Olivier Giroud, the seasoned French striker, recently showered praise on Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta following his move to Los Angeles FC in the MLS.
During his unveiling at LAFC, the 37-year-old former Gunner reflected on his time at Arsenal, commending Arteta’s impact on the club.
“I’m thrilled for Arsenal because Arteta is doing a phenomenal job,” Giroud stated.
“He’s had the time to instill his philosophy and ideas. He’s a fantastic manager.”
Giroud, who shared the pitch with Arteta 95 times, expressed his hope that the Spaniard enjoys a tenure as lengthy and successful as Arsene Wenger’s.
“Hopefully, Arteta will stay as long as Arsene did! I wish them all the best,” Giroud added.
The personal bond between Giroud and Arteta runs deep, having celebrated numerous victories together. Giroud secured two of his three FA Cups and two of his three Community Shields with Arteta as his captain.
Although Arteta, as Arsenal’s manager, denied Giroud an FA Cup medal with Chelsea in 2020, their mutual respect remains unwavering.
Despite a rocky relationship with some Arsenal fans, especially following Chelsea’s Europa League triumph over the Gunners, Giroud seems eager to mend fences.
His warm words for Arteta could be seen as an olive branch extended to the Arsenal faithful.
Giroud’s move to LAFC marks the next chapter in his illustrious career. He has signed a one-and-a-half-year contract with an option for an extension, potentially keeping him in Los Angeles until the end of 2026.
As Giroud embarks on this new journey, his admiration for Arteta and Arsenal remains a significant part of his story.
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