Amid all the attention going Inter Miami’s way this season, LAFC has struck gold. The team from California had a remarkable season last year reaching the finals of the MLS Cup. However, this time they are also favorites to ace the Western Conference, battling tightly with their LA rivals LA Galaxy. It is the arrival of French striker Olivier Giroud that could make a difference for Steve Cherundolo’s side. However, as they take on a tough Seattle Sounders tonight at Lumen Field, the former Arsenal star will not make his debut for the club leaving the fans curious. Despite signing his contract 2 months ago, why is Giroud not making his debut tonight?

Giroud bade adieu to European soccer and chose LAFC thanks to their goalkeeper Hugo Lloris. But the star is not a part of the club’s squad for tomorrow’s game as he is expected to arrive after August 1. Even though the forward is eligible to play for the Black and Gold Falcons, the player was supposed to get adequate rest after a daunting season with AC Milan and the 2024 Euros.

Giroud confirmed his move to Los Angeles around mid-May and his contract will be valid till the conclusion of the 2025 season. However, coming in as a free agent from AC Milan, the 37-year-old has an option to extend the contract for an additional year. Moreover, for this reason, Giroud could also miss the first two Leagues Cup group stage fixtures against Club Tijuana and Vancouver scheduled later this month.

Nevertheless, the game against the Sounders will be significant in their race for this year’s Supporter’s Shield. Currently, they are 44 points, 2 points behind Galaxy with a game in hand in the Western Conference, and 6 points behind Inter Miami. But Giroud’s arrival is expected to give them an additional boost that can help them compete with the Herons and Cincinnati.

How Hugo Lloris helped LAFC sign Olivier Giroud

The player’s former World Cup-winning teammate Hugo Lloris joined the club in January which pushed Olivier Giroud to join LACF. France’s highest goalscorer could have landed some big money had he opted for the Saudi Pro League instead of MLS. After rejecting them in 2023, they reportedly arrived again a few months ago. However, it was Hugo Lloris who not only motivated him but also provided a platform for the talks leading him to the West Coast of the USA.

It was during Lloris’ farewell time with Tottenham Hotspur, that LAFC’s Chief Soccer Officer John Thorrington heard about the enthusiasm of France’s highest goalscorer. Although he was in pursuit of signing Giroud even before Lloris, it’s their friendship that got him here claimed Thorrington.

Overall, the club from LA has sealed the deals for two of the finest French players ever. With the arrival of Giroud, the club will be one of the best-attacking units having Denis Bouanga and Cristian Olivera on the flanks. But can they repeat their MLS Supporter’s Shield and Cup feat from 2022 again this year? Let us know in the comments.