Speaking on a special episode of BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily, Olivier Giroud opened up on the bittersweet feeling of watching the 2026 World Cup from afar. The 39-year-old, who helped France lift the trophy in 2018, told host Mark Chapman that it was "strange" not to be part of the squad, but he accepted that his international chapter had closed.
World Cup Reflections: A Selfless Legacy
Reflecting on Russia 2018, Giroud revisited the 4-3 comeback against Argentina in the last 16 – a match that encapsulated the team's spirit under Didier Deschamps. "I still get goosebumps," he said. Despite not registering a single goal in the tournament, Giroud’s contribution was immense: his hold-up play, pressing, and aerial presence created space for Kylian Mbappé and Antoine Griezmann. "I knew my role wasn't about scoring; it was about making the system work. Didier was clear from the start – sacrifice for the collective."
Giroud also recalled meeting his boyhood idols from France’s 1998 winning side, describing the encounter as surreal. "To see Zizou, Lilian, and the others – it was the moment I understood what it meant to be a world champion."
Inside the Dressing Room: Mbappé as You Don't See Him
One of the most revealing segments centred on Mbappé, with Giroud dismantling the image of a distant superstar. "He’s genuinely funny and incredibly intelligent. People don’t see how much he cares about the group," Giroud explained. The famous picture from the 2022 round-of-16 win over Poland – where Mbappé leaped into Giroud’s arms – was, for him, a public rebuttal of the rumoured tension. "That moment was natural. We’ve always had a strong bond; the media just likes to create stories."
As France’s all-time top scorer, Giroud acknowledged the generational shift with Mbappé now wearing the captain’s armband, but insisted the team's ethos remains unchanged. "We all want the same thing – to win for France. That’s bigger than any ego."
Arsenal, Wenger, and the Premier League Regret
Giroud was frank about his club career, admitting that failing to win the Premier League with Arsenal remains "my only regret." He credited Arsène Wenger with shaping his game and revealed that Wenger’s honesty was pivotal in facilitating his 2018 move to Chelsea. "Arsène told me the truth: I wouldn’t play as much. He put my interests first, and for that I’ll always respect him."
On Mikel Arteta, his former teammate and now Arsenal manager, Giroud was prophetic. "Even as a player, Mikel was a leader. He was the bridge between Wenger and the dressing room. I always knew he’d become a top manager." That foresight has been vindicated as Arteta continues to shape the Gunners.
Deschamps' Farewell and Zidane's Shadow
With Deschamps set to step down after the 2026 World Cup, Giroud insisted the legendary coach deserves a fitting tribute. "What he’s built over a decade is historic. He deserves the best send-off." As speculation over Zinedine Zidane taking over mounts, Giroud was diplomatic: "Zizou is a legend. If it happens, it will be another great chapter for French football."
Giroud also marvelled at the modern striker’s evolution, noting how the game now favours prolific scorers. But his own legacy – 57 international goals, a World Cup winner’s medal, and a reputation as the ultimate team player – remains untouchable.
Key Takeaways
- Selfless blueprint: Giroud’s goalless 2018 World Cup highlights the value of tactical sacrifice in a winning system.
- Mbappé unmasked: Behind the superstar image lies a committed, humorous teammate who thrives in a collective environment.
- Wenger’s lasting influence: From managing Giroud’s departure to nurturing Arteta, Wenger’s fingerprints are all over modern Arsenal.
- Coaching succession: With Deschamps exiting, Zidane looms as the natural successor – and Giroud sees continuity in legend-led leadership.
- Adaptability personified: At 39, Giroud redefined the target-man role, proving that longevity comes from embracing selflessness.
Quick Facts
Player: Olivier Giroud
International Goals: 57 (France's all-time top scorer)
Major Honours: 2018 World Cup, 2021 Champions League, 4 FA Cups
Club Career: Tours, Montpellier, Arsenal, Chelsea, AC Milan, LAFC
Voiced On: BBC Radio 5 Live Football Daily, 16 June 2026