- Oliver Giroud’s goal seals victory for Lille
- Striker not planning to re-join national team
- Backs younger players to shine in his absence
The 38-year-old French striker joined Lille this season after spending a year in Los Angeles. The forward has had an instant impact, scoring in two consecutive league games for Lille. In a post-match interview, the French striker claimed he was delighted to see the resilience of the team against Monaco while praising the new signings. When asked about his plans to come out of retirement for the national team, the ex-Premier League forward claimed that he has done his part and it’s now up to the younger generation to take his place.
Giroud moved to MLS after departing AC Milan last year, but his time at LAFC didn’t go to plan. He scored just five goals and provided three assists in 38 games and opted to make his way back to Ligue 1 with Lille. His good start to life back in Ligue 1 has sparked suggestions he could contribute to France‘s World Cup campaign next year, having ended his national team career after Euro 2024.
Asked about a return to Les Bleus, he told L’Equipe: “No, as I already said, I received a superb tribute in March. I was very moved, very touched, I felt privileged. For me, it’s over. Now, never say never, but I know that there are great talents coming up behind me, young people who are pushing forward, it’s up to them to write their own story. I’ve done my part of the work, it’s up to them to do theirs.”
Giroud hit the 350-goal mark for club and country after finding the net in the dying minutes of the weekend’s match against Monaco. The ex-Arsenal forward will next feature in Lille’s upcoming match against Lorient on August 30.
Asked about his latest milestone, he said: “It’s great, it’s cool. I hope to score more. I was also told that I’m not far from 900 matches. I’m not very good at stats, but if I can… I’m here to bring my efficiency, my experience, it’s up to me to finish the good work of the guys. It’s nice.”
