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Ibrahimovic launches fundraiser to help 'kick this virus away'

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AC Milan forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic is doing his part to help combat the coronavirus pandemic in Italy after launching a fundraiser on GoFundMe.

The Swedish superstar appears to have donated €100,000 to benefit those impacted in Italy, which has been the worst affected nation in the world outside of China.

"Italy has always given me so much and, in this dramatic moment, I want to give back even more to this country that I love," he said in an Instagram post.

"I decided, together with the people who are working with me, to create a fundraiser for Humanitas hospitals and to use my communication power to spread the message wider."

The 38-year-old also called on his professional football colleagues and all athletes to donate to help the frontline medical workers.

"I count on the generosity of my colleagues, of all professional athletes, and of those who want to make a small or large donation according to their possibilities, to kick this virus away," he said.

And, in staying true to his larger-than-life public persona, Ibrahimovic added: "And remember: if the virus don’t go to Zlatan, Zlatan goes to the virus!"

The fundraiser raised over €120,000 four hours after it was launched. The goal is set at €1 million.

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