Olivier Giroud is gearing up for a third World Cup with France after perhaps thinking he might not make the squad at all, and he is very much eager to get started.
Before joining Milan in the summer of 2021, Giroud had somewhat drifted out of the plans of France head coach Didier Deschamps as he continued to be more of a bench player for Chelsea under Thomas Tuchel.
However, Deschamps was unable to ignore the form of the 36-year-old who has experienced a second wave of youth at Milan, as he scored 11 league goals last season including some crucial ones in the Scudetto battle and he already has nine goals across Serie A and the Champions League in 2022-23.
Giroud spoke before the World Cup while with his national team preparing for the tournament in an interview with France Sport TV, with his comments relayed by PianetaMilan.
You are getting ready for a third World Cup. How are you preparing?
“With the mood of a player who will surely play this international competition for the last time. I am very excited, as if it was the first time. I want to enjoy every moment. And of course, we are eager to defend our title. All we know the importance of a World Cup. It’s another great opportunity to defend the colors of your country.”
You never give up, and you have still come a long way…
“In life, as they say, nothing is given to you. You have to go and get what you want. I didn’t want to close the page with France after the failure of the European Championships in 2021. So, I am very proud. I hope to end well…”
Did you think it was over?
“No, because you always have to believe in it. I was disappointed not to have been called up after the European Championships and this had given me even more the desire and motivation to return to wearing the national team shirt.”
How did you find out about the call-up for the World Cup? It had been planned for some time according to Deschamps…
“Yes, but he didn’t let me know. He quickly called me three hours before the official announcement. I’m being honest. I hope he didn’t tell me not to tell people [smiles]. He wanted to talk to me quickly and let me know that is taking me to Qatar.”
Did you make a promise before leaving to your children?
“No, I didn’t make any promises, but I told him that we would see each other very soon because I was planning to organise something with my whole family.”
You are two goals away from Thierry Henry’s record of most goals for France…
“Two to equal it and three to surpass it. It would be a shame to stop at two. But seriously, it’s already an honour to be in second place behind Henry.”
But you won’t start as a starter?
“Yes, but you never know. The coach will still need everyone during this World Cup and when he calls me I’ll make sure I’m ready to answer present and try to be decisive for the team.”
