France’s all-time leading goal scorer, Olivier Giroud, has revealed plans to retire from international football after the conclusion of Euro 2024.
The AC Milan forward, who has netted 57 goals in 131 appearances for the French national team, will bid farewell following the tournament in Germany.
“This will be my last competition with Les Bleus. I’m going to miss it a lot,” Giroud told L’Equipe.
“We need to make way for the youngsters. You also have to be careful not to have one season too many. You have to find the right balance.”
Giroud, who clinched the World Cup with France in 2018, has been included in Didier Deschamps’ provisional squad for the upcoming Euro 2024. Although he didn’t score or register a shot on target during the 2018 World Cup, Giroud was pivotal in France’s success, significantly contributing to their overall play.
In the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Giroud made a strong comeback, scoring four goals, including a crucial winner against England in the quarter-finals. France reached the final but fell to Argentina in a penalty shootout.
Meanwhile, 39-year-old Ronaldo will lead Portugal’s squad for Euro 2024, and England’s squad will be missing Marcus Rashford and Reece James.
Giroud, now 37, is also expected to play his final match for AC Milan on Saturday against Salernitana on the last day of the Serie A season.
With his contract expiring next month, he has agreed to join Major League Soccer side Los Angeles FC after Euro 2024, signing an 18-month deal with an option for an additional year.
Giroud’s illustrious club career includes winning the UEFA Champions League and Europa League with Chelsea, the FA Cup with Arsenal, and the Serie A title with AC Milan. He was also instrumental in Montpellier’s Ligue 1 victory in 2011/12.
As Giroud prepares to retire from international duty, his contributions to French football and his influence on the global stage will be fondly remembered by fans and teammates alike.
