• 36-year-old striker unveiled on eve of Los Angeles derby • ‘I know what I can bring. I am not arrogant, I am confident’

Zlatan Ibrahimovic insists the “lion is hungry” as he embarks on a fresh challenge with LA Galaxy.

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.

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“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.”