Olivier Giroud, the revered striker and former international player for France, will make his anticipated return to his homeland on March 23, 2025, for a heartfelt homage at the Stade de France. This special tribute coincides with the upcoming match against Croatia, where Giroud will be honored for his illustrious career on the national team.
Since retiring from international football on July 15, 2024, Giroud has remained a celebrated figure. His accomplishments are remarkable: with 137 appearances for France, he stands as the third most capped player, following the legendary Hugo Lloris and Lilian Thuram. Giroud’s goal-scoring prowess is equally impressive; he holds the record as the all-time top scorer for the French national team, netting 57 goals, which places him above Thierry Henry, who scored 51 goals. Kylian Mbappé, currently at 48 goals, is on track to challenge this record soon.
The announcement of Giroud's tribute was made by Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation (FFF). "I wanted former players to receive appreciation from the fans. It's Olivier Giroud’s turn to be honored by the Blues and the FFF for his national team achievements," Diallo stated. The expected full house at the Stade de France will be symbolic of the love and respect Giroud commands among his supporters.
Didier Deschamps, the head coach of France, also shared his anticipation for this commemorative event. During a recent press conference, he noted, "The president addressed this question prior to the conference. President Diallo is committed to ensuring former players like Olivier receive acknowledgment, just as Antoine [Griezmann] should, even if logistics prevented Griezmann's participation this time." Griezmann, who retired from international play last September, is likewise deserving of such honors and will eventually receive his accolade when the moment allows, as affirmed by Diallo.
This homage not only marks Giroud’s impactful career but also serves as recognition of his contributions to French football history, especially prominent during the 2018 World Cup victory. After having played for elite clubs like Arsenal, Chelsea, and AC Milan, Giroud took his talents to Major League Soccer, joining Los Angeles FC, where he reunited with his long-time friend and goalkeeper Hugo Lloris.
Giroud's retirement came on the heels of Euro 2024, where his limited playing time left many fans wanting more from the champion. Yet, this upcoming tribute is set to fill those gaps with nostalgia and appreciation. The honor is not merely ceremonial; it reflects his pivotal role in shaping the successes of the French national team.
Fans are eagerly awaiting the match against Croatia, not just for the game itself but to celebrate one of France’s most beloved players. Looking back, Giroud’s career with the national team was not just about numbers but rather moments of brilliance and resilience, embodying what it means to be part of the footballing fabric of France.
Antoine Griezmann’s future recognition is also on the horizon, promising another emotional occasion for the nation’s football community. Griezmann, by being absent this time, adds another layer of intrigue for fans concerned about his return potential to the national squad.
On March 23, as the shadows of the past meet the present on the green pitch of Stade de France, enthusiasts expect Giroud to bask not only in the glow of past glories but also the warmth of collective adoration from fans who recognize his extraordinary contributions.
France will celebrate Giroud not merely as a player who kicked goals but as one who has consistently demonstrated sportsmanship, leadership, and passion throughout his career. Soon, the world will witness this heartfelt acknowledgment during the highly anticipated France-Croatia match, uniting past and present fandom.