In a surprising turn of events, AC Milan striker Olivier Giroud has finalized a deal to join LAFC in Major League Soccer from mid-July until December 2025. This move comes after weeks of negotiations and despite receiving other offers from Saudi Arabia and Europe. The former Arsenal and Chelsea striker will be joining LAFC as a designated player, signing a contract worth around €3 million ($3.2m) per year.
Giroud’s Accomplishments and Career
At 37 years old, Giroud has had an illustrious career so far, playing for top clubs in Europe and representing France at the international level. He has scored 13 goals and provided 8 assists in 30 games in Serie A with Milan this season and remains a key part of the French national team setup. Giroud holds the record for the most goals scored for France with 57 goals in 131 caps, showcasing his prowess in front of goal.
Previous Leagues and Achievements
Giroud’s move to LAFC will mark his sixth different league in his career, having previously played in the National (3rd division), Ligue 2, Ligue 1, and the Premier League. He has won multiple domestic titles and cup competitions with clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea, as well as Serie A with Milan. Giroud has been a consistent goalscorer throughout his career, tallying an impressive 276 goals in nearly 700 league and cup appearances.
LAFC has been on an upward trajectory in recent years, reaching the MLS Cup final in both 2022 and 2023. Despite falling short in 2023, the club remains competitive and has plenty of roster flexibility heading into the summer transfer window. With two designated player spots open, Giroud’s arrival will provide a significant boost to LAFC’s attacking options, complementing the likes of Denis Bouanga, the 2023 MLS golden boot winner.
As Giroud embarks on a new chapter in his career in Los Angeles, he brings a wealth of experience and a winning mentality that could prove invaluable to LAFC’s ambitions of capturing an MLS Cup title. With his skillset and track record of success, Giroud is poised to make a significant impact in Major League Soccer and further enhance his legacy as a top striker in world football. LAFC fans can look forward to seeing Giroud in action and witnessing his contributions to the team’s pursuit of silverware in the coming seasons.
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