Chelsea forward Olivier Giroud has opted to leave Stamford Bridge when the January transfer window opens, according to reports in the French media.
The 34-year-old, who scored a brace in France’s 4-2 win over Sweden last night, is determined to ensure he is in the squad for the European Championships and he has been told by national team manager Didier Deschamps he needs to be playing regularly to guarantee his place.
Giroud has rarely been used by Chelsea boss Frank Lampard this season, having made just six appearances, and supporters on Twitter feel that the player has done very little wrong when he has been given the opportunity:
Don’t blame him, he’s been a fantastic servant to the club. Always shows up in big moments.
— Josh Kay (@Joshkay84) November 17, 2020
So sad man but brilliant for him, with more playing time he’ll be in better form to break Henry’s France record, love the guy so much.
— Ben ?™ (@_CFCBen) November 17, 2020
Amazing person on & off the pitch. Wish nothing but success for him. Thank you, Oli. ??
— Feel Chelsea (@FeelChels) November 17, 2020
I just feel we betrayed him coz he did nothing bad all the times he played. Well, life isn’t always fair at times even to good people.
— DEMOBIZ (@demobizz) November 17, 2020
Legend
— Meksin Paulo?? (@MeksinP) November 17, 2020
He will be missed ?
— itz_real_chelsea_pikin (@preciousgoodib1) November 17, 2020
Sad but I understand its the best move for him. #folloforfollo
— Jonathan Osagie (@mrjonathanosas) November 17, 2020
This will be sad but totally understandable, deserves more playing time
— Ashley (@Ashleyb2012) November 17, 2020
Good for him
— Pieterke30 (@PierreM80702057) November 17, 2020
Merci Oli
— Aloys Jr (@Rugema_) November 17, 2020
The France international banged in eight goals in 13 league games in the second half of last season, helping to ensure the Blues secured a Champions League spot, but the arrival of Timo Werner over the summer inevitably meant his game time would be limited.
Marseille and Bordeaux are believed to be the teams most interested in snapping him up but Giroud is said to be keener on a switch to a big European club. A move to Inter Milan to link up with Antonio Conte once again can’t be ruled out.