FOX has surprisingly decided to spotlight Sweden’s football legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic instead of American soccer icon Alexi Lalas.
During a live broadcast, the 56-year-old Lalas found himself in this awkward situation.
Lalas seemed unprepared when Ibrahimovic, 44, was awarded the Employee of the Month title by Fox for his work during the 2026 World Cup.
The Swedish forward joined Lalas and former French player Thierry Henry, 48, on set as host Rebecca Lowe, 45, presented the accolade.
Ibrahimovic seized the moment to tease Lalas.
“Just after one week?” he joked on Fox. “Wait, wait, Alexi, can you feel it? You’ve never received this. I want to express my appreciation.
“This was a team effort, and I’m extremely proud. This is just after one week. Imagine what might happen after a few months. I’d like to request a raise.”
Tensions between Lalas and his European colleagues have been apparent throughout Fox’s World Cup coverage.
Ibrahimovic humorously noted Lalas’ absence from the studio prior to the USA’s second match against Australia.
This elicited a light-hearted comment from Lalas about the Swedish star upon his return to the set.
Despite everything, Lalas appeared to be in high spirits as Ibrahimovic accepted his award from Fox.
“I just want to touch it,” Lalas remarked to Ibrahimovic.
“I’ve never seen one before.”
Host Lowe then informed the panel that Ibrahimovic’s Employee of the Month title was actually the very first one given.
The former LA Galaxy star joined Fox just in time for the World Cup.
In total, he earned 122 caps for Sweden, participating in the 2002 and 2006 World Cups.
This career shift followed three years after his retirement from professional football.
Meanwhile, Lalas is currently partaking in his third World Cup with Fox.
