Olivier Giroud Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / August 27, 2025
As the football world enters 2025, few careers shine with the same blend of longevity, resilience, and excellence as that of Olivier Giroud. At 38 years old, the French striker has defied time, expectations, and critics to remain one of the most effective and respected forwards in world football.
From his early days as an overlooked journeyman to becoming a World Cup winner, Champions League victor, and record-breaking international icon, Giroud’s journey is a masterclass in perseverance, professionalism, and reinvention.
Then: The Long Road to Recognition (1986–2012)
1. Humble Beginnings in Southern France
Born on September 30, 1986, in Chambéry, Savoie, Olivier Jonathan Giroud grew up in a working-class family with a deep love for football. Unlike many elite players, Giroud didn’t emerge from a famed academy. Instead, he rose through local French clubs, playing for youth teams in Frontière, Bourget-du-Lac, and eventually Grenoble’s academy.
He made his professional debut for Grenoble Foot 38 in 2005 at age 18. For years, he played in Ligue 2 and the French lower divisions, scoring consistently but flying under the radar.
2. Breakthrough at Montpellier – Ligue 1 Champion (2012)
Giroud’s big break came at Montpellier HSC. In the 2011–12 season, he exploded onto the scene:
- Scored 21 goals in 36 games
- Led Montpellier to their first and only Ligue 1 title—one of the greatest underdog triumphs in French football history
Overnight, the 25-year-old journeyman became a national hero. Scouts from top European clubs took notice.
Related: Timo Werner Then and Now
The Rise: Arsenal, Chelsea, and International Ascendancy (2012–2022)
1. Move to Arsenal – The Making of a Cult Hero
In 2012, Giroud signed with Arsenal FC for £13 million. Initially criticized for his style—seen as “old-school” and less mobile than modern strikers—he gradually won over fans with:
- Relentless work rate
- Aerial dominance
- Hold-up play and selflessness
Over eight seasons at Arsenal (2012–2020), he scored 105 goals, becoming the third-highest scorer in club history. He won:
- Three FA Cups
- One Community Shield
Though often rotated, Giroud remained a crucial impact player—especially in cup competitions.
2. Success at Chelsea – Champions League Glory
In 2018, Giroud moved to Chelsea FC in a surprising transfer. Again, he was seen as a backup—but once more, he proved indispensable:
- Played a key role in winning the Europa League (2019)
- Became a fan favorite for his clutch goals and professionalism
- Delivered in the 2020–21 UEFA Champions League campaign, scoring vital goals, including a header against Atlético Madrid in the Round of 16
In 2021, he lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy—a crowning achievement for a player once labeled “too slow” for elite football.
3. France’s Golden Era – International Stardom
Giroud made his France debut in 2011 and steadily grew into a key figure for Les Bleus. Though often playing second fiddle to Karim Benzema, he delivered when it mattered:
- 2018 FIFA World Cup Winner – Scored 4 goals, including a crucial brace in the group stage
- Known for his link-up play, aerial threat, and intelligent movement
By 2022, he surpassed Thierry Henry to become France’s all-time leading goalscorer—a monumental achievement.
Related: Yeremy Pino Then and Now
Now: The AC Milan Chapter and Ageless Wonder (2023–2025)
1. Move to AC Milan – Late-Career Renaissance
In July 2021, Giroud joined AC Milan on a free transfer. Many expected a slow decline. Instead, he sparked a second golden era.
In the 2021–22 season, he played a pivotal role in Milan’s first Serie A title in 11 years, scoring 11 league goals and providing crucial leadership. His experience, composure, and ability to bring younger players like Rafael Leão into the game made him invaluable.
2. Champions League Finalist and Continued Excellence (2023–2025)
Even as he entered his late 30s, Giroud remained a force:
- Reached the 2023 UEFA Champions League Final with Milan
- Scored in the quarterfinals against Napoli
- Became the oldest player to score in a Champions League semifinal (36 years, 352 days)
In 2024–2025, now 38 years old, Giroud continues to contribute:
- Key rotational striker for AC Milan
- Mentor to younger forwards
- Set-piece threat and penalty specialist
- Still averaging 10+ goals per season in all competitions
His fitness, discipline, and tactical intelligence have allowed him to adapt—playing fewer minutes but maximizing impact.
3. Retirement from International Football (2023)
After a legendary 12-year international career, Giroud announced his retirement from the French national team in July 2023, following France’s quarterfinal exit at Euro 2024.
He ended his international career with:
- 57 goals in 137 appearances – France’s all-time top scorer
- 2022 FIFA World Cup runner-up
- 2018 FIFA World Cup champion
- Two-time UEFA Nations League participant
His farewell match at the Stade de France was an emotional tribute, with fans chanting “Merci, Olivier!” for 10 minutes.
Related: Ansu Fati Then and Now
Legacy and Impact in 2025
1. Redefining Longevity in Modern Football
Giroud’s career challenges the notion that strikers must peak before 30. In 2025, he stands as one of the oldest active top-tier players in Europe—and still among the most effective.
His secret?
- Rigorous fitness regimen (yoga, pilates, cryotherapy)
- Elite nutrition and recovery
- Mental discipline and professionalism
He’s become a poster child for athlete longevity, studied by sports scientists and admired by younger players.
2. A Different Kind of Striker
Giroud never relied on pace or flashy dribbling. His game was built on:
- Aerial dominance – One of the best headers of all time
- Hold-up play – A master at shielding the ball and bringing others into play
- Big-game scoring – Thrived in finals and high-pressure matches
- Selflessness – Often played as a target man, sacrificing personal stats for team success
He proved that not all legends need to be the fastest or flashiest—some lead with intelligence, strength, and heart.
3. Cultural Icon and Role Model
Beyond football, Giroud is known for:
- His charity work with UNICEF and French youth programs
- His passion for cinema – Narrated documentaries and starred in short films
- His eloquence and humility in interviews
He’s also a fashion icon, frequently featured in GQ and Vogue for his sharp style.
Related: Karim Adeyemi Then and Now
Personal Life and Character
Giroud is married to Jennifer Giroud, and they have three daughters. The family splits time between Milan and France, maintaining strong ties to his roots.
Despite fame, he remains humble, grounded, and deeply connected to his journey. He often says:
“I wasn’t the most talented. But I worked harder than anyone.”
He’s also an advocate for mental health awareness, speaking openly about the pressure of professional football and the importance of resilience.
Conclusion: Olivier Giroud – Then and Now (2025)
- Then: A 25-year-old from Ligue 2, scoring goals no one was watching, dreaming of a shot at the top.
- Now: A World Cup winner, Champions League champion, France’s all-time top scorer, and ageless legend still performing at the highest level in Serie A.
Olivier Giroud’s story is not one of instant stardom—but of relentless belief, delayed recognition, and ultimate triumph. He wasn’t born a superstar. He became one through work, will, and wisdom.
As he continues to play, mentor, and inspire in 2025, one thing is clear:
Olivier Giroud didn’t just play the long game.
He redefined it.
🇫🇷 “They said I wasn’t fast enough. I said I was smart enough.” – Olivier Giroud
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