Top News

Olivier Giroud continues to defy the odds! The former Arsenal and France international has committed to another year at Lille after officially signing a one-year contract extension, ensuring that the iconic striker will remain in top-tier football well into his 40s. Giroud will once again lead the attack for Les Dogues next season, this time under the leadership of newly appointed head coach Davide Ancelotti, son of Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti.

Continuing his Ligue 1 journey despite age

Giroud shows no sign of winding down. As reported by L’Équipe, the 39-year-old forward has concluded negotiations with Lille’s management to prolong his stay at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy for another season.

This deal fulfils Giroud’s long-stated goal of competing at Europe’s highest level well into his forties. Lille president Olivier Létang confirmed the extension with enthusiasm during an interview on RMC Sport, remarking that the veteran striker “still has that fire inside him.”

A pillar of consistency for Les Dogues

The renewal comes after an impressive and physically resilient season for Giroud, who made 44 appearances across all competitions last year, starting in half of Lille’s Ligue 1 encounters and remaining central to their attacking structure.

Giroud also proved decisive in European competition, scoring 11 goals in total, including four vital strikes during Lille’s Europa League campaign. His final league goal of the season came in a commanding 4-0 victory over Toulouse on April 12.

Partnering with Davide Ancelotti’s new management setup

The upcoming season will present a fascinating new dynamic as Giroud teams up with Davide Ancelotti, Lille’s newly appointed coach. The 36-year-old Italian tactician, who honed his coaching credentials as assistant to his father Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Everton, is now stepping into a top managerial role in France.

Lille’s leadership believes that Giroud’s wealth of experience and influential presence in the dressing room, combined with Ancelotti’s progressive tactical approach, will create a strong foundation for the team heading into the new campaign.

Challenging time with determination

Set to celebrate his 40th birthday on September 30, Giroud has consistently voiced his desire to keep playing as long as his fitness allows. Speaking after the final Ligue 1 match of last season, he hinted that his passion for the game remains undiminished, expressing his wish to achieve the rare milestone of playing professional football at 40 — a feat few outfield players manage in Europe’s top five leagues.