Olivier Giroud Returns to Ligue 1 With Lille

Olivier Giroud, France's all-time top scorer, has signed a one-year deal with Lille, marking his return to Ligue 1 after 13 years. The 38-year-old striker joins Lille after a challenging spell at Los Angeles FC, where he scored five goals in 37 matches. Giroud brings extensive experience from his successful stints at Montpellier, Arsenal, Chelsea, and AC Milan, as well as his 2018 World Cup win with France. Lille views his arrival as vital for mentoring their young squad in advance of the 2025-26 Europa League campaign. Giroud expressed enthusiasm about coming back to France and contributing both on and off the field. The transfer is seen as both a symbolic homecoming and a strategic boost for Lille’s domestic and European goals.