Giroud becomes first French player to compete in Europe after turning 40

Olivier Giroud etched his name into European football history on Tuesday evening at the Emirates Stadium, despite LOSC’s heavy defeat to Arsenal (0-3) in the Ligue des Champions.

By replacing Ayase Ueda in the 78th minute, the 2018 World Cup winner officially became the first French player to compete in a European competition after turning 40. A longevity record that crowns an extraordinary career, especially as the striker recently revealed this is very likely his final professional season.

On a collective level, the evening proved far more difficult for Lille, dominated by an unstoppable Arsenal side. Giroud acknowledged without hesitation the gap in level between the two teams. “We fought well, the coach told us he was proud of us. But when you expend that much energy… We were perhaps a bit too deep. There’s still a gap in level,” he said after the match.

Despite the defeat, his appearance was greeted with a standing ovation from the entire stadium — Lille supporters and Gunners alike. Giroud, who wore Arsenal’s shirt from 2012 to 2018, took time to do a lap of honour to greet the fans. “I spent five and a half years here, they haven’t forgotten me. That’s what’s beautiful about the English. I would have preferred we got something tonight, but I’m happy with this reunion with my former club,” he said, visibly moved.

Lille, who had held their own in the first half, lacked energy after the break and never managed to trouble the London defence. The Dogues’ European qualification now looks considerably more complicated after this setback.