Olivier Giroud has revealed that he plans to step down from international duty with France after Euro 2024.
The AC Milan striker is France’s all-time top scorer, with 57 goals in 131 appearances and was part of the squad that won the World Cup in 2018.
The former Arsenal and Chelsea forward has been named in Didier Deschamps’ provisional squad for the Euros, starting next month in Germany.
Giroud told popular outlet L’Equipe, “This will be my last competition with Les Bleus. I’m going to miss it a lot.
“We need to make way for the youngsters. You also have to be careful not to have one season too many. You have to find the right balance.”
Giroud did not score, or have a shot on target, despite playing 465 minutes across six matches as France won the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
However, he scored four at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, including a late winner against England in the quarter-finals. France went on to reach the final, where they were denied of a second consecutive world cup after they were beaten on penalties by a Messi led Argentina.
Related Posts
- Nnadozie Once Again Awarded Best Goalkeeper in France
- Frank Edwards: A Musical Journey of Faith and Excellence
- Tinubu Calls for Strengthened Anti-Terrorism Cooperation with France
Giroud is expected to feature for Milan for the final time on Saturday when they host bottom club Salernitana on the last day of the Serie A season.
Giroud to LAFC
The 37-year-old is out of contract at the San Siro next month and has agreed to join American Major League Soccer side Los Angeles FC after Euro 2024.
Giroud has signed an 18-month deal with the club, and has the option of a further year.
Giroud will slot in perfectly with the LAFC starting XL, as ‘striker’ is their biggest need in 2024.
The 2022 MLS Cup Champions and 2023 finalists lost stalwart and club legend Carlos Vela in the offseason, and have yet to replace him.
Mateusz Bogusz has filled in valiantly, but has struggled to consistently look the part this season.
The 38-year-old, who has 13 goals and eight assists in Serie A this season, will look to fill the shoes of Vela while also providing Bogusz with center-forward competition.
