LOS ANGELES – Olivier Giroud reflected on his brief stint with Los Angeles FC, acknowledging some disappointment but cherishing the friendships and the trophy he earned during his year in Major League Soccer.
The 38-year-old forward is eager to return to France after 13 years and announced on Sunday night his plans to join Lille for another challenge in his celebrated career.
As the record goal-scorer for the French national team, Giroud concluded his time with LAFC without netting a goal and leaving due to what he referred to as tendon pain after 60 minutes in a 1-0 defeat to the Vancouver Whitecaps. Giroud missed a key opportunity to score with a volley from a Denis Bouanga pass early in the second half, sending it over the crossbar.
Despite these setbacks, Giroud received a standing ovation from the BMO Stadium fans who showed support, even as he scored only five goals in 38 matches for the team. “I wish I could have had a bigger impact on the team, on the results,” Giroud expressed. “Overall, it was a good experience. But it’s time for a new chapter and a new challenge. Accepting the opportunity to return to France was something I had to do. I wish the club nothing but success. I gave it my all.”
Though contracted until the end of the MLS season, Giroud and LAFC mutually agreed to part ways, allowing him to leave on a free transfer. He confirmed he would soon join Lille, who placed fifth in Ligue 1 last season, securing a spot in the Europa League.
“I think the French are pleased with Paul Pogba and myself returning to the French league,” Giroud remarked, referring to his friend and teammate from France’s 2018 World Cup-winning team, who is heading to Monaco. “Years ago, I would have thought returning wasn’t part of the plan, but things change. Lille is a good fit for me and my family. I hope to be an asset for the team, both on the pitch and as a mentor off it. Playing in the Europa League is thrilling. Lille is a top-five club in France, one I’m excited to join.”
Giroud has not competed in Ligue 1 since he departed from Montpellier in 2012, beginning a successful six-year stint with Arsenal. He later achieved Champions League and Europa League victories with Chelsea and won Serie A with AC Milan.
Joining LAFC in July 2024, Giroud now concedes he never truly adapted to the playing style employed by LAFC under its championship-winning coach, Steve Cherundolo, who is also set to depart the club this fall.
“If you understand football, you’d know I perhaps didn’t suit LAFC’s style,” Giroud clarified. “I tried to adapt and gave my best effort, but I can’t change who I am or how I play.”
Cherundolo’s strategy focuses on quick transitions and wing play, which didn’t align well with Giroud’s style of play as a central striker due to his age. Like many MLS teams, LAFC struggled to find the playmaker needed to assist an elite striker like Giroud, who thrives on box crosses.
Giroud was often used as a substitute, despite wearing the iconic No. 9 jersey. His influence was felt significantly only a few times, most notably with his goal in LAFC’s U.S. Open Cup final victory last year.
“We didn’t rely much on crosses, my main strength in the box,” Giroud noted. “Play was focused on transition, not ideal for me. I know my strengths and limitations. It’s time to part ways, but I wish the team well. I will miss LA, but I’m thrilled for a new challenge.”