Zlatan Ibrahimovic is one of the top strikers in soccer today. The Swede has scored 156 goals in 180 appearances with Paris Saint-Germain, resulting in a lucrative contract offer from Manchester United.
However, after one solid season in the Premier League, Ibrahimovic suffered a leg injury that limited him to just seven appearances in 2017-18.
Struggling to find playing time, Ibrahimovic signed with the Los Angeles Galaxy last month. Though he's moving to a prestigious market, it's coming at a substantial cost.
Ibrahimovic was earning $27 million with Manchester United. With the Galaxy, he'll make $1.4 million this year – a pay cut of 95 percent.
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The striker took out a full-page ad in the Los Angeles Times announcing his move. The ad read, "Dear Los Angeles, You're welcome."
MLS clubs face a $4 million wage cap. However, they can exceed that number thanks to the Designated Players Rule, created after David Beckham joined the Galaxy in 2007. Beckham ultimately earned $255 million in just six MLS seasons.
Beckham's salary was only $6.5 million per year, with the majority of his earnings coming from endorsements and revenue sharing.
Ibrahimovic won't classify as a "designated player," but he could still make plenty of money from endorsement deals. His outgoing personality – he has a penchant for playing practical jokes on teammates – will serve him well in L.A.
He can also back up his arrogant attitude on the field. He's Sweden's all-time leading goal scorer and has won the league cup in four different countries.
Ibrahimovic is looking forward to showing off his game for a new fanbase. That'll have to be a special reward for him – because his paycheck is taking a hit.
