Olivier Giroud confirms retirement plan as ex-Arsenal & Chelsea striker reveals when he will end his playing career

The 2018 World Cup winner has hinted that his ongoing season with Lille will mark the end of a journey spanning nearly two decades at the top level. The former Arsenal, Chelsea and AC Milan forward, who returned to France after a spell at LAFC in the United States, has already scored three goals in eight appearances, showing that he remains a valuable asset in Ligue 1.

The 39-year-old, who turns 40 in 2026, discussed his future plans during an appearance on RMC’s After Foot, confirming that his time with Les Dogues will likely be his farewell to professional football. 

Reflecting on his current campaign and what lies ahead, Giroud kept things straightforward and said: “I’m focusing on this year, making sure it goes well and we’ll take stock at the end.”

When asked if Lille could be his last club, the veteran striker didn’t hesitate.

“Absolutely,” he replied, before adding: “Most certainly.”

Giroud's journey is one of late bloom and lasting excellence. After humble beginnings at Grenoble, Istres and Tours, his breakout season at Montpellier saw him win the Ligue 1 title and Golden Boot in 2012. That success paved the way for stints in England and Italy, where he lifted major honours with Arsenal, Chelsea and AC Milan.

His brief spell at Los Angeles FC in MLS was less impressive statistically, producing five goals and three assists in 37 appearances. However, he did help the side to a U.S. Open Cup triumph and a Club World Cup appearance. Now back in France, his experience has been invaluable to a youthful Lille side adjusting after Jonathan David’s departure.

Despite Giroud’s steady form, Lille have endured a mixed start to their campaign. Bruno Genesio men sit seventh in Ligue 1 after a 1-1 draw with Paris Saint-Germain and back-to-back defeats to Lyon and Lens, though their Europa League win over Roma offered a glimpse of their potential.

As Les Dogues push for European qualification, Giroud will aim to lead by example one final time ending his storied career where it all began, in front of French fans who have followed his rise from Montpellier to Milan and now, back home to Lille.