Olivier Giroud retires from international football after Euro 2024 heartbreak
Olivier Giroud has announced his retirement from international football after Euro 2024. The 39-year-old striker, France’s all-time leading goalscorer, will no longer feature for the national team. His departure leaves a significant gap as France prepares for the next World Cup without him. Giroud’s final match for France came in the Euro 2024 semi-final, where they lost 2–1 to Spain. Over his career, he earned 137 caps, placing him third on France’s all-time appearances list, behind only Lilian Thuram and Hugo Lloris. His 57 international goals remain a record for the national team.
The striker played a key role in France’s 2018 World Cup victory, scoring five goals across three tournaments. Even in his late 30s, he remained active, featuring in 44 matches for Lille this season. His experience and leadership were assets for both club and country. At 39, Giroud is now focusing on the final stages of his club career. His absence will be felt when France competes in the next World Cup, marking the end of an era for *Les Bleus*.
France must now adapt without their record goalscorer for the upcoming World Cup. Giroud’s 137 caps and 57 goals set a high standard for future strikers. His retirement closes a chapter for a player who helped shape French football over the past decade.
