CARSON, Calif.— Michael Ciani’s first MLS season did not go according to plan, but the defender is ready to get to work and rebound in 2018.
Ciani, a 33-year-old central defender, joined the Galaxy in early September and made six appearances for the club down the stretch run. The veteran center back hoped to be a valued contributor, but the Galaxy struggled mightily during his tenure, going a grim 1-4-1 with the defender on the pitch.
In the final game of the season, Ciani showcased his aerial abilities by nodding in his first goal in a Galaxy kit, only to see his squad falter 5-1 to FC Dallas. Eager to rebound next year, Ciani has already planned to work extensively with a trainer in the offseason to get ready for 2018.
“I’m going to work a lot this offseason because I didn’t have a full season with the club. It was a frustrating season," Ciani said. "I had three months away when I was in France before I signed and now, I’m ready to get to work to be stronger.”