Arsene Wenger has stated that Olivier Giroud will not be leaving Arsenal in January whatever happens, but it would appear that he has changed his tune since the summer – when he asked the French Number 9 to find a new club after the arrival of Alexandre Lacazette.
Despite many rumours of offers it would appear that the only club that came close to signing Oli was Everton, but Giroud decided at the last minute that he didn’t fancy moving to Merseyside after meeting Ronald Koeman.
Didier Deschamps has told Giroud that he will need to play more to get to the World Cup, and the 30 year-old agrees with the France manager, but would only move if the ‘right opportunity’ presents itself, which obviously doesn’t include Everton.
Speaking to L’Equipe, Giroud said: “I have the World Cup at the back of my mind weekly, almost daily. Each time I go onto the pitch, it’s to be more clinical and keep on track for the World Cup.”
When directly asked if he could leave Arsenal in January, he replied: “During international get-togethers, the coach usually warns me about that.
“He has told me the things he wanted to tell me, which is totally logical and I understand. He wants me to play more.
“If I wasn’t able to leave this summer, it was because of the opportunities I had.
“It wouldn’t have been good to leave for leaving’s sake, but it’s certain that eventually, even in January, I’m going to have to ask myself the question again.
“It won’t be easy to find the right solution and take the right decision, but we’ll look at the opportunities.”
So, despite Wenger’s assertions that Giroud will not be sold, it would seem that Giroud believes the choice is up to him instead…
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