LA Galaxy sign Ligue 1 veteran Michael Ciani

The 2017 season may be a lost cause for LA, but the Galaxy have already begun to rebuild. This afternoon the Galaxy completed the signing of French center back Michael Ciani. The 6’4” defender has previously spent time with Lorient, Bordeaux, Lazio and Espanyol among other clubs.

The length of Ciani’s deal was not released, but the educated guess would assume he’s under contract through 2018.

“We targeted and acquired Michael as a player who can immediately strengthen our backline,” said LA Galaxy General Manager Pete Vagenas. “He is a valuable signing that will be an important piece of our roster. We are happy to add him to our team and look forward to him joining the squad next week.”

Ciani spent the majority of his career playing in Ligue 1, France’s top-flight division, where he made over 200 appearances, including over 100 appearances each for FC Lorient and FC Bordeaux. In addition to Lorient and Bordeaux, Ciani has represented SS Lazio in Italy, RSC Charleroi in Belgium and RCD Espanyol in Spain and has played in the UEFA Champions League and Europa League. Internationally, he has also played for various French youth teams and has appeared on the senior France National Team.

“Michael is a strong, smart and talented player that we think can quickly integrate into our locker room and adapt to our league,” said LA Galaxy Head Coach Sigi Schmid. “He has spent time playing at the highest level during his career and his experience will be an asset to our team on and off the field.”