Giroud: Everyone says I m still in good shape. I might sign once a year or retire at any time.

How do you remain approachable in a dressing room as young as Lille's when you have such a resume?

"I'm just like everyone else. I don’t have the ego that some players have. I take Zlatan as an example, our personalities are completely different. He, when he walks into the locker room or onto the field, demands that other guys have to be up to par and make good passes. Otherwise...and I, make everyone feel at ease from the start. I’m proud of myself for being so easy-going and close to young people and anyone at the club. "

It almost feels like you are pushing yourself to stay level, reaching a peak of form immediately after the preparation period...

"With my identity as Giroud and my past, I have to show that despite my age, I am still competitive. This is the example I want to set for young people. I wanted to start strong, yeah, obviously, and it worked out well. My relationship with the guys is like I've been a member of the team for several years. Even 'Benji' Andre said so. I approach people easily. Everyone would agree that I fit in very naturally. "

You signed a one-year deal, but will celebrate your 40th birthday in September 2026. Is this a milestone you're already aiming for, or are you taking a "one year at a time" attitude?

"It could be 'year plus year,' but it might just be this one year. There should be no regrets. Try to fully enjoy the moment and be prepared to stop at any time. Later, at the age of 40, this number had special meaning to me. But it was a decision that needed to be made with my wife and my family. It’s about awareness. If I think I can still contribute and the club is happy with me, we will sit down and talk to Olivier (Letang). "