Sven-Goran Eriksson says Zlatan Ibrahimovic is the best player in Sweden's history and could be tempted to return to international duty.
Ibrahimovic, 34, retired from international football last month when Sweden were knocked out of Euro 2016 at the group stage before completing a move to Manchester United.
Eriksson, though, said he hopes new manager Janne Andersson can persuade Ibrahimovic to reverse his decision.
EXCLUSIVE
Eriksson tells @Sachk0 he expects Sweden to try and tempt #Zlatan back.https://t.co/4Ta220D8e5 pic.twitter.com/BxeaSyLosY
- Omnisport News (@OmnisportNews) 26 July 2016
The Swede told Omnisport: "Of course it's a big loss. Zlatan has been the best player for the Sweden in the history of the country.
"His career has been fantastic as he heads to Manchester United. But you never know in football. The new coach has to bring a new team, a little bit of a new team, and then I wouldn't be surprised if he tried to convince Zlatan to stay for a couple of years as long as he continues to play for United. If I was coach, I'd try to convince Zlatan."
Sweden's qualifying campaign for the 2018 World Cup begins with a game at home to Netherlands on Sept. 6.