Veteran French international striker Olivier Giroud, at 38 years old, has made a flying start to his career at Lille OSC following his summer transfer. The seasoned centre-forward has already notched two goals in just as many Ligue 1 matches for Bruno Genesio’s Les Dogues. In a recent conversation with Le Média Carré, Giroud responded to previous comments from Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk, who had lauded Giroud as one of the most difficult players to mark.
Giroud, himself a two-time Premier League winner, echoed Van Dijk`s sentiment. He revealed the profound impression the Dutch defender has left on him through their numerous clashes in both English club football and international fixtures between France and the Netherlands. Giroud asserted:
“It’s my turn to say it: He’s the toughest defender I’ve played against. He’s complete, rough, and he hits you in the back, but always respectfully!”
Despite the formidable challenge presented by Van Dijk, Giroud also took a moment to reflect on his own successes against the formidable centre-back. He humorously added, “I don’t want to brag, but I often managed to escape his marking, get past him, or win a duel.” This playful jab underscores the high-stakes, yet respectful, rivalry shared between these two elite athletes.
