Olivier Giroud, France’s all-time leading goalscorer, and Los Angeles FC have mutually agreed to part ways, the Major League Soccer (MLS) club announced on Friday. The 38-year-old striker, who joined LAFC in May 2024 from AC Milan, is set to play his final match for the team this Sunday against Vancouver.
Giroud’s departure marks the end of a brief but impactful tenure with the Black & Gold. “Olivier has been an exemplary professional during his time at LAFC,” stated John Thorrington, the team’s co-president and general manager. “He brought humility and a winning mentality that helped elevate everyone around him.”
During his time with LAFC, Giroud played a pivotal role in the club’s recent successes. He helped guide the team to the 2024 Leagues Cup final, where he netted his inaugural goal for the club. Furthermore, he found the back of the net in the 2024 US Open Cup final, contributing significantly to LAFC securing that trophy for the first time in their history.
“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 expressed. “I am happy to have played a part in the success of LAFC.”
Speculation is rife regarding Giroud’s next destination, with several French media outlets linking him heavily with a move to Ligue 1 club Lille.
Throughout his illustrious career, Giroud has amassed nearly 300 goals in over 700 club appearances, securing major trophies with European giants such as Montpellier, Arsenal, Chelsea, and AC Milan. On the international stage, the 2018 World Cup winner stands as France’s all-time top goalscorer with an impressive 57 goals.
