Timothy Tillman and Denis Bouanga each scored first-half goals to propel LAFC to a 2-1 home victory over the L.A. Galaxy on Saturday (April 6) night in Los Angeles.

LAFC (3-3-1, 10 points), which entered the match struggling through its worst start after six matches in franchise history, dealt their city rivals their first defeat of the season. On the flipside, the Galaxy (3-1-3, 12 points) had its first six-match unbeaten streak to open a season since 2010 snapped.

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LAFC trails the all-time series in the "El Trafico" classic but narrowed the Galaxy's lead to 9-8 with five draws.

After the teams traded goals in the first 28 minutes, Bouanga gave LAFC the edge for good when he converted a penalty kick in the 35th minute. Moments earlier, Bouanga drew a foul inside the 18-yard box after he was tripped in the corner by Miki Yimane. The play was reviewed but upheld.

LAFC's defence held firm in the second half, although Bouanga missed a chance to make it a bit more comfortable down the stretch when he missed a shot at an empty net high over the goal. On the play, Cristian Olivera drew Galaxy goalkeeper John McCarthy out and crossed it perfectly to Bouanga. But Bouanga sailed his shot into the crowd.

LAFC found the mark in the fourth minute of the match when Tillman tapped home his third goal of the season on a play initiated by a corner kick by Mateusz Bogusz. The ball tipped off Ilie Sanchez and found its way to Tillman, who tapped it into the back of the net.

The Galaxy evened things in the 28th minute when Julian Aude put pressure on goal and found the back of the net after four consecutive attempts. Aude's first shot hit the far post, then his second shot off a rebound was blocked by an LAFC defender. Following up the play, Gabriel Pec fired a shot that was also blocked. But Aude fired in the rebound on the fourth attempt.

Timothy Tillman and Denis Bouanga each scored first-half goals to propel LAFC to a 2-1 home victory over the L.A. Galaxy on Saturday (April 6) night in Los Angeles.

Timothy Tillman and Denis Bouanga each scored first-half goals to propel LAFC to a 2-1 home victory over the L.A. Galaxy on Saturday (April 6) night in Los Angeles. LAFC (3-3-1, 10 points), which entered the match struggling through its worst start after six matches in franchise history, dealt their city rivals their first defeat of the season. On the flipside, the Galaxy (3-1-3, 12 points) had its first six-match unbeaten streak to open a season since 2010 snapped. Also Read: Premier League: Spurs vs Nottingham Forest to go ahead after man dies of stab wounds near stadium LAFC trails the all-time series in the "El Trafico" classic but narrowed the Galaxy's lead to 9-8 with five draws. After the teams traded goals in the first 28 minutes, Bouanga gave LAFC the edge for good when he converted a penalty kick in the 35th minute. Moments earlier, Bouanga drew a foul inside the 18-yard box after he was tripped in the corner by Miki Yimane. The play was reviewed but upheld. LAFC's defence held firm in the second half, although Bouanga missed a chance to make it a bit more comfortable down the stretch when he missed a shot at an empty net high over the goal. On the play, Cristian Olivera drew Galaxy goalkeeper John McCarthy out and crossed it perfectly to Bouanga. But Bouanga sailed his shot into the crowd. LAFC found the mark in the fourth minute of the match when Tillman tapped home his third goal of the season on a play initiated by a corner kick by Mateusz Bogusz. The ball tipped off Ilie Sanchez and found its way to Tillman, who tapped it into the back of the net. The Galaxy evened things in the 28th minute when Julian Aude put pressure on goal and found the back of the net after four consecutive attempts. Aude's first shot hit the far post, then his second shot off a rebound was blocked by an LAFC defender. Following up the play, Gabriel Pec fired a shot that was also blocked. But Aude fired in the rebound on the fourth attempt.

Major League Soccer: LAFC beat arch-rivals LA galaxy in 'El Trafico'

Zlatan Ibrahimovic says he almost joined Napoli before returning to AC Milan in 2019, as he wanted to emulate the feat of Argentina great Diego Maradona by winning Serie A with the Naples club.

The 40-year-old Swedish striker joined Milan for a second time in December 2019 after leaving LA Galaxy.

However, the Swede was initially tempted by the prospect of guiding Napoli to their first Scudetto since the Maradona-inspired wins of 1987 and 1990.

"Watching a documentary about him, I decided to join Napoli and do what Diego did: win the league," Ibrahimovic told Corriere della Sera on Wednesday.

"I was tired of America and thinking of retiring. But (my agent) Mino (Raiola) said: 'You're crazy, you should go back to Italy.'

"It was all done with Napoli, but then (Napoli owner Aurelio) De Laurentiis fired (coach Carlo) Ancelotti. I asked Mino: 'Which team is in the worst shape, that I can change?'

"He replied: 'Yesterday Milan lost 5-0 to Atalanta'. So I decided."

Ibrahimovic also said his famous overhead kick for Sweden against England in 2012 was the goal that made him happiest as "the English have always undervalued me".

He also explained his spat with former Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku during a Milan derby in January.

The pair, former Manchester United team mates, butted heads and both were fined for unsportsmanlike conduct after exchanging insults.

Ibrahimovic said Lukaku has a "big ego" and was the first to insult him personally.

"I hit him in his weak spot... He lost control," said the Swede.

"I have a score to settle with him, I hope to face him soon. These are things that must be resolved on the pitch. I do not hate anyone, let alone Lukaku."

Zlatan Ibrahimovic says he almost joined Napoli before returning to AC Milan in 2019, as he wanted to emulate the feat of Argentina great Diego Maradona by winning Serie A with the Naples club.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic says he almost joined Napoli before returning to AC Milan in 2019, as he wanted to emulate the feat of Argentina great Diego Maradona by winning Serie A with the Naples club. The 40-year-old Swedish striker joined Milan for a second time in December 2019 after leaving LA Galaxy. However, the Swede was initially tempted by the prospect of guiding Napoli to their first Scudetto since the Maradona-inspired wins of 1987 and 1990. "Watching a documentary about him, I decided to join Napoli and do what Diego did: win the league," Ibrahimovic told Corriere della Sera on Wednesday. "I was tired of America and thinking of retiring. But (my agent) Mino (Raiola) said: 'You're crazy, you should go back to Italy.' "It was all done with Napoli, but then (Napoli owner Aurelio) De Laurentiis fired (coach Carlo) Ancelotti. I asked Mino: 'Which team is in the worst shape, that I can change?' "He replied: 'Yesterday Milan lost 5-0 to Atalanta'. So I decided." Ibrahimovic also said his famous overhead kick for Sweden against England in 2012 was the goal that made him happiest as "the English have always undervalued me". He also explained his spat with former Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku during a Milan derby in January. The pair, former Manchester United team mates, butted heads and both were fined for unsportsmanlike conduct after exchanging insults. Ibrahimovic said Lukaku has a "big ego" and was the first to insult him personally. "I hit him in his weak spot... He lost control," said the Swede. "I have a score to settle with him, I hope to face him soon. These are things that must be resolved on the pitch. I do not hate anyone, let alone Lukaku."

Zlatan Ibrahimovic reveals he was close to joining Napoli before AC Milan return

Swedish football god&nbsp;Zlatan&nbsp;Ibrahimovic&nbsp;has reached agreement to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/see-you-soon-in-italy-ibrahimovic-fuels-talk-of-serie-a-return-266184">join AC Milan</a> on an initial six-month contract, according to multiple reports in Italy on Thursday.

Ibrahimovic&nbsp;has accepted Milan's proposal and is ready to sign a deal to return to the former European giants within the next two days, Gazzetta Dello Sport and Sky Sports Italia reported.&nbsp;

Ibrahimovic&nbsp;will reportedly sign a six-month contract worth about three million euros ($3.3 million) with a renewal option for another year, linked to certain conditions such as goals and appearances.

The 38-year-old striker confirmed his departure from Los Angeles Galaxy last month following the club's elimination from the Major League Soccer playoffs.

The Swede should be available to coach Stefano Pioli as early as December 30, the date of the resumption of training at Milanello.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-ac-milan-offer-ibrahimovic-six-month-deal-reports-263650">AC Milan</a> are reeling after a 5-0 thrashing against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-atalanta-fight-back-to-draw-with-manchester-city-260410">Atalanta</a> last weekend, their worst defeat in 21 years, and are struggling 11th in the Serie A table.

The team's first game after the winter break will be at home against Sampdoria on January 6.

It is hoped that&nbsp;Ibrahimovic&nbsp;will bring some leadership and a winning mentality to the locker room.

Milan club manager Zvonimir Boban, a former midfield great with the club, slammed "an embarrassing performance" against Atalanta.&nbsp;

"We will have to wake up and react. It will not be a good Christmas," said the Croatian.

Ibrahimovic&nbsp;played for two seasons between 2010 and 2012 with AC Milan, helping them to their last <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/five-players-to-watch-in-serie-a-245166">Serie A</a> title, and scoring 42 goals in 61 league appearances.

He also won three league titles with Inter Milan, and two with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-mandzukic-joins-qatars-al-duhail-from-juventus-270107">Juventus</a>, which were both revoked following the 'Calciopoli' match-fixing scandal.

Swedish football god Zlatan Ibrahimovic has reached agreement to join AC Milan on an initial six-month contract, according to multiple reports in Italy on Thursday.

Swedish football god Zlatan Ibrahimovic has reached agreement to join AC Milan on an initial six-month contract, according to multiple reports in Italy on Thursday. Ibrahimovic has accepted Milan's proposal and is ready to sign a deal to return to the former European giants within the next two days, Gazzetta Dello Sport and Sky Sports Italia reported. Ibrahimovic will reportedly sign a six-month contract worth about three million euros ($3.3 million) with a renewal option for another year, linked to certain conditions such as goals and appearances. The 38-year-old striker confirmed his departure from Los Angeles Galaxy last month following the club's elimination from the Major League Soccer playoffs. The Swede should be available to coach Stefano Pioli as early as December 30, the date of the resumption of training at Milanello. AC Milan are reeling after a 5-0 thrashing against Atalanta last weekend, their worst defeat in 21 years, and are struggling 11th in the Serie A table. The team's first game after the winter break will be at home against Sampdoria on January 6. It is hoped that Ibrahimovic will bring some leadership and a winning mentality to the locker room. Milan club manager Zvonimir Boban, a former midfield great with the club, slammed "an embarrassing performance" against Atalanta. "We will have to wake up and react. It will not be a good Christmas," said the Croatian. Ibrahimovic played for two seasons between 2010 and 2012 with AC Milan, helping them to their last Serie A title, and scoring 42 goals in 61 league appearances. He also won three league titles with Inter Milan, and two with Juventus, which were both revoked following the 'Calciopoli' match-fixing scandal.

Football: Ibrahimovic set for AC Milan return - Reports

Sweden star <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-ibrahimovic-set-for-ac-milan-return-says-mls-chief-260667">Zlatan Ibrahimovic</a> has been offered a six-month deal to come to the aid of struggling former Italian giants AC Milan, according to reports in Italy on Thursday.

The 38-year-old striker confirmed his departure from Los Angeles Galaxy last week following the club's elimination from the Major League Soccer playoffs.

Gazzetta dello Sport and Sky Sports Italia reported that the former seven-time European champions have now made contact with the player's agent Mino Raiola.

The US-owned club want the former Swedish international for six months and are prepared to pay him six million euros ($6.6 million) if he remains for 18 months in total, Gazzetta claimed.

Milan finished fifth last season, missing out on a return to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-costas-stoppage-time-gem-sends-juventus-into-last-16-260436">Champions League</a> football by just a point to city rivals Inter.

They have had a poor start to this campaign and are 14th after 12 games before they host last year's runners-up Napoli on Saturday in the San Siro.

Ibrahimovic played for two seasons between 2010 and 2012 with AC Milan, helping them to their last Serie A title, and scoring 42 goals in 61 league appearances.

He also won three league titles with Inter Milan, and two with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-juventus-dybala-sinks-milan-as-angry-ronaldo-substituted-261314">Juventus</a>, which were both revoked following the 'Calciopoli' match-fixing scandal.

Sweden star Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been offered a six-month deal to come to the aid of struggling former Italian giants AC Milan, according to reports in Italy on Thursday.

Sweden star Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been offered a six-month deal to come to the aid of struggling former Italian giants AC Milan, according to reports in Italy on Thursday. The 38-year-old striker confirmed his departure from Los Angeles Galaxy last week following the club's elimination from the Major League Soccer playoffs. Gazzetta dello Sport and Sky Sports Italia reported that the former seven-time European champions have now made contact with the player's agent Mino Raiola. The US-owned club want the former Swedish international for six months and are prepared to pay him six million euros ($6.6 million) if he remains for 18 months in total, Gazzetta claimed. Milan finished fifth last season, missing out on a return to Champions League football by just a point to city rivals Inter. They have had a poor start to this campaign and are 14th after 12 games before they host last year's runners-up Napoli on Saturday in the San Siro. Ibrahimovic played for two seasons between 2010 and 2012 with AC Milan, helping them to their last Serie A title, and scoring 42 goals in 61 league appearances. He also won three league titles with Inter Milan, and two with Juventus, which were both revoked following the 'Calciopoli' match-fixing scandal.

AC Milan offer Ibrahimovic six-month deal - Reports

Zlatan Ibrahimovic will not return to the LA Galaxy for the 2020 MLS season, the team said in a statement on Wednesday.

The 38-year-old Swedish striker tallied 52 goals and 17 assists in 53 starts for the Galaxy, the team he joined in March 2018 from Manchester United.

The charismatic Ibrahimovic, who has also played for some of Europe's biggest clubs including Barcelona, Juventus, Paris St Germain, Inter Milan and AC Milan, said he was leaving Los Angeles on a high note.

"I came, I saw, I conquered," Ibrahimovic wrote on Twitter.

"Thank you @lagalaxy for making me feel alive again. To the Galaxy fans -- you wanted Zlatan, I gave you Zlatan," he said.

"You are welcome. The story continues ... Now go back to watching baseball."

Despite Ibrahimovic being the highest-paid player in the league, pocketing $7.2 million for the 2019 campaign, the Galaxy won just one playoff game in his two seasons.

The team fell to crosstown rivals LAFC 5-3 in the MLS Cup conference semi-finals last month.

He was the team's top goal scorer both seasons and was twice named in the MLS Best XI list.

Few had expected him to return for a third season with his contract expiring at the end of the year and it is unclear what is next for Ibrahimovic, who has been linked in media reports with returns to AC Milan and Manchester United.

"We would like to thank Zlatan for his contributions to the LA Galaxy and Major League Soccer," LA Galaxy President Chris Klein said in a statement, which described the decision as mutual.

"Since his arrival in 2018, Zlatan has positively influenced the sport of soccer in Los Angeles. We are grateful for his work ethic and passion. We thank Zlatan for his professionalism and immeasurable impact on the Los Angeles community and the soccer community in North America as a whole."

Zlatan Ibrahimovic will not return to the LA Galaxy for the 2020 MLS season, the team said in a statement on Wednesday. The 38-year-old Swedish striker tallied 52 goals and 17 assists in 53 starts for the Galaxy, the team he joined in March 2018 from Manchester United.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic will not return to the LA Galaxy for the 2020 MLS season, the team said in a statement on Wednesday. The 38-year-old Swedish striker tallied 52 goals and 17 assists in 53 starts for the Galaxy, the team he joined in March 2018 from Manchester United. The charismatic Ibrahimovic, who has also played for some of Europe's biggest clubs including Barcelona, Juventus, Paris St Germain, Inter Milan and AC Milan, said he was leaving Los Angeles on a high note. "I came, I saw, I conquered," Ibrahimovic wrote on Twitter. "Thank you @lagalaxy for making me feel alive again. To the Galaxy fans -- you wanted Zlatan, I gave you Zlatan," he said. "You are welcome. The story continues ... Now go back to watching baseball." Despite Ibrahimovic being the highest-paid player in the league, pocketing $7.2 million for the 2019 campaign, the Galaxy won just one playoff game in his two seasons. The team fell to crosstown rivals LAFC 5-3 in the MLS Cup conference semi-finals last month. He was the team's top goal scorer both seasons and was twice named in the MLS Best XI list. Few had expected him to return for a third season with his contract expiring at the end of the year and it is unclear what is next for Ibrahimovic, who has been linked in media reports with returns to AC Milan and Manchester United. "We would like to thank Zlatan for his contributions to the LA Galaxy and Major League Soccer," LA Galaxy President Chris Klein said in a statement, which described the decision as mutual. "Since his arrival in 2018, Zlatan has positively influenced the sport of soccer in Los Angeles. We are grateful for his work ethic and passion. We thank Zlatan for his professionalism and immeasurable impact on the Los Angeles community and the soccer community in North America as a whole."

Football: Zlatan the Conqueror to leave LA Galaxy

Zlatan Ibrahimovic lived up to the bravado on Friday, scoring all three goals to power the LA Galaxy to a hard fought 3-2 victory over MLS rivals Los Angeles Football Club.&nbsp;

The unstoppable 37-year-old showed he's still capable of astounding feats by dominating the smaller LAFC defence and scoring when it counted the most for his second career MLS hat trick. &nbsp;

"When you play against a rival like that, in a full stadium, I get pumped. I get adrenaline. This is considered to be the biggest game in the league and I show up in the biggest games," said Ibrahimovic.

Ibrahimovic, who has a flair for the dramatic since the big Swede joined the MLS in 2018, boasted prior to Friday's game that he is "by far" the best player in the league despite Carlos Vela's superior stats.

The pre-game hype was about the marquee matchup between Galaxy's Ibrahimovic and LAFC's Vela. The duo scored all five goals, but it was the Swede who delivered in the key moments, scoring in the eighth, 56th and 70th minutes.

The Galaxy depend almost entirely on Ibrahimovic for offence and he thanked them with another hat trick performance against the top-ranked team in the league.

"I am in playoff mode every day," said Ibrahimovic.

Vela scored his league-leading 20th and 21st goals in fourth and 97th minutes for LAFC, who were hoping to stake their claim to North American soccer supremacy with a win on Friday. Vela now has five more goals on the season than Ibrahimovic who is in second place.

Vela opened the scoring with his 20th goal of the season by converting a penalty kick into the bottom left corner. Vela took a pass down the wing and Galaxy goalkeeper David Bingham came charging out of his net to trip him up.

Ibrahimovic tied it up four minutes later with a spectacular right-foot shot from outside the box to the bottom right corner at Dignity Health Park in south-central Los Angeles.&nbsp;

While in full flight, Ibrahimovic took a high pass from Julian Araujo off his chest to his right foot. He volleyed it over the head of two defenders and let it bounce once on the turf before blasting it home from long range.

He scored in the 56th minute on a header to give the Galaxy their first lead of the game. Ibrahimovic outleaped LAFC defender Jordan Harvey and lofted the ball from the right side of the box to the high centre of the goal and out of the reach of goalkeeper Tyler Miller.

LAFC, who are on pace to break MLS records for points and goals scored this season, were controlling the offence around the hour point but all it took was one chance for Ibrahimovic to pad the Galaxy's lead.

Ibrahimovic blasted a left-footed shot from outside the box to the right corner in the 70th minute to bring the Galaxy to 3-1. It was his 520th career goal across all leagues.

Testy contest

Mexican international Vela rounded out the scoring in extra time by right footing a shot home but Ibrahimovic's heroics had already taken the fire out of the LAFC offence.

Tempers flared in the hotly contested contest in the 73rd minute between LAFC's Eddie Segura and the Galaxy's Rolf Feltscher. After they came together, players from both teams joined in on the mainly pushing and yelling match.&nbsp;

There were a total of eight yellow cards handed out Friday with five going to the Galaxy.&nbsp;

Zlatan Ibrahimovic lived up to the bravado on Friday, scoring all three goals to power the LA Galaxy to a hard fought 3-2 victory over MLS rivals Los Angeles Football Club.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic lived up to the bravado on Friday, scoring all three goals to power the LA Galaxy to a hard fought 3-2 victory over MLS rivals Los Angeles Football Club. The unstoppable 37-year-old showed he's still capable of astounding feats by dominating the smaller LAFC defence and scoring when it counted the most for his second career MLS hat trick. "When you play against a rival like that, in a full stadium, I get pumped. I get adrenaline. This is considered to be the biggest game in the league and I show up in the biggest games," said Ibrahimovic. Ibrahimovic, who has a flair for the dramatic since the big Swede joined the MLS in 2018, boasted prior to Friday's game that he is "by far" the best player in the league despite Carlos Vela's superior stats. The pre-game hype was about the marquee matchup between Galaxy's Ibrahimovic and LAFC's Vela. The duo scored all five goals, but it was the Swede who delivered in the key moments, scoring in the eighth, 56th and 70th minutes. The Galaxy depend almost entirely on Ibrahimovic for offence and he thanked them with another hat trick performance against the top-ranked team in the league. "I am in playoff mode every day," said Ibrahimovic. Vela scored his league-leading 20th and 21st goals in fourth and 97th minutes for LAFC, who were hoping to stake their claim to North American soccer supremacy with a win on Friday. Vela now has five more goals on the season than Ibrahimovic who is in second place. Vela opened the scoring with his 20th goal of the season by converting a penalty kick into the bottom left corner. Vela took a pass down the wing and Galaxy goalkeeper David Bingham came charging out of his net to trip him up. Ibrahimovic tied it up four minutes later with a spectacular right-foot shot from outside the box to the bottom right corner at Dignity Health Park in south-central Los Angeles. While in full flight, Ibrahimovic took a high pass from Julian Araujo off his chest to his right foot. He volleyed it over the head of two defenders and let it bounce once on the turf before blasting it home from long range. He scored in the 56th minute on a header to give the Galaxy their first lead of the game. Ibrahimovic outleaped LAFC defender Jordan Harvey and lofted the ball from the right side of the box to the high centre of the goal and out of the reach of goalkeeper Tyler Miller. LAFC, who are on pace to break MLS records for points and goals scored this season, were controlling the offence around the hour point but all it took was one chance for Ibrahimovic to pad the Galaxy's lead. Ibrahimovic blasted a left-footed shot from outside the box to the right corner in the 70th minute to bring the Galaxy to 3-1. It was his 520th career goal across all leagues. Testy contest Mexican international Vela rounded out the scoring in extra time by right footing a shot home but Ibrahimovic's heroics had already taken the fire out of the LAFC offence. Tempers flared in the hotly contested contest in the 73rd minute between LAFC's Eddie Segura and the Galaxy's Rolf Feltscher. After they came together, players from both teams joined in on the mainly pushing and yelling match. There were a total of eight yellow cards handed out Friday with five going to the Galaxy.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic nets hat trick in upset win over LAFC

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been suspended for two games after grabbing New York City FC goalkeeper Sean Johnson by the neck during Los Angeles Galaxy's defeat last weekend, Major League Soccer said Friday.

The MLS Disciplinary Committee announced in a statement it was sanctioning Ibrahimovic for violent conduct after the incident in the 86th minute of the game on May 11.

Ibrahimovic and Johnson wrestled each other to the floor after coming together in the closing stages of Galaxy's defeat last week.

Both players received a yellow card for the incident for unsportsmanlike conduct.

Johnson later accused Ibrahimovic of losing his cool.

"Zlatan is a talented player, he obviously knows what he is doing, he is a clever boy and you know, it is a part of the game," Johnson said.

"I would be frustrated if I were him too, you know. Can't blame him for his frustration at that point in the game," the goalkeeper added.

It is the second retrospective sanction Ibrahimovic has received in recent weeks.

He was hit with an undisclosed fine on May 10 after being found guilty of diving during his team's loss against Columbus Crew.

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For those wondering, here is the video of zLatan chocking NYCFC Goalkeeper Sean Johnson. Ibrahim later said that he did not touch him. See for yourself and make the call <a href="https://t.co/Id4GO6m7pM">pic.twitter.com/Id4GO6m7pM</a>
— LAFC Central (@CentralLafc) <a href="https://twitter.com/CentralLafc/status/1127353458145652736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Ibrahimovic was also involved in a stormy on-pitch altercation with Real Salt Lake's Nedum Onuoha last month.

Onuoha later claimed Ibrahimovic had been making threats towards him during the match before later apologising.

"From 60 minutes in, he's saying to me what he's going to do me, he's going to hurt me," Onuoha said afterwards.

"And this is the guy who's the face of the MLS, as he calls himself, but this is the way he plays on the field",&nbsp;Onuoha added.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been suspended for two games after grabbing New York City FC goalkeeper Sean Johnson by the neck during Los Angeles Galaxy's defeat last weekend, Major League Soccer said Friday.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been suspended for two games after grabbing New York City FC goalkeeper Sean Johnson by the neck during Los Angeles Galaxy's defeat last weekend, Major League Soccer said Friday. The MLS Disciplinary Committee announced in a statement it was sanctioning Ibrahimovic for violent conduct after the incident in the 86th minute of the game on May 11. Ibrahimovic and Johnson wrestled each other to the floor after coming together in the closing stages of Galaxy's defeat last week. Both players received a yellow card for the incident for unsportsmanlike conduct. Johnson later accused Ibrahimovic of losing his cool. "Zlatan is a talented player, he obviously knows what he is doing, he is a clever boy and you know, it is a part of the game," Johnson said. "I would be frustrated if I were him too, you know. Can't blame him for his frustration at that point in the game," the goalkeeper added. It is the second retrospective sanction Ibrahimovic has received in recent weeks. He was hit with an undisclosed fine on May 10 after being found guilty of diving during his team's loss against Columbus Crew. For those wondering, here is the video of zLatan chocking NYCFC Goalkeeper Sean Johnson. Ibrahim later said that he did not touch him. See for yourself and make the call pic.twitter.com/Id4GO6m7pM — LAFC Central (@CentralLafc) May 11, 2019 × Ibrahimovic was also involved in a stormy on-pitch altercation with Real Salt Lake's Nedum Onuoha last month. Onuoha later claimed Ibrahimovic had been making threats towards him during the match before later apologising. "From 60 minutes in, he's saying to me what he's going to do me, he's going to hurt me," Onuoha said afterwards. "And this is the guy who's the face of the MLS, as he calls himself, but this is the way he plays on the field", Onuoha added.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic banned after neck grab in LA Galaxy's last game

David Beckham called his former team LA Galaxy his "family" and thanked Los Angeles for embracing him at the unveiling of his statue before the Major League Soccer club's season-opener on Saturday.

The statue, a first for an MLS player, honours the former England captain who was the first big European name to join the league, boosting its popularity and paving the way for other global stars to make the leap.

Beckham won back-to-back championships in 2011 and 2012 during his six years and 98 appearances with the Galaxy.

"Our city, our home," Beckham said outside the Galaxy's home stadium, the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, before their opener against the Chicago Fire.

"From day one when my family arrived in this city, we felt at home and for that we will be forever grateful.

"When I talk about LA Galaxy and when I talk about LA, I talk about it as family because it is a big family."

The statue unveiling came a day after Beckham helped open a football field for underprivileged youth in downtown Los Angeles.

"Taking care of the next generation of soccer stars in this country is really important and we did it in a community that really needed support and a safe environment for children," added 43-year-old Beckham, his parents and wife Victoria among the audience.

Former Galaxy teammate Robbie Keane paid tribute to Beckham as a loyal friend and family man.

"The David Beckham the public know is a global superstar and icon throughout the world," said Keane.

"But the one I know is even better."

Retired NBA star Kobe Bryant also gave a video-taped tribute to the former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder Beckham, the owner of expansion side Inter Miami CF, which is set to join the MLS in 2020.

"He was the first truly big name to come to the states and really draw attention to the sport," said the former Los Angeles Lakers forward.

David Beckham called his former team LA Galaxy his "family" and thanked Los Angeles for embracing him at the unveiling of his statue before the Major League Soccer club's season-opener on Saturday.

David Beckham called his former team LA Galaxy his "family" and thanked Los Angeles for embracing him at the unveiling of his statue before the Major League Soccer club's season-opener on Saturday. The statue, a first for an MLS player, honours the former England captain who was the first big European name to join the league, boosting its popularity and paving the way for other global stars to make the leap. Beckham won back-to-back championships in 2011 and 2012 during his six years and 98 appearances with the Galaxy. "Our city, our home," Beckham said outside the Galaxy's home stadium, the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, before their opener against the Chicago Fire. "From day one when my family arrived in this city, we felt at home and for that we will be forever grateful. "When I talk about LA Galaxy and when I talk about LA, I talk about it as family because it is a big family." The statue unveiling came a day after Beckham helped open a football field for underprivileged youth in downtown Los Angeles. "Taking care of the next generation of soccer stars in this country is really important and we did it in a community that really needed support and a safe environment for children," added 43-year-old Beckham, his parents and wife Victoria among the audience. Former Galaxy teammate Robbie Keane paid tribute to Beckham as a loyal friend and family man. "The David Beckham the public know is a global superstar and icon throughout the world," said Keane. "But the one I know is even better." Retired NBA star Kobe Bryant also gave a video-taped tribute to the former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder Beckham, the owner of expansion side Inter Miami CF, which is set to join the MLS in 2020. "He was the first truly big name to come to the states and really draw attention to the sport," said the former Los Angeles Lakers forward.

David Beckham salutes LA Galaxy and Los Angeles as statue unveiled

Former England captain David Beckham will become the first Major League Soccer player honoured with a statue, which will be unveiled outside LA Galaxy's stadium prior to their season opener on March 2, the team said on Friday.

In 2007, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder became the first big European name to join the MLS, where he won back-to-back championships in 2011 and 2012 during his six years and 98 appearances with the Galaxy.

Beckham's MLS stint helped give the American league credibility and paved the way for other top European players to make the leap in subsequent years.

The 43-year-old is currently the owner of expansion side Inter Miami CF, which is set to join the MLS in 2020.

Former England captain David Beckham will become the first Major League Soccer player honoured with a statue, which will be unveiled outside LA Galaxy's stadium prior to their season opener on March 2, the team said on Friday.

Former England captain David Beckham will become the first Major League Soccer player honoured with a statue, which will be unveiled outside LA Galaxy's stadium prior to their season opener on March 2, the team said on Friday. In 2007, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder became the first big European name to join the MLS, where he won back-to-back championships in 2011 and 2012 during his six years and 98 appearances with the Galaxy. Beckham's MLS stint helped give the American league credibility and paved the way for other top European players to make the leap in subsequent years. The 43-year-old is currently the owner of expansion side Inter Miami CF, which is set to join the MLS in 2020.

David Beckham to be honoured with statue in LA

Zlatan Ibrahimovic likened himself to Benjamin Button as he played down concerns about what kind of impact he will have on the&nbspMLS&nbspat the age of 36 by declaring “I was born old and I will die young” during his unveiling at LA Galaxy on Friday.

The Swedish striker left Manchester United to join the&nbspMLS&nbspside in what many believe will be the final stop in an illustrious career which has spanned almost two decades.

During this time, he has enjoyed stints with European heavyweights Ajax Amsterdam, Juventus, Inter Milan, Barcelona, AC Milan and Paris St Germain.

But just in case fans and pundits thought that Ibrahimovic had turned up in California to get an easy paycheck at the twilight of his career, and without doing much work, he dispelled the suggestion.

“I feel young, I feel like Benjamin Button. I was born old and I will die young,” he said comparing himself to the fictitious character who ages in reverse.

“Don’t worry about my age… When I came to England they all said I was old. I came in a wheelchair and after three months I conquered England. Then they said I was flying.”

“So I know what I’m able to do, I know what I will do, and I came here to win,” added Sweden’s all-time leading scorer.

Ibrahimovic, who has amassed an Aladdin’s cave of silverware that includes 11 league titles in four European countries, is Galaxy’s biggest foreign acquisition since David Beckham in 2007.

But even though his trophy cabinet is close to bursting, the man who calls himself “a lion” is determined to add some more prizes to his collection while sprinkling some stardust on the&nbspMLS.

“Tomorrow is a big game and I’m already involved so I feel excited,” Ibrahimovic told a news conference ahead of Saturday’s match against new cross town rivals Los Angeles FC.

“The Lion is hungry.”

He made himself available to play on Saturday despite working his way back from a knee injury that kept him sidelined for part of his two-year tenure at Manchester United.

Ibrahimovic said he has been drawn to Los Angeles for years and had expected to join Galaxy prior to his move to United, but the deal fell through.

He said a dinner with Beckham convinced him to make the move.

“I was asking him, ‘How is it? How was it for him?’ And he was only positive,” said the Swede.

“And I just got a message from David that said, ‘Just enjoy’.”

Ibrahimovic said he plans to leave his mark on young soccer fans in Los Angeles who may not be familiar with his career so far.

“If they don’t know me, I will make sure that they know me,” he said with a grin.

“I hope I am a good example for them and that they do it, but that they do it even better than me.”

The Swedish striker left Manchester United to join the MLS side

Zlatan Ibrahimovic likened himself to Benjamin Button as he played down concerns about what kind of impact he will have on the&nbspMLS&nbspat the age of 36 by declaring “I was born old and I will die young” during his unveiling at LA Galaxy on Friday. The Swedish striker left Manchester United to join the&nbspMLS&nbspside in what many believe will be the final stop in an illustrious career which has spanned almost two decades. During this time, he has enjoyed stints with European heavyweights Ajax Amsterdam, Juventus, Inter Milan, Barcelona, AC Milan and Paris St Germain. But just in case fans and pundits thought that Ibrahimovic had turned up in California to get an easy paycheck at the twilight of his career, and without doing much work, he dispelled the suggestion. “I feel young, I feel like Benjamin Button. I was born old and I will die young,” he said comparing himself to the fictitious character who ages in reverse. “Don’t worry about my age… When I came to England they all said I was old. I came in a wheelchair and after three months I conquered England. Then they said I was flying.” “So I know what I’m able to do, I know what I will do, and I came here to win,” added Sweden’s all-time leading scorer. Ibrahimovic, who has amassed an Aladdin’s cave of silverware that includes 11 league titles in four European countries, is Galaxy’s biggest foreign acquisition since David Beckham in 2007. But even though his trophy cabinet is close to bursting, the man who calls himself “a lion” is determined to add some more prizes to his collection while sprinkling some stardust on the&nbspMLS. “Tomorrow is a big game and I’m already involved so I feel excited,” Ibrahimovic told a news conference ahead of Saturday’s match against new cross town rivals Los Angeles FC. “The Lion is hungry.” He made himself available to play on Saturday despite working his way back from a knee injury that kept him sidelined for part of his two-year tenure at Manchester United. Ibrahimovic said he has been drawn to Los Angeles for years and had expected to join Galaxy prior to his move to United, but the deal fell through. He said a dinner with Beckham convinced him to make the move. “I was asking him, ‘How is it? How was it for him?’ And he was only positive,” said the Swede. “And I just got a message from David that said, ‘Just enjoy’.” Ibrahimovic said he plans to leave his mark on young soccer fans in Los Angeles who may not be familiar with his career so far. “If they don’t know me, I will make sure that they know me,” he said with a grin. “I hope I am a good example for them and that they do it, but that they do it even better than me.”

'Benjamin Button' Ibrahimovic ready to make his mark with LA Galaxy

European soccer has lost a "huge player" in Zlatan Ibrahimovic but the striker will raise the level of the game in the U.S following his move to LA Galaxy, Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho said on Friday.

Ibrahimovic last week ended a short but successful stint at United - where he won the League Cup and the Europa League - to become the latest high-profile player to move to the MLS, following the likes of David Beckham, Steven Gerrard, Thierry Henry and Frank Lampard.

Mourinho used his news conference ahead of Saturday`s Premier League game against Swansea City to pay tribute to the talismanic Swedish forward who he previously coached at Inter Milan.

"For me it`s always sad when the big players move towards the end," Mourinho told reporters.&nbsp

"I remember Luis Figo`s last match with me and Inter, it was one of my saddest moments. The Zlatan goodbye was more in that direction, he`s a huge player that European Football has lost.

"But this period with LA Galaxy will be very good for him, he will be good for American football, because of what he can do his personality, his passion and his professionalism."

Ibrahimovic sustained a bad knee injury in United`s Europa League quarter-final against Belgian side Anderlecht last April but returned to make seven appearances for the Old Trafford side this season.

"His recovery was an example of what a professional should be," Mourinho added. "For him (the move to U.S.) will just be a way to enjoy the last couple of years of football."

United will be without back-up goalkeeper Sergio Romero for the weekend`s game, after the Argentine international picked up a knock in his country`s 6-1 friendly defeat by Spain.

Ashley Young was also injured on international duty with England but could play against Carlos Carvalhal`s 14th-placed side.&nbsp

United are second in the table on 65 points from 30 games as they bid to finish as runners-up to champions-elect Manchester City.

Ibrahimovic last week ended a short but successful stint at United

European soccer has lost a "huge player" in Zlatan Ibrahimovic but the striker will raise the level of the game in the U.S following his move to LA Galaxy, Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho said on Friday. Ibrahimovic last week ended a short but successful stint at United - where he won the League Cup and the Europa League - to become the latest high-profile player to move to the MLS, following the likes of David Beckham, Steven Gerrard, Thierry Henry and Frank Lampard. Mourinho used his news conference ahead of Saturday`s Premier League game against Swansea City to pay tribute to the talismanic Swedish forward who he previously coached at Inter Milan. "For me it`s always sad when the big players move towards the end," Mourinho told reporters. "I remember Luis Figo`s last match with me and Inter, it was one of my saddest moments. The Zlatan goodbye was more in that direction, he`s a huge player that European Football has lost. "But this period with LA Galaxy will be very good for him, he will be good for American football, because of what he can do his personality, his passion and his professionalism." Ibrahimovic sustained a bad knee injury in United`s Europa League quarter-final against Belgian side Anderlecht last April but returned to make seven appearances for the Old Trafford side this season. "His recovery was an example of what a professional should be," Mourinho added. "For him (the move to U.S.) will just be a way to enjoy the last couple of years of football." United will be without back-up goalkeeper Sergio Romero for the weekend`s game, after the Argentine international picked up a knock in his country`s 6-1 friendly defeat by Spain. Ashley Young was also injured on international duty with England but could play against Carlos Carvalhal`s 14th-placed side. United are second in the table on 65 points from 30 games as they bid to finish as runners-up to champions-elect Manchester City.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic departure a big loss for European soccer: Mourinho

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