Olivier Giroud is on track for a hat trick

Olivier Giroud, who turns 40 this Wednesday, looked back on his career in an interview with L’Équipe to mark his birthday. After reflecting on some of his experiences with the French national team and in the French and English leagues, the Lille forward hinted that he might retire at the end of the season.

“We can do more interviews for L’Équipe next year—I’d be happy to—but as a player, I think this will most likely be my last season. That’s why I’m trying to enjoy every moment,” said the 2018 World Cup champion.

Giroud began his professional career in 2006 in Ligue 2 with Grenoble, before moving to England, where he spent five and a half years with Arsenal and two and a half seasons with Chelsea. On October 13, he’ll face Arsenal again on Matchday 2 of the Champions League group stage.

After saying goodbye to the French national team in July 2024—wrapping up his time with Les Bleus with 137 appearances and 57 goals—Giroud continued to build on his highly successful career. In 2022, he won the Serie A title with Milan, before moving to MLS to play for Los Angeles FC, with whom he won the U.S. Open Cup in 2024.

His list of achievements also includes the Ligue 1 title won with Montpellier in 2012, four FA Cups won in 2014, 2015, 2017, and 2018, the 2019 Europa League, and the 2021 Champions League.