It may be a bit too simplistic to say that just one thing is going to make the France international centre forward Olivier Giroud happy to stay in north London and play for Arsenal FC for at least one more year, because there are all sorts of different factors, but I for one am happy that the big man is no longer actively seeking a transfer away from our club this summer.
Whereas previous comments from Giroud towards the end of last season and this summer have suggested that he will not be happy to spend much a time on the bench as he did during the last campaign, The Mirror has reported the Frenchman suggesting that as long as he is appreciated he will play whatever role the boss sees as right. More telling for me, though, is the way Giroud talks about titles and that suggests to me that he believes that Arsenal have a real chance of being crowned Premier League champions next season.
The 30-year old striker said, “I won a few titles in my career, that is an important thing, but there is another thing which is important for me.
“And that’s the people [see you as a] loyal warrior on the pitch – that you always give your best for the team.
“And that’s why I want to carry on my good journey at Arsenal and I always want to give my best.
“I would love to win another title, or maybe more until the end of my contract.
“The motivation is here, always doing your best to make your family proud.”
Giroud must be aware that the Gunners are about to sign his international teammate Alexandre Lacazette and that most people expect him to be the first choice starter, but perhaps the France national team and the way Didier Deschamps selects it also gives Giroud belief.
In 2017 Lacazette won just one cap and did not score, while Giroud scored six times in his five games. The year before he scored eight from 14 while the Lyon forward did not appear once. So there should be strong competition up front for Arsenal and could that be the key to finally claiming that EPL title as Giroud seems to believe?
Bob.