AC Milan striker Olivier Giroud recently spoke about his decision to continue his football career at the age of 36. He said: “My goal is to make the most of my time on the pitch. With my healthy lifestyle and the fact that I rarely get injured, I always give my all and I feel good physically. Why not continue? I love football, and I know how much I will miss it when I finally hang up my boots.”
Giroud emphasized the joy he finds in the game, noting his commitment to maintaining high performance levels despite the challenges of aging. He drew a parallel with Zlatan Ibrahimović, saying the two share an unwavering love for football. “Ask Zlatan what he thinks, and he will tell you the same thing: he loves football and gives everything he has,” Giroud noted.
He also highlighted the determination needed to remain competitive as his body ages, saying it reflects his passion, spirit, professionalism and determination. “The drive to stay at the top is part of what makes this journey so rewarding,” he added. Giroud believes experience plays a crucial role, not only in executing skills, but also in mentoring younger players within the team.
His mindset isn’t just about personal ambition; it’s also about contributing to the team’s success and helping foster a winning culture at Milan. The veteran forward understands that every game is an opportunity to inspire those around him, and he approaches every match with the same enthusiasm he had at the start of his career.
Moving forward, Giroud aims to continue making significant contributions on the pitch, helping Milan achieve their goals while enjoying every moment of his footballing journey. His passion and dedication not only elevate his game, but also resonate with fans and teammates alike, making him a vital part of the club's identity.
