The 38-year-old forward is set to join his hometown club Lille.
When Olivier Giroud signed with LAFC just over a year ago, many assumed it marked the end of his European football journey. But in a surprising turn, France’s all-time top scorer is heading back to Europe—this time to join Ligue 1 side Lille, returning to play in his home country.
Clearly excited, Giroud said he feels fully ready to take on this new chapter.
The former Arsenal, Chelsea, and AC Milan striker joined Los Angeles FC in July of last year. His MLS contract was set to run until December 2025, but he announced his early departure last week, midway through the season.
After playing his final match for LAFC on Sunday, Giroud expressed his eagerness to return to European competition.
“I’m thrilled, because with Lille we’ll also be playing in the Europa League, which is a huge plus. Lille is one of the top five clubs in France.”
“I think French fans are happy that Paul Pogba (now with Monaco) and I are back in Ligue 1. A few years ago, I would’ve said returning to Europe wasn’t part of my plan.”
Giroud’s time in Los Angeles wasn’t particularly prolific. While he did help the team win their first U.S. Open Cup title by scoring in the final last September, he managed just 5 goals in 38 appearances overall—only 3 of them in league matches.
“If only I could’ve made more of an impact in LA… but it was still a great experience. Now I’m ready for a new challenge.”
Giroud last played in the French top flight in May 2012, ironically against Lille, when he was with Montpellier. Now, 13 years later, he’s preparing to make his long-awaited return to Ligue 1.
