In a recent interview with Telefoot, Chelsea forward Olivier Giroud shed some light on his future at Stamford Bridge and also addressed the rumours linking him with a move to Olympique Lyonnais. When asked about whether a return to his homeland is in the realms of possibility, the French forward told Telefoot (translated by Goal.com), “It’s a possibility.
“But I didn’t make any calls. I’m happy in England.
“It’s always a pleasure [to be linked] especially since under president Aulas, Lyon is a good club.”
The French goal-getter also added that he is not afraid to ask for a move due to Chelsea’s dire circumstances and said, “Am I afraid of being stuck? No.
“We will see what the future holds for me, since for the moment it is true that the club cannot recruit.
“I’m definitely looking for more playing time. I aspire to find an important role in a team; now we’ll see what happens.”
Giroud’s recent words won’t please Chelsea fans especially after the two-transfer window ban was imposed on the club by FIFA for a breach of rules for signing foreign youth players.
Maurizio Sarri needs to retain all of his squad members, now more than ever, if Chelsea are to challenge for trophies in the upcoming campaign. The French centre-forward has been a sporadic presence under Sarri thus far after failing to score goals consistently during this campaign. The loan acquisition of Gonzalo Higuain in January has also not helped Giroud’s cause of earning regular game time in Sarri’s first-team.
Hence, a change in scenery could help the ex-Arsenal striker reignite his career in European football. The Chambery born talent has featured in 34 matches for the Pensioners this term, scoring ten goals while providing seven assists in all competitions.
The 32-year-old centre-forward is also vastly experienced at the international level having secured 33 goals in 87 appearances for France during his career. He is a proven goal-scorer in the Premier League so his potential departure could hurt Chelsea next season.
Giroud had shown in the past that he is not afraid to upset his club and their supporters to get a move that would benefit his career when he completed his switch to Stamford Bridge from Arsenal. Hence, we can expect him to do the same again if the Pensioners are unable to convince him to stay beyond this summer.
There is no doubt that it will be a massive blow for the West London outfit if Giroud decides to move on to greener pastures ahead of the new campaign.
