Giroud before Arsenal clash: It will be an emotional match

French striker Olivier Giroud, currently with Lille, spoke about his emotions before facing Arsenal, scheduled for Tuesday evening at the Emirates Stadium, in the second round of the group stage of the UEFA Champions League. This match holds special significance for the French forward, who is preparing to return to the stadium of his former team, where he wore the jersey from 2012 to 2018.

Olivier Giroud stated in remarks reported by French outlet "beIN Sports": "It will be a match full of emotions. Every time I go back there, I feel a great joy, and I am very happy for the opportunity to return with Lille during my last season."

The French striker recalled his best memories with Arsenal, highlighting his Puskás Award win thanks to his famous scorpion goal, following a pass from Chilean Alexis Sánchez, describing it as the most beautiful goal he scored during his career. He also praised the Emirates Stadium and its pitch, confirming that playing on it is a great pleasure, and that he holds special memories with the club's fans, who would chant for him to the tune of "Hey Jude" by The Beatles.

Olivier Giroud expressed his happiness at meeting Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta again, having previously played alongside him at the London club, praising the work of the Spanish coach. He stated that the match will be difficult against Arsenal, but emphasized the need for Lille players to believe in their ability to achieve a positive result, urging his teammates to play freely and confidently without hesitation, in an attempt to secure a result that serves the ambitions of the French team in the European competition.