Football
Mark Rodden 8y

Verratti cried when Zlatan Ibrahimovic left PSG, hints at Ancelotti reunion

Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Marco Verratti has said he struggled to hold back the tears as Zlatan Ibrahimovic bade farewell to the Parc des Princes.

Verratti, 23, built up a strong relationship with Ibrahimovic, 34, after they both joined the club in 2012 and he was sad to see the Swedish striker leave for Manchester United this summer.

Ibrahimovic delivered an emotional address to the PSG supporters after he struck twice against Nantes in his final game at the Parc des Princes in May.

Verratti had tears in his eyes as Ibrahimovic spoke and the Italian international said it was tough to watch his friend say goodbye.

"I'm not someone who cries easily," Verratti told French TV show Telefoot.

"I did everything not to... But I could see from his face that he was sad too.

"After everything that we did together, it was difficult."

Verratti said he had offers to follow Ibrahimovic out of Paris this summer but instead he signed a new contract at the club.

He has already spoken of one day working with ex-PSG boss Carlo Ancelotti again and said that the Bayern Munich manager had been in touch.

"I have a great relationship with Carlo -- we talk to each other," he said.

"For a young player, it's nice when you know that a big club wants you."

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