LA Galaxy sign French defender Michael Ciani

By AP
Published

CARSON, Calif. (AP) The LA Galaxy have signed veteran French defender Michael Ciani to bolster their back line.

The Galaxy announced the move Saturday.

The 33-year-old Ciani has played extensively for Lorient and Bordeaux in France's top league. He also has played for Lazio in Italy and Espanyol in Spain's top league.

He was a free agent after making 24 appearances for Lorient last season.

Ciani could fill the hole left by Jelle Van Damme, who returned to Belgium last month after nearly two seasons at the heart of the Galaxy's defense.

The Galaxy (6-14-5) are 10th in the 11-team Western Conference and on pace for one of the worst seasons in the five-time MLS Cup champions' history.