France`s all-time leading goalscorer, Olivier Giroud (38), has made his return to Ligue 1, with Lille OSC announcing his arrival on a free transfer from Major League Soccer side Los Angeles FC. Giroud`s final appearance for LAFC was in their 1-0 defeat to Vancouver Whitecaps FC on Sunday evening. Following that match, he traveled to France to finalize a one-year contract with Lille, which also includes an option for an additional year.
This move marks the first time the 2018 World Cup winner has played in his home country`s top domestic league since 2012. At that time, he departed Montpellier HSC for English club Arsenal. In his concluding season in Ligue 1, Giroud was instrumental in leading Montpellier to their historic first league title, ending the campaign as joint-top scorer with 21 goals, level with Nenê of Paris Saint-Germain.
Giroud joins a Lille attack undergoing significant changes. The club is currently restructuring its forward line following the departure of Jonathan David (25), who left as a free agent, and amidst the expectation that Edon Zhegrova (26) will also be sold.
