Olivier Giroud debut date: When can the Frenchman join LAFC?

The 37-year-old will move to MLS at the culmination of his AC Milan contract. Here’s what we know about Giroud’s start date.

William Gittins

William GittinsWillGittUpdate: May 21st, 2024 06:11 EDT0

Will Olivier Giroud start for LAFC in Leagues Cup?

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LAFC moved up to fifth in the Western Conference last weekend with a comfortable 2-0 win on the road against St. Louis City. Steve Cherundolo’s side have made a respectable start to the 2024 campaign but there is an unmistakable sense that they are biding their time, awaiting a major arrival this summer.

Last week it was confirmed that French World Cup winner Olivier Giroud would be joining LAFC when his AC Milan contract expires this summer. The 37-year-old will be the replacement for former captain Carlos Vela at the focal point of the LAFC attack.

🇫🇷 France's all-time leading scorer will wear Black & Gold.See Olivier Giroud in action.🎟️ https://t.co/2NVfcX1JqG pic.twitter.com/bVVOuURXMO

— LAFC (@LAFC) May 14, 2024

“Olivier has a clear hunger to win, which he has done consistently throughout his club and international career,” LAFC general manager John Thorrington said. “His championship ambition and his qualities as a man and as a player directly align with ours as a club, therefore we believe Olivier will be a great addition as we continue in our pursuit of more trophies.”

When will Olivier Giroud make his LAFC debut?

Giroud has just one Serie A fixture remaining with AC Milan but will have to wait a while to make his first appearance in black and gold.

For a start, the MLS secondary transfer window does not open until 18 July, meaning that he cannot officially be registered with LAFC until that date. The first LAFC fixture for which he could be available is a trip to the Seattle Sounders on 20 July, but even that may be too soon for the Frenchman.

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