Zlatan Ibrahimovic says 'the lion is hungry' in LA Galaxy unveiling

Posted Saturday, March 31, 2018 by Skysports.com

"I feel like Benjamin Button. I was born old and I will die young."

Zlatan Ibrahimovic was unveiled as an LA Galaxy player on Friday and declared: "The lion is hungry."

The 36-year-old forward could make his Galaxy debut against Los Angeles FC on Saturday, live on Sky Sports Football and Sky Sports Mix from 7.55pm, and is keen to make up for lost time after an injury-interrupted final 12 months at Manchester United.

Ibrahimovic wanted to join Galaxy two years ago, before eventually moving to Old Trafford, and says his move to the five-time MLS champions was "destiny".

"Finally I'm here and I'm excited, looking forward to play," said the Sweden international, who revealed David Beckham played a major role in his move to Galaxy.

"I know it's been a long break for me where I haven't been in my rhythm, where I play almost every day because of the injury I had. Now I just want to go out, smell the grass, touch the ball.

"When we finished training today I just wanted to continue. I even asked the coach could I go and shoot some balls and he gave me the okay.

"I feel young. I said once before, I feel like Benjamin Button. I was born old and I will die young.

"Don't worry about my age. I know I'm 37 [36] but when I came to England they all said I was old, that 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'm able to do, what I will do.

"I come here to win. I've already brought my family. My wife can take care of the family and I can take of what I'm good at - playing football.

"We have a big game on Saturday and I'm already involved. I feel excited. The lion is hungry."

Ibrahimovic made seven appearances for Manchester United this season, scoring once, but struggled for fitness and had to take a step back.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic says 'the lion is hungry' in LA Galaxy unveiling
Ibrahimovic is welcomed by his new team-mates during his first LA Galaxy training session

"I was training with the team but not feeling 100 per cent," he said. "Then this move came up. I started to think differently.

"I'm professional, I had a contract with Manchester United and whether coach [Jose] Mourinho needed me or not, I was there.

"I trained very hard. I know what I've gone through. I now want to go out and give back, help my team-mates win, because if I don't I feel it as a failure. I disappoint myself because I'm used to winning.

"This move will not change anything. I came here to win. I know I will win."