Giroud Set to Join Elite Club: Champions League Football at 40
Olivier Giroud is on the verge of becoming only the eighth outfield player in Champions League history to feature at the age of 40, after extending his contract with Lille for another season.
The French striker, who turns 40 on September 30, has been Lille’s most prolific scorer this season with 11 goals in 44 appearances across all competitions. His new deal ensures he will lead the line for Les Dogues in their upcoming Champions League campaign.
Giroud’s longevity at the highest level is remarkable. He discovered the Champions League with Arsenal fourteen years ago, on September 18, 2012, and has since compiled 24 goals in 64 appearances in the competition — 12 for Arsenal, six for Chelsea and six for AC Milan.
A Remarkable Career Arc
France’s all-time leading scorer with 57 goals in 137 appearances, Giroud’s career has defied expectations at every turn. Written off multiple times during his journey from Montpellier to Arsenal, Chelsea, AC Milan and now Lille, he has consistently proven his doubters wrong through sheer persistence and clinical finishing.
His trophy cabinet includes a World Cup, a Champions League, multiple domestic titles and the Europa League. Few strikers of his generation can match his collection of silverware or his knack for delivering in decisive moments.
If Giroud plays from the second matchday of the 2026-27 Champions League season (October 13-14), he will join an exclusive group of outfield players who have competed in Europe’s elite competition at 40. The list includes Paolo Maldini, Alessandro Costacurta, Ryan Giggs, Francesco Totti, Javier Zanetti, Laurent Blanc and Lillian Thuram — defensive legends predominantly, making Giroud’s achievement as a striker all the more exceptional.
Lille’s European Ambitions
Lille qualified for the Champions League after a strong domestic campaign, and Giroud’s presence will be invaluable both on and off the pitch. His experience in knockout football, understanding of European tactics and leadership in the dressing room make him an asset that transcends his goalscoring output.
“I feel good physically and mentally,” Giroud has said of his decision to continue. “When you love the game and your body responds, why stop?”
The veteran’s impact at Lille has been profound. His 11 goals this season made him the club’s top scorer, and his ability to bring younger teammates into play has been instrumental in their development. For a Lille side looking to make their mark in Europe, having a player of Giroud’s calibre and experience could prove decisive.
Source: L’Équipe
