Giroud confirms Milan exit in emotional Watch: 'Milan will remain in my heart forever'

Olivier Giroud has officially confirmed that he will leave AC Milan at the end of the season after what will be three seasons at the club.

Giroud arrived at Milan in the summer of 2021 from Chelsea and although he initially joined to be a back-up, he has amassed 130 appearances, 48 ​​goals and 19 assists.

The French striker became a fan favourite due to his attachment to the shirt and his knack for big goals, becoming a protagonist of the 2021-22 Scudetto win and the run to the Champions League semi-finals last season.

After three years of emotions, the paths of Milan and Giroud will part ways at the end of this season and he is expected to make the move to Los Angeles FC. He gave an interview to Milan TV, with his comments relayed by MilanNews.

Olivier, the floor is yours…

“I’m here to tell you the next two games will be my last for Milan. I’m going to continue my career, but in the MLS. I’m very, very proud of everything I’ve done for Milan in these three years. It’s the right time to say it. Sorry, I’m a bit emotional, but my story with Milan ends this year but Milan will remain in my heart forever.”

How and when did you come to this decision?

“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. A family makes sacrifices throughout our career. We are in a life that goes at 200km an hour, and today I want to think a little more about my family. But it is not the end of my career, but it is the right time to make this choice.”

How does it feel to leave European football after almost 20 years?

“My heart beats faster. For me, football is my passion, my life. Wearing this shirt was an honour. I think finishing at the highest level in Europe, at Milan, is what I wanted.”

You leave Europe at the top, as a protagonist. Is this how you wanted to leave this level of football?

“Not exactly. I wanted to leave with a trophy. You know how much of a competitor I am. I gave everything for this shirt from the first day. The most important now is to keep this second place. The last home game I will be very emotional but I want to 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 that we experienced together. I am very, very proud.”

How did you manage, mentally and physically, to become such a professional until you were 38?

“I am very, very grateful. I always want more, to pay attention to how I eat, how much I sleep. If you want to play up to this age you have to be a professional. The most important thing is also the desire, the determination. I always say that it is the passion that is in the heart that is more important.”