Olivier Giroud, 38, Rejoins European Clubs After MLS Stint

Olivier Giroud has parted ways with LAFC and is set to return to Europe, reportedly signing a one-year deal with Lille. The French striker, who joined LAFC last summer from AC Milan, made 37 appearances and scored five goals during his time in Major League Soccer.

His final match with LAFC is scheduled for Sunday, June 29, against Vancouver Whitecaps. Despite his move to the U.S., Giroud remains eager to compete at the highest level and has accepted Lille’s contract offer, as confirmed by football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

Previously, Giroud’s career took him from Grenoble’s youth academy to Ligue 2 success at Tours, where he was top scorer in the 2009–10 season. His notable European career includes stints at Arsenal—where he scored 105 goals—and Chelsea, with 39 goals and titles in FA Cup, Europa League, and Champions League triumphs. In 2021, he moved to AC Milan and contributed to their Serie A championship in his first season.

In the MLS, Giroud made history by becoming the oldest European player to score in the league at 38 years, 6 months, and 19 days, notably netting against Portland Timbers in April. During his MLS tenure, he helped LAFC secure the US Open Cup in 2024.

Giroud, who turns 39 this September, has scored 289 career goals across 752 appearances. His successful career spans multiple top European clubs, and he continues to pursue high-level competition as he prepares to return to France’s Ligue 1.

He will rejoin Lille, marking a return to Ligue 1 and the country where he started his professional journey. His move signifies the next chapter in an illustrious career that has seen him score numerous crucial goals and earn various titles across Europe’s top leagues.