Euro 2024 Glory: The Final Bow for France’s Record Scorer Olivier Giroud
Euro 2024 updates:Olivier Giroud, France’s record-breaking goalscorer, has announced his retirement from international football following Euro 2024.
The prolific striker, who will turn 38 in September, has decided it’s time for the younger generation to step up on the international stage. Giroud has been a pivotal player for the French national team, scoring 57 goals in 131 appearances since his debut in November 2011.
Achievements on the Global Stage
Giroud’s career is studded with significant achievements. He was instrumental in France’s 2018 World Cup victory and played a crucial role in Chelsea’s 2019 Champions League win. Additionally, he helped AC Milan secure the Serie A championship in 2022 and won four FA Cups—three with Arsenal and one with Chelsea.
A Historic Record
At the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Giroud surpassed Thierry Henry’s record of 51 goals for the French national team, setting a new benchmark with 57 goals. Although France narrowly missed retaining their World Cup title, losing to Argentina in a dramatic penalty shootout, Giroud’s performance solidified his status as a legend in French football.
Transition to Club Football and Future Plans
Post-Euro 2024, Giroud will join Major League Soccer’s Los Angeles FC. Despite stepping away from international duty, he believes he still has much to offer in club football, aiming to continue his career for another two years. Giroud expressed that while reaching 60 international goals isn’t an obsession, leaving a lasting legacy with the national team is important to him.
Reflecting on His Career
Giroud’s journey began with Montpellier, where he led the team to a surprising Ligue 1 title in 2012. Reflecting on his career, he acknowledges the challenges of playing at the highest level as he ages. “Playing every three days is becoming more difficult, especially at international level,” Giroud said. However, he is determined to make a meaningful impact at Los Angeles FC and insists he is not moving to the MLS just to wind down his career.
Conclusion
As Euro 2024 approaches, fans and analysts alike will be watching Olivier Giroud closely, celebrating his contributions to football and anticipating his final performances for the French national team. His retirement marks the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of footballers.
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