The striker from Milan`s 2022 Scudetto-winning squad is set to return to France after a 13-year absence. Lille president Olivier Létang stated: “He has everything we are looking for, on and off the field.” His contract with LAFC expires in December.
For Milan fans, it brings nostalgia. For Lille supporters, pride. For Giroud himself, it`s a new adventure. The potential move of Olivier Giroud to Lille is one of the day`s notable stories, sparking varied emotions depending on who you ask and where they are. At 38, Giroud may no longer be the undisputed leader of Milan`s Scudetto-winning attack, but he remains a champion, widely respected for his professionalism and style, particularly in France and Milan. Beyond the likely minimal economic implications, this would be more than just another transfer.
Lille States Their Position
Giroud is expected to leave Los Angeles FC, the Californian club he joined after his successful spell at Milan. The strong consensus is that negotiations with Lille will soon result in a completed deal; there is a mutual desire for the move to happen. Lille`s president, Olivier Létang, expressed clear interest: “Giroud is a top-level player who has played for major clubs since 2012. I would love for him to come here because he possesses everything we seek in terms of play, experience, and also human values.” His contract with the Los Angeles franchise concludes in December, but an early termination does not appear to be a significant obstacle.
Giroud and the Club World Cup
At Lille, Giroud is reported to earn between 1.5 and 2 million net per season, which will likely be the final chapter of his illustrious career; he turns 39 in September. In June, Oli participated in the Club World Cup with LAFC, where they lost to Chelsea and Espérance Tunis before drawing with Flamengo, resulting in group stage elimination. And so, France beckons. With Lille, he would have a season competing in Ligue 1 and the Europa League. He holds the record as France`s all-time leading scorer with 57 goals, surpassing national legends like Henry, Platini, and Papin. While Mbappé is closing in and will inevitably overtake him, it won`t erase the sentiment. Giroud, both in France and Milan, will always be viewed with the affection and admiration reserved for players of great character – a young man who rose from a small Alpine village, step by step, to become a World Champion.
