Zlatan leaves fans fuming after cryptic tweet turns out to be gambling promotion

Social media users have lashed out at Zlatan Ibrahimovic after the Swedish superstar's cryptic tweet hinting at a return to Spain turned out to be a gambling promotion.

The 38-year-old had left fans on tenterhooks after the post earlier this week, but the former Barcelona striker unveiled on Twitter that the teaser had instead been a publicity stunt rather than conformation of a long-awaited La Liga move.

The ex-Manchester United man's shock announcement had fuelled wild speculation that he could once again head back to the Spanish top flight.

During his two-year spell at Barcelona, Ibrahimovic had lifted four trophies, including the league title during his only full campaign in the division.

But the veteran striker has bemused millions of followers across the globe with his latest surprise twist.

One user admitted that the star had left his fans 'on strings' following the teaser posted on Tuesday.

Another tweeted: 'Zlatan, you had us all going there.'

And a third even mocked fellow followers for initially falling for the Swedish frontman's stunt.