Olivier Giroud's time with Los Angeles FC has come to an end after just one year, with the French striker widely expected to return to his home country and join Lille. The 38-year-old and LAFC mutually agreed to part ways, marking the end of a disappointing stint in Major League Soccer.
Giroud's final match for LAFC will be this Sunday against Vancouver. After that, he is expected to become a free agent and complete his move to Lille, who finished fifth in the French league last season.
"I want to thank all of the fans, my teammates and the staff at LAFC for making this an enjoyable stop in my career," Giroud said in a statement. "I am happy to have played a part in the success of LAFC. From winning a trophy last season to participating in the Club World Cup, this has been a great experience in LA for me and my family".
Giroud joined LAFC in July 2024 with high expectations, arriving as a designated player after a successful European career with Arsenal, Chelsea, and AC Milan. The club hoped he would form a dynamic attacking partnership with fellow Frenchmen Denis Bouanga and Hugo Lloris. However, Giroud struggled to adapt to the MLS game and LAFC's counter-attacking style, scoring just five goals in 37 appearances. He scored three goals in 18 matches in 2025.
Despite the underwhelming statistics, Giroud did have some memorable moments with LAFC, including scoring in the U.S. Open Cup final and the Leagues Cup final last season. The team's early exit from the Club World Cup was frustrating, but Giroud still managed to stand out positively in those two games.
"Olivier has been an exemplary professional during his time at LAFC," said general manager John Thorrington. "He brought humility and a winning mentality that helped elevate everyone around him. Olivier has been a tremendous ambassador for the club on and off the field".
Lille's president, Olivier Létang, has publicly expressed his admiration for Giroud and confirmed the club's interest in signing him. Lille are looking to bolster their attack after the expected departure of Jonathan David and other key players. Giroud's experience, leadership, and goal-scoring record make him a valuable addition to the team.
Giroud is reportedly signing a one-year deal with Lille, with an option for another year. The move would mark his return to Ligue 1 for the first time since the 2011/12 season when he led Montpellier to a surprising league title. He then moved to Arsenal.
With Paul Pogba also expected to return to Ligue 1 with Monaco, the upcoming season promises to be exciting for French football fans. Giroud's return would add another layer of intrigue and nostalgia to the league.
