The Euro 2024 semi-final against Spain by Les Bleus will remain the last match of Olivier Giroud’s international career. At 37, the top scorer in the history of the French team with 57 goals in 137 caps is officially bowing out. He expressed this in a long message published on Instagram. “The dreaded moment has arrived: to say goodbye to the French team,” he wrote. Six years, to the day, after winning the World Cup. It was July 15, 2018.”
The former AC Milan striker, who will play for Los Angeles FC from next season, spoke about his memories. “What pride to wear this blue jersey and represent France! By joining this team, I found a second family with the players and staff. We have always supported each other, we have experienced the joys and disappointments, the victories and defeats, the laughter and tears, but always united and supportive.”
Olivier Giroud also wanted to thank the people who have supported him throughout his international career. “We have become an inseparable group of friends under the watchful eye of one man: the coach, Didier Deschamps, whom I thank for his trust. Despite our ups and downs, he has allowed me to become the best scorer in the history of Les Bleus. I also thank all the people behind the scenes who, through their kindness and professionalism, have ensured our safety and well-being.”
Deschamps underlines “unwavering commitment”
In this long message, the striker also mentioned four major memories: “the sacred union with the French during our victory against Ukraine 3-0” in 2013, Euro 2016, “the grail” of July 15, 2018 and the 2022 World Cup. “A page is now turning… I am flying towards other adventures,” he concluded. I am becoming, from now on, the first supporter of the Blues. This French team that I served for thirteen years will remain forever engraved in my heart. It is my greatest pride and my most beautiful memory.”
In a press release, Didier Deschamps reacted and praised Olivier Giroud’s career. “I would like to highlight his unwavering commitment,” we can read. For that too, we must say bravo and thank you. Very attached to the blue jersey, Olivier gave himself the means to wear it 137 times, which is exceptional especially when you start, like him, your international career at 25 years old. (…) I have great respect for his career, his behavior, his sense of teamwork. I have always placed the French team above all else. Olivier too.”
