This archive report was first published on 22 July 2019.
On July 19, 2019, a heated LA derby match between LA Galaxy and LAFC ended in controversy, with Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic at the center of it all.
Despite scoring a hat-trick and securing a 3-2 win for LA Galaxy, Ibrahimovic's actions on the field have sparked outrage and could result in a ban from MLS.
The incident occurred in the second half when Ibrahimovic clashed with LAFC's Mohamed El-Monir, leaving the Libyan international with a fractured face that will require surgery.
Video footage shows Ibrahimovic deliberately elbowing El-Monir in the face, an act that has been widely condemned by the football community.
LAFC's goalkeeper coach Zak Abdel confronted Ibrahimovic on the field, leading to a heated exchange between the two.
Ibrahimovic was heard saying, "Go home, you little b - Go home" in response to Abdel's complaints.
MLS' disciplinary committee is now investigating the incident, with Ibrahimovic facing potential retrospective action.
This is not the first time Ibrahimovic has been suspended by MLS chiefs, having received a two-game ban and undisclosed fine in May for violent conduct.
With 16 goals in just 17 games this season, Ibrahimovic's actions on the field have significant implications for his team's performance.
