MLS: Olivier Giroud to leave LAFC and join Lille in France
The Frenchman will be returning home.
Olivier Giroud is on the verge of returning to Ligue 1 with Lille, according to reports. The news comes following LAFC’s announcement that the French striker’s contract has been mutually terminated.
The 2018 World Cup winner, who joined LAFC in 2024, had six months remaining on his deal but reportedly expressed a desire to return to France, 13 years after last playing in the French top flight.
Giroud’s final appearance for the MLS side will come this Sunday against Vancouver. He is expected to travel to France next week to complete the signing of a two-year contract with Lille, who finished fifth in Ligue 1 last season and secured Europa League qualification.
In LAFC’s statement announcing his departure, the veteran forward said: “I want to thank all of the fans, my teammates and the staff at LAFC for making this an enjoyable stop in my career.
“I am happy to have played a part in the success of LAFC. From winning a trophy last season to participating in the Club World Cup, this has been a great experience in L.A. for me and my family.”
Giroud, who turns 39 in September, will bring experience to a young Lille squad. He is expected to fill the gap left by Jonathan David, who recently departed the club as a free agent.
🚨⚪️🔴 Olivier Giroud to Lille, here we go! French striker will be back in Europe as he’s set to leave LAFC.
Giroud accepted one year contract proposal as Lille have now prepared all documents.
Medical booked and Olivier’s back. 🔙🇫🇷 pic.twitter.com/CZOLjdy8CT
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 27, 2025
This move marks a return to familiar territory for Giroud, who last featured in Ligue 1 in 2012 with Montpellier, the club he helped win a historic league title before moving to England. His stint in the Premier League included successful spells at Arsenal and Chelsea.
His form in MLS, however, failed to meet expectations, scoring just five goals in 37 appearances across all competitions.
LAFC co-president and general manager John Thorrington praised Giroud’s professionalism in the club’s statement: “Olivier has been an exemplary professional during his time at LAFC. He brought humility and a winning mentality that helped elevate everyone around him.
“Olivier has been a tremendous ambassador for the club on and off the field. We are grateful for his contributions and wish him, his wife Jennifer, and his family all the very best in this next chapter.”
Giroud’s departure is part of a wider transition at LAFC. The club, currently sixth in the Western Conference, is undergoing changes following a disappointing Club World Cup campaign. Head coach Steve Cherundolo has already confirmed he will be stepping down at season’s end to return to Germany.