Olivier Giroud Hints at Retirement After This Season
As he approaches his 40th birthday tomorrow, Olivier Giroud has suggested in a recent interview with L'Équipe that he might retire after this season. The 2018 World Cup winner expressed that this year could be his last as a professional footballer.
"As a player, I think this is very likely my last season. That's why I'm enjoying every moment," Giroud said.
Currently contracted with Lille, Giroud's career started back in 2006 at Grenoble. By next year, he will have spent 21 years in football. Over that time, he has become the all-time leading scorer for the French national team with 57 goals in 137 appearances.
At club level, Giroud has earned multiple trophies. He won the French league title with Montpellier before moving to England. During his time with Arsenal and Chelsea, he secured four FA Cups, the 2019 Europa League, and the 2021 Champions League. In July 2025, he returned to France to join Lille, which might be his final stop in professional football.
Career Highlights
- Started: 2006 at Grenoble
- National Team: 137 caps, 57 goals (France's all-time top scorer)
- French Champion: With Montpellier
- FA Cups: Four titles with Arsenal and Chelsea
- Europa League: Winner in 2019
- Champions League: Winner in 2021
- Current Club: Lille (since July 2025)
