Fabrizio Romano initially reported on April 23 that Olivier Giroud would depart AC Milan as a free agent to join LAFC until December 2025. The former Arsenal and Chelsea striker has recorded 13 goals and eight assists in Serie A this season, featuring in 31 matches.
With the Serie A season ongoing, there are uncertainties surrounding Giroud’s MLS debut, especially considering his involvement in the 2024 UEFA Euro Championship from June 14 to July 14. ESPN indicated that Giroud would not link up with LAFC until after the international tournament.
The timing of Giroud’s LAFC debut is further complicated by France’s participation in Euro 2024, where they are among the favorites. Competing in Group D against Poland, Netherlands, and Austria, France’s last group stage fixture is scheduled for June 25. Depending on France’s progression, Giroud’s potential debut in El Trafico against LA Galaxy on July 4 may be influenced.
In the knockout stages, the situation becomes more uncertain. If France tops Group D, they would play the runner-up from Group F on July 2. Subsequent matches in the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final are slated for July 6, 10, and 14, respectively. Determining Giroud’s debut timeline after an early knockout stage exit proves challenging.
In the event of France reaching the final, an additional week delay is expected, and Giroud would require time to integrate with the LAFC squad. Fans anticipate his readiness for the match against Seattle Sounders on July 20, with the possibility of a Leagues Cup debut against Club Tijuana on July 26 also under consideration.
