Giroud urges Milan to hire ‘a great coach’ and refuses to rule out return

After the 3-3 draw against Salernitana, in which he scored a great goal, Olivier Giroud spoke to the media and discussed his departure from AC Milan. He also confirmed that he could be present for the friendly against Roma next week. 

It was an emotional evening for the Frenchman, getting his fairytale ending with a lovely strike in the first half of the clash. He was named the MOTM in our player ratings and received the love of the fans after the game, singing the Si è Girato Giroud chant.

Speaking to DAZN after the game, as cited by MilanNews, Giroud shared his thoughts on parting ways with Milan and what the club needs now. He also confirmed that he’s willing to join the team for the friendly next week.

Will you sing the chant for yourself when you come home tonight?

“It’s a chant that will remain in my heart. I’m very grateful, it was incredible to score this evening and hear this chant again. I’m very happy for everyone, even for Caldara, Mirante, Simon and the coach.”

You embraced your mum and dad after the game…

“This is me, it’s my whole life. My two brothers and sister are not here but my children and my wife are. I have people who mean a lot to me in life and who help me every day, I need them. I’m happy to share these emotions with them.”

After the great experiences at Arsenal and Chelsea, did you think you would experience all this at such an old age?

“It’s true that when I arrived I didn’t expect to spend three years at this level. My body supported me. I was lucky to play with guys who welcomed me well. I found a passion for football and a love for this shirt, of the fans and for me, the partnership was made immediately. I’m like that in life and on the pitch. It’s important that they remember me for what happened on the pitch and for the person I am.”

Leao passes and says hello…

“He thought I wasn’t going to Australia, but I’m available to the club. I won’t leave like this”.

How is the Milan you are leaving? What’s missing to reach the top?

“I can say that there are a lot of good things. But I’m not a coach or director, don’t get me into trouble (laughs). I’m not a director of the club but I think Ibra will be here to help and share his experience. In the league this year, Inter made an incredible run but we are second.

“I hope that Milan will go for the second star next year, they need a little more competition to raise the bar. There are many players with great quality. I’m not worried about Milan, I hope there will be a great coach after Pioli.”

Did you say goodbye during your speech on the pitch?

“I will return to San Siro to watch a match. Future? You never know. If I wanted to work for a club, Milan would be top for me (laughs).”

The Roma friendly is scheduled for midday Friday (13:00 CEST) and will take place in Perth, Australia. Daniele Bonera is expected to be the head coach for that one as last night’s clash was truly the last one for Stefano Pioli.