Olivier Giroud has extended his contract with Lille by one year, the club confirmed on Tuesday. The 39-year-old forward will remain with the Ligue 1 side under new manager Davide Ancelotti, continuing a career that shows no signs of slowing down.
Giroud joined Lille in July 2023 on a one-year deal after departing Los Angeles FC, bringing a wealth of experience to the northern French club. Last season, the France international proved to be a valuable asset, scoring 11 goals in 44 appearances across all competitions. His presence provided a focal point in attack and a proven goalscoring threat for Lille.
This extension represents a continuation of a successful partnership for both parties. Lille will benefit from retaining a seasoned professional and established goalscorer, while Giroud will continue to play regular first-team football at a high level. He previously spent nine years in the Premier League with Arsenal and Chelsea, winning league titles and the FA Cup with both clubs, before moving to the United States.
Giroud has also enjoyed a distinguished international career with France, winning the FIFA World Cup in 2018 and reaching the final in 2022. He is France’s all-time leading goalscorer. Despite his age, Giroud maintains he feels physically fit and motivated to continue playing, and the club clearly believe he can still contribute significantly to their ambitions.
The appointment of Davide Ancelotti as Lille’s new manager may have also influenced Giroud’s decision to extend his stay. Ancelotti, son of Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti, is expected to implement a tactical approach that suits Giroud’s strengths, potentially unlocking even more goalscoring opportunities. This contract extension solidifies Lille’s attacking options as they prepare for the upcoming Ligue 1 season and potentially European competition.
