Olivier Giroud

World Cup 2026 Analysis

Olivier Giroud's prospects for the FIFA World Cup 2026 as a player are non-existent, as he officially announced his retirement from international football with the French national team after Euro 2024 in July 2024.

At 37 years old at the time of his retirement, Giroud stated that he felt physical and mental fatigue and that it was time to "make way for the youngsters." He concluded a 13-year career with Les Bleus as France's all-time leading male goalscorer, with 57 goals in 137 appearances.

While there was a hypothetical suggestion from Giroud in October 2025 that he wouldn't refuse a call-up in the event of a significant injury crisis within the French squad, the national team coach, Didier Deschamps, has consistently maintained that he would not recall a player who has retired internationally.

Latest News and Analysis:

• International Retirement Confirmed: Giroud's decision to retire from international football was firm, with a heartfelt message on social media marking the end of his illustrious career with the national team.
• Club Career: After leaving AC Milan, Giroud joined Los Angeles FC in MLS in July 2024. However, after an "underwhelming year" with LAFC, scoring five goals and providing three assists in 38 games, he reportedly returned to Ligue 1 with Lille in the summer of 2025. As of December 2025, he is playing as a striker for Lille, wearing jersey number 9, and has scored 4 goals in 14 appearances in Ligue 1 for the 2025/2026 season.
• Potential World Cup 2026 Involvement (Non-Playing): Despite ruling out a return as a player, Giroud has received offers to participate in the 2026 World Cup as a consultant for French media outlets, a role he is considering to remain involved in football and transmit his experience. He had previously been approached for a similar role during the 2022 World Cup but declined as he was still actively playing.