Olivier Giroud's Return to French Football with Lille

Olivier Giroud, the notable French striker, is set to return to French football as he joins Ligue 1's Lille following his departure from Major League Soccer club Los Angeles FC. Giroud, aged 38, leaves LAFC mid-season, having distinguished himself as France's all-time leading scorer with 57 goals, and has previously played for top clubs like Arsenal, Chelsea, and AC Milan.

This new chapter follows Giroud's contribution to LAFC, where he helped secure their inaugural Open Cup title in September with a decisive goal in the final. Giroud expressed his enthusiasm for joining Lille, stating, "I think this club ticks a lot of boxes for me and my family," as he explained his decision after LAFC's 1-0 loss to Vancouver Whitecaps, his final match with the club.

The move to Lille promises new challenges and opportunities, notably playing in the Europa League. Giroud remarked positively about rejoining a major French club, citing Lille as a top-five team in the country and expressing excitement for his impending contributions.

(With inputs from agencies.)