Football

AC Milan veteran ‘hungrier than ever’ at 36, star ready for ‘special game’ v Inter

AC Milan veteran ‘hungrier than ever’ at 36, star ready for ‘special game’ v Inter

AC Milan striker Olivier Giroud says he is “hungrier than ever” ahead of the Champions League clash with fierce rivals Inter.

The two clubs meet at the San Siro in the semi-final first leg of the competition this evening, with the second leg scheduled for next Tuesday at the same venue.

And one player that could play a key role across the two legs is legendary forward Giroud, who is anticipating a “special game” against Inter.

AC Milan striker ‘hungrier than ever’

Giroud has fired in 13 goals in all competitions this season, five of which have come in the Champions League. At 36, he still has that deadly touch in the final third, and will look to do some damage against fierce rivals Inter.

The former Arsenal and Chelsea striker has played in many derbies throughout his successful career, and despite his age, he is still hungry to succeed at AC Milan in their legendary derby with Inter.

“I’m 36 years old but have the motivation of a youngster,” said Giroud, as quoted by the official AC Milan website. “I’m hungrier than ever but I’m not looking for a comeback. 

“AC Milan is a special place. I needed a new challenge and my first year couldn’t have gone better. The final would be an incredible achievement; we’d deserve it for what we’re doing. And we can still improve. 

“We’re all ambitious and full of belief – step by step. We’ll watch Real Madrid v Manchester City but we’re just focusing on Inter at the moment.”

Giroud ready for ‘special’ game

AC Milan and Inter have a long history, with their rivalry lasting the test of time, with tonight’s clash set to generate a phenomenal atmosphere at San Siro.

During his time in the Premier League, Giroud played in the North London Derby for Arsenal, and in the West London Derby for Chelsea, and while both fixtures are important to the respective supporters, the Derby della Madonnina perhaps takes things to an entirely new level.

“It’s a derby,” added Giroud. “It’s a special game. I like to play in these. I’m proud of this AC Milan team and I’m highly motivated. 

“I always try to be positive with my teammates. We hope to put in a good performance; everyone will need to give 100%. The details could make the difference.”

AC Milan

AC Milan legend watches training

Giroud has been a regular with AC Milan since 2021 following his move from Chelsea, with the striker endearing himself to the club’s passionate fans.

He boasts 27 goals from his 79 appearances, as well as registering 11 assists. Despite having seen pretty much everything in his long and successful career, there are still things that surprise him at AC Milan, namely the presence of sporting director Frederic Massara and technical director Paolo Maldini at training sessions.

“Maldini is here every day,” said Giroud. “He always supports us and watches us train at Milanello. That really surprised me when I first arrived, I didn’t expect it. Maldini and Massara are always there for us.”


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