The illustrious career of Olivier Giroud, France’s all-time leading scorer, has come to an end as he officially announced his retirement from international football. The 37-year-old striker made this decision after France suffered a 2-1 defeat to eventual champions Spain in the EURO 2024 semifinals. In an emotional Instagram post, Giroud expressed his gratitude for his time with the French national team, where he scored an impressive 57 goals in 137 appearances. His crowning moment came in 2018 when he played a pivotal role in France’s World Cup triumph.
Transitioning to MLS and Joining LAFC
Following his departure from the French national team, Giroud is set to embark on a new chapter in his footballing career by joining Major League Soccer (MLS) club LAFC. After plying his trade in the top professional leagues of France, England, and Italy for 18 years, Giroud decided to make the move to the United States. His transfer to LAFC from AC Milan was confirmed with a contract that runs until 2025, with an option to extend for the following year.
A Storied Club Career
Throughout his club career, Giroud has enjoyed immense success, particularly during his time in the English Premier League. He is best known for his prolific six-season spell at Arsenal from 2012 to 2018, where he established himself as a reliable goal scorer. Giroud then went on to represent Chelsea and AC Milan, where he continued to showcase his goal-scoring prowess. In total, Giroud has amassed an impressive 285 goals in 716 club matches, winning accolades such as the 2021 UEFA Champions League with Chelsea, the French league title with Montpellier in 2012, and Serie A with Milan in 2022.
Olivier Giroud’s retirement from the French national team marks the end of an era for one of France’s most prolific goal scorers. As he transitions to MLS and LAFC, Giroud leaves behind a legacy of success and professionalism that will be remembered by fans and teammates alike. Despite bidding adieu to the international stage, Giroud’s journey in club football continues, as he looks to make a lasting impact in Major League Soccer.
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