Didier Deschamps Pays Tribute to Olivier Giroud’s Illustrious France Career

As France prepares for a crucial UEFA Nations League match against Croatia, national team manager Didier Deschamps is taking a moment to honor France’s all-time leading goalscorer, Olivier Giroud. The 38-year-old striker will be celebrated at the Stade de France before Sunday’s game.

Deschamps, who has coached Giroud for many years with Les Bleus, spoke highly of the Los Angeles FC forward: “His longevity is a testament to his dedication. What stands out most is his unwavering commitment to the French national team. Like myself, he always prioritized the team, even during challenging periods.”

Giroud played a crucial role in France’s 2018 World Cup victory. The former Montpellier HSC star, who won Ligue 1 with the club, scored an impressive 57 goals for France, including four during their journey to the 2022 World Cup final in Qatar.

Initially expected to have limited playing time in Qatar, Giroud stepped up as a starter after Karim Benzema’s injury. The Chambéry-born striker made his international debut under Laurent Blanc in a friendly against the USA in November 2011.

Giroud netted his first goal for France in a 2-1 friendly win over Germany on February 29, 2012. The former Arsenal and Chelsea player, who won FA Cup, UEFA Champions League, and Europa League titles, scored three goals during France’s run to the Euro 2016 final.

His final goal for France came in a 3-2 friendly victory over Chile in Marseille in 2024. Giroud’s last appearance for Les Bleus was as a substitute in the Euro 2024 semi-final, a 2-1 loss to eventual champions Spain.

Following France’s 2018 World Cup triumph, Giroud was inducted into the nation’s Legion of Honor. Throughout his international career, he amassed an impressive 137 caps for Les Bleus across all competitions.