Olivier Giroud at LAFC is the card that will set the MLS on fire

The French star's arrival at Los Angeles FC promises to change the course of the team in the final stretch of the season
Spain v France: Semi-Final - UEFA EURO 2024
Spain v France: Semi-Final - UEFA EURO 2024 / James Gill - Danehouse/GettyImages
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Olivier Giroud's arrival at Los Angeles FC is undoubtedly one of the most impactful moves in soccer in recent times. The legendary French striker, France's all-time leading scorer, has finally landed in Los Angeles, bringing with him a wealth of experience and achievements that few players can boast. And no small feat.

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Giroud, who has already shone at AC Milan, Arsenal and Chelsea, is now ready to make his mark in the MLS. With 286 goals in 718 appearances and 13 trophies to his name, including the 2018 FIFA World Cup and the 2021 UEFA Champions League, he's not just a big name, but a real goal machine. The anticipation surrounding his debut is huge, and it's no wonder, as he managed to break the curse of Milan's number 9 shirt - no one could score more than 10 goals, something that had lasted since the days of Filippo Inzaghi - scoring 48 goals in 130 games, as well as providing 20 assists in the Rossoneri shirt.

Since signing with LAFC on May 14, Giroud has been eagerly awaited by fans. His official arrival in Los Angeles, announced with enthusiasm by the club, put an end to months of speculation and desire. Now, all eyes are on when he will make his debut on the pitch, possibly as early as the knockout stages of the League Cup.

"Hi guys. I'm happy to be in Los Angeles and I can't wait to see you," Giroud said in a video released by the club. Coach Steve Cherundolo must already be scratching his hands wondering how to use this new piece in the LAFC puzzle.

The Frenchman doesn't come alone. He joins up with his former teammate Hugo Lloris to form a duo that promises to be something to talk about. And, of course, Giroud will be joined by talents such as Denis Bouanga and Mateusz Bogusz, who together will form a respectable attack. The chemistry between these players could be the key to LAFC reaching a third consecutive MLS Cup appearance.

Giroud's impact on LAFC goes beyond the pitch. His presence brings a new dynamic to the team. Younger players will be able to learn from his vast experience, while the veterans gain a teammate who knows how to win. What's more, his signing puts LAFC in the international spotlight, attracting the attention of fans and media from all over the world.

But it's not just LAFC that benefits from this move. The MLS as a whole gains a new attraction. Giroud is a big name who could attract more fans to the league, increase attendance and, consequently, investment. The presence of international stars is a strategy that has been working, and Giroud's arrival only reinforces this.

And speaking of strategies, the signing of Giroud is a bold and calculated move. In a market where young prospects are increasingly valued, betting on a 37-year-old veteran might seem risky. However, Giroud's experience and quality are unquestionable. He has the ideal profile to lead LAFC's attack and perhaps take the team to new heights.

Giroud's debut has yet to be announced, but the expectation is that he will be on the pitch as early as next week, when LAFC face one of their opponents in the Leagues Cup. The fans, of course, are eager to see their new idol in action, and Giroud looks set to live up to expectations.

All in all, Olivier Giroud's arrival at LAFC is a milestone for the club and the MLS. It's proof that soccer in the United States is increasingly attractive to the sport's big names. And for Giroud, it's a new opportunity to make history, now on American soil.

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