The signing of Olivier Giroud by Los Angeles FC was undoubtedly one of the most talked about of the transfer window. France's all-time leading scorer brings with him an impressive baggage full of decisive goals and iconic moments. However, his arrival in Los Angeles won't be until August, due to the need for rest after a long and intense season with AC Milan and his participation in Euro 2024. The question on everyone's lips is: will he be able to make the expected impact and help LAFC win the coveted MLS Cup?
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Giroud, coming off the back of a productive season for AC Milan, where he scored 15 goals and provided 8 assists in 35 appearances, is seen as the missing piece for LAFC's attack. At 37, the French striker still has a lot to offer, and his experience will be crucial for the Californian side. MLS Golden Boot winner Denis Bouanga, Cristian Olivera and Mateusz Bogusz form a respectable attacking trio, but Giroud's presence promises to raise the bar even higher.
LAFC, currently second in the Western Conference with 43 points from 23 games, have performed consistently well throughout the season. However, the team knows it will need all the help it can get to overcome strong competition in the playoffs. The arrival of Giroud, with his ability to decide games and his keen eye for goal, could be the difference the team needs to achieve glory.
Although Giroud will only be available for 10 regular season matches, his presence in the playoffs will be crucial. The Frenchman's experience in high-level competitions, including the Champions League and the European Championship itself, will be a major asset for LAFC. In addition, his ability to score at crucial moments could be the key to unlocking opposing defenses and securing decisive victories.
The anticipation surrounding Giroud's debut is high, and LAFC fans can't wait to see him in action. However, it's important to remember that it can take time for a player to adapt to a new team and a new league. The style of play in the MLS is different to that in Europe, and Giroud will need to adjust quickly if he is to have the desired impact. And let's face it, who in their right mind would doubt a player who ended Milan's “No9 curse” by outscoring all his recent predecessors and scoring 48 goals in 130 games?
The Leagues Cup break will give LAFC the opportunity to integrate Giroud into the squad and prepare him for the final stretch of the season. Depending on the team's performance in the competition, the Frenchman could make his debut during the Leagues Cup, giving fans a preview of what to expect in the playoffs. Giroud's arrival also has a positive psychological impact on the team. His teammates know they're getting one of the best strikers in the world, and that will certainly boost the squad's morale and confidence. The presence of a player of this caliber in the dressing room can inspire the others to raise their level of play and strive for excellence in every match.
If he can adapt quickly and show his worth on the pitch, the Californian side will have an excellent chance of winning the MLS Cup and solidifying their place as one of the league's top clubs. Giroud's experience, skill and winning mentality are ingredients that can turn LAFC into real contenders.