIFA's regulations relating to betting. FIFA's betting regulations prevent players from having associations with gambling firms, and as such, Ibrahimovic’s partnership with Bethard could prove to be problematic heading into this summer's tournament. Ibrahimovic sees no such issue.

“FIFA can’t stop me. If I want to be there, I’ll be there,” the former Manchester United forward told Eurosport.

“Just as with the national team, if I want to play, I’ll play.

“This is not a question for FIFA, it’s a question for me and what I want.”

Ibrahimovic has struggled with injury since returning from an ACL tear this season but has since plyed back-to-back games with the Galaxy, scoring two goals in his debut for his new club last month. The 36-year-old said he will consider a return to the Swedish national team if he feels like he can play at an appropriate level, however, he has said that he does not feel as if he's playing at that standard just yet.

“The door is open, and not closed,” Ibrahimovic said.

"If everything feels as it should and I feel that I can do the things I am capable of and want to do, as I’ve always done them, then we can talk about it. But that’s not where we are at right now. We’re in a position where I’m just happy that I can play."