No Ibrahimovic for Sweden at World Cup

Striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic will not play for Sweden at the World Cup in Russia, the Swedish Football Federation said on Thursday.

"I spoke to Zlatan on Tuesday. He said he has not changed his mind about playing for the national team - the 'no' is still in force," head of national team affairs Lars Richt said in a statement.

Speculation had been rife about a possible comeback for Ibrahimovic, who recently transferred to Major League Soccer's LA Galaxy in the United States from Manchester United.

The 36-year-old had contributed to the speculation with cryptic statements in the media and saying he missed playing for the national side. Some of the remarks were subsequently linked to his business interests.

Ibrahimovic made his last appearance for Sweden at Euro 2016 before retiring from international football.

Sweden coach Janne Andersson has been firm that it is he who selects the players, and they have to contact him if they have changed their mind about about a possible comeback.