LOS ANGELES, California – LAFC head coach Steven Cherundolo has confirmed that Olivier Giroud will be available to make his Major League Soccer (MLS) debut on Tuesday night in the Leagues Cup round of 16 match against the San Jose Earthquakes at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles.
Giroud, who joined LAFC on a free transfer from AC Milan in April, had his official team debut delayed until August due to his participation in the European Championship with France.
“Olivier will be available for tomorrow,” Cherundolo announced in the pre-match press conference.
The 36-year-old French forward arrives in MLS after a successful 2023-24 season with AC Milan, where he recorded 15 goals and eight assists in 35 regular-season matches.
His former national teammate Hugo Lloris believes Giroud will have an immediate impact at LAFC.
“He’s a great player and can only be a good addition for LAFC. Obviously, it’s easier for me to talk because I know him really well, but he is going to bring his personality, leadership, and experience,” Lloris remarked at the MLS All-Star Game.
Giroud’s move to the United States caps off an 18-year career in top European leagues, including stints in Ligue 1, the Premier League, and Serie A.
With 285 goals in 716 club matches, he has proven himself as one of the most consistent forwards in world football.
Reflecting on his decision to join MLS, Giroud revealed at his introductory press conference on August 2 that LA Galaxy had contacted him in 2021.
However, he opted to stay in Europe at that time, eventually signing with AC Milan.
“It’s a bit funny … I signed for AC Milan [in 2021], before that, I met someone from LA Galaxy,” Giroud said during his presentation by LAFC two weeks ago. “I told them it’s not the right time for me to leave Europe.”
He added, “To join LAFC for me is destiny, God wanted me to be there with you guys.”
Now, Giroud and LAFC are focused on advancing in the Leagues Cup, starting with their clash against the Earthquakes.
A win would see them through to the tournament’s quarterfinals, marking a significant moment in Giroud’s already illustrious career.
Source: espn.com
