French striker Olivier Giroud (37) has announced his intention to step away from international football after the upcoming European Championship, aiming to ensure he doesn’t prolong his career beyond its peak.
Giroud, who recently departed AC Milan to join Major League Soccer’s Los Angeles FC, boasts 131 caps for France and played a pivotal role in their victorious 2018 World Cup campaign.
With 57 goals to his name, the 37-year-old holds the record for most goals scored for the men’s national team, surpassing Thierry Henry during the 2022 World Cup.
“This will be my final tournament with Les Bleus. Naturally, I’ll miss it immensely,” Giroud revealed in an interview with L’Equipe published on Thursday.
“However, I believe it’s time for the French team to transition. We must make room for the younger players and avoid overstaying our welcome. It’s about finding the right balance.
“I’ve always said I’d retire when my body signals it’s time. I reckon I have a good couple of years left, but as far as the national team is concerned, this will likely mark the end.”
France, eliminated by Switzerland in the Euro 2020 Round of 16, last claimed the trophy in 2000. They kick off their Euro campaign against Austria on June 17, followed by matches against the Netherlands and Poland.
When asked about his objectives for the European Championship, Giroud replied, “Honestly, I don’t have any specific targets.
“My motivation lies in pushing this generation as far as possible in the tournament. Winning would complete my collection, barring the Premier League, which is a tough nut to crack. I’ve also heard chatter about reaching the 60-goal milestone for the national team. It’s on the radar, but not an obsession.”
🚨🇫🇷 Olivier Giroud will retire from international duty after Euro 2024.
“Obviously I’m going to miss it a lot, but I need to cede my place for the young players”, told L’Équipe.
Advertisement🇺🇸 Giroud will play for LAFC starting from July. pic.twitter.com/AMkXwZGDU0
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 23, 2024
𝑶𝑼𝑹 𝑭𝑶𝑹𝑾𝑨𝑹𝑫𝑺 ⚡️☄️🌪️
With Bradley Barcola earning his first call-up! 🔥#BleuCollectif | #EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/F0YUCc0Gsw
— French Team ⭐⭐ (@FrenchTeam) May 16, 2024
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