Olivier Giroud Returns to Ligue 1, Signs with Lille

Olivier Giroud has officially signed a one-year contract with Lille, marking his return to Ligue 1 after more than a decade away. The 38-year-old striker, who recently left Los Angeles FC, last played in the French top flight in 2012, when he helped Montpellier win the league title.

“I’m very happy and excited to be back in France, home,” Giroud said. “It made perfect sense to return to Ligue 1 13 years after leaving it”.

A Veteran Presence for a Young Lille Squad

Giroud emphasized his desire to contribute both on and off the pitch:

“It’s a young and talented squad, which needs experienced players like me. So I’ll also be there in that role”.

Lille, who finished fifth in Ligue 1 last season, will look to Giroud’s leadership and goal-scoring pedigree as they aim to return to the Champions League.

A Decorated Career Across Europe

Giroud’s career has spanned some of Europe’s biggest clubs:

• Arsenal: 105 goals, 3 FA Cups
• Chelsea: Champions League, Europa League, and FA Cup winner
• AC Milan: Serie A champion in 2022
• France: 2018 World Cup winner, record 57 goals in 137 caps