Olivier Giroud’s right ankle has become a familiar sight in the Lille dressing room: swollen enough for younger team-mates to compare it to a tennis ball. At 40, the former France striker is still playing on, but he has indicated that this campaign is likely to be his final one as a professional.
The move
Giroud returned to Ligue 1 in the summer of 2025, joining Lille after a season with Los Angeles FC in the United States. The homecoming followed a long career abroad with Arsenal, Chelsea and AC Milan.
He said his decision to come back to France had been among the best choices of his career. With retirement now appearing close, he intends to savour the remaining months rather than chase another distant horizon.
“As a player, I think this is very probably my last season,” Giroud said after celebrating his 40th birthday on Wednesday. “That is why I am enjoying every moment. I am at peace with myself and with what I have achieved. I feel more relaxed than ever.”
The forward has collected 15 trophies during his career, including the 2018 World Cup with France and the Champions League with Chelsea in 2021.
The French season around it
Giroud knows that longevity comes with a cost. He revealed that he had injections last Wednesday to help him manage the physical demands of the season, including hyaluronic acid and cortisone treatment for his joints and inflammation.
His ankles have endured particularly badly over the years. Giroud said he has almost no ligaments left in his right ankle, which regularly swells, while lower-back problems and an old knee issue also require attention. He underwent a meniscectomy at the age of 19.
“When you get older, playing without little injuries does not exist,” he said. “The knee creaks a bit, but there are ways to put some oil in the machinery. I am holding up.”
His career began in French football long before this Lille return, and he won the Ligue 1 title with Montpellier in 2012. Now, back in the division at the end of a decorated journey, Giroud is attempting to make every remaining appearance count.
