“I’m here to tell you that I will play my last two games at Milan. I will continue my career, but in MLS. I am very, very proud of everything I have done for Milan in these three years. It’s the right time to say it. Sorry but I’m a bit emotional. My story with Milan ends this year, but Milan will remain in my heart forever.” Olivier Giroud this Monday he thus announced his farewell to the Devil at the end of the season to move to the States starting from next July 1st, which is when his contract expires. Below are the main statements from the 38-year-old striker’s press conference.
How did you come to this decision? When did you get it?
“A few weeks ago. I have given everything I have to Milan, from 35 years more or less to today, almost 38. For me, and I think also for the family, it is the right time for a different experience of life from Milan, and nothing more.”
Is it time to put family first?
“Yes. The family makes sacrifices throughout our career. We are in a life that goes 200 mph, and today I want to think a little more about my family. But it’s not the end of my career, but it’s the right time to make this choice.”
What effect does it have on you to leave European football after almost 20 years?
“My heart beats faster. Football is my passion, my life. Wearing this shirt was an honor. I think finishing at the highest level in Europe, at Milan, is what I wanted.”
He leaves Europe at the top, as a protagonist. Is this how he wanted to leave this level of football?
“Not exactly. I wanted to leave with a trophy. You know how much I am someone who loves to compete. I gave everything for this shirt from day one. The most important now is to keep this second place. The last home game I will be very emotional but I want finish well, I want to thank the fans. I have so much respect for these people who work here, at Casa Milan, at Milanello. The fans welcomed me very well fabulous experiences that we have experienced together. I am very, very proud.”
Are you afraid thinking about the future?
“No, I’m not afraid, but I’m nostalgic for these years. But I’m also very excited. I want to finish in the best way at Milan, I want to give everything for my future club and win.”
He won a lot, everything. What dreams does Olivier Giroud have at 38?
“Maybe a European Championship with France. It will also be my last tournament. We lost them in the final, at home, in 2016, and it stuck with me a bit. I built on our success in 2018 when we became champions of the finishing at a very high level in Europe with Milan and France was the right decision at the right time for me.”
Retrace Olivier Giroud’s three magical years with the AC Milan shirt here!