Olivier Giroud, the prolific striker for AC Milan, has disclosed his decision to retire from international football with the French national team following Euro 2024.
Giroud, who holds the record for the highest number of goals scored for France, tallying 57 goals in 131 appearances, notably clinched the World Cup title with Les Bleus in 2018.
The veteran forward, formerly of Arsenal and Chelsea, has been included in Didier Deschamps' provisional squad for the upcoming Euros set to commence next month in Germany.
In an interview with L'Equipe, Giroud stated, "This will mark my final tournament with Les Bleus. It's a chapter I'll dearly miss."
Acknowledging the importance of succession planning, Giroud emphasized, "It's crucial to pave the way for the younger talents and to know when to gracefully step aside. Maintaining the right balance is key."
Despite a goalless run in the 2018 World Cup in Russia, where he played a total of 465 minutes across six matches, Giroud showcased his scoring prowess in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, netting four goals, including a decisive strike against England in the quarter-finals. France eventually succumbed to Argentina in the final via a penalty shootout.
Giroud is poised to make his final appearance for AC Milan this Saturday as they host Salernitana on the concluding day of the Serie A season.
With his contract at the San Siro expiring next month, the 37-year-old has inked a deal to join Major League Soccer outfit Los Angeles FC post Euro 2024.
The agreement entails an initial 18-month tenure with an option for an additional year.
