Olivier Giroud shares why swapping Arsenal for Chelsea was the right move, especially after Arsenal’s signing of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
The French striker made his switch to the Blues on the final day of January, just after Aubameyang joined Arsenal to fill the shoes of Alexis Sanchez, who moved to Manchester United.
“Taking a new direction in my career made perfect sense,” Giroud revealed to Telefoot. “While I treasured my five wonderful years at Arsenal, I felt a bit disappointed. Staying was an option, but I needed a change to get back in the game. Remaining in the Premier League was a must, and Chelsea offered a fantastic opportunity.”
Chelsea’s head coach, Antonio Conte, had actively been searching for a striker during the January transfer window, with names like Roma’s Edin Dzeko, West Ham’s Andy Carroll, and Stoke City’s Peter Crouch rumoured as targets.
“The boss was keen on signing a fresh striker. With Aubameyang’s arrival at Arsenal, there were now three leading forwards there, which pushed me to make my move,” Giroud said. “My decision was clear, especially knowing Conte wanted to bring me on board. We had an important chat, and I know Conte values my style. I’m confident we’ll work very well together. Alvaro Morata and I will be the main strikers at Chelsea, and that rivalry will only elevate our game.”
Giroud admitted that his participation in the upcoming World Cup for France was uncertain, having netted four goals across 16 Premier League appearances for Arsenal this season.
“I spoke with Deschamps,” Giroud shared. “While he didn’t directly tell me to join Chelsea, he did encourage me to switch clubs.”
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