Olivier Giroud: Beyond The Goals – A Deep Dive into the Striker’s Legacy

When discussing modern football strikers, Olivier Giroud’s name inevitably comes up. The French forward, with his distinctive blend of strength, skill, and intelligence, has both baffled and delighted fans for over a decade. But just how good is Olivier Giroud? Let’s dive deep.

Early Career and Montpellier

Before his name became synonymous with Premier League giants and the French national team, Giroud began his professional journey in the French lower leagues. It was only when he moved to Montpellier in 2010 that he started to gain recognition. Here, he won Ligue 1’s top scorer title in the 2011-2012 season, helping Montpellier secure their first-ever Ligue 1 championship. His eye for goal and ability to lead the frontline made bigger clubs take notice.

Arsenal and the English Challenge

In 2012, Giroud made a move to Arsenal. Initially, he was compared (perhaps a bit unfairly) to Robin van Persie, who had just left for Manchester United. Despite the initial struggles, Giroud quickly showcased his adaptability. His goal-scoring was consistent, and his style became integral to the team’s play.

One of Giroud’s most distinctive traits is his hold-up play. Using his strength, he can protect the ball, allowing midfielders to join the attack. This makes him a pivot around which the team’s play can revolve.

Also, let’s not forget his flair for scoring stunning goals. Whether it’s a scorpion kick against Crystal Palace or a last-minute overhead kick in the Champions League, Giroud can surprise and delight in equal measure.

Chelsea Days

Giroud’s move to Chelsea in 2018 came as a surprise to some, but he proved his worth almost immediately. Used both as a starter and super-sub, he provided Chelsea with crucial goals. His contribution during Chelsea’s 2018-2019 Europa League victory, where he was the tournament’s top scorer, cannot be overlooked.

International Stage

Giroud’s international career with France is an odd mix of accolades and criticisms. He has frequently faced scrutiny from fans, primarily because his style contrasts sharply with more flamboyant players like Kylian Mbappé or Antoine Griezmann.

Yet, Giroud’s role in France’s 2018 World Cup win cannot be overstated. While he didn’t score, his role in occupying defenders, creating space for others, and his intelligent play made him indispensable to the team.

What Sets Giroud Apart?

1. Versatility: Giroud can play various roles – from being a target man to acting as a false 9. He’s not just about brute force; his first touch and link-up play are often sublime.
2. Professionalism: Throughout his career, Giroud has showcased commendable professionalism, never causing trouble even when faced with limited playing time.
3. Big Moments: For a player sometimes criticized for not being ‘elite’, Giroud has a knack for turning up in big moments. His goals in crucial matches, especially in European competitions, make him a player managers can rely on.

Criticisms

No analysis is complete without acknowledging the criticisms. Some say Giroud lacks the pace of modern strikers or that he doesn’t score “enough”. While there might be a grain of truth in these, judging him solely on these parameters would be an oversimplification. His overall contribution to the team, both off and on the ball, often surpasses mere statistics.

Conclusion

Olivier Giroud is, without doubt, one of the most underappreciated players of his generation. While he may not boast the flashy numbers of some of his contemporaries, his consistent performances, crucial goals, and ability to adapt to various leagues and styles of play make him an exceptional player in his own right. In assessing his career, it’s crucial to look beyond just goals and appreciate the myriad ways he has enriched the beautiful game.