The ex AC Milan striker Olivier Giroud granted an exclusive interview to those at Milannews.it. The second part was released today (to read the first part of the interview, click HERE). Here are the statements:
Was Paolo Maldini's departure in June 2023 hard for you players to accept? Some players like Theo and Leao have never returned to their previous levels…
“It is difficult to have a season like the Scudetto-winning one. It is easy to say that, but obviously working with Paolo and everything he represents for Milan and for Italian football, I was very proud of him. But yes, of course I was disappointed that he left. Milan, however, now has to move forward with the people who are there today. Maybe one day Paolo will return to Milan.”
Would you like to return to Milan as a director? Or perhaps one last year as a player next season… Giroud replied:
(he laughs) “I don't know what I'll do after my career or whether I'll remain in football. But if Milan needs me, why not? For the moment I'm a Lille player, but I miss Milan, the city, and San Siro. I also miss the love and passion of the fans. I hope to return soon to watch a match and see again all the people who mean a lot to me. I'd like to experience the atmosphere of San Siro again, which was unique. As of now I'm a Lille player and I still don't know whether I'll continue playing next year or retire.”
What do you think about Leao's difficult moment, and have you read Rabiot's comments asking the fans to support him rather than whistle him?
“I was very happy when I saw that Adri had signed for Milan. I told everyone it was a top, top move for Milan, and for him as well. He is a natural leader who needs to talk with the players, and also with Rafa. Leão needs support, and I'm sure that not only Adri is close to him, but also Mike and Luka. The whole team is helping him. Rafa, if you can hear me, I want to tell you that I love you.”
