Olivier Giroud confirms current season will 'very probably' be his last

Veteran French striker Olivier Giroud has confirmed that the current campaign will "very probably" be the final chapter of his illustrious playing career as he approaches his 40th birthday.

Currently plying his trade in Ligue 1 with Lille, the World Cup winner reflected on a career that started in 2005 and spanned major European clubs including Arsenal, Chelsea, and AC Milan, as well as MLS side Los Angeles FC.

"As a player, I think it is very probably my last season," Giroud told L'Equipe. "That's why I'm making the most of every moment. I am at peace with myself and everything I have accomplished in my career. I feel more relaxed than ever."

Giroud added: "The goal is to enjoy every moment, to continue to find pleasure in what I do, what I love every day. Returning to France, making this choice after this long career as an expatriate abroad, has been one of the best decisions I've ever made."

Giroud enjoyed a decorated international career with France, winning the 2018 World Cup in Russia and reaching the finals of Euro 2016 and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. He earned 137 caps for Les Bleus before his final international appearance in 2024, scoring 57 goals to temporarily hold France's all-time scoring record before being surpassed by Kylian Mbappe.

At club level, Giroud has netted 303 goals in 806 senior appearances. His most prolific stint came with Arsenal, where he registered 105 goals in 253 matches. He also lifted the Champions League and Europa League with Chelsea, alongside league titles with Montpellier and AC Milan.