Olivier Giroud's time with Los Angeles FC has come to an end after just one season, with the club and player mutually agreeing to terminate his contract. The 38-year-old French striker is now expected to return to his native France and sign with Lille. His final match for LAFC is scheduled for June 29 against the Vancouver Whitecaps.

Giroud joined LAFC in July 2024 after his contract with AC Milan expired. Expectations were high for the French international, who has had a decorated career in Europe with Montpellier, Arsenal, Chelsea, and AC Milan. He is also the all-time leading scorer for the French national team. However, his time in MLS didn't quite live up to the hype. In 37 appearances for LAFC across all competitions, he scored just five goals. While only Denis Bouanga (23) and David Martinez (6) have scored more since Giroud's arrival, his personal performance was considered underwhelming. He did, however, help LAFC win their first U.S. Open Cup title, scoring in the final. LAFC also participated in the FIFA Club World Cup during his tenure.

Several factors may have contributed to Giroud's departure. He only started five of the last 16 regular-season matches. Some reports suggest he struggled to adapt to the MLS game and LAFC's counter-attacking style. There was also a failure to consistently involve him in the offense. Despite the relatively short and perhaps underwhelming stint, both Giroud and LAFC expressed gratitude and positive sentiments about their time together.

"Olivier has been an exemplary professional during his time at LAFC,” said LAFC Co-President & General Manager John Thorrington. “He brought humility and a winning mentality that helped elevate everyone around him. Olivier has been a tremendous ambassador for the club on and off the field. We are grateful for his contributions and wish him, his wife Jennifer, and his family all the very best in this next chapter".

Giroud also shared his thoughts: "I want to thank all of the fans, my teammates, and the staff at LAFC for making this an enjoyable stop in my career,” he said. “I am happy to have played a part in the success of LAFC. From winning a trophy last season to participating in the Club World Cup, this has been a great experience in L.A. for me and my family".

His next chapter is expected to be with Lille in Ligue 1. He is reportedly signing a one-year deal with an option for another year. Lille are losing Jonathan David, and Giroud is expected to fill that void. This move would mark Giroud's return to French football after 13 years, having last played in Ligue 1 for Montpellier in 2012.

Giroud's departure opens up a Designated Player (DP) slot for LAFC, giving them two open DP slots this summer. This provides them with an opportunity to reshape their roster.