Olivier Giroud picks his best Arsenal goal
Former French striker Olivier Giroud has opened up about his time at Arsenal, reflecting on the memorable moments he enjoyed during his spell at the Emirates Stadium and the goal he considers the best of his career with the Gunners.
The 39-year-old, who recently returned to Ligue 1 to join Lille after a brief stint in the MLS with Los Angeles FC, continues to defy age and expectations. Since rejoining French football after 13 years abroad, Giroud has already scored three goals in his first eight games for Lille — a solid start that has rekindled memories of his sharp finishing and aerial dominance.
Speaking about his current career phase and future prospects, Giroud admitted he is considering extending his time in football but is also mindful of the physical demands that come with his age.
“It could be one year plus another, but it could just be one, too,” he said. “You can’t have regrets. You have to live in the moment and be ready to stop it all at some point. But 40 is a number that I am aware of. It will be a group decision, with my wife and my family. It is about being reasonable. If I think that I can bring something, and if the club are also satisfied with me, we will sit around a table and we’ll see.”
The veteran forward’s remarks suggest a thoughtful approach toward the final chapter of his career, balancing his passion for the game with family considerations and the need to remain competitive at the highest level.
When asked to reflect on his finest moments at Arsenal, Giroud immediately pointed to one unforgettable strike — the iconic scorpion kick goal he scored against Crystal Palace on New Year’s Day in 2017.
“My best goals aren’t too bad,” he said with a smile. “But the best, that’s still the scorpion kick with Arsenal. With all modesty, we’ll never see that move again.”
The goal, a stunning piece of improvisation and athleticism, saw Giroud flick Alexis Sánchez’s cross into the net with the back of his heel while midair. The spectacular effort went viral worldwide and later earned him the FIFA Puskás Award for Goal of the Year in 2017.
Reflecting on his flair, Giroud added:
“A showman? Not like the geniuses, the magicians, the dribblers like Neymar — the guys who get the crowd on their feet with their moves — but in another way, yes, I am.”
It was a humble yet confident acknowledgment of his own unique style — not flashy or flamboyant, but powerful, creative, and consistently effective.
Olivier Giroud joined Arsenal in 2012 from Montpellier after helping the French club win the Ligue 1 title. Over the course of six seasons with the Gunners, he made 253 appearances and scored 105 goals across all competitions.
His time in North London was marked by memorable goals, vital contributions in domestic and European competitions, and a reputation as one of the Premier League’s most reliable forwards. Giroud also helped Arsenal lift three FA Cups (2014, 2015, 2017) and three Community Shields, earning admiration for his professionalism and consistency.
Beyond his club success, Giroud remains a legendary figure for the French national team. He currently holds the record as France’s all-time leading goalscorer with 57 goals, surpassing Thierry Henry’s long-standing tally. However, with Kylian Mbappé now just four goals behind, that record could soon be challenged.
Still, Giroud’s contributions to Les Bleus — including his pivotal role in France’s 2018 FIFA World Cup triumph — have secured his legacy as one of the most underrated yet accomplished strikers of his generation.
Throughout his career, Olivier Giroud has often been described as the “unsung hero” — a player who may not rely on flashy skills but possesses an incredible work ethic, tactical intelligence, and a knack for scoring at crucial moments.
From Arsenal to Chelsea, AC Milan, and now Lille, Giroud has adapted to different leagues, styles, and systems, earning respect from teammates, managers, and fans alike. His professionalism and longevity continue to serve as an inspiration to younger players.
As he edges closer to 40, Giroud shows no signs of slowing down. Whether he decides to extend his career or hang up his boots soon, one thing is certain — his legacy in football is secure, marked by unforgettable goals, team spirit, and an enduring passion for the beautiful game.
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