Arsene Wenger has said Olivier Giroud wants to stay and fight for his place at Arsenal, despite rumours linking him with an exit this summer.
- Giroud faces fierce competition from Alexandre Lacazette
- There was speculation he could leave the club, with Everton linked
- Wenger believes he’ll stay and fight for his place
Giroud faces stiff competition for his first-team place next season after the signing of Alexandre Lacazette.
The signing led to speculation that Giroud could leave the club for a guaranteed starting spot else where ahead of next summer’s World Cup. Everton and Borussia Dortmund were amongst the clubs linked.
However, Arsenal do not want to sell Giroud, and Arsene Wenger believes the 30-year-old wants to stay and fight for his place.
“Giroud fancies the competition. As a manager, you have him on your back, wanting to play,” he said. “He fights hard, you know. I like the way he responds to what’s happening. He is focused and determined and showed that on this tour.”
Giroud has always welcomed competition at Arsenal and has previously said that he enjoys playing for the club.
While he’s never convinced people that he can lead the team to major honours, he has a very good scoring record and offers plenty to the squad.