CARSON, California -- LA Galaxy midfielder Stefan Ishizaki intends to sign with a team in his native Sweden after mutually parting ways with the Major League Soccer franchise.
Ishizaki and Galaxy coach Bruce Arena announced the veteran's decision last weekend and confirmed it on Monday.
The 33-year-old Ishizaki spent the last 1 1/2 seasons with the Galaxy, scoring six goals. He played a regular role as a midfielder on last season's MLS Cup champion team after spending nearly his entire pro career in Scandinavia.
Ishizaki says his wife, Helena, is expecting twins in October, and the couple wants to raise their family in Sweden.
The Galaxy said Ishizaki's departure isn't related to former England captain Steven Gerrard's arrival this week. The longtime Liverpool star will participate in his first Galaxy practice Tuesday.