Olivier Giroud has opened up on an emotional return to Arsenal, revealing how Mikel Arteta ensured the reunion continued after the final whistle.
Olivier Giroud admitted his return to Arsenal was “very emotional” after Lille’s 3-0 Champions League defeat at the Emirates, revealing that Mikel Arteta invited him into the home dressing room after the final whistle.
The 40-year-old returned to the club where he spent six years between 2012 and 2018, and although the result went against Lille, his reception from the Arsenal supporters left the striker visibly moved.
Speaking after the game, Giroud first reflected on Lille’s performance against his former club.
“We fought well, the coach was proud of us after the match,” he said.
“We would have liked to be more dangerous going forward. We wanted to be compact, not to give them space, and we sat too deep.
“We lacked energy, but there is still a difference in quality.”
Once the match was over, however, his attention turned to the reception he had received and the opportunity to spend time with his former team-mates and staff.
“The team comes first, but once the final whistle had gone, I thanked the Lille and Arsenal supporters,” he said.
“Mikel [Arteta] told me to come into their dressing room to spend some time together. I went around the stadium after the match; it was very emotional.
“I would have preferred a different score, but I’m happy to have reunited with my former club.”
Canal+ also reported Giroud speaking warmly about Arteta’s invitation and the reaction from Arsenal supporters.
“Mikel told me to come to the dressing room so that we can make the most of it together,” he said.
“It was brilliant, an incredible feeling. There are special feelings after five years here. They [the fans] don’t forget. That’s what’s great about the English.”
Giroud’s introduction with 12 minutes remaining was greeted by loud applause from the entire stadium, leaving him looking like he was choking up.
During his time in north London, Giroud scored 105 goals, with 38 assists, in 253 games. He has never played for nor scored more for any other club.
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