The former Sweden striker completed a move to the MLS side last week, announcing his arrival by taking out a full-page advert in a local newspaper, after securing an early release from his contract at Manchester United.
The 36-year-old, who has battled back from a serious knee injury, still believes he has plenty to offer in a Galaxy shirt.
“I feel young. I said once before I feel like Benjamin Button,” he told a press conference.
“I was born old, now I will die young. Don’t worry about my age. When I came to England they all said I was old and I came in a wheelchair.
“After three months I conquered England and they said I was flying. This is only numbers.
“I know what I am able to do and I know what I will do. I come here to win. I feel excited. The lion is hungry.”
Ibrahimovic arrived in Los Angeles to a hero’s welcome on Friday, becoming the latest in a long line of superstars to sign for the Galaxy. David Beckham, Steven Gerrard, Robbie Keane and Ashley Cole have represented the Galaxy.
“They called and I answered,” the Swede said. “They are the most successful club in the US, the MLS, and I think it is the right environment for me.
“They are used to getting players from Europe in this situation and there are good people behind the club. I see the potential.
“I am just an extra puzzle in the big puzzle. I choose LA Galaxy because I wanted it. I know what I can bring it, and I will bring it. I am not arrogant, I am confident.”
Ibrahimovic has met his new team-mates and had his first training session in Galaxy colours, putting him in the frame for a debut in the Los Angeles derby on Saturday.
“This thing was supposed to happen a couple of years before but it didn’t,” he added. “I am here now. The destiny was that it was supposed to happen, the question was only when. I am happy to be here.
“Finally I am here, I am excited and looking forward to playing. I am looking forward to getting on the field.”
Since you’re here …
… we have a small favour to ask. More people are reading the Guardian than ever but advertising revenues across the media are falling fast. And unlike many news organisations, we haven’t put up a paywall – we want to keep our journalism as open as we can. So you can see why we need to ask for your help. The Guardian’s independent, investigative journalism takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. But we do it because we believe our perspective matters – because it might well be your perspective, too.
I appreciate there not being a paywall: it is more democratic for the media to be available for all and not a commodity to be purchased by a few. I’m happy to make a contribution so others with less means still have access to information.Thomasine, Sweden
If everyone who reads our reporting, who likes it, helps fund it, our future would be much more secure. For as little as £1, you can support the Guardian – and it only takes a minute. Thank you.
No comments:
Post a Comment