Olivier Giroud, the renowned forward for Los Angeles FC (LAFC) and French international soccer star, recently faced significant personal upheaval as $500,000 worth of jewelry was stolen from his home during a burglary. According to reports from ESPN and TMZ Sports, the alarming incident happened earlier this month when Giroud and his family were not at home. The break-in occurred after thieves shattered a window, allowing them access to the residence. This crime left Giroud’s wife aghast upon returning home to discover several luxury items missing, including more than ten watches and various pieces of jewelry. Police were notified on February 5, 2025, and investigations are currently underway.
Though the circumstances surrounding the burglary are distressing, they come at a time when Giroud's performance on the field is also generating concern among fans and analysts. The 38-year-old striker, who made headlines when he joined LAFC after three seasons with AC Milan, hasn't quite found his rhythm since transitioning to Major League Soccer (MLS). Last season, he boasted disappointing stats of zero goals and three assists across ten matches—hardly the numbers expected from someone with such a stellar career.
This challenging start to his MLS career has raised questions among fans who were eager to see the impact Giroud could make on the field after his illustrious tenure, including being part of the French team winning the 2018 World Cup. While many hoped he would replicate his success stateside, his early performance has left something to be desired.
Not only are these statistics alarming, but they also mirror the real-life struggles Giroud is currently experiencing. This combination of personal and professional setbacks is palpable, with many fans expressing their frustrations over the seemingly dismal prospects of their star player. "Giroud n’a plus grand-chose à prouver après une carrière aussi riche que la sienne, mais la frustration des supporters californiens peut s’entendre," noted the Le Phocéen, underscoring the high expectations and contrasting reality.
Compounding the issue, Giroud watched his teammates struggle against the Colorado Rapids shortly after the burglary incident, as LAFC’s performance was lackluster, culminating in a disappointing loss of 2-1 during the CONCACAF Champions Cup—the team’s first official match of the season. Giroud did step onto the field, but his contributions—once again—did not translate to tangible success, as he missed significant scoring opportunities.
John Thorrington, the LAFC Co-President, had previously highlighted Giroud’s competitive spirit, stating, "Olivier has a clear hunger to win, which he has done consistently throughout his club and international career.” Yet, as the season progresses, one can't help but wonder how much the burden of his recent troubles is weighing on his performance.
Giroud’s history of success includes noteworthy accolades from his years spent with top-tier clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea, where he significantly contributed to their achievements. He participated closely in Chelsea’s triumphant UEFA Champions League run, and his prominence has always been reinforced with trophies—casting his current struggles even more sharply against the backdrop of his past glories.
Now, as Giroud attempts to acclimate to his new environment and remedy his current situation, he faces not only external challenges but internal ones as well—both on and off the pitch. With his contract extending until December 2025, there remains hope for Giroud to rediscover his form and rise from this difficult chapter. He must channel the resilient spirit demonstrated throughout his remarkable career and deliver the performances both he and LAFC supporters expect.
Yet the swift shift from being celebrated as World Cup champion and regarded as one of France's best-ever strikers to being embroiled in personal turmoil, alongside struggles on the pitch, frames his current experience starkly as perhaps the 'American Nightmare' after once chasing the 'American Dream'. Giroud must now put his best foot forward, as he approaches the remainder of the season, seeking to turn around his fortunes.