A few months after the defeat of the Blues during the World Cup in Qatar, the striker of the French football team, Olivier Giroud, 36, looks back on this failure and the significant episodes of his career.
On December 18, the France team faced the Argentinian team of Lionel Messi during the World Cup at the Stade de Lusail in Qatar. After a penalty shootout, the Argentines win the trophy. “It hurts, but there is always good in coming out in defeat, you have to remain a philosopher”, explains Olivier Giroud.
“I’m closer to the end of my career”
The sportsman did not “had too much time to gamberger” because from January 4, he was already competing in his club, AC Milan. However, he says he has “had a lot of pain, obviously, sadness“.”But we were really comforted by the French public who were even more proud of us. It warmed our hearts”.
To those who want the footballer to return to play in France, Olivier Giroud cannot answer: “I am in talks to extend to AC Milan. A return to Ligue 1? I can’t promise anything”comments the sportsman. For the future, in the next few years, he is nevertheless certain that he does not want to be a coach. “For now, I don’t want to train”. He plans to “stay in football, because that’s what (he) knows best”.
In the meantime, he ensures “having fun on the field, especially as the end is fast approaching. I’m closer to the end of my career, so I’m savoring every moment”. He also takes the time topass it on to the younger ones when they need it. That’s it, bring your experience”.
“My Christian faith is my rock”
In 2016, Olivier Giroud was the target of a real bashing. To protect himself from possible attacks, the AC Milan striker consults social networks very little: “Social networks, I came back to them at the beginning of last year for my sponsors but it’s not that I’m really connected to them. If I can give any advice to the new generation, it’s not to worry too much about what you say. My Christian faith has also helped me a lot”.
A devout Catholic, Olivier Giroud believes that religion is his “strength” and his “rock”: “I prayed a lot to make certain choices. Afterwards, I am also well surrounded. The fact of always believing in your lucky star and trusting God, it has always brought me a lot of humility, to put things into perspective, to always remain positive”. Regarding the near future, with AC Milan, he hopes “have a good run in the Champions League against Tottenham”.