Olivier Giroud has signed a new one-year deal to remain at Lille, suggesting it will likely be his last as a professional footballer.The former Arsenal, Chelsea and AC Milan striker signed for Lille following the end of his spell at Los Angeles FC last July.Giroud had not previously not played club football in his homeland since helping Montpellier to a stunning Ligue 1 title in the 2011-12 season.His return to French football was a successful one as he scored 11 goals in all competitions, including seven in Ligue 1 as Lille finished third to secure Champions League football.And he will remain for one more year to play under new coach Davide Ancelotti, with the chance to feature in club footballs most prestigious competition a key motivator behind that decision.Im very happy to continue this adventure here, Giroud told the clubs official website. A year ago, when I arrived at Lille, it wasnt something that was entirely planned, so to speak. And it turns out Im very happy here; I feel right at home. I was thrilled to return to France and Ligue 1 after leaving it 13 years earlier. I was closer to my family and discovering the warmth of the people in this region, which I didnt know at all. The welcome I received in the north, as well as the values of the people, which I share, really appealed to me. After just a few weeks, it felt like I was part of the family. The integration happened naturally. Its pure joy.The Champions League is truly the pinnacle for any player in Europe. After a successful season with Lille, securing direct qualification, it was important for me to extend my stay, partly for these reasons. To experience this competition again. Because I feel good, Im thriving, in a healthy environment, and I can still contribute to the team. And then, to hear that anthem again, to connect with the fans, to bring joy, to relive those great European nights Its so appealing.Of the new coach, Giroud added: I dont know Davide Ancelotti personally, but the fact that hes a young coach is excellent. Hes a coach with different ideas. A new chapter is beginning, and Im sure that if hes joining Lille today, and if Lille has called upon him, its because hes ready to take on this challenge. Im convinced he has a lot to offer the club, and Im eager to work with him.Giroud will turn 40 in September, and he conceded the 2026-27 campaign will probably mark his last as a player.Asked about his goals for next season, Giroud said: To do better than this year, with the playing time the coach gives me, of course. Ill need to be as efficient as possible for the team in terms of playing time to goals scored. Im not talking about what comes next, because for me, thats just a bonus. I dont like to look too far ahead, but this will most likely be my last season. The last dance, as they say. Topics Ligue 1 Lille OSC Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read Ligue 1: Monaco sack Pocognoli as Lille appoint Ancelotti Nicholas McGee 1st June, 2026 Champions League final 2026: More than 890 arrested in France after PSG vs Arsenal as Macron says punishments for riots will be unyielding Ben Miller 1st June, 2026 European round-up: PSG seal title as Inter win the double Tom Rostance 13th May, 2026 European round-up: Lens pile pressure on PSG in Ligue 1 title race Nicholas McGee 8th May, 2026 European round-up: Inter miss chance to all but seal Scudetto with Torino collapse Nicholas McGee 26th April, 2026 PSG 3-0 Nantes: Report, result and goals as reigning champions restore four-point lead 101 GreatGoals 22nd April, 2026
