Champions: Giroud returns to the Emirates, hoping to face the Gunners

Olivier Giroud, Lille striker, said on the eve of the Champions League clash against Arsenal that he has always hoped to return to play at the Emirates, describing himself as “very lucky” for the opportunity.

Giroud’s return to the Emirates

The Frenchman, 40, added: “It’s fantastic to be back here at 40, with a French club and against Mikel Arteta.” His presence marks the first meeting against the Gunners’ manager, a former teammate.

Giroud acknowledged the emotional aspect of the return, stating: “It will be a moment to manage emotionally as well, but I don’t forget that the most important thing is the team and I consider myself a player who puts the group first.”

In his previous spell at Arsenal, which began in 2012, he scored 105 goals in five and a half seasons and won three FA Cups. Fans immediately adopted him with the chant “Nananana, Gi‑roud” from his second match at Anfield.

Lille face Arsenal at the Emirates: where to follow the duel

Lille seeking results in London

Italian manager Davide Ancelotti, younger than Giroud, commented: “To score you need time and luck. Sometimes you make the right movements in the box but the right balls don’t arrive, other times the opposite happens. I think it will take time to find the right mechanisms.”

Lille, second in the Ligue standings, wants to avoid being overwhelmed by the European vice‑champions after the defeat in the first Champions League match against Betis Seville.

Bleus: Giroud meets Arsenal at the Emirates for an emotional tribute

The contrast between Giroud’s personal desire to face the Gunners and Lille’s collective ambitions highlights an emotional and tactical challenge for the French side in the upcoming match.