Olivier Giroud is likely to join Major League Soccer this summer, with LAFC among the clubs targeting the French forward. Recent suggest Los Angeles Football Club has already sent Giroud a contract offer. This would start in the summer after his current deal with AC Milan ends. Giroud would thus be the latest European star to make the move over to MLS after a starring career for club and country.
While Giroud would be a welcome signing as a top player from Serie A, there are several concerns with this move for the club and the league. Individually, there is nothing wrong with this move. He would have a French connection on the team in Hugo Lloris, as the goalkeeper is someone actively pushing for this move. Also, living in Los Angeles would fit someone with his fashion sense. On the topic of sport, though, his days are numbered.
Giroud, at the age of 37, is not in his prime. Even though he maintains an eye for goal with 12 goals and eight assists in 26 Serie A appearances this season, the French striker is not getting any younger. Giroud is turning 38 in September. Before even kicking a ball, he would be the seventh-oldest player in Major League Soccer. Each of the older players at Inter Miami, including Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, are younger than Giroud. LAFC would therefore only get one or two full seasons out of the French World Cup winner. With Giroud likely demanding heavy wages on a designated player contract, this move would not be a practical long-term solution.
That said, LAFC may not be in a long-term look. The 2022 MLS Cup Champion narrowly missed out on going back-to-back when it lost to Columbus in the MLS Cup Final. Making a splash on a proven striker can provide LAFC with a partner for Denis Bouanga.
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LAFC should look younger than Olivier Giroud
Cristian Olivera is getting much-needed minutes as he continues to adjust to…
Source link : https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/lafc-link-with-olivier-giroud-rolls-mls-into-retirement-trope
Author : Kyle Fansler
Publish date : 2024-03-25 21:35:52
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