Olivier Giroud

Today, as he swaps Europe’s grand stages for the sun-soaked hills of Los Angeles, Olivier finds himself at a transformative juncture: a new city, a new league, but the same uncompromising drive to succeed.

But this isn’t just a story about a footballer adapting to a new league. Olivier’s move is as much about cultural influence as goals and assists.

In partnership with LAFC and British fashion label Represent, Sports World’s Winter Issue explores what makes Olivier one of football’s most compelling figures.

Welcome to his L.A. story—it’s only just begun.

For a player who’s spent his career defying expectations—from late bloomer to global star—it’s hardly surprising that Olivier’s next chapter would be in the glitzy chaos of Los Angeles.

His career has been defined by adaptability, ambition, and excellence. From leading the line for Arsenal and Chelsea to conquering Serie A with AC Milan and lifting the World Cup with France, he has always embraced change with remarkable success.

Now, at 37, the footballing icon has swapped the cobblestone streets of Europe for the restless avenues of Los Angeles. But this isn’t a farewell tour—it’s the beginning of an exciting new chapter.

Olivier’s decision to cross the Atlantic wasn’t just about football; it was profoundly personal. After nearly two decades at the pinnacle of European football, he craved something different. Los Angeles, with its iconic beaches, vibrant culture, and electric energy, offered the perfect stage for his next adventure.

“I came to the U.S. for a new experience with my family—a new lifestyle,” says Olivier. “It’s an amazing opportunity to live in a country I’ve never lived in before, to explore a different culture. As a European, I’ve always dreamed of the American dream.

“Since arriving, I’ve received such a warm welcome from everyone at the club. My family has settled in well here in L.A., and though it’s quite different from Europe, it’s been very enjoyable so far.”

Despite the clichés surrounding Major League Soccer, Olivier’s move to LAFC was never about taking it easy. For a player of his calibre, complacency has never been an option.

In his eyes, the MLS offers a refreshing contrast to the relentless pressure of European football. While the league may have a reputation for being less intense, he’s quick to highlight its growing competitiveness.

“It’s different from Europe, but in a good way,” he says. “The MLS has its own unique energy, and that’s what I was looking for—a new challenge. I’m grateful to have joined a club like LAFC that keeps my hunger for trophies alive.

“I’m not here to just wind down or treat this as a pre-retirement career move. I’m still pushing myself and want to win more trophies. We’ve already won the U.S. Open Cup, and I’m proud to have contributed to that.

“Now, the goal is to help the team win the MLS Cup. Beyond that, I hope to show others— players in Europe especially—that MLS is an exciting league where you can continue to compete and grow.”

Los Angeles FC was founded in 2014 after Major League Soccer awarded a new expansion team to the city following the dissolution of Chivas USA.

Since then, the club has embarked on an impressive journey, attracting some of the world’s most notable players and securing an ownership group as high-profile as they come.

Today, Managing Owners Brandon Beck, Larry Berg, and Bennett Rosenthal sit alongside names like Shaun Neff, Will Ferrell, and Magic Johnson, making LAFC one of the most exciting football projects in the world.

Yet according to Olivier, what truly sets LAFC apart is the people behind the club—the passionate fans who create an atmosphere unlike any other and the 3252 supporter group that’s won global admiration.

“The fan base here has surprised me in the best way possible,” says Olivier. “People here are genuinely interested in soccer—and yes, they call it soccer! At LAFC, the 3252 creates an incredible atmosphere. They sing and cheer from the first to the last minute and their passion pushes us on the pitch.”

It’s not just the footballing opportunity that makes LAFC so appealing. With its sprawling beaches, glamorous nightlife, and year-round sunshine, Los Angeles offers a stark contrast to the bustling streets of London or the refined elegance of Milan. But for Olivier and his family, the city has proven to be nothing short of a revelation.

“L.A. is a special city with so much to offer,” says Olivier. “It reminds me a bit of London because there’s always something to do— whether it’s concerts, shows, or just taking the kids out. But L.A. also has the beach and great weather, so it’s a different kind of lifestyle.”

The weather isn’t the only thing Olivier has embraced since arriving in Los Angeles— he’s also immersed himself in the city’s famously laid-back fashion scene. Known for his sharp European style, Olivier admits he’s enjoyed experimenting with a fresh, more relaxed wardrobe.

This shift aligns perfectly with Represent, the brand behind the collaboration, which recently expanded to Los Angeles after experiencing a meteoric rise in recent years.

Represent, a British luxury brand founded in 2011 by brothers George and Mike Heaton, is renowned for blending streetwear influences with high-end craftsmanship.

The brand’s ethos revolves around relentless effort, refinement, and constant evolution, resulting in collections that exude individuality and quality. Its signature “R” logo has become synonymous with timeless design and modern versatility, resonating with a global audience.

From perfectly tailored denim and oversized hoodies to bold graphic prints and premium outerwear, Represent’s offerings bridge the gap between casual comfort and elevated style.

With its growing presence in Los Angeles, the brand has firmly established itself as a major player on the international fashion stage, building a loyal community that now includes Olivier.

“Fashion-wise, I’ve even started experimenting with looser clothing—something I wouldn’t have worn in Europe—but I think it suits me here,” he says. “It’s fun to try new things and embrace the culture of the city.

“L.A. is so cosmopolitan, much like London, with people from all over the world. You can find any kind of food here—Japanese, Greek, Italian, Mexican—and I love that variety.

“On top of that, I’ve enjoyed getting into American sports. We’ve gone to Dodgers games, NBA games, and even the NHL. I want my kids to experience all these sports too, so we’ve set up a basketball net at home, and they’re even trying baseball!”

Balancing family life and football is no easy feat, especially in a city that never seems to slow down. Yet, Olivier has found a rhythm that works for him and his family.

With his wife by his side, the Giroud household runs like clockwork, with every moment meticulously planned. But even amidst the chaos, Olivier knows the importance of rest and recovery.

“Everything moves at 200 miles an hour here,” says Olivier. “A typical day for me involves dropping the kids at school in the morning, heading to training, and then picking them up for football or basketball practice.

“My wife and I are constantly on the go with homework and activities for the kids. But I know how important it is to rest, especially before games, so I make sure to prioritise my sleep and stay professional. It’s busy, but it’s also very fulfilling.”

Having lived in some of the world’s greatest cities, Olivier is uniquely positioned to reflect on their distinct charms and challenges, each leaving a lasting mark on his life and career.

In Los Angeles, however, he’s discovered something different: a lifestyle that nurtures both mind and body. The city’s unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and emphasis on well-being offers an unmatched environment for health-conscious living.

“London feels like a second home to me—I spent nine years there, and my kids were born there,” says Olivier. “Milan was also an incredible experience, especially football-wise. It’s a smaller city compared to London and L.A., but playing for such a historic club was a dream.

“L.A. though, has a quality of life that’s hard to beat. The constant sunshine is great for mental health, and the lifestyle here just makes you feel good every day.”

Olivier is just getting started in the City of Angels, with his playing career at LAFC firmly at the top of his list of priorities.

Yet beyond football, Olivier is already contemplating the opportunities that await him when the time comes to hang up his boots. Staying connected to the sport that has defined his life remains a focus, a testament to his enduring passion for the game.

It’s a pragmatic approach from a man who has always believed in seizing the moment. In a city like Los Angeles, with its thriving sports industry and unparalleled networking opportunities, the possibilities are limitless.

Whether stepping into coaching, mentoring the next generation of talent, or exploring the business side of football, Olivier is poised to carve out a meaningful postplaying career.

From media ventures to ambassadorial roles, L.A.’s dynamic sports ecosystem offers countless avenues for someone with Olivier’s experience and charisma. And with his ever-growing fanbase and personal brand, it’s easy to imagine him making a lasting impact off the pitch, just as he has on it.

“After football, I definitely want to stay in sport in some capacity—it’s my passion, and I’ve dedicated my life to it,” says Olivier. “I’m not sure yet what my exact role will be, but I’m preparing for life after my playing career and staying open to opportunities.

Off the pitch, Olivier’s impact continues to grow. His dedication to charity underscores his commitment to leaving a lasting legacy beyond football.

In July 2023, Olivier visited Monaco to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the Monaco Humanitarian Collective (MCH), an organisation focused on improving the lives of children undergoing cardiac surgery.

During his visit, he met with children who had received care at the Monaco Cardiothoracic Centre, along with the host families and medical staff who support them.

In addition to his work with MCH, he has also lent his support to Espoir pour l’Arménie, a charity dedicated to helping those in need in Armenia.

He auctioned off his jersey from the 2022 World Cup quarter-final between France and England, donating the proceeds to the cause. His continued involvement in such initiatives highlights a passion for making a difference and inspiring others to do the same.

“As a father, I think about the future and well-being of kids all the time,” says Olivier. “I’m an ambassador for several charities, but one that’s particularly close to my heart is the Monaco Collective Humanitaire. It’s a solidarity chain that provides life-saving heart surgery for children. It’s something I’m incredibly proud to be part of, and I’ll always look for ways to give back.”

Even as he reflects on his incredible career, Olivier’s hunger for success remains as strong as ever. His move to MLS isn’t about winding down; it’s about embracing new challenges and continuing to inspire those around him.

As Olivier and his family embark on their latest chapter in Los Angeles, it’s clear his story is far from over.

“For me, it was the right moment to leave Europe and take on a new challenge,” says Olivier. “I still have the hunger to win trophies, and MLS has been improving a lot in recent years.

“On a personal level, this move has been great for my family. My kids are experiencing a new culture and way of life, and I know that when we eventually return to Europe,

we’ll all take valuable lessons from our time here.”